Kelowna is one of those unique spots in BC that is home to arts, culture, nature, festivals, and events. Whether you’re planning a trip with pals or looking to get away with someone special, we’re helping you out by picking out some of the best spots to enjoy your time together.
Where to Stay
Photo Courtesy of The Cove Lakeside Resort and Tourism Kelowna
The ability to stay lakeside is one of the many perks of spending time in Kelowna. A staple since 1926, Hotel Eldorado sits on Okanagan Lake and offers spacious guestrooms and suites with panoramic views. If wine is a main incentive for your trip then. The Cove Lakeside Resort in West Kelowna is a hop and a skip away from the Westside Wine Trail wineries Mission Hill, Quail’s Gate, Mt Boucherie, Volcanic Hills, Grizzli, and many others. After a day of wine tasting, you can relax at the resort’s pool or head out to their Spa at the Cove. And if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature then consider camping in one of the many stunning provincial parks in the area. We recommend Bear Creek or Fintry Provincial Parks, both of which are located on the west side of Okanagan Lake – the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a lakeside picnic.
What to Eat
Photo Courtesy of RauDZ
The emerging food scene in Kelowna has something for everyone. Start the day off with some brunch. Bohemian Cafe and Catering Co. is a staple specializing in breakfast fare. You can’t go wrong with their dishes that include housemade bacon and sausage, organic bread baked daily, and homemade strawberry jam. Or head out to The Jammery located on seven acres of farmland. Featured on Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here” this spot has the most delicious homemade jams to complement their breakfast items.
Looking for a special spot for dinner? Look no further than local favourite RauDZ. With a menu featuring seasonal and local fare, we suggest digging into the mussels from the Gulf Islands or devouring the RJB – the ultimate steak burger with grilled beef tenderloin, poached crab, bacon, onion jam in a brioche bun with roasted potatoes and duck fat mayonnaise. Pair with their drink menu – inspired by and featuring almost exclusively local fruit & produce and you’re set for a satisfying evening. And if you’re looking to refine your baking skills, Sandrine offers deliciously fun classes with a focus on creating work of art French pastries and chocolate.
What to Do
Photo Courtesy of Valhalla Helicopter Tours and Tourism Kelowna
You can’t go to Kelowna without going on a wine tour. There are several unique ones to choose from like Vintage Wine Tours or Tours 59 Classic Cars Tour who will take you on a tour of local wineries while cruising in the backseat of a 1956 Cadillac Sedan de Ville or a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air. For a bird’s eye view, Valhalla Helicopters offers half and full-day exhilarating heli-wine tours in Kelowna. Or keep it simple and head out on foot or by bike for a bicycle wine tour with a tour operator like Monashee Adventure Tours. Need help narrowing it down? Our favourites include Mission Hill, Summerhill, JoieFarm, Quail’s Gate, Tantalus and 8th Generation.
Aside from wine, craft beer has been an exciting new addition to the city. Tree Brewing Company, just off of the downtown core, produces a wide variety of beers and ciders. Around the corner from Waterfront Park, the most recent addition to the scene is BNA Brewing. Located in a historic cannery building, the brewery and restaurant features their own brewed beers and eight guest taps on rotation. Bonus: there’s an indoor bocce court!
Kalamalka Lake – Photo Courtesy of Tourism Kelowna and Karen Miller
After all that eating and drinking, it’s best to get active and enjoy the convenient nature spots located close by. Just north of Kelowna, in Lake Country you will find the “Lake of many colours” Kalamalka Lake – which is a favourite spot for a hike and a dip. Or, head up Knox Mountain for a hike and down to Paul’s Tomb for a swim – the perfect way to enjoy multiple activities on one trip. For more scenic views, follow the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail. A former rail bed turned into a recreational trail, it’s best explored by bike – either on your own or with a tour. The highlight of the trail is the famous Myra Canyon, consisting of two tunnels and a series of 18 trestles, restored after a wildfire burned through them years ago.
Kelowna is a jewel of the Okanagan Valley. Bursting with beautiful landscapes, a thriving dining scene, world-renowned wineries and limitless outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the getaway you deserve.
