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Kelowna Pubs
Feb05

Kelowna’s Cosy Bars & Pubs

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Kelowna’s Cosy Bars & Pubs

Though Kelowna is well-known for its vineyards and upscale wineries, don’t forget to try out the spots where the locals go. Good for a casual lunch or an apres-ski drink, before heading back to your accommodation, here’s a list of the popular hang-outs.

  • The Grateful Fed Pub

    The Grateful Fed serves typical Pub fare and is the perfect place to grab breakfast, a burger or a round of drinks. This little pub has live music nights as well as $5 happy hours and all you can eat fish & chips! Check their calendar for more information, but what’s not to love?

  • The Train Station Pub

    The Train Station has been around since 1926 and prides itself in having distinct architecture of that period. The menu here is full of tasty salads, sharing plates, and delicious brunch options! With flavoured Martinis for $9 or Irish Coffees for $6, you can’t really go wrong here.

  • Social 242 Lounge & Grill

    Sitting at number 7 on Tripadvisor’s restaurant list, Social 242 should be worked into your itinerary if you’re travelling through or in Kelowna. In addition to their regular menu, they have a separate vegan menu with features such as Chickpea Lentil Meatloaf and Apple Pie Tacos, as well as a special Summer Feature Menu. This is a 3 course Tasting Menu which is available June – September and offers select Okanagan Wines and outdoor seating.

  • Moose Lounge

    Only open in the Winter, Moose Lounge sits on Big White and is every snow-lover’s favourite hangout for apres-ski drinks. Offering free kid’s hot chocolates and coloring everyday between 4-6pm, this is a definite family friendly spot that is worth a visit even if you’re not skiing.

  • KRAFTY Kitchen + Bar

    Try eating at KRAFTY and you won’t regret it. This is a Farm to Table kitchen and bar, that offers a range of dishes to satisfy your taste buds. Take out the stress of choosing between dishes by opting for the Chef’s Table –  a multi-course feast of seasonal dishes put together by the chef and paired with five wines (if you so desire).

 

That’s the end of our round-up! Where will you choose next?  Or do you have a local favourite that’s not on this list?  Let us know in the comments below.

Kelowna Pubs
Written by Hannah Poaros

 

Silver Star Mountain Resort
Jan29

5 Reasons to make Silver Star your Mountain of Choice

Blog, Kelowna, The Okanagan 0 comments

5 Reasons to make Silver Star your Mountain of Choice

 

We know you’ve got plenty of choice when it comes to winter activities, but let’s not forget the local mountains! Silver Star Mountain Resort, close to Vernon and Kelowna, is renowned for having awesome snow conditions, long hours of operation and a fabulous view.  Check out our top 5 reasons to visit:

 

  • Night Skiing:

    Silver Star offers a great amount of night skiing, so you don’t have to leave the mountain when the sun sets! Night skiing starts from 3.30pm on the Summit Chair and Silver Queen Chair; perfect for after work or an extended day on the slopes.  And that’s not the only activity available after dark – check out the Cross-Country Night Loop or Brewer’s Pond Ice Skating Rink for something a little bit different.  Both attractions are open till late, meaning you have plenty of options to keep the whole family entertained while you hit that last run down the mountain.

  • Easy drive from Kelowna, Kelowna Airport and even La Casa:

    Only 22km north of Vernon, Silver Star is easy to get to, no matter where you are coming from within the Vernon and Kelowna area.  Kelowna International Airport is less than an hour’s drive from the mountain and downtown Kelowna is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away!  If you are staying at La Casa, then this is one of the easiest Mountain Resorts to get to as it is literally a one hour’s drive door to door…

  • 3rd Largest Ski Area in BC:

    There are plenty of ski areas in BC to try out each winter, sometimes it feels like there are TOO many to choose from!  Don’t forget that Silver Star is the 3rd largest ski area in BC so you are sure to get plenty out of your visit.  With 3,282 skiable acres, 132 marked runs, and a longest run of 8km, you’ve got more than enough Terrain to keep you occupied for days.  The mountain is also great for beginners as 15% of this terrain are green runs, easiest routes down the mountain and suitable for those just starting out on the snow.

  • Small town vibes:

    The village sits at 1,609m, meaning that this a proper ski-in, ski-out destination. With vibrant, colourful buildings and friendly long-time locals, Silver Star doesn’t feel like your typical tourist resort.  This quaint village is small and welcoming so when you’re not shredding the slopes, you will find yourself sharing drinks with residents and feeling like you’re right at home.

  • Not just alpine – Fat Bike, Snowshoe, Nordic:

    Alpine Skiing and snowboarding not your cup of tea? That’s okay; you can still pay Silver Star a visit! With 8 fat bike trails, 15 snowshoe trails, plenty of Nordic ski trails and 3 terrain parks, you can find the ideal adventure for you.  There’s literally so many options at Silver Star, it’s amazing!

    Silver Star Mountain Ski Resort

Are you excited about hitting the slopes?  Thinking of planning next year’s winter getaway?  Wondering where to organise your ski holiday?  We have the perfect property for you!  Choose La Casa’s Guest House – a property that sleeps up to 26 people with plenty of facilities – and have the perfect base for your mountain adventures.

 

For more information on the Guest House, please refer to our Weddings and Groups information or give us a call on 1-888-226-5566.  We look forward to seeing you soon!

 

Written by Hannah Poaros

Winter Reads
Jan22

6 Perfect Reads when it’s Cold Outside

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6 Perfect Reads when it’s Cold Outside

1. The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe by C.S.Lewis

Family favourite The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe is the epitomy of a winter novel. Set in Narnia, a world dominated by the White Witch with frosty skies and mythical creatures, this C.S. Lewis novel will never not be popular. Snuggle up on the sofa with the whole family and read about the four siblings’ quest to overcome evil. You can embark on this adventure together as snowflakes fall outside your window – we guarantee you will get lost in this fantastical novel!

2. Game of Thrones by George Martin

It’s hard to not think of George Martin’s epic Game of Thrones series when someone mentions winter is coming (yes, that was a direct reference!) so if you haven’t read any of these books yet, then 2018 is the year to start! With Martin hinting at the sixth novel possibly being released later this year, now is the time to catch up on the plot twists, unreliable characters and ethereal creatures of the Seven Kingdoms.

3. Northern Lights by Philip Pullman

Another fantasy trilogy loved by children and adults alike is Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials which features polar bears, witches, the northern lights and daemons. Said to be an inversion and/or retelling of Milton’s Paradise Lost, these long reads will have you hooked instantly. Pick up the first novel Northern Lights, make a cup of hot chocolate and unwind from the day’s cold weather whilst sitting by the fireplace.

4. Snow Falling on the Cedars by David Guterson

Snow Falling on the Cedars is the perfect novel for when it’s chilly outside. Just the fact that author David Guterson refers to snow and cedars multiple times throughout the novel is enough to bring the winter weather inside. For a tale of love, social discrimination and prejudice – give this one a read.

5. Waiting for the Barbarians by J.M. Coetzee

For something a little more sinister and dystopian, try reading Waiting for the Barbarians by J. M. Coetzee. Winter time is ideal for getting up close and personal with Coetzee’s poetic motifs and haunting descriptions. This may be a small novel but you won’t put it down once you turn the first page – cosy up and read this masterpiece in one sitting while the weather is turning angry outside.

6. The Secret History by Donna Tartt

You’ll find The Secret History by Donna Tartt on many winter reading lists. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a twisted murder mystery? The novel is set in Vermont and features a group of college students who are enamoured by Greek language and literature. We won’t give too much away on this one but we are certain you will love the creative suspense Tartt creates. Delve into this interesting plot line and forget all about the freezing temperatures outside.

 

 

Is your favourite winter read not featured on this list? Comment below as we would love to hear your suggestions.

 

Are you looking forward to the summer already? Good job we are taking bookings for Summer 2018 then, isn’t it? Give us a call on +1-888-226-5566  or shoot us an email today at Rentals@lacasacottageresort.com and we will help you plan an exciting summer at La Casa Cottages.

 

Written by Hannah Poaros

Okanagan Ski Snowboard
Jan15

Where to Ski in the Okanagan, BC

Blog, The Okanagan 0 comments

Where to Ski in the Okanagan, BC

Ever wondered what the options were for skiing or boarding in the Okanagan, BC?  Well we have done our research and can now provide you with the Mountain Stats for all 5 of these wonderful Ski Areas.  Take a look and plan your next snow adventure!

Silver Star Mountain Resort (3rd Largest Ski Area in BC)

Adult Full-Day Lift Pass: $96
Child Full-Day Lift Pass: $50 – $77
Location: 22km from Vernon, BC; 65km from Kelowna Airport
Operating Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm / Night Skiing 3.30pm – 8.30pm
Mountain Elevation: 1, 915m
Amount of Terrain: 3,282 Skiable Acres
Beginner Terrain: 15% of Terrain + Silver Queen Beginners Area
Number of Runs: 132 Marked Runs
Longest Run: 8km

Big White Ski Resort

Adult Full-Day Lift Pass: $95- $105
Child/ Youth Full-Day Lift Pass: $54 – $89
Location: 56km from Kelowna, BC
Operating Hours: 8:45am – 3.30pm / Night Skiing 3.30pm – 8.00pm
Mountain Elevation: 2, 319m
Amount of Terrain: 1, 525 Acres
Beginner Terrain: 18% of Runs are Beginner
Number of Runs: 118 Designated Trails
Longest Run: 7.2km

Apex Mountain Resort

Adult Full-Day Lift Pass: $80
Child/ Youth Full-Day Lift Pass: $50 – $66
Location: 33km from Pentiction, BC
Operating Hours: 9.00am – 3.30pm / Night Skiing 4.00pm – 9.00pm
Mountain Elevation: 2, 180m
Amount of Terrain: 1,113 Skiable Acres
Beginner Terrain: 16% of Terrain
Number of Runs: 73 Downhill Trails
Longest Run: 5km

Sun Peaks Ski Resort (Canada’s Second Largest Ski Area)

Adult Full-Day Lift Pass: $95
Child/ Youth Full-Day Lift Pass: $48 – $76
Location: 50km from Kamloops, BC
Operating Hours: 9.00am – 3.30pm
Mountain Elevation: 2, 152m
Amount of Terrain: 4,270 Skiable Acres
Beginner Terrain: 10% of Terrain
Number of Runs: 135 Trails
Longest Run: 8km

Baldy Mountain Resort

Adult Full-Day Lift Pass: $55
Child/ Youth Full-Day Lift Pass: $10 – $35
Location: 38km from Oliver, BC; 57km from Osoyoos, BC
Mountain Elevation: 2,303m
Amount of Terrain: 225 Acres
Beginner Terrain: 33% of Terrain
Number of Runs: 34 Runs
Longest Run: 1km

 

And so the question is – which one is your favourite?

 

Written by Hannah Poaros

 

 

Leek Recipes
Jan08

Beat winter with these heartwarming Leek recipes

Blog, Recipes 0 comments

Beat winter with these heartwarming Leek recipes

Fresh produce is the highlight of the Okanagan region and just because it’s the winter, doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of local goods to go around. This month we are highlighting the sister of the onion:

The Leek!

One of the Allium vegetables, Leeks have a variety of health benefits and that’s why we are giving you a selection of recipes that highlight the delicate flavor of this underrated vegetable. They’ll get you through the winter months and might help prevent catching a cold or two!

Leek Recipe

 

Nothing beats a homemade soup in the Winter. Instead of making the typical Potato & Leek soup, why not try one of a different variety?  All you need for this simple recipe is butter, leeks, parsnips, broth, potatoes, apples and herbs!  Melt butter, cook everything until tender – then stick in a blender and voila, you’ve just made a marvelous meal.  Check out the full ingredients list and method via chatelaine.com .

Anyone who loves goat’s cheese, will really enjoy these tasty lunchtime pastries. Enjoy the combination of the mild leeks with the melted goat’s cheese, all on top of a thick puff pastry base! The key to the success of this recipe is it’s simplicity. For ingredient’s list and method, please visit olivemagazine.com .

Inspired by the Jewish tradition of Potato latkes, these Leek fritters are to die for. Using a very small shopping list, these savory treats are perfect on their own, with apple chutney or as an accompaniment to a main meal. All you need to get started are leeks, eggs, olive oil and breadcrumbs!  These really are best eaten on the day of cooking, so don’t leave them sitting out for too long. Check out seriouseats.com for the full ingredients list and method.

What’s more comforting than a warm Chicken & Leek pie? This recipe suggests using puff pastry, which will make your pie topping light, crispy and golden! Another top tip to take away is to slow cook the chicken legs so that the meat is falling off the bone.  This will help get a lovely juicy chicken filling.  Check out the full ingredients list and method via seriouseats.com .

 

These recipes are perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon when it’s snowing outside – stock up on groceries, head to your cottage and cook away!  For other recipe recommendations, please check out our related blog posts here.  We love to see our guests getting creative in the kitchen – send us a photo on Facebook or shoot us a comment below so that we can see how you are spending your winter days!

If you’re already thinking of summer, then don’t forget to contact our reservations line on +1-888-226-5566 to book your cottage vacation at La Casa Cottages – we’d love to have you!

 

Written by Hannah Poaros