6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour

Exploring the Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: A Balanced Look at a Local Favorite

If you’re visiting Victoria and have a soft spot for good wine and scenic drives, the 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour might just be your perfect day trip. Offered by Canadian Craft Tours and rated 4.2 out of 5 based on 21 reviews, this tour promises a mix of stunning vistas, engaging guides, and some of British Columbia’s finest wines.

We like the way this tour combines personalized experiences with beautiful views and well-chosen wineries. The inclusion of a lunch and private tastings makes it feel both indulgent and value-packed. However, some travelers have noted that occasionally, the experience can be a bit rushed or hit or miss at certain wineries.

This tour suits those who want an authentic, relaxed exploration of Cowichan Valley’s wine scene without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a day in the countryside, this trip offers a taste of local charm and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and vistas throughout the drive.
• Knowledgeable guides who add context and personality.
• Exclusive tastings at top-rated wineries.
• All tastings and lunch included in the price.
• Small-group atmosphere with round-trip transportation.
• Flexible cancelation policy offers peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Heart of the Tour: An Overview

This 6-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic drives, wine tasting, and a delicious lunch. Starting from downtown Victoria, the journey kicks off with a pickup at the passenger loading zone across from the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, setting the stage for an authentic BC adventure. The group then heads northwest toward Cowichan Valley, known for its favorable microclimate and high-quality wines.

The itinerary is thoughtfully laid out to give you enough time at each stop, with scheduled tastings, behind-the-scenes looks, and a chance for some memorable photos, especially at the Malahat lookout. The tour’s structure, with a small group in a comfortable 14-passenger van, ensures a more personal experience than larger bus tours.

Scenic Drive and First Stop: Enrico Winery

Our journey begins with a scenic drive through Vancouver Island’s lush landscape. The highlight is a look at the Malahat, where a quick photo stop offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and forests. These vistas set a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Enrico Winery is the first stop, where you’ll enjoy a private tasting and a hearty lunch including a BBQ burger and salad. Guests report that Enrico’s team is friendly and eager to share their wines, and the tasting provides a great introduction to the region’s offerings. The inclusion of a sit-down lunch at this point makes it a satisfying start, especially after a morning of travel.

Exploring Cowichan’s Finest Wineries

Post-lunch, the tour visits Blue Grouse, renowned for its scenic beauty and high-quality wines. The tasting here allows you to sample some of BC’s best, with a chance to interact directly with the winery team. The relaxed pace means you can savor your samples and ask questions, making each tasting more than just a sip.

The third winery, Unsworth Vineyards, offers a behind-the-scenes look at wine production—either a vineyard tour or bottling process, depending on your group’s choice. This insider access is highly appreciated, giving you a glimpse of the craftsmanship behind each bottle. At Unsworth, you’ll enjoy another tasting, which many travelers feel is the highlight of the trip.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Opinions

One review notes that the tour is generally enjoyable, with “attentive, informative guides” — a recurring compliment. The guides seem to go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels engaged and informed, which elevates the experience beyond just tasting wine.

However, feedback also points out some inconsistencies. For example, one traveler found the third winery experience disappointing, citing very small pours and some offhanded comments about Oregon wineries. Such reviews remind us that while the tour aims for excellence, experiences can vary depending on the staff and winery dynamics.

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Transportation and Group Size: Comfort Matters

The use of a deluxe 14-passenger van is a key feature, ensuring that your group stays intimate and comfortable. This smaller group size allows for more interaction and a less rushed, more personalized experience. The round-trip transportation from Victoria is a big plus, saving you the hassle of arranging your own ride and enabling you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Price and Value

At $126 per person, this tour offers significant value, considering the included tastings, lunch, and behind-the-scenes tours. The fact that all tastings are included, and you get to sample multiple wineries, makes it easy to see why many find this an enjoyable and reasonably priced way to explore Cowichan Valley.

The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, adds a layer of convenience that modern travelers appreciate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers looking to explore BC’s thriving wine scene without the hassle of driving or planning. It also suits those who enjoy scenic drives and want a relaxed day out in nature. Families, couples, or small groups of friends will find the small-group setting friendly and engaging.

Those seeking insider access—like behind-the-scenes tours—will appreciate the inclusion at Unsworth. Conversely, if you’re after a more extensive or more luxurious wine experience, you might want to explore private tastings or multiple-day options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Victoria to Cowichan wine tour strikes a good balance—combining beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and top-quality wines at a fair price. It’s a tour that emphasizes authentic experiences and relaxed exploration, making it a solid choice for those who want to enjoy Vancouver Island’s wine country without the fuss.

While some reviews mention minor hiccups—like shorter tastings at certain wineries or slight scheduling issues—the vast majority of travelers find the experience enjoyable, informative, and worth the cost. The included lunch and behind-the-scenes access are definite perks that enhance the value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a manageable, friendly, and well-organized introduction to Cowichan Valley’s vineyards, and who appreciate a good mix of scenery, education, and tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, tastings, and meals.

Where does the tour start and end?
Meet directly across the street from the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria at the passenger loading zone. The tour concludes back at the same location around 4:00 PM.

What is included in the price?
All tastings at the wineries, a BBQ burger and salad lunch, private group tastings, and round-trip transportation in a deluxe van are included.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable, and the tastings are designed to be accessible for all levels of wine familiarity.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Are there any restrictions on bringing drinks?
Yes, drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, so plan to enjoy your tastings at the wineries.

To sum it up, the Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour offers a delightful way to combine scenic beauty with BC’s excellent wines, all within a relaxed and friendly setting. Perfect for those wanting a taste of local life and some well-earned leisure in Vancouver Island’s charming countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here: