While smartphones allow us to stay connected and engaged with our digital worlds, they can also be a distraction from getting out and enjoying the physical world around us. As spring is a time of renewal, it makes sense to take a digital detox at this time of year—think of it as a reset for your digital life, where you can alleviate stress, refresh, and recharge your own battery. Wellness travel is on the rise, and what better place to take a break from the online world than Kelowna? With its ample outdoor space and numerous local activities that allow you to unplug and make lasting memories.

Catch the Sunrise or Sunset

^{View from Rose Valley Regional Park. Photo by: Scott Bakken Productions} 

For those who are more experienced hikers, Kelowna and the area offer some great options to catch the sun make its entrance for the day. In West Kelowna, both Mount Boucherie and Rose Valley Regional Park—select trails have been recently reopened—overlook Okanagan Lake and Kelowna, with the sun seemingly rising from behind the city. At this time of year, sunrise usually starts around 6 a.m., so be sure to give yourself enough time to get up the mountain if you want to admire the view from the summit.

If you prefer an easier climb (or no climb at all), then end your day admiring the setting sun from along the waterfront boardwalk, at one of Kelowna’s many lakefront parks and beaches, or from the lookouts at Knox Mountain, which is an easier hike on the edge of downtown. While you’ll certainly want to take photos of the stunning views, maybe try spending the majority of your visit taking in the beauty of the moment and your surroundings.

Appreciate the Sights and Sounds of Nature

^{Biking Mission Creek Greenway. Photo by: Seekers Media & Nancy Shields}

From chirping birds and running water to blooming flowers and unique views, there are so many sights and sounds to take in when you explore Kelowna. While you may be used to chatting with friends or listening to your favourite playlist while you walk or hike, make the choice to simply connect with the sounds around you for at least a portion of your adventure.

A short drive from downtown Kelowna will have you immersed in nature with abundant sights and sounds. Many of the area’s regional parks, including Mission Creek, Scenic Canyon, and Mill Creek, will envelop you with trees and have you walking alongside creeks in the area, which can be quite high during the spring due to runoff from the mountains. As you explore, notice the Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Kelowna’s official flower, and other plants blooming alongside the trails. Run your hand along the bark of the trees or the smooth surface of a rockface. Try and spot the birds that are creating the soundtrack of your adventure. You’ll be sure to feel relaxed, refreshed, and centred when you explore mindfully and phone-free.

Discover Arts and Culture Without Distractions

^{Family viewing Indigenous syilx Artwork along Okanagan Rail Trail. Photo by: Ken Hagen}

You can mix nature and art by exploring the many pieces of public art throughout the region. In Lake Country, for instance, you can hop on your bike to ride the Okanagan Rail Trail—Pedego Oyama is conveniently located near the trail if you're looking for rentals—while stopping along the way to take in the three Indigenous art installations created by syilx artists, Clint George and Les Louis.

A visit to local museums, including the Okanagan Heritage Museum and Sncewips Heritage Museum, will offer you the opportunity to further connect with the region’s Indigenous culture, that of the syilx / Okanagan people. You can also unplug and reconnect with the land by taking part in the syilx traditional plant use walking tours offered by Okanagan Heritage Museum.

Head to the Kelowna Art Gallery or one of the area’s smaller galleries to see exhibits and art pieces from local, national, and international artists. Until May 11, you can take in Her Land: Perspectives in Eco-Art at the Kelowna Art Gallery, which "celebrates the pivotal contributions of women in the environmental art movement."

Don't forget to switch off that phone or turn it on airplane mode to limit your distractions!

Come Alive This Spring with Wellness Travel in Kelowna, BC

^{Photo by: Partners & Hawes/Tourism Kelowna}

Taking part in some form of physical activity means you'll have to go phone free for a while—plus, you'll get all the mood boosting benefits of moving your body!

If you've taken up the newest sport craze, pickleball, you'll find outdoor courts in Kelowna (available for casual use) at: Parkinson Recreation Centre (some restrictions), Blair Pond Park, Cross Glen Park, Edith Gay Park, Gertsmar Park, Knox Mountain Park, Quilchena Park, and Rutland Recreation Park.

Other adventure options abound, with numerous mountain biking trails, indoor and outdoor climbing options, human-powered lake activities, like stand-up paddleboarding, and more. If you're looking for something slower-paced, yoga is a fantastic way to destress and reconnect with your body (search Tourism Kelowna's online calendar for classes taking place while you're visiting).

There's no doubt you'll feel invigorated and alive after taking part in all these phone-free activities. Be sure to refuel by sipping and tasting the best of the Okanagan, too!