Osoyoos Pocket Guide 2023

POCKET GUIDE

YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS NOW

Photography by Don Urquhart

TALK TO A LOCAL

There’s nothing like local advice. Drop into the Osoyoos Visitor Centre to talk to a local who can give you friendly advice on getting around, where to stay, and what to see and do.

Osoyoos Visitor Centre

The Visitor Centre is open year round, please call or visit destinationosoyoos.com for current hours of operation

9912 BC-3, Osoyoos

1.888.OSOYOOS | 250.495.5070 visit@destinationosoyoos.com www.destinationosoyoos.com

destinationosoyoos

@osoyoosbc

Message from the Mayor

“On behalf of our community, we offer Canada’s Warmest Welcome to our visitors and tourists. We are delighted to host you in Osoyoos so you can enjoy our parks, beaches, warmest lake in Canada, special events, and the natural beauty of our desert landscape.”

Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff and Council

OSOYOOS SNAPSHOT

The first step in getting to know this beautiful lakeside town is to learn how to pronounce its name. Osoyoos stems from the First Nations word sẁiẁs, which is pronounced ‘s-wee-yous’, meaning ‘narrowing of the waters’ in nsyilxcən, the language of the Syilx Okanagan Nation language.

During the period of European colonialism in what became Canada and the United States, thousands of miners looking for gold and farmers driving herds of livestock crossed the 49th parallel from 1858. This resulted in the building of a customs house in Osoyoos in 1861, with John Carmichael Haynes becoming the tax collector.

Osoyoos was incorporated as a Village on January 14, 1946 and became a Town on June 30, 1983 and now has a population of just over 5,000. Agriculture (fruit trees, vegetables and grapes for wine) along with tourism are the community’s largest economic drivers. Each summer the population more than doubles as tourists flock to the sun-kissed lake and numerous wineries in the area.

Because of its dry sunny climate in summer and mild winter the town is a retirement haven and also a magnet for ‘snow birds’ from the prairie provinces each winter. Seniors (age 65 and over) comprise 43 per cent of the town population with the average resident

aged 55.4 years (2016) compared to 40.8 years for the rest of the population of British Columbia.

Although many people claim the town is located in a desert, Osoyoos actually gets 10 cm too much rain each year to be an actual desert and is described in scientific terms as a semi-arid shrubland – the only one in Canada.

In 1865 the Dewdney Trail – a 720 km trail connecting Fort Hope (now Hope) to Fort Steel in the East Kootenays – passed through the narrows where Osoyoos is now situated with this trail forming the basis for much of the Crowsnest Highway 3.

The area around Osoyoos has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the entire country and is home to over 100 rare plants, and over 300 rare invertebrates.

And the most asked question of all: How did Anarchist Mountain get its unique name? No one is quite sure, but we’ll give you our favourite. Legend has it that an early settler, and ‘wild Irishman’, named Richard G. Sidley who was appointed Justice of the Peace and Customs Officer in 1891 and the first postmaster at Sidley in 1895, named the mountain after an eccentric prospector and purported cattle thief named John Haywood. Apparently, Haywood liked to carry a stick of dynamite in his boot and when asked why, he would say it was because he was an anarchist.

The Syilx Okanagan Nation

Osoyoos is located on the traditional lands of the Syilx Okanagan Nation that once spanned from present-day Merritt on the western side across east through Salmon Arm, Revelstoke and north and east into Alberta, back down through Kootenay Lake and all the way down into Washington State as far as Coulee City.

The Syilx Okanagan Nation is now made up of eight communities in the interior of British Columbia and in the U.S.

These communities include: Okanagan Indian Band, Upper Nicola Band, Westbank First Nation, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB), and Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands and the Colville Confederated Tribes in northern Washington State. Over 500 band members live and work on the Osoyoos Indian Reserve – 13,000 hectares of mountainous grasslands stretching from Osoyoos to Oliver that reflects a small portion of their once vast traditional lands.

Thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers, the Osoyoos Indian Band’s ancestors used the current sẁiẁs (pronounced “s-wee-yous” which means “narrowing of the waters”) Provincial Park as a crossing and as a cultural and living site. Ancestral remains and artefacts found at sẁiẁs have been dated as far back as 1,224 years old.

The First Nations peoples of the Okanagan once travelled widely for

fishing, gathering and hunting. Each year the first harvests of roots, berries, fish and game were celebrated by ceremonies honouring the four chiefs - skəmxist (Bear), n’tyxtix (Salmon), spitlem (Bitterroot) and siyaʔ (Saskatoon) who provided for the people. In the winter, people returned to permanent winter villages living in earthen lodges known as kekuli or pit-houses.

Radiocarbon dating of animal materials and disposed shells give valuable insights into the Osoyoos Indian Band’s ancestors and confirmed they lived, travelled and traded on routes extending along the Columbia River Basin as far back as 3,265 – 4,475 years ago.

At the height of Syilx culture, about 3,000 years ago, it is estimated that 12,000 people lived in the Okanagan Valley and surrounding areas.

The names of many familiar towns throughout the Okanagan Valley come from Indigenous languages. This includes Osoyoos, Keremeos, Penticton and Kelowna reflecting the long history of the Syilx people on this land.

The OIB is one of the most successful First Nations bands in Canada having achieved financial independence and high levels of employment. OIB Chief Clarence Louie has commented that, “today we are probably the only band in Canada that has the number of businesses and joint ventures that we have on a per capita basis.”

Photography by Melissa Fowler | @melissamfowler

Chief Louie credits this to the fact the Sylix people have, for thousands of years, traded with other tribes from far and wide. “We are business people, we have always been business people,” he said.

