
Naramata Bench
A picturesque stretch of vineyards overlooking Okanagan Lake, renowned for its exceptional wineries, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Wineries are open, weather is pleasant.

Naramata Bench
Best Time
Wineries are open, weather is pleasant.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque stretch of vineyards overlooking Okanagan Lake, renowned for its exceptional wineries, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery.
"The Naramata Bench offers an unparalleled wine country experience with stunning views and delicious food."

🚗 Plan Your Route
The Naramata Bench has over 50 wineries. Map out your route to maximize your tasting experience and minimize driving time.
🍽️ Don't Skip the Bites
Many wineries offer fantastic food options, from small plates to full bistros. It's a great way to enhance your wine tasting.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bench 1775 Winery
Naramata Bench
Asian fusion tapas and wine pairings with spectacular lake views. A must-visit for foodies and wine lovers alike.

Tightrope Winery
Naramata Bench
Acclaimed for its Syrah and Pinot Noir, this winery is a standout on the bench.

Hillside Winery & Bistro
Naramata Bench
Known for its delicious food, wine, and incredible views. Offers a complete sensory experience.

Evolve Sparkling House
Naramata Bench
Dedicated to BC bubbles, this newer winery offers a fresh space with stunning views of the hoodoos and lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tastings
Embrace the Bench's Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Route
The Naramata Bench has over 50 wineries. Map out your route to maximize your tasting experience and minimize driving time.
🍽️ Don't Skip the Bites
Many wineries offer fantastic food options, from small plates to full bistros. It's a great way to enhance your wine tasting.
🚲 Bike the Bench
Consider biking between wineries for a scenic and active way to explore. Many wineries are accessible via the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.
🥂 Explore Sparkling Wines
Discover the growing selection of BC sparkling wines, especially at dedicated houses like Evolve.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Route
The Naramata Bench has over 50 wineries. Map out your route to maximize your tasting experience and minimize driving time.
🍽️ Don't Skip the Bites
Many wineries offer fantastic food options, from small plates to full bistros. It's a great way to enhance your wine tasting.
🚲 Bike the Bench
Consider biking between wineries for a scenic and active way to explore. Many wineries are accessible via the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.
🥂 Explore Sparkling Wines
Discover the growing selection of BC sparkling wines, especially at dedicated houses like Evolve.
☀️ Enjoy the Views
The Naramata Bench is renowned for its breathtaking lake views and sunsets. Take time to simply soak it all in.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Naramata Bench for its stunning Okanagan Lake views, exceptional wine quality, and delicious food offerings at wineries like Bench 1775 and Hillside. However, some reviews mention inconsistent service and occasional issues with billing or hospitality, suggesting that while the setting is idyllic, the guest experience can vary.
"We stopped in at Bench 1775 Winery later in the afternoon and had such a great experience! Even though they were busy and we hadn’t booked ahead, the staff was welcoming and provided excellent service. The wine tasting was fantastic, with some truly memorable pours 🍷, and we stayed for dinner at the bistro. The dim sum and charcuterie were both delicious and paired perfectly with the wines. Beautiful spot and definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area!"
Adam
"Many silent disco events , amazing food and even better wine! Love taking my family here whenever we can. The view is spectacular and the staff are incredible! Especially Josh and Ezit. Always feel welcome and very taken care of. Highly suggest the shrimp!"
Carrie lynn
"Yes, the view is stunning, but the service leaves much to be desired. When you mess up the bill, you should at least apologize and offer a compliment instead of asking for more money. If you want to be ‘high-end’, you don’t let service workers and builders check the surroundings while people are dining on the patio. Those are basic rules.
The owner is unfriendly, resembling a strict teacher, and her granddaughter rushed us to pay the bill before we even finished eating, despite plenty of free tables available. It’s no surprise they are empty on weekends. This place has so much potential because of the view and facilities, but the lack of basic knowledge of hospitality principles ruins it."
Could Be Anyone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Naramata Bench is easily accessible from Penticton. A scenic drive along the east side of Okanagan Lake will take you directly to the bench. Many visitors also opt to bike or walk parts of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail to reach wineries.
Getting around the Naramata Bench can be done by car, bike, or even by booking a dedicated wine tour. The bench is relatively compact, with many wineries clustered along the main road.
Ride-sharing services may have limited availability on the Naramata Bench. It's advisable to pre-book transportation or arrange for a designated driver if you plan to visit multiple wineries.
The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a multi-use recreational trail that runs along the Naramata Bench. It's popular for biking and walking, offering stunning views and access to many wineries.
Public transport options directly to the Naramata Bench are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles, taxis, or organized wine tours for transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, and often required, for wine tastings on the Naramata Bench, especially on weekends or for popular wineries. It's best to check each winery's website or call ahead.
Winery hours can vary, but generally, they are open from late morning to late afternoon, typically around 11 AM to 5 PM. Some may have extended hours for dining or special events. Always check individual winery hours.
