If you want to combine a wine tour with the excitement of stay in a large metropolitan city, then consider the Fraser Valley region of BC Wine Country. 

The area has some of the finest soil in the province when it comes to growing grapes. It’s a well-established farming community like no other with its silty dirt, high in organic matter. But its proximity to Vancouver, Canada’s third largest metropolitan area, makes for a unique opportunity to combine big city experiences with a thirsty quest for locally produced wine.

You can plan a fishing trip, golf escape, see a professional sporting game or take in a big-name concert and combine it with a day trip or two to several local wineries.

There are more than two dozen wineries considered to be part of the Fraser Valley industry. It is one of the province’s recognized Geographical Indications in honor of its unique climate and soil.

While the bulk of the 200 acres of grapes are being grown in the farming belt, the actual wineries are scattered between Chilliwack and Richmond, with several actually in the urban Metro Vancouver region. 

Surrounding farmers’ fields and vineyards the valley are rugged peaks, dense forest and pristine waterways – terrain that offer travellers great outdoor adventure opportunities such as mountain climbing, salmon fishing in the Fraser River, white water rafting, zip lining, biking and hiking. There are numerous attractions such as aquatic and recreation centres, historic sites, hot springs, parks and campgrounds. Nature lovers will be drawn to Mountain View Wildlife Conservation and Breeding Centre and Bridal Veil Falls.

The close proximity to Metro Vancouver makes it easy for urbanites to find their jam and provides excellent opportunities for rural daytrips and city-focused excursions. 

Located in the Indigenous area known as the Vancouver Coast and Mountains, the region is home to the Coast Salish people. including Squamish, Lil’wat, Sto:lo, Musquean and Tsleil-Waututh Frist Nations. It features the traditional languages of She Shashishalhem, Kwakwala, Nle? and Kepmxc’in, among others. Among the Indigenous experiences you can partake in there are dining and culinary tours, galleries feature art and culture, heritage sites and museums, and traditional fishing and adventures.

The valley enjoys warm summers with temperatures that rarely get scorching hot like some of the interior regions. And the winters are relatively mild with the mercury rarely dipping below freezing. So there is little risk of frigid temperatures damaging the vines.