The Okanagan Valley is hard to beat for a summer road trip. Mountains, lakes, wineries, fishing and local fare. Everything is well within 5 hours drive from downtown. For the first-timer or seasoned local, the region is BC's summer playground!
Setting off from Vancouver your jaw will drop driving the inspiring BC-3 through Manning Provincial Park. The natural landscape includes mountains and glimpses of wildlife, I've seen moose peacefully wandering right near the road. If you can leave work early this trip is manageable in one stretch but traffic can really build up on long weekends. Don't forget to bring your hat, hiking shoes, mountain bike, summer wine tasting clothing, cooler bags and an empty stomach.
You might have never tasted Canadian wines. The warmer temperatures and sunshine in this valley produce excellent growing conditions and the flavours are impressive. There are four official sub regions spanning two hundred and fifty kilometres with the most popular grape varieties as follows:
White: pinor gris, chardonnay, gewurztraminer, riesling
Red: merlot, pinor noir, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc
Wine connoisseurs can do some research here or book a tour. The spring or summer wine festivals are an excellent choice to increase your local BC know-how.
Like to swim, paddle or sunbathe? The sandy beaches near Penticton are my favourite on the lake. The town has a cute, quiet charm and is easier to navigate than Kewlona. There are oodles of outdoor activities including Canada's largest open water swim which is worth getting involved in. Watch out for the mythical Ogopogo monster which is said to inhabit the lake!
The main city Kewlona is serviced by frequent flights and is an attractive place to base yourself close to many wineries and sights. Golf days, spas and fishing charters are all easily arranged but best to book everything in advance. There is a rich local heritage and the Okanagan Nation Alliance has an annual gathering near Vernon to celebrate Sylix life and culture. There are too many other local sights to list here but be sure to check out Myra Canyon and farm-to-table dining alternatives.
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