For a more in-depth look into the rich history of the Indigenous peoples of this region and their close relationship to the land, visit the award-winning interpretive NK’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. It features a wide range of engaging indoor exhibits, outdoor displays and walking trails.

The word nk’mip (pronounced ‘in-kameep’) translates to ‘bottomland’, being as it is, located at the southern (bottom) end of the Osoyoos Indian Reserve.

An important cultural location known as kɬlilxʷ (Spotted Lake) is located just west of Osoyoos on Hwy. 3. The lake has long been an important source of traditional medicine for the people of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. During the hot summer months the water in the lake evaporates leaving concentrations of various minerals that form different coloured “spots” on the lake bed. The lake can be viewed from the gate but please do not go past that point. Tours are available through the First Nations’ operated Sẁiẁs Spirit Tours (swiwsspirittours.com).

Photography by Don Urquhart

Like Indigenous communities across the country, the discovery of 215 unmarked graves of children at the Kamloops Indian Residential School in May 2021 marked the beginning of a tragic process of discovery of over 6,000 unmarked graves at residential schools across the country. This was confirmation of what had long been spoken about within Indigenous communities, but came as shock to much of the rest of the Canadian population.

While no residential schools existed in the South Okanagan, children were sent to schools in other regions including

children from the OIB. A small number of elders within the OIB are survivors of the residential school system.

Because of the cultural genocide practiced against the First Nations peoples, the language has almost vanished with barely a handful of nsyilxcən (the traditional language of the Syilx Okanagan Nation) speakers within the OIB. The Okanagan Nation Alliance and the OIB both have language schools which are actively working to keep the language alive amongst younger generations.

Photography by Don Urquhart

ART IN OSOYOOS

Vibrant and diverse, the art scene in Osoyoos continues to grow and evolve and includes everything from galleries and performing arts to festivals and street murals. There are several artists’ groups that are active in the area covering pottery, painting, weaving, quilting, photography, music and theatre. The Saturday Market on Main also features various artwork and handicrafts. For Indigenous art you can visit the Osoyoos Indian Band’s Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre.

MURAL WALK

For a unique art experience check out Osoyoos’ burgeoning out door mural collection, found on the sides and backs of buildings all over town. Check out the Museum and Home Hardware –both on Main St. - for historic photo murals, or the Sonora Community Centre for a unique tiled mural. The Osoyoos Portuguese Commemorative Mural features over 400 tiles depicting Portuguese orchard workers picking apples in their Osoyoos orchard.

The Royal Canadian Legion Number 173 hall is must see, with three of its walls covered in stunning imagery created with spray paint by local artist Mavik.

His murals also grace the Pioneer Car Wash building on 74 Ave, just west of Hwy. 3, the back of Heaven on Earth Total Body Care & Wellness building in the alley (74a Ave.), and the back of the Home Hardware on Main St.

At the back of the building at the corner of Spartan Drive and Main St. features a unique “wings” mural that is perfect for some winged selfies. Further down that alley is the outdoor seating area of JoJo’s Café which features another stunning mural panel. And finally, behind the Bank of Montreal building on Main St. is a “postcard mural” featuring different aspects of Osoyoos.

JOJO’S CAFE

8316 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.495.6652

jojoscafe.ca

The popular coffee shop is also a casual art gallery featuring local artists’ work on the walls and also a performance space featuring local musicians on an ad hoc basis.

NK’MIP DESERT CULTURAL CENTRE

1000 Rancher Creek Rd, Osoyoos

1.888.495.8555 | nkmipdesert.com

Not only can you learn about the Okanagan people, their lands, and legends but you can also experience their art at the Centre.

OKANAGAN ART GALLERY

8302 Main St. Osoyoos | 778.437.2238

okanaganartgallery.com

Located at the lower end of bustling Main Street this gallery is a co-operative of about 25 artists, mainly painters (acrylic, oil and watercolour), but also sculptors and photographers. Often the gallery doubles as a bit of a studio with an artist or two creating their art.

OSOYOOS & DISTRICT MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES

8702 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.2582

osoyoosmuseum.ca

Recently settled into its beautiful new facility on Main Street, the nearly 60-year-old museum features over 4,000 historical items detailing the everchanging mosaic that is Osoyoos and area. Guided historical walking tours are available during the summer months.

Photography by Don Urquhart

THE ART GALLERY OSOYOOS

8713 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.2800 osoyoosartscouncil.com/art-gallery

A great hidden gem next to the Town Hall, the gallery offers showings of original art produced by South Okanagan artists and artisans as well as further afield, throughout the year. It also hosts a Summer and Winter Artisan Market.

WAYSIDE SELECT BOOKS & ART

8317 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.486.2929

A used book store, one wall functions as a gallery space.

WIDE ARTS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (WANA)

Unit 5 - 8302 Main St. Osoyoos widearts.ca

With a mission in fostering the enrichment of community WANA actively supports artists in many disciplines and cultures. Wide Arts has been called the heartbeat of Osoyoos since its founding in 2021. Visit the Wide Arts base and president Wina Poliquin who runs Art Therapy and the Curator (Thurs. – Sat. 12-5 p.m.) to learn more about the vision and progress of the association.

Photography by Sebastian Kanally

EVENTS

Summer - and increasingly spring and fall - in Osoyoos and area are chock-a-block with festivals celebrating everything from the allmighty grape to cherries, cars, and more traditional events like Halloween and Christmas. And let’s not forget the long weekends from Victoria Day, to Canada Day all the way up to Thanksgiving. The fun never stops! Many of the events are recurring on certain days each week.

Photography by Greg Reely gregreelyphotography | gregreely

APRIL

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

April 8

A pancake breakfast kicks off a day of games for the kids, bike decorating contest and of course the highlight of the day – an easter egg hunt. osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca

RUN AROUND BUCKLE SERIES BARREL RACE

Desert Park

April 18 to October 3

(every other Tuesday evening) desertpark.ca

JUNE

OSOYOOS MUSIC IN THE PARK

Gyro Bandshell

Fridays June to September

MEADOWLARK NATURE FESTIVAL

May 18 to 22

Guided nature tours ranging from Penticton to Osoyoos. Meadowlarkfestival.ca

OSOYOOS SPRING FESTIVAL

May 4 to 13

Free music performances at the pedestrian square.

HALF CORKED MARATHON

May 26 to 28

A highly anticipated event so popular that a balloting system is in place due to the overwhelming demand for places in the half-marathon. The event, which takes place every year in Osoyoos and Oliver Wine Country, is rather unconventional due to the fact that runners, typically in costume, run through vineyards stopping at stations along to way to taste wine. Oliverosoyoos.com

WINE COUNTRY DRAG RACING

May to September

Winecountryracing.ca

Friday nights free concerts from June 30 to September 1. Features a mix of rock and roll, country, blues and broadway show tunes. Bring your lawn chair and beverages. osoyoosmusicinthepark.com

CACTUS JALOPIES

Gyro Park, Osoyoos

June 1-4

Cactus Jalopies is a very popular annual event, now in its 16th year. Based on previous years, in 2023 we are estimating the event will attract over 10,000 attendees and 500 vehicle entries. The event is now 4 days long over the first weekend in June. Car enthusiasts attend the Show n’ Shine on Osoyoos’ most stunning beach.

Show, Shine ‘n’ Wine (Nostalgia) participating in Jalopies

Cactusjalopies2023.ca | 250-495-6959

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre

June 21

To mark this day the Centre will host a market for local Indigenous artists to sell their artwork and will also feature singing and dancing as well as guided walks.

Nkmipdesert.com

Photography by Don Urquhart

JULY

CHERRY FIESTA, CANADA DAY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS

Cherry Fiesta is one of Osoyoos’ favourite events - and biggest - in a unique celebration of Canada Day that is unlike anywhere else in the country. All day festivities kick off with a pancake breakfast followed by a parade down Main Street which is temporarily closed for the event. Entertainment and various events continue all day long, including the ever-fun cherry pie eating contest. The jam-packed day is capped off with an incredible firework display set to music on shore of the lake. osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca

AUGUST

MOUNT KOBAU STAR PARTY

August 12-20

The Star Party for serious star gazers. Gather atop Mt. Kobau, far above the light pollution of the valley on the only days camping is permitted on the mountain top. From beginner to grizzled sky-veteran, all are welcome. mksp.ca

SEPTEMBER

DRAGON BOAT FLAG RACE FESTIVAL

September 16

The Osoyoos Lake Paddling Club hosts its annual Dragon Boat Flag Race which sees up to 15 teams competing. Teams from the Okanagan an occasionally Lower Mainland. Osoyoosdragonboat.weebly.com

PIG OUT

Sept 15 to 17

Pig Out weekend begins with an outdoor sparkling wine reception before joining the winemaker or proprietor for dinner at one of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country wineries. Dinner features a guest chef for each course, with wine pairings from the host winery and others from around the region. The Pig Out Trail takes place the next day with pick-ups from Oliver, Osoyoos or Penticton. Each bus group is taken to four carefully-selected wineries, for an outdoor experience pairing their wines with a pork-inspired tasting bite. oliverosoyoos.com

FALL FESTIVAL WEEKEND

Kick-Off Party - District Wine Village Sept 22

Cask & Keg Sept 23

Enjoy the hand-crafted flavours produced by a host of regional breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Browse the grounds sipping and indulging in mouth-watering morsels from various food trucks, with live music.

Festival of the Grape Sept 24

A solid one day celebration of the all mighty grape: wine tastings, live music, food trucks, an art market, kids’ one and barefoot grape stomping competition.

olivercaskandkeg.ca

oliverfestivalofthegrape.ca

PRIDE ARTS FESTIVAL Gyro Park

September 23

Celebrating arts, diversity, and inclusion. The aim is to support and celebrate the local 2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous, black and/or people of colour. widearts.ca

Photography by Don Urquhart

OCTOBER

ALL HALLOW’S EVE FESTIVAL

Gyro Park

October 28/29

Will see the witches return on their paddle boards and kayaks also featuring local artisans and vendors, food and a beer and wine garden. Entertainment will include circus performances and live music. widearts.ca

NOVEMBER

WINTER WITH WINE COUNTRY

November 24-26

Wineries of Oliver and Osoyoos put together special promotions for both weekends of Winter with Wine Country and throughout the holiday season. oliverosoyoos.com

DECEMBER

WINTER WITH WINE COUNTRY

December 1 to 3

CHRISTMAS LIGHT UP osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca

OSOYOOS ARTISAN

CHRISTMAS MARKET

December 9-10

Experience the best of local craft people and artisans from handmade goods to food and beverages all in a European-style outdoor market.

Photography by Don Urquhart

EXPLORE OUT-OF-DOORS

The unique environment of the Osoyoos area, known as a ‘pocket desert’ provides numerous opportunities for enjoyment for all fitness and age levels.

A leisurely stroll on the lakeshore, along the Irrigation Canal Walkway, or simply an amble along Pioneer Walkway are all wonderful ways to take in a bit of nature.

For the more adventurous there are longer and/or more challenging trails like those on Mount Kobau.

A wide range of trails of varying difficulty cater to hiking, biking (including e-bikes), and trail running in and around Osoyoos.

Experience the Okanagan River Valley, oxbows, grasslands, highlands, and mountains surrounding Osoyoos Lake and Oliver to the north.

A refreshing glass of wine on one of the patios of the area’s many wineries at the end (or middle!) of your hike/bike/run adventure, but just remember the temperature can get quite hot so drink plenty of water and don’t forget sun protection.

Photography by Don Urquhart

MOUNT KOBAU

Soaring 1,873 metres over the southern Okanagan river valley, Mount Kobau

(part of the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area) offers sweeping views from two short hiking trails – one 1.3 km round trip with a view overlooking Osoyoos, or a 3 km loop trail that leads in the opposite direction to the Chopaka Lookout with views over the Keremeos/ Cawston Valley. There is also a small picnic area at the trailhead just off the parking lot but be forewarned it’s a bumpy gravel road best suited to trucks or SUVs.

OXBOWS

With the trailhead on Road 22 by the single-lane bridge, the oxbows at the northern end of Osoyoos Lake, is a wonderful wetland area that is popular for its easy river-side strolling, as well as bird watching. In fact the protected area supports 20 per cent of the BC population of Yellow-breasted Chats, a bird species that is listed as critically imperilled in BC and nationally threatened.

Photography by Don Urquhart

Photography by Don Urquhart

MOUNT KRUGER

Here’s an insider tip that many don’t know about. Mount Kruger - also part of the South Okanagan Grasslands

Protected Area - is a gem sitting right on the doorstep of Osoyoos. The mountain boasts a network of multi-use trails used by hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners. A couple of the trails afford excellent views across the border into Washington State, others offer views of Osoyoos and the southern Okanagan Valley, while still others pass by the mountain lakes of Kilpoola and Blue. Access the trails from one of three places - Strawberry Creek Road in the industrial park, Kruger Mountain Road in Kilpoola off of Hwy. 3, or from 2nd Ave. right next to the border.

INTERNATIONAL HIKE & BIKE TRAIL

This 20.1 km trail begins at the north end of Osoyoos Lake (although it does connect with the Osoyoos portion of the KVR trail along Road 22 which continues into town) and continues past Oliver. The flat, mostly paved pathway runs alongside the Okanagan River channel, past orchards and vineyards to the McAlpine Bridge in Oliver. Accessible to all ages both on foot and bicycle.

SẀIẀS PROVINCIAL PARK

(formerly known as Haynes Point) This is a beautiful campsite and dayuse park that is both archaeologically and culturally significant to the Syilx Okanagan Nation. The main loop trail is fully paved, and great for walking and biking. The park, managed and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, is also home to a wetland trail.

WHITE LAKE GRASSLANDS PROTECTED AREA

White Lake Grasslands lies just northwest of Oliver and offers a variety of hikes of varying lengths. The area is popular with those seeking to view wildlife.

Photography by BC Bird Trail

OSOYOOS BIRD TRAIL OUTPOST

The Osoyoos Bird Trail Outpost is part of the BC Bird Trail experience and is an excellent option for both those with no birding experience as well as seasoned enthusiasts. Exploring the Osoyoos Bird Trail Outpost will take birders to five locations around Osoyoos Lake where over 300 different species of birds can be spotted. To navigate download the BC Bird Trail Mobile Experience to your smart phone.

MOUNT BALDY

Mount Baldy, primarily a winter skiing resort, has various summer hiking and mountain biking options. Baldy Summit to Gilly’s Cabin is a 11.3 km loop trail in a beautiful forest setting. At the top, your effort is rewarded with expansive views. In mid-to-late summer the alpine wildflowers add a stunning visual component. Access from Oliver on the gravel McKinney Road or east of Osoyoos on Hwy 3 to Bridesville and then north on a gravel road.

IRRIGATION CANAL WALKWAY

This flat 12 km trail travels along the now-abandoned waterway that once provided water to the orchards in the area. It’s great for walkers, cyclists, and those pushing strollers.

GOLDEN MILE TRAIL

If you fancy a hike through a vineyard try out the four km Golden Mile Trail which starts from the scenic Tinhorn Creek Estate winery. As you make your way through the vineyards, you will pass Fairview Townsite, a former Gold Rush town offering lovely views of Oliver and the surrounding hills. A longer 10 km loop leads uphill to the dilapidated ruins of the Stamp Mill.

Photography by Don Urquhart

LOCAL PARKS

Aside from stunning Osoyoos Lake, the town features a variety of parks offering various amenities. Please remember dogs must be on-leash unless at the Off-Leash Dog Park or dedicated dog beaches. Other recreational parks cater to sports like BMX, skateboarding, baseball, tennis and pickleball.

Pioneer Walkway, the Lakeshore Walkway (east side of Osoyoos along Lakeshore Drive) and Gyro Beach Walkway (paved) are popular places to stroll.

COTTONWOOD PARK

Build sandcastles on the sandy beach and picnic on the grassy area at Cottonwood Park, which boasts colourful flower gardens, well-maintained landscaping and a paved, wheelchair-friendly walkway. Public washrooms are also available at the park.

GOODMAN PARK

Goodman Park is located along Lakeshore Drive at Bayview Crescent and Lake Osoyoos. Benches, picnic tables, and full-service washrooms are located on site. This is the perfect place to stop for a swim when walking along Lakeshore Walkway.

GYRO BEACH

Located at the bottom of Main Street, Gyro Beach is the largest beach in Osoyoos and here you’ll find shady trees, warm shallow waters and swimming areas all within walking distance to Main Street shops, restaurants and cafes. The beach walkway now features Story Walk boards where you and your children can read the story ‘Max Goes to the Space Station’ by Jeffrey Bennett. The Story Walk starts at Gyro Park parking lot and ends at the Osoyoos Sailing Club.

Photography by Don Urquhart

LEGION BEACH

Legion Beach is nestled in a cove on the west side of Osoyoos Lake, which is within a 10-minute walk from Main Street in downtown. The beach features a grassy area, picnic tables, big trees for shade and a sandy beach in addition to a designated dog swimming area.

LION’S PARK

Lions Park is equipped with a sandy beach and a large grassy area, picnic tables and beautiful trees for shade. The park also has public washrooms and a great playground for the kids. A paved walkway connects Lions Park with neighbouring Gyro Park, which is a great path for walking and cycling.

OFF-LEASH DOG PARK

The Osoyoos dog park is a paradise for both owners and dogs of all sizes. Offering beautiful lake views and green grass, the completely fenced space offers a small dog only area, as well as a larger area for dogs of all sizes. Complete with ample parking, covered seated area, and a public washroom.

OSOYOOS LAKE REGIONAL PARK

Osoyoos Lake Regional Park is located on the east side of Osoyoos Lake at 16th Avenue and 45th Street. The park features many shady trees, a large sandy beach, washrooms, picnic tables, and parking.

OSOYOOS SPLASH PARK

The splash park combines the sensations of water movements and interactive play elements in a safe ‘zero-depth’ water play area.

PIONEER WALKWAY

Located in the centre of town the walkway connects to the Osoyoos Trestle Bridge and features a scenic path along the water facing the south end of the lake.

SẀIẀS PROVINCIAL PARK

A provincial campsite operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, sẁiẁs (pronounced “s-wee-yous”) is a spit of land that stretches out almost entirely across the south basin of Osoyoos Lake. The park is popular for walking and bird watching in the spring and fall and offers various summer fun opportunities.

Photography by Don Urquhart

ATTRACTIONS

There is no better way to begin experiencing all that Osoyoos and the area have to offer than simply getting on, around, or in the lake. Jump in for a swim at one of the lovely sandy beaches. If you like being in the centre of it all then check out Gyro Beach, or for less-touristy ones there’s Legion Beach or Osoyoos Lake Regional Park.

Photography by Karen Lundin

PLAY IN THE LAKE

For a dip with your four-legged friend, head to the specific dog swimming areas of Goodman Park, Lions Park, Legion Beach, Gyro Beach and sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point).

For more land-based water fun for your kids, check out the Jack Shaw Splash Park. And one for the whole family is the Osoyoos Wibit at Gyro Beach that offers a unique water park adventure on the lake itself.

Boating is a huge part of summer life on the lake, and watercraft of all sorts can be rented from ATB Watersports (who by the way also offer paddle board yoga sessions), Osoyoos Marine Rentals, Starlite Marina & Beach Shop, Spirit Beach Watersports or at either of three Wakepilot locations – Desert Sunrise Marina, Spirit Ridge Resort or Walnut Beach Resort.

Osoyoos Lake has close to 20 kms of shoreline to fish with 43 species of fish waiting to take the bait. Just don’t forget to get your fishing license.

ABOVE THE BOARD WATERSPORTS

5815 Oleander Dr. Osoyoos

250.498.9044 | atbwatersports.com

Choose your sport from wakeboarding waterskiing, wake surfing, wakeskating, air chair, kneeboarding or tubing. There’s something for everyone from beginners to advanced.

LAKE OSOYOOS SAILING CLUB

8015 Spartan Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.4540 | sailosoyoos.ca

The sailing club offers lakeside facilities catering to recreational sailing and is composed of a diverse membership of water sports enthusiasts who enjoy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and kiteboarding. The club has a small fleet of sailboats.

Photography by Don Urquhart

Photography by Don Urquhart

OSOYOOS MARINE BOAT RENTALS

8015 Spartan Dr. Osoyoos (at the Desert Sunrise Marina) | 250.495.0808

Osoyoos Marine provides ski/wakeboard boats and pontoon boat rentals as well as equipment including wakeboards, skis, life jackets, ropes and tubes.

OSOYOOS WIBIT

Park Pl. Osoyoos | 250.462.8770

okanaganwibit.com/british-columbia

A unique water park adds an additional way all ages can enjoy water recreation in an original, exciting way that is healthy, affordable and fun!

STARLITE MARINA & BEACH SHOP

7906 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.5240

starlitemarina.yolasite.com

Looking for a paddle on the lake, a water cruise with the family, a fun wake board and tubing experience, or an exhilarating wave-runner ride, visit Starlite Marina.

WAKEPILOT

Desert Sunrise Marina – 8215 Spartan Dr. Spirit Ridge – 8000 45 St. Walnut Beach – 4200 Lakeshore Dr. 250.495.4195 | wakepilot.com

With three locations on the lake, Wakepilot offers wakeboard and surf experiences alongside boat, sea-doo, e-foil, stand up paddle boards, and kayak rentals.

Photography by Don Urquhart

FAMILY FUN

AREA 27

127 Area 27 Dr. Oliver 236.488.0027 | area27.ca

Kartplex at Area 27 operates high performance Arrive + Drive race karts that are designed to give the sensations of racing machinery while remaining safe and serviceable. After your race, head over to the lookout and gaze in awe at the world-class 4.83 km car racing circuit.

ANARCHIST MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT

No trip to Osoyoos is complete without a visit to this viewpoint just outside of town. Rising 1,491 metres above sea level, Anarchist Mountain offers panoramic views of Osoyoos Lake, the town, as well as south towards the Town of Oroville, WA. Head East on Highway 3 from Osoyoos. Follow the switchback for approximately 7 km until you reach the pullout area to safely stop.

SPOTTED LAKE

7214 97th St. Osoyoos | 778.437.7676 sessionsoutdoorsports.ca

Known as kɬlilxʷ to the Sylix Okanagan Nation, the lake has long been considered a sacred lake and important source of traditional medicine for their people. During the hot summer months the water in the lake evaporates leaving

concentrations of various minerals that form different coloured “spots” on the lake bed. Located 10km west of Osoyoos on Hwy. 3 the lake can be viewed from a gate but please do not go past that point. Tours are available through the First Nations’ operated Sẁiẁs Spirit Tours (250.689.1549, swiwsspirittours.com).

Photography by Osoyoos Desert Centre

OSOYOOS SCOOTERS

6907 Ponderosa Dr. Osoyoos

250.408.9899 | osoyoosscooters.com

Get with the hip kids and cruise around town on one of the brand new Yamaha BWS 50 or Vino Scooters!

KOBAU LANES BOWLING CENTRE

8404 97th St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6112

facebook.com/kobaulanes

Kobau Lanes is eight lanes of five-pin bowling fun for people of all ages! The bowling centre is also fully licensed and open seven days a week.

MOUNT KRUGER LOOKOUT

A pullout on Hwy 3 on the slopes of Mount Kruger east of Osoyoos is another vantage point of the town, lake and across to Anarchist Mountain and up towards Nk’mip. The pullout is just over 5 km from the junction of Hwy 3 and Hwy 97 and for safety is only accessible from the westbound direction.

RATTLESNAKE CANYON

5502 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.3544 | rattlesnakecanyon.ca

This western mining town-themed amusement park includes an 18-hole mini golf course, bumper boats, go-karts, a rock-climbing wall, arcade with over 30 games, gem panning activity, tattoo parlour, bungee tree, tilt-a-whirl and tornado. And don’t miss a stop at the authentic windmill for an ice cream cone.

DOUBLE O BIKES

8905 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.3312 | doubleobikes.com

Double O Bikes provides rentals, repairs, bikes and accessories, everything you need to get out and ride!

NK’MIP DESERT CULTURAL CENTRE

1000 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.7901 | nkmipdesert.com

The spectacular award-winning Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (pronounced in-ka-meep) is one of the Okanagan’s top tourism destinations. The state-of-theart interpretive centre is an architectural marvel sensitively constructed into a hillside. Extensive indoor and outdoor exhibit galleries create a fun, interactive learning environment with hands-on displays, education stations and two multi-media theatre experiences.

OSOYOOS DESERT CENTRE

14580 146th Ave. Osoyoos

250.495.2470 | desert.org

Come experience the beauty and diversity of this unique desert environment at the Osoyoos Desert Centre, a 67-acre nature interpretive facility located 3 km north of Osoyoos. Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour along the 1.5 km boardwalk, explore hands-on displays in the interpretive building, and stroll through the native plant garden.

Photography by Don Urquhart

SOUTH OKANAGAN E-BIKE SAFARIS

250.689.2786 | okebikesafaris.ca

The e-bike safari company, has a fleet of the latest German-made electric pedal assist Cube E-bikes offering guided tours.

INDIAN GROVE RIDING STABLES

600 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.7555

facebook.com/indiangroveriding

Indian Grove Riding Stables has led horseback trail rides through the Osoyoos desert and along mountain trails for over 40 years.

SUN HILLS RIDING CENTRE

4001 Golf Course Dr. Osoyoos

250.408.9990 | sunhillsriding.ca

Explore Canada’s pocket desert on horseback with one hour guided trail rides past stunning valley views overlooking orchards, vineyards and Osoyoos Lake.

MOUNT BALDY SKI RESORT

2680 Mt Baldy Rd. Oliver

250.498.4086| baldyresort.com

A bounty of winter fun is offered at Mount Baldy, 40 minutes northeast of Osoyoos. A variety of trails, activities and amenities is offered in the winter. By the end of June, or early July the snow atop Baldy gives way to a lush greenery bursting with colourful wildflowers. Hiking up the mountain is a perfect respite from the blistering heat of the valley.

GOLF

Osoyoos Golf Club brings together ideal desert climate and picturesque golf with two full-length courses boasting the longest season in the Okanagan.  The Park Meadows course is a pleasurable “resort-style” course that is walker friendly amidst a park-like setting, while the Desert Gold course brings a new and unique links-style golf experience.

Sonora Dunes, on the other hand, is a professionally-designed, nine-hole, par-35 course with impeccably manicured greens and emerald fairways winding through the desert environment.

OSOYOOS GOLF CLUB

12300 Golf Course Dr, Osoyoos

250.495.7003 1.800.481.6665 | golfosoyoos.com

The Osoyoos Golf Club is Canada’s only desert-style golf course with plush conditioning, affordable rates, and 36 holes of championship golf located in the heart of the South Okanagan Valley & Canada’s Wine Country.

SONORA DUNES GOLF COURSE AT SPIRIT RIDGE RESORT

1300 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.4653 | sonoradunes.com

Sonora Dunes is a par-35, 2,307 metre course with impeccably manicured greens and emerald fairways winding throughout the desert landscape.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A wide range of delicious food options range from food trucks, cafes and artisan food shops to standalone restaurants and winery-based restaurants. Dotted in and around Osoyoos these foodie delights offer endless choices of cuisines catering to every craving, taste and lifestyle.

Photography courtesy of NkMipCellars

15 PARK BISTRO

Unit 235, 15 Park Place (located in the Watermark Beach Resort), Osoyoos

250.495.5508 | 15parkbistro.com

The bistro is an intimate environment well suited to both a casual evening with friends, or a romantic dinner for two.

AMBROSIA WESTERN & INDIAN CUISINE

6910 Main St., Osoyoos | 250.495.2227

This is for those seeking a little spicier tingling of their taste buds. Serves both Indian and Canadian cuisine.

BOSTON PIZZA AT THE WATERMARK

Unit 238 - 15 Park Pl. Osoyoos

250.495.6927 | bostonpizza.com

A casual dining setting with a great view and over 100 menu items including gourmet pizzas made with their signature hand pressed dough.

CAMPO MARINA RESTAURANT

5907 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7650 | campomarina.com

This upscale, yet casual eatery offers Italian cuisine with a leaning towards Tuscan flavours.

CONVIVIA BISTRO

8312 74th Ave. Osoyoos

250.495.2223 | conviviabistro.ca

Convivia Bistro is the delicious answer for Italian and French cuisine.

DIAMOND STEAK & SEAFOOD HOUSE

8903 Main St., Osoyoos | 250.495.6223

diamondsteakhouseosoyoos.com

The Diamond’s varied menu has choices for everyone: steak, seafood, pasta, pizza, ribs, and also Greek offerings.

DISTRICT WINE VILLAGE

100 Enterprise Way. Oliver

250.809.1869 | districtwinevillage.com

This brand-new wine concept village will showcase some of the region’s top wineries in a relaxed outdoor setting. The Village will feature a restaurant and pop-up kitchens.

DOLCI THAI

8710 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6807 | dolcithai.com

Dolci Thai is a small, family-run restaurant featuring authentic Thai food.

FOOTPRINTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.1143

GREEN SIDE BAR & GRILL

12300 Golf Course Dr. Osoyoos

1.800.481.6665 | golfosoyoos.com

Open for lunch and dinner the Green Side offers delicious pub food overlooking a golf course.

GYRO BEACH CAFE

17 Park Pl. Osoyoos | 250.498.1779

Beachside pizza and snacks.

Photography courtesy of 15 Park Bistro

HEM’Z OLD SKOOL CAFE

8523 Main St., Osoyoos

Indo-Canadian cross over take-out food, smoothies, gourmet coffee, cookies, muffins.

INDIAN FLAME

8527 Main St., Osoyoos

250.495.9000 | indianflameonmain.com

Serving up a wide variety of authentic Indian food items.

JOJO’S CAFE

8316 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6652 | jojoscafe.ca

Coffee beverages and made-to-order sandwiches, homemade soup and daily baked goods.

JUNCTION 3 COFFEE HOUSE

3 Harbour Key Dr. Osoyoos

778.823.0199 | junction3.ca

Coffee and baked goods.

KETTLE CANDY CO.

8111 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4030 Sweets of all kinds.

KOZO CAFE

8143 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2330 | kozocafe.jimdofree.com

Japanese food with a unique flare.

LA MARQUEZA MEXICAN TACOS

8306 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.1963

Mexican restaurant and food store offering fresh, authentic dishes.

MAMI’S PIZZA

8515 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6838

Family-owned pizza and pasta since 1994.

MIKS FOOD STUDIO

8129 Main St, Osoyoos | (778) 437-2344

American + Mediterranean Fast-Food

Potatosteak - a new taste with lots of delicious toppings.

O’ DELIGHTS ASIAN FUSION RESTAURANT

8323 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2899 | odelightscafe.com

Asian dishes, largely Chinese with a handful of Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese.

OSOYOOS PHO

VIETNAMESE CUISINE

Unit 7 - 6511 Main St. Osoyoos | 778.437.5566

Vietnamese pho noodles, rice rolls and bánh mì sandwiches.

PIZZA 97A

6001 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.3999 | pizza97a.com

Pizza, Canadian – vegetarian friendly.

PIZZA FACTORY & LOUNGE

8115 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2033 | townpizzafactory.com

Italian, pizza, fusion, Canadianvegetarian friendly.

POINTE 49 KITCHEN & BAR

4200 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos 250.495.5400 walnutbeachresort.com

Barbecue, American, Canadian.

ROBERTO’S GELATO

Unit 227 - 15 Park Pl. Osoyoos

250.495.5425 | robertosgelato.com

Homemade Italian-style ice cream and espresso drinks.

ROOSTER MAFIA FOODS

103-5820, 89th St., Osoyoos

778-386-3365 | roostermafia.com

Market/Deli, healthy take away options and pre-ordered charcuterie plate, catering.

SCOOPSIES

8324 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.689.0422

Ice cream, cupcakes and beverages like lemonade, hot chocolate and tea.

SMITTY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

8906 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6333 | smittys.ca

Family restaurant.

SOFIA’S MEXICAN FOOD TRUCK

9910 Hwy. 3, Osoyoos | 250.535.4108

Mexican, Latin – vegetarian friendly, vegan options.

SOL GRILL ROOM & LOUNGE

7906 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6884

Grill, pub food and international.

SPIRIT BEACH CANTINA

8000 45th St. Osoyoos

250.689.5770 | spiritbeachcantina.com

Hang out at this colourful little beach cantina and enjoy some Tex-Mex food.

SUGAR QUAIL BAKERY

5820 89 St. Osoyoos | 250.689.4136 sugarquailbakeshop.com

Cakes, cookies and other baked goods.

SUNRIDGE BREAKFAST RESTAURANT

9913 Hwy. 3

CWM45@Outlook.com

THE BEAR, THE FISH, THE ROOT & THE BERRY

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.4660 | bearfishrootberry.com

Fabulous view and equally fabulous food. The restaurant serves modern ‘vineyard cuisine’ inspired by Indigenous heritage.

THE MARKET

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.4660

Locally inspired breakfast and all-day menus including handmade pizzas and vegetarian dishes.

THE OWL PUB

7603 Spartan Dr. Osoyoos, 778.437.3838 | owlpubosoyoos.com

Pub snacks, burgers, pastas.

THE PATIO RESTAURANT AT NK’MIP CELLARS

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.2985 | nkmipcellars.com

Contemporary North American cuisine with fresh farm-to-table innovations.

THE SAGE PUB

6403 Cottonwood Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.2322 | sagepub.ca

Pub favourites like ribs, wings, sandwiches, entrees, pasta, and pizza.

WANDER CAFE

Unit 103 - 8309 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.4429 | wanderemporium.com

This store provides a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy fair trade coffee.

WILDFIRE GRILL

8526 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2215 | wildfiregrillosoyoos.com

Features a bistro menu with a selection of local wines.

WINDMILL ICE CREAM PARLOUR

5502 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.3544 | rattlesnakecanyon.ca

Ice cream in 48 flavours at the Okanagan’s only authentic windmill.

Photography by Don Urquhart

NATURE’S FRUIT BASKET

One of the most anticipated events in the Okanagan Valley is fruit season when local orchards and farms unfold in all their luscious glory. The sights, scents and tastes of the region’s progressing fruit and vegetable season is an unmistakable and everdelighting local feature. The season kicks off in mid-June for the South Okanagan and South Similkameen areas and continues through the fall. Blossoming and ripening times are earlier in the southern part of the Okanagan than in the north, by as much as 3-4 weeks in the case of Osoyoos versus Vernon and Lake Country.

Cherries are the first fruit ready for harvest, typically around early- to mid-June, followed by apricots, peaches and plums. Apples are the grand finale of the Okanagan’s fruit season in the fall.

U-PICK

Roadside fruit and vegetable stands dot the highways from Keremeos to Osoyoos and all the way north. You can ask a local for their favourite, but just know everyone has their own preference. You can’t go wrong by any of them.

And while the roadside stalls are an easy option to pick up some of nature’s bounty, one fun alternative is to pick your own. Orchards offering this option can be easily spotted via the giant ‘U-Pick’ signs along the highway.

U-pick farms usually offer cheaper prices for the fruit when you’re the one putting in the labour! Fruit that is sold at fruit stands and orchard markets is generally picked early on in the day markets open meaning they are just as fresh.

For a memorable family-oriented activity, this ‘freshest farm-to-table’ can’t be beaten for some rewarding fun. If you choose the self-pick option, be sure to prepare for your harvesting experience. Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a little dirty in the process. Cherries, in particular, can easily stain clothing. Wear proper footwear as you could stub your toes wearing flip-flops and other open-toed footwear.

Prepare for the weather especially in early summer and the fall where the weather can change rapidly.

In the hot summer months, it is better to pick in the mornings – most U-picks open by 8 a.m. – before it gets scorching hot (which also further ripens the fruit). Be sure to bring water to drink, wear a sun hat and slap your sunscreen on.

Most U-picks provide boxes but you may need to provide your containers in some cases. And as a general rule of thumb, fruit is best picked when it separates easily from the tree branch. Also, try to pick fruit with the stems on as that will keep it fresher longer. Check with the orchard people for any specific advice.

HISTORICAL ROOTS

The historical roots of the Okanagan fruit industry run deep, having first started in BC in the early 1800s with

SEASONAL M J J A S O

Apples

Apricots

Blackberries

Blueberries

Cherries

Grapes

Melons

Nectarines

Peaches

Pears

Plums

Raspberries

Strawberries

European explorers introducing many fruits to North America. Stocks of grafted fruit trees were transported across the Americas and transplanted in regions of the Pacific Northwest where they thrived in the mild climate.

The development of commercial orchards started in coastal BC with the first on the mainland planted in 1859, seeing the rapid diversification to include not just apples, but peaches, plums and pears.

The spread to the Okanagan followed the Cariboo gold seekers and by the early 1860s fruit trees were being planted in Lillooet, Lytton, Cache Creek and other smaller settlements near Kamloops. The first apple trees in the Okanagan (Penticton) were planted by Father Pandosy in 1862, who also planted the valley’s first grapes for producing Sacramental wine.

The 194 hectares Coldstream Ranch near Father Pandosy’s Okanagan Mission saw two 40 hectares lots of orchards planted in 1892 by Lord Aberdeen, former Governor General of Canada and his wife. These orchards included crab apples, apricots, peaches, prunes, cherries, and plums alongside raspberry canes and strawberries.

The Aberdeens even started up a jam factory to process much of the fruit. At its peak, the Coldstream Ranch was one of the largest producers of fruit in the British Empire.

The spread to the Okanagan followed the Cariboo gold seekers and by the early 1860s fruit trees were being planted in Lillooet, Lytton, Cache Creek and other smaller settlements near Kamloops. The first apple trees in the Okanagan (Penticton) were planted by Father Pandosy in 1862, who also planted the valley’s first grapes for producing Sacramental wine.

The 194 hectares Coldstream Ranch near Father Pandosy’s Okanagan Mission saw two 40 hectares lots of orchards planted in 1892 by Lord Aberdeen, former Governor General of Canada and his wife. These orchards included crab apples, apricots, peaches, prunes, cherries, and plums alongside raspberry canes and strawberries.

The Aberdeens even started up a jam factory to process much of the fruit. At its peak, the Coldstream Ranch was one of the largest producers of fruit in the British Empire.

Photography by Don Urquhart

LOCAL FARM MARKETS

BRAR FRUIT STAND AND ORCHARD

4280 Hwy 3. Osoyoos | 250.495.6604

C&C FAMILY ORCHARDS

7024 45th St. Osoyoos | 250.485.2266

FERNANDES FRUIT MARKET

4305 62nd Ave. Osoyoos

250.495.6678

OSOYOOS FRUIT BASKET 9910 Crowsnest Hwy. Osoyoos

250.689.8988

OSOYOOS FRUIT MARKET

10105 100th Ave. Osoyoos

250.485.2485

osoyoosfruitmarket.com

UNBEATABLE

OSOYOOS FARMERS MARKET

Town Hall Square Saturdays

9am to 1pm

osoyoosmