Roam At Home Kelowna

1. When Canadians think of summer, a trip to the sunny beaches of Kelowna is top of mind. Nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, spring and summer come early and there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. After a long year, we know you are ready to start planning your Canadian getaway weekend escape and with a beautiful landscape to explore, Kelowna is a great place to start.

   Surrounded by the sprawling Okanagan Lake, provincial parks, vineyards, orchards and mountains, Kelowna offers a playground suited for families, couples, singles, foodies, and every walk of life imaginable. There truly is something for everyone here! A warm climate regardless of season, and plenty of sunshine make Kelowna a photographer’s dream. So, if you are dreaming of a wine tour, a freshly picked apple, a day at the beach, or a leisurely trail to explore, here are some of the top picks as voted by you!

   

   Best Wine Tour

   Quail’s Gate

   It’s wine-o-clock somewhere, that’s what we always say anyways! Family farmed since 1956 and just a quick ride from the Kelowna International Airport, Quail’s Gate could be your first and last stop of your vacation. Have a sip of a luxurious wine with a spectacular view and then a casual stroll through the vineyard for some premier tastings and photo ops. Events happen all year-round, so you can enjoy their passion for grape growing and see why Quail’s Gate is one of the top wineries in Canada. Are you also looking for a great place to plant yourself for the next few days? The Lake House is one of the most elegant lakefront properties for you to experience the warmth of the Okanagan wine country.

   

   Best Golf Course

   Tower Ranch Golf & Country Club

   A premier course, no doubt. 18-holes of spectacular views will take you through semi-dessert hills with lush vineyards and challenging shot options. The Clubhouse at Tower Ranch features over 10,000 square feet of amenities so you can get your state-of-the-art equipment, some new pro golf outfits, a bite to eat, or maybe plan a wedding! The options are endless, and the views are dramatic. Visit this top-rated and strategic course with risk/reward opportunities that enable any level of golfer to have an enjoyable round.

   

   Best Beach For Water Sports

   We couldn’t pick just one! It was hard to narrow it down with so many fantastic spots in Kelowna, but it was a tie between Gyro Beach and Bear Creek Provincial Park with our voters.

   If you are looking for a sandy spot with plenty of spots to swim in the lake, Gyro is the place to be. Centrally located on Lakeshore road, Gyro beach is easy to access and surrounded by shops, restaurants and local businesses. This is also a family-friendly location with trees for those who want to avoid sun burns, beach volleyball, a playground and rentals for stand-up paddle boarding and other amazing water sports. You want to see and be seen? Get your Instagram account ready and head to this local hotspot.

   If you are venturing across the bridge and taking a little tour of West Kelowna, make sure you plan your day at Bear Creek Provincial Park. Truly a natural wonderland, the park features over 400 metres of sandy beaches and 5 km of spectacular, well-marked hiking trails. A picturesque canyon is ready for you to view when you hit the lake with your canoe.

   

   Best Trail For a Bike Ride

   Myra Canyon Trestles

   Originally built by hand, this impressive portion of the Kettle Valley Railway is highlighted by two tunnels and 18 trestle bridges that are too spectacular for words. Take a scenic drive to the Myra Canyon Trestles and you will pass by orchards, vineyards, golf courses and farms. The journey is worth the destination! There are plenty of tours and bike rentals if you haven’t brought your gear, so get your grind on and cycle your way through an amazing local landmark.

   

   Best Brunch

   The Bohemian Café & Catering Company

   This family-run local business is in the heart of downtown. Their beliefs are simple; you start with good quality, local food and turn it into an experience to remember. And you can tell! The passion and creativity is featured in every dish and you will find a variety of vegan dishes, vegetarian options and breakfast or sandwiches earning them multiple ‘Best of Kelowna’ awards six years in a row. After a big brunch, you can certainly stroll through the waterfront and put that coffee caffeine rush to use.

Maria Kostaras