5 things to do in the Okanagan Region
Weather conditions are fantastic in the Okanagan right now with high temperatures and hours upon hours of sunny skies – it is the perfect time to plan that summer break! Maybe you’ve heard that there is limited boating on the lake at the moment and you’re wondering why you should still plan a visit? Well lucky for you, there are many activities on offer that can provide you with fun-filled memories. Here are a few suggestions to keep you and the family happy.
1. Indulge on a wine tour
There are many wineries as well as wine tour companies for you to choose from if you are looking to experience some decadent wine tasting and dining. On Thursday evenings throughout July, House of Rose winery offers a Summer Music Series where you can relax in a picturesque setting whilst listening to some live bands. You’re welcome to bring a picnic or purchase supplies at the shop there.
Other popular wineries in the area include Mt Boucherie Winery, Tantalus Vineyard and Little Straw Vineyards. If you don’t fancy driving yourself to these locations (though this does also give you an opportunity to stumble upon some hidden gems), there are several tour companies that can cart you across to a few places in one day.
Okanagan Wine Country Tours offers to take you to 4 wineries in 4 hours on their Tasters Tour Lakeshore Wine Route so you can really explore what the region has to offer. Want to save your daylight hours for other adventures? No problem. Club Wine Tours can take you out at 3.30pm on their Sunset Dinner Escape where you will have the opportunity to taste a local vineyard dinner.
2. Go swimming
Due to the high water levels, there may be a certain amount of debris floating around in Lake Okanagan at the moment. We still believe that there is nothing more relaxing than dipping your toes into a refreshing lake but we understand that this might not be for everyone. To make up for this, here are some other swimming locations.
La Casa Cottage Resort has two swimming pools and we encourage you to try out both of these. Why not practice some lengths and you could become an olympic swimmer in no time!
There is also a fantastic water park located in Vernon. Atlantis Water Slides is less than an hour away and offers hot tubs, slides, picnic areas, cabanas and more. Definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for some wet and wild adventures.
3. Take a Drive to Osoyoos
If you’re wanting to explore some other locations in the Okanagan, Osoyoos makes an interesting starting point. This small, tucked away town is one of Canada’s most endangered habitats. It has a dry climate and is Canada’s only desert. Take time to appreciate the dramatic landscape whilst sipping a glass of wine from one of the many wineries. After all, what’s more perfect than sitting in a vineyard looking out across rolling hills and desert plains?
If you’re not up for a glass of wine, then the Osooyos Desert Centre demands your attention. Learn about the ecology of the area, conservation and habitat restoration with interactive exhibits suitable for all the family. There is a 1.5 km boardwalk where you can enjoy the fresh air and appreciate the desert climate.
4. Dust off those hiking boots
One of the best things to do when you can’t get out on the water, is to get out on the land. If you’ve never had time to explore the Parks surrounding Kelowna, then now is a great time to start and you’ve got so many to choose from! Why not try hiking in Knox Mountain Park? This beautiful park is located in downtown Kelowna. It offers trails of varying lengths and difficulties – all leading to some stunning viewpoints.
Check out our other favourite hikes here.
5. Get Sunbathing
The Okanagan region is known for its superb scenery and blazing sun. In fact the region gets more sunlight than most other parts of Canada! This means it is a perfect place for you to kick off your shoes, grab a new book and work on that tan. It doesn’t matter whether you’re by the lake or by the pool – whiling away the hours under the sun is always a good idea.