Most wineries charge a tasting fee, which is often waived with the purchase of a bottle of wine. Fees can range from $10 to $25 per person.
Absolutely! The Naramata Bench is designed for multi-winery visits. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and consider a designated driver or tour service.
While many recommend reservations, some smaller or less busy wineries might accommodate walk-ins. However, to avoid disappointment, booking ahead is always the safest bet.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Naramata Bench is known for a diverse range of wines, including excellent Pinot Noir, Syrah, Gamay, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Sparkling wines are also gaining prominence.
Yes, many wineries feature excellent dining options, from casual bistros to fine dining. Bench 1775 and Hillside Winery are particularly noted for their culinary offerings.
The views are spectacular, with panoramic vistas of Okanagan Lake, surrounding mountains, and vineyards. Sunsets are particularly breathtaking.
Some wineries are more family-friendly than others, often featuring outdoor spaces or picnic areas. It's best to inquire directly with the winery about their specific policies.
Beyond wine tasting, you can enjoy hiking, biking on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, exploring local artisan shops, and simply relaxing and taking in the scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bench 1775 Winery is highly praised for its Asian fusion tapas and wine pairings. Hillside Winery & Bistro also offers excellent food with stunning views.
Yes, many wineries offer lunch service, ranging from casual bites to more formal dining experiences. It's a great way to pair food with local wines.
Most wineries with food service are accommodating of dietary restrictions. It's recommended to inform the staff of any needs when booking or ordering.
Cuisine varies, but often features locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on pairings that complement the wines. You'll find everything from charcuterie to more elaborate dishes.
While the focus is on wineries, there are some charming cafes and eateries in the nearby village of Naramata that offer dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Naramata Bench offers incredible photo opportunities, from vineyard rows and lake vistas to the unique hoodoos. Wineries like Bench 1775 and Hillside provide stunning backdrops.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and Transport Canada guidelines before flying a drone. Some wineries may have specific restrictions.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and vineyard shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views, and a telephoto can isolate vineyard details.
Many visitors find the viewpoints along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail offer excellent perspectives. The drive itself provides numerous pull-offs for scenic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's always best to call ahead and inquire about specific family policies. Some wineries might have dedicated areas or activities, while others may be more suited for adults. Packing snacks and drinks for children is also a good idea, as not all wineries have extensive food menus suitable for younger palates.
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
For those seeking more challenging rides, the roads winding through the vineyards offer elevation changes and stunning vistas. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and plan your route to include stops for wine tasting and refreshments. Many wineries are easily accessible from the trail, making it a convenient way to experience multiple tasting rooms.
🥂 Luxury & Fine Dining Enthusiasts
Consider booking private tastings or chef's table experiences if available. Many wineries focus on small-batch, premium wines that can be savored in a more intimate setting. The overall ambiance of the Naramata Bench, with its stunning scenery and focus on quality, appeals to those looking for a refined getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Naramata Bench Wine Trail
When planning your visit, consider the sheer number of wineries. It's impossible to visit them all in a single day. Prioritize based on your wine preferences or explore wineries known for their food offerings, like Bench 1775 or Hillside Winery. Many visitors opt for a bike tour, utilizing the scenic Kettle Valley Rail Trail that winds through the vineyards, offering a more intimate and active way to explore.
Key takeaway: Research wineries beforehand, book tastings and dining reservations in advance, and consider your transportation method to make the most of your Naramata Bench wine adventure. Don't forget to factor in time to simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking Okanagan Lake views.
Culinary Delights on the Bench
Beyond specific wineries, the region emphasizes farm-to-table principles, with many establishments sourcing local ingredients. This commitment to freshness and quality ensures that the food offerings are as memorable as the wines. Whether you're looking for a light charcuterie board to accompany a tasting or a full-course meal with stunning vineyard views, the Naramata Bench delivers.
Pro-tip: Always check the dining hours and reservation policies for wineries, as many popular spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Exploring these culinary offerings adds another rich layer to the Naramata Bench experience.
Beyond Wine: Activities on the Naramata Bench
For those seeking adventure, the area is also suitable for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Okanagan. The Naramata Village itself offers charming shops and a more relaxed pace, providing a pleasant contrast to the winery circuit. The stunning lake views are a constant companion, perfect for photography or simply unwinding.
Consider incorporating these activities into your itinerary to experience the full breadth of what the Naramata Bench has to offer, making your trip more diverse and engaging.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit