Similkameen Valley, BC 2023 Travel Guide

Our Story

A Valley Carved by the River

THE SIMILKAMEEN RIVER IS THE HEART OF OUR VALLEY.

THIS IS OUR STORY...

Immerse yourself in nature as you take your time meandering this 140 km (87 mi) stretch of the western end of BC’s Crowsnest Scenic Highway 3, from Mannning Park to Cawston. Rich experiences await in the spectacular Similkameen Valley. Whether it’s outdoor adventures by foot, bike, or paddle, tasting fresh ripened fruits and vegetables just picked from family run orchards and farms or sipping wines in vineyards in a world class wine region, the Similkameen is a gem to be discovered or re-discovered. Explore our rugged and rustic lands and get to know the welcoming spirit of the people who may tell you a bit about our ancestors, and how we came to live in this special place. Listen carefully to hear the echoes of our past, and the promises of our future.

The raw beauty of the Similkameen River, the lifeblood of the Valley, is a reminder of nature’s power. Flowing down from the Cascade Mountains, marvel at how the River carved the spectacular valley over 200 million years ago. Today, the diverse valley offers craggy cliffs, meadows of mountain flowers, forests, lush orchards and rows of vineyards. Here you will find us: fishing on sparkling lakes and rivers, birdwatching, walking mountain trails, biking, floating, golfing, birding, picnicking, savouring organic farm fresh offerings, talking with a winegrower and relishing in the stunning beauty of where we live. We’ve been happy to share it with generations of travellers. We’d love to share it with you.

A RICH HISTORY THAT

The Similkameen Valley is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Similamix and Smelqmix People.

Similkameen River.

CONTINUES TO EVOLVE

Our history is steeped in discovery and exploration. Learn of the legends of the Similkameen Indigenous peoples, walk in the footsteps of our pioneers, fur traders and prospectors and hear tales of the Granite Creek Gold Rush in Coalmont, and the days of the Hudson Bay Brigade. Hear our stories unfold at the Hedley Heritage Museum and discover our roots at the Princeton Museum and the South Similkameen Museum in Keremeos. Immerse yourselves as our curators bring the past to life. Visit the historic Grist Mill and Gardens near Keremeos and link many past traditions with current practices. Savour the flavours of multi-generational organic farms, orchards, and vineyards in Cawston and Keremeos. It’s authentically farm to table, and vine to glass here, enjoying the fresh bounty just steps away from where it is grown.

Create your own legends filled with grit and adventure along the wilderness trails of China Ridge, Manning Park, Cathedral Lakes Park, and the Hudson Bay Company Brigade Trail.

Take your time and stay at one of the many quaint inns, guest houses, B&Bs, and suites in towns, orchards and vineyards, and explore more. See how we keep true to our past while we evolve to our future. Whether you’re looking for a challenging outdoor adventure or just wanting to kick back and relax (or both), you can do it in the Similkameen!

Step back in time when you visit the Grist Mill and Gardens in Keremeos, a Provincial Heritage Site and the last working water wheel flour mill in British Columbia from 1877.

SEASONS OF THE SIMILKAMEEN

Every season brings fresh adventures. In spring, enjoy a collage of colour as the fruit trees awaken and bloom. (Be cautious of the rising river as the snow melts.) Enjoy the summer heat, or look for cool breezes on our alpine trails. Cast a line, take a dip or enjoy breathtaking vistas as you tube down the river. Take in a round of golf or bird watch in the countryside. Indulge in a farm-to-table experience in a vineyard or orchard. In the fall taste your way across the south valley picking up fall veggies at fruit stands, uniquely decorated with hundreds of pumpkins and gourds. Sample awardwinning wines and watch the harvest activities on a crush pad. In winter, explore the trails by snowshoe or Nordic ski or take a day to enjoy the slopes and tube park at Manning Park Resort. Embrace ice fishing on one of our many lakes.

CONNECT TO OUR ARTS AND CULTURE

The cultural arts scene is as varied as our landscapes. Enjoy local art and music at events, wineries and restaurants, and take home memories of your travels. Visit galleries showcasing local artists at the Sunflower Gallery or the Red Post Art Gallery in Princeton. Stroll the walking tour in Princeton, the Bronze Statue Capital of Canada. Pick up pantry goods and local crafts at the Grist Mill and Gardens in Keremeos.

Snowshoeing in Manning Park.

One of the many bronze sculptures located around downtown Princeton.

Fall harvest, Keremeos.

GETTING HERE

Enjoy an epic road trip through the Similkameen Valley. Cruise our two-lane highway with some windy sections ideal for motorcycle touring. The best way to explore is to follow the Similkameen River via Crowsnest Hwy 3, which runs through the heart of our valley. From the western headwaters in Manning Park through to Cawston, the Similkameen River connects the communities, towns and villages that dot our countryside.

Experience ever changing landscapes as you travel west to east. From Manning Park to Princeton and on through Hedley you will be captivated by rugged mountains, forests and rushing rivers. Through Keremeos, Cawston and on to Osoyoos the sweeping valley opens to lush orchards, vineyards and ranchlands that will take your breath away. Nestled in the south Thompson Okanagan Valley region of BC’s Interior, the Similkameen Valley is 140 km (87 mi) between Cawston and Manning Park.

Access Crowsnest Hwy 3 from

Vancouver, BC via Hwy 1 to Hope, BC. From Jasper, AB, drive west on Hwy 16 to Hwy 5 to Merritt. Continue south on Hwy 5A to Princeton. From Calgary, AB take Hwy 1 to Route 97, on to Hwy 3A from Penticton or Hwy 3 from the south end of Alberta. From the US, enter the valley at the junction of Hwy 97 and Hwy 3—near Osoyoos.

HOURS TO DRIVE

Calgary to Keremeos 9 hrs

Kamloops to Princeton 2 hrs

Kelowna to Keremeos 1.5 hrs

Vancouver to Princeton 3.5 hrs

Electric Car Charging

You’ll find many charging stations throughout the Similkameen Valley. Recharge yourself at the same time by exploring our town centres or wineries while you are stopped. For more information visit our website similkameenvalley.com | PlugInBC.ca | Tesla.com.

Princeton .

Highway 3 near Keremeos.

Key Experiences From mountain to river

HIKE, BIKE, AND RIDE OUR TRAILS

Bring along your friends and family for adventures in the great outdoors and explore nature in every season. Discover 55 km (34 mi) of uncrowded trails accessible by foot, mountain bike, horse, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. Our trails are a part of the Trans Canada Trail, also known as the Great Trail, that connects Canada with over 24,000 km (14,912 mi) of greenways and roadways, forming the world’s longest network of recreational trails. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, there’s an adventure for everyone!

Cyclists explore the trails of China Ridge just outside Princeton.

MUST DO LIST

• Reconnect with yourself and nature in wide open spaces

• Walk, Hike, Bike, and Ride the trails at various locations throughout the valley

• Discover our storied past in museums, gardens, heritage trails, and a ghost town

• Camp or RV at one of the municipal and private campgrounds throughout the Valley many riverfront

• Play year-round in the wilderness of Manning Park

• Make a splash in the Similkameen waters—swim, paddle, or tube the iconic rivers connecting our valley

• Spot birds and animals in the wild and learn about our diverse eco-systems at the Swan Lake Nature Reserve

• Walk the Bronze Sculpture Tour through Princeton town center and enhance your experience by downloading the “On This Spot” app

• Get hooked on our 49 lakes and rivers in all four seasons and take home rainbow and brook trout

• Play a round of golf at Princeton’s challenging 18-hole course or at Twin Lakes Golf Course near Keremeos and enjoy views from the “ 19th” hole afterwards

• Taste the Similkameen Terroir through world class wines & ciders, visiting tasting rooms on your own, with a tour, at a restaurant or at your orchard or vineyard stay

• Shop for fresh fruits and veggies in Keremeos, Canada’s Fruit Stand Capital, and Cawston, the Organic Farming Capital of Canada

• Journey to Cathedral Lakes Park for a rugged backcountry adventure with epic views

• Stop at local bistros, fruit stands and markets for locally grown and hand made culinary delights

• Picnic at the historic Grist Mill and Gardens

• Meander the Keremeos River walk, and consider the 2 level exercise challenge along the way (or just enjoy the beauty!)

FOUR SEASON FISHING

Cast away on the many lakes and rivers of the Similkameen which have been luring anglers for decades. Anticipate days in the sunshine in hip waders or on the shoreline with hand-tied flies, and fresh water trout cooking on an open campfire. The Similkameen is for you if you are hoping to discover some of the best spots for trout, mountain whitefish and the elusive west slope cutthroat. With plenty to catch in all four seasons you will be sure to take home some great fish stories!

Freshwater fishing is easily accessible from many sites along the Crowsnest Highway 3, from Princeton to Cawston and along Highways 3a and 5a.

• The secluded Chain, Osprey, or Link lakes along the Princeton–Summerland backroad – All great spots to drop a line and bask in the glories of the great outdoors while waiting for that first bite.

• Ashnola, Tulameen, or Similkameen Rivers – Feel the thrill of casting for rainbow trout or mountain whitefish in the fast currents and deep water pools.

• Otter Lake in Tulameen – A local favourite, and the largest lake in the Similkameen, it’s where you can dream of landing the “big one.”

• McKenzie, McCaffrey, Dry Lakes and Allison Lake, all teeming with rainbow trout. In cattle country the fish are always biting.

• Yellow Lake on 3A– A popular spot year round, you can fish from a boat, a float, a dock or in winter through an ice hole for kokanee, rainbow and brook trout.

Enjoy Ice fishing on most Princeton lakes from midDecember through to March. Yellow Lake has a slightly shorter season. It’s mountain country so be prepared with the right gear and you’ll have a whopper of a story to take home.

Grab your fishing rod, tackle box and BC Fishing License and cast about in our waters and you’ll soon be hooked on the Similkameen. Visit the Princeton Outdoor Supply store for the latest on where the fish are biting.

Fishing the Tulameen River near Princeton.

Alleyne Lake, near Princeton.

ORCHARDS AND FRUIT STANDS

Can you smell the ripe, just-picked peach? Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables in Keremeos, the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada, and Cawston, the Organic Farming Capital of Canada. With so many stands and farm markets it’s easy to find in-season produce as well as other local treats like preserves, fresh bread, samosas and more, to take home or enjoy on the spot with a coffee. Stock up for picnics or for your stay at a local inn or suite. Choose from a kaleidoscope of colours and flavours that include over 30 varieties of tomatoes, peppers and apples including the Ambrosia, first discovered right here! Delight in the fall stands decorated with hundreds of pumpkins and gourds. Shop for fresh produce and great selections of locally crafted works of art at weekly farmers’ markets in Princeton, Hedley and Keremeos

FORE!

Choose from two affordable 18-hole courses designed for all levels of golfers. Just east of town, the scenic Princeton Golf Club is nestled along the mountains and Hwy 3. Try to land an eagle at the Twin Lakes Golf Course, north of Keremeos on Hwy 3A. Both offer well-stocked pro shops, power and pull carts, and club rentals. Hit the 19th hole at their licensed patio/restaurants. Stay and play from the full-service RV parks available at both courses.

BRONZE SCULPTURE WALKING TOUR

Discover over 20 magnificent bronze statues on a walking tour that has made Princeton the Bronze Sculpture Capital of Canada. Envision a dramatic episode in the life of an Indigenous trapper captured in “The Mountain Man” and imagine a past life. Get up close and personal with a variety of full-sized wild animals common in the area. Finish your tour at a local bistro or café. Download the “On This Spot” app to learn more as you tour. Start at the Princeton Visitor Centre where you can pick up your tour map.

BIRDWATCHING & WILDLIFE

One of the real treasures of our valley is its wildlife. You might spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer, eagles, elk, moose and bears. Princeton’s Swan Lake Nature Reserve offers visitors marked trails, bird blinds, a small lake surrounded by a riparian zone, and an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife. Explore the richness of our diverse ecosystem and view the protected grasslands of the Similkameen.

Princeton Golf Club.

The apple orchard at Untangled Craft Cidery, Cawston.

Wildlife abounds – bighorn sheep.

One of the artworks on Princeton’s Bronze Sculpture walking tour. Pick up your self-guided walking map at the Princeton Visitor Centre.

PLAY IN THE WILDERNESS OF MANNING PARK

With so many activities to enjoy, Manning Park, a vast 83,671 hectares of wilderness, is truly a playground! Enjoy hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife and fishing in spring, summer and fall. Take a drive up the paved and winding road to the Cascade Lookout. Savour the extraordinary sights among rolling hills and jagged peaks, a joy whether on an hour, a day, or a multi-day back-country trek. Breathe in the crisp clean air in the winter and the exhilaration of snowshoeing or skiing (both Nordic and Alpine). Go tubing at the Polar Coaster Park. You can even ice skate day or night under the lights. Treat yourself to fresh experiences that connect with Mother Nature. There are plenty of places here to rest your head after gazing up at the deep, dark sky: The Resort offers lodge guestrooms, premium cabins, a group facility and campgrounds including the Skyview RV pull-through Campground. With over 90 summer and 60 winter sites, all fully serviced, it’s become a favourite with Park visitors!

WINE & CIDER ROUTE

Visit award-winning boutique wineries and cideries in this distinct wine region. Over 15 patios and tasting rooms welcome you just east of Keremeos and around the Cawston area. Swirl, sniff, and sip while enjoying the amazing scenery and learn about the signature characteristics of Similkameen wines. Catch some action on the crush pads and in orchards. Cycle along vineyards, take a guided tour, or board a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the spectacular valley. Savour farm to table wine pairing experiences.

Tasting at Twisted Hills Cidery, Cawston.

The jagged peaks of Cathedral Lake.

Lightning Lake, Manning Park.

RUGGED BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURES IN CATHEDRAL LAKES PARK

Like to be on top of the world? Experience this one of a kind highelevation backcountry paradise by booking a ride with Cathedral Lakes Lodge up the 16 km (10 mi) private road. Hike from your doorstep and breathe in the stunning panoramic views in the area considered the Shangri-La of the Similkameen. Witness the blossoming alpine meadows, marvel at jagged mountain peaks, and scan the endless skyline. Meander down well-marked trails to experience tumbling waterfalls, striking rock faces and sparkling sapphire lakes. Experience the thrill as rainbow trout jump and shimmer in the sun. Walk the Larch forest, especially stunning in the fall. The area is home to California Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mule deer, and the rare Arctic Ptarmigan. Stay in the lodge, an off-the-grid cabin or camp beside a jewel-toned lake and drift off to sleep to the haunting calls of the loons.

CAMPING

Reconnect with nature at several campgrounds throughout the Valley. From fully serviced RV lots to remote tenting spots, relaxing and memorable experiences await. Enjoy the sounds and views of a river from your campsite, smell the forest and listen to the wind in the trees from your bed. Nature will lull you to sleep!

There are over 7 Provincial Campgrounds from Manning Park, to south of Cawston, as well as Municipal and private options. Find the perfect spot at the Princeton Municipal RV Park as it winds along the Similkameen River. Bring your family to one of the private campgrounds including Princeton Castle Resort. Hit the links early at Princeton Golf Club RV Park or further west at Twin Lakes Golf and RV Park. Stop for the day or overnight at the stunning Bromley Rock Provincial Park near Hedley or experience natural surroundings at Stemwinder Park, Gold Mountain RV Park & cabins and Riverhaven RV Park. Travelling west to Keremeos, you’ll find options include the amazing high elevation Cathedral Lakes area, the River Valley RV Park or the Eagle Campground and RV Park. Just west of Keremeos hear the babbling Keremeos Creek while camping at the Grist Mill and Gardens or treat yourself to meadow camping at Similkameen Wild Resort which also includes teepee camping! Check out our website for more Information on options.

Princeton Municipal RV Park & Campground.

MAKE A SPLASH

Explore the shore, paddle our waters, or jump in our lakes and rivers for a swim or float. There are surprise beaches and rocky shores to discover. Find a spot for a picnic and spend a lazy day along the Similkameen or Tulameen Rivers. Locals know it’s the best way to beat the sizzling summer heat. Float between Princeton’s old Brown Bridge and the Bridge of Dreams or go further to PY Point, then on to Bromley Rock. Paddle or float from the Keremeos Red Bridge to Kobau Park in Cawston, and on to the Chopaka Wooden Bridge. Spending time on our rivers is part of what makes your Similkameen experience rugged, rustic, and real. Be sure to ask locals about conditions and their favourite spots!

WINTER EXPERIENCES

Feel the exhilaration of exploring mountains, valleys, and lakes in the winter. Hike, cross-country ski, or sled the backcountry mountain trails and alpine bowls from China Ridge to the Coquihallas. Try your hand at ice fishing on one of the many regional lakes. Ski, slide, snowshoe or snowboard at Manning Park Resort. Skate the local rinks in Princeton, Tulameen and Keremeos and play a game of hockey. Book a getaway stay in a selfcontained suite or guesthouse with vistas overlooking vineyards and orchards or cozy up in a cabin, lodge or motel after a day of adventures. You can play in the Similkameen all year round!

Visitors snowshoe through Manning Park.

Kayaking the Similkameen River, near Keremeos.

towns & villages

discover Our Communities quaint

MANNING PARK

Explore the Cascade Mountains from E.C. Manning Provincial Park. Paddle Lightning Lake and hike wildflower meadows. Enjoy winter activities at Manning Park Resort and Ski Area. Accommodations: Lodge rooms, cabins, chalets, and RV and tent campsites.

PRINCETON

The largest community in the Valley (pop 2,894), Princeton sits at the junction of the Similkameen and Tulameen Rivers. Recognized as the Bronze Statue Capital of Canada, Princeton and its surrounding areas are also known for excellent outdoor recreation. Choose from many trails including the Hudson’s Bay Company Trail, China Ridge Trails, and the historic Dewdney Trail. Snap photos of wildlife at the Swan Lake Nature Reserve. Fish in the many nearby lakes. Learn about the rich mining and pioneer history at the Princeton Museum. Experience the welcoming local hospitality at the many family-operated restaurants and unique shops. Pan the river for gold (that you can keep!). Stop at the Visitor Centre & Gift Shop for location maps, retail, and more information on all activities. Accommodations: Motels, RV camping, B&B, cabins, group lodges and vacation rentals.

COALMONT

Coalmont (pop 100), once a junction on the Kettle Valley Railway, is now known for its outdoor recreation and fishing. Find a perfect spot on White Sands Beach along the Tulameen River. Located 18 km (11 mi) northwest of Princeton. Accommodations: Tent/RV camping and vacation rentals.

TULAMEEN

You’ll find Tulameen (pop 240) on the south end of Otter Lake, 26 km (16 mi) northwest of Princeton. In summer, relax, swim, boat, and fish, and in winter skate on the covered outdoor ice rink, or head out on snowmobile trails. Accommodations: Motel, Tent/RV camping, vacation rentals.

HEDLEY

Visit the eclectic hamlet of Hedley (pop 240) to pan for gold in the Similkameen River at the mouth of Hedley/ 20-mile Creek. The Snaza’ist Discovery Centre and the Hedley Museum offer insightful exhibits into our First Nations and prospecting history. Stop at the Country Market for coffee, lunch, liquor, and pantry items or Hedley Grand Union for lunch, coffees, baking and local crafts. Accommodations: Tent/RV, cabins, motel, vacation rentals.

KEREMEOS

Keremeos (pop. 1,608) sits below a steep peak known locally as K Mountain, along the banks of the Similkameen River, surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Once here you’ll understand why Keremeos is the place to shop for all your fresh fruits and vegetables! Catch the downtown Market on summer Wednesdays. Meander down the river walk and stop at Pine Park for some shade. Sip and savour at the wineries and restaurants in and around the Village. Visit the historic Grist Mill and Gardens and see Western Canada’s only working water wheel powered flour mill. Keremeos is a starting point for Ashnola recreation area and Cathedral Lakes Provincial Park adventures. Let the kids play at the Memorial Park playground as you stop by the Visitor Centre for information. Accommodations: B&Bs, Inns with self-contained suites, family-run motels, orchard and vineyard stays, RV and tent camping.

CAWSTON

The community of Cawston (pop 970+), just east of Keremeos, is known as the Organic Farming Capital of Canada. Enjoy fresh produce at farm gate markets, bistros and farm-to-table restaurants in orchards and vineyards scattered throughout the region. Savour tastings at over 15 local wineries and cideries. Travel south to see the terrain change to cacti and sagebrush desert. Accommodations: Orchard and vineyard suites and B&Bs.

Whether you’re road touring by car, RV or motorcycle, be sure to stop by each unique area in the Similkameen Valley.

fresh Flavours

ORCHARDS & VINEYARDS FROM FARMS,

KEREMEOS – YOUR CENTRAL STOP FOR FRUITS AND VEGGIES

Feast your eyes on the rainbow of colourful displays of fresh fruit and vegetables at the many fruit stands and as you drive into Keremeos through to Cawston. Spring, Summer and Fall the bounty is fresh, local and inviting at the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada.

Sink your teeth into mouth-watering sun-kissed fruits, mere steps away from where they are grown. Find perfectly ripened cherries, peaches, apricots, and more varieties of peppers, tomatoes and apples than ever imagined! And don’t forget the famous Similkameen garlic! Each stand has their own tasty assortment of other fine foods including Similkameen honey, preserves, chutney, pies, sourdough breads, juices, and jams. Take a break and enjoy hot buttery cobs of corn, savoury samosas, cool treats, and coffees. Meet some of the friendliest people here — from locals shopping for today’s dinner, to growers dropping off a delivery, professional chefs, and visitors creating a perfect picnic of seasonal and local fare.

ORCHARD & VINEYARD STAYS

Why not stay a little longer to sip and savour the Similkameen? Choose orchard and vineyard options suitable for the whole family or for romantic getaways. Unwind at Tree to Me Organics, with an Inn, bistro and market, or a suite at farmersdotter organics, a farm famous for its garlic and sourdough bread. Overlook orchards at Klippers Guest Suites and walk to their Marketplace & Café for coffee and unique Row 14 restaurant, or indulge in beautiful vineyard views from the luxury suites at Orofino Winery. Enjoy breathtaking river views from the log Harvest Moon Guesthouse at Forbidden Fruit Winery. All are fully equipped for you to cook up your local ingredients or are close to restaurants. From suites to tepees and a pool, Similkameen Wild offers many options! Enjoy the vineyard view at Riverbank B&B. Leave the cooking to someone else at Crowsnest Vineyards Guest House and restaurant featuring fresh made breads and local cuisine. You may catch wood fired pizza night on the patio and hear some live music. It’s where the locals go. To learn more orchard and vineyard accommodations visit the directory on SimilkameenValley.com or stop in at the Keremeos Visitor Centre.

CAWSTON — ORGANIC AND SUSTAINABLE

With nearly 100 certified organic farms (40% of all farms), the Cawston area has the highest concentration of organic farms in Canada, which is why it has earned its claim as the Organic Farming Capital of Canada. Enjoy fresh produce knowing it is healthy and sustainably grown in almost ideal conditions—a long and hot growing season, dry, windy conditions, and rich soils. Our farmers proudly supply many markets and fine restaurants in the Lower Mainland, throughout BC and beyond. Enjoy the selection of in-season produce and more from local markets including Klippers Market, the farm Store, and Harkers Organics. Catch a weekly farm gate stand at Food of The Sun Organics and Organics Only. If you linger, you may meet up with growers happy to chat about their crops. Ask about the difference between the dozens of apples available and try something new! Take a bite out of a sweet Ambrosia apple, found and cultivated right here in the 1990s. Some of our farmers have been here for generations, others are new, and all are dedicated to growing quality produce, for you.

Liber Winery, Cawston.

Vanessa Vineyard, Cawston.

Wine tasting at Corcelettes Estate Winery, Keremeos.

Apple orchard, Cawston.

SWIRL, SNIFF, SIP

Make your way to wineries clustered around Keremeos, Cawston and the south end of the Valley. Soak up the sun on one of many tasting room patios overlooking sweeping vineyards or tucked right among the vines. Sip on the shores of the Similkameen River or enter a cave built for wine cellaring and special occasion celebrations. Book a tasting or drop in and hear their stories and taste the passion for their craft. Enjoy relaxed, friendly and authentic experiences in less crowded boutique wineries. Take your time and soak up the ambiance as you sip something truly special.

Wines are as diverse as the winegrowers themselves, but our winemakers have a shared passion to sustainably craft products that reflect the unique qualities of the valley. Taste our rare terroir in every bottle! Enjoy crisp white wines, bubbles, and rosés. Savour bold reds grown in hot vineyards soaking in the heat from surrounding rocks. Taste your way through popular varieties in the valley including Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. Be adventurous and try a new varietal or a new style, there’s something for everyone’s palette!

SIMILKAMEEN VALLEY WINE REGION

The Similkameen Valley wine region is known as one of the fastest growing and “hottest” wine regions in Canada. The Stunning valley is one of 9 recognized appellations (Geographical Indications) in BC. Come experience a unique wine region offering world-class, award-winning wines and ciders from over 15 artisan winegrowers!

CIDERS AND FRUIT WINES

Beat the summer heat with a quenching cider from one of the local cideries. Sample a variety of dry to semi-sweet styles made from a range of apples, fruit blends and fusions, all organically grown. Explore organic fruit wines in a variety of styles, also a signature Similkameen offering.

WINE TOURS – LAND OR AIR

Self-directed tours are always an option. You could also let a guide show you the way. Book a wine tour and enjoy the scenery as you explore the region. Tour on a pedal or e-bike available for rent in the area. Treat yourself to a helicopter flight and see the valley from above. Several of our wineries have helipads for that bird’s eye view!

LEARN MORE

Tasting Rooms are open from April/May through October and by appointment in the winter. Visit similkameenvalley.com/ food/wine to learn more about our wine region and for information about our wineries and cideries.

THE EATERIES

Fresh, mouth-watering flavours entice you throughout the Similkameen Valley. Choose from authentic and eclectic dining scenes in our communities.

In the Cawston area experience Row 14, a unique field to fork casual fine dining restaurant or hit the patio at the restaurant at Crowsnest Vineyards for wood fired pizzas, local foods, and Sascha’s sourdough breads. Farm Markets with lighter options include Harkers Organics Barn Door Bistro offering organic slushies, & fresh sandwiches, and around the corner enjoy fresh coffees, baked goods and creative lunch fare at Klippers Marketplace and Cafe. For freshly made gluten free healthy options, baking and great coffees visit the farm house.

Keremeos offers a diverse range of casual eating options. Benja Thai is known throughout the region as “Thai worth the drive.” Classic diners include K Mountain & The Ranch. Soups, subs, & pizza are Boboys specialties. Find delicious pub food at The Black Bird Tavern. Spice it up with curries at Sanderson’s Samosa Gardens. Treat yourself at the bistro at Tree To Me Organics. New coffee options are Frannie’s Coffee and Kool Beans

Coffee & Ice Creams

Wine tasting at Crowsnest Vineyards, Cawston.

Seven Stones Winery, Cawston.

Where it gets made, grape turning, Clos du Soleil Winery, Cawston.

Benja Thai, Keremeos.

In Hedley, The Hedley Country Market offers tasty lunch and picnic fare or stop in at the Grand Union Café for lunch, coffees & baked goods. Princeton offers a range of casual cuisine indoors and out. Enjoy southern style barbeque at the Copper Pit or pizza at Princeton’s Pizza Party. Look for Mediterranean fare at Little Creek Grill, with tender steaks, delicious desserts and gluten free options. Thomasina’s is a best bet for scratch baked goods, vegan and café fare. Find great selections at the Pasha Pizza & Indian Restaurant Cool Beanz is a must for specialty coffees. Mikado Sushi offers quality authentic Japanese food. Breakfast all day can be found at Billy’s Family Restaurant, named for gentleman train robber, Billy Miner. Take a bite out of a juicy burger or tasty sandwich at the Brown Bridge Pub. Drive to Divots Bar and Grill at the Princeton Golf Club for great daily specials on the outdoor patio. Drop in to Frannie’s Coffee for your cup of joe.

You’re sure to enjoy your culinary adventure in the flavourful Similkameen Valley.

Dine at Tree To Me Organics, Keremeos.

The Grand Union Café in Hedley.

Experience farm to table food and beverages at Untangled Craft Cider and Row Fourteen Restaurant.