Lake Vacations for Wine Lovers: Sip and Stay Lakeside

If you know me, this post combines my two most FAVORITE things. Wine and Lake Life.

Imagine this: you’re by a lake, surrounded by vineyards, sipping a glass of Chardonnay, and watching the sun go down below the horizon. Does it get any better? I think not! If you’re ready for a lakeside getaway that combines the best of wine country with lake life vibes, you’re in the right place. Here are some of my top destination recommendation for wine lovers who want to sip and stay by the water!

Lake Chelan, Washington – Where Wine Meets Waves

Lake Chelan is a Pacific Northwest Lake that combines amazing views with a whole lot of wine charm. This area is packed with wineries and tasting rooms, a lot that come with views of the lake. Start your day with a boat ride or a swim in Lake Chelan, then head over to Benson Vineyards or Tsillan Cellars for wine tastings with panoramic views.

Stay: Book a room at Campbell’s Resort right on the water. You’ll be right by both the lake and Chelan’s top wineries. If you like a more private option, consider one of the lake cabins in the area – perfect for enjoying a glass of wine on your own deck as the sun sets.

Finger Lakes, New York – Lakes, Grapes, and a Whole Lot of Charm

The Finger Lakes are a wine lover’s paradise with over 100 wineries around the long, narrow lakes. Known especially for Riesling, the Finger Lakes region is full of places to drink wine to your heart’s content. Stop by Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery on Keuka Lake or Ravines Wine Cellars on Seneca Lake for award-winning wines with epic lake views. And, of course, you can’t leave without trying a wine slushie – they’re a thing here!

Stay: Treat yourself to a few nights at Belhurst Castle and Winery on Seneca Lake. Yes, it’s a castle. And yes, you get to drink wine in it. You’re welcome. Prefer something a bit cozier? Geneva on the Lake has a charming lakeside vibe that’ll make you feel right at home.

Lake Erie, Ohio – The Midwest’s Best-Kept Secret

Lake Erie might not be the first place that pops into your mind for wine, but it’s time to change that. The Lake Erie Shores and Islands region has a growing wine scene and plenty of laid-back lakeside fun. The Lake Erie region has over 30 wineries spread across the shores of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Stay: The Lakehouse Inn doubles as a B&B and winery, so you’re really killing two birds with one (wine) glass. If you’re in the mood for a beachy vibe, there are plenty of lake cottages nearby that bring serious “relaxation” energy.

Okanagan Lake, British Columbia – Canadian Wine Eh!

Okanagan Valley is like Canada’s Napa Valley, and the wines here are incredible. The Okanagan Lake stretches for miles, with vineyards and wineries along its shores. Must-visit wineries include Mission Hill Family Estate Winery and Quails’ Gate Winery for some tasting with a view. If you’re into water sports, Okanagan Lake has everything from paddle boarding to jet skiing – all while staying near your next tasting.

Stay: The Cove Lakeside Resort has beautiful suites with views of the lake and is right in the middle of wine country. After a day of winery-hopping, you can come back to your room and relax by the water.

Another fun Canadian Option for Wine is just North of Niagara Falls in Ontario. The Niagara Peninsula is Canada’s largest wine-producing region, covering 13,600 acres. The Niagara-on-the-Lake area is a community of wineries, including well-known wineries, craft wineries, and more. Unfortunately we stumbled upon this beautiful region while on our Babymoon with our first son, so I didn’t get to partake in the tasting like my husband, but he assured me we would be back one day so I could also participate!

---

Packing Tips for the Lake-Wine Adventure

• Swimsuit and Sunblock: You’ll want to jump into those lakes, so be ready!
• Reusable Wine Tote: Perfect for grabbing a few bottles to bring back to your cabin or resort.
• Camera: Because you’ll want to remember these views and those “we really do love wine” selfies.

So, cheers to my fellow wine lovers! These lake and wine regions are waiting with open bottles and open arms for you to come visit. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or a solo retreat to recharge with a view, a lake vacation in wine country is as close to paradise as you can get. Reach out to me at ABurkeTrip to help you plan your Lake-Wine Adventure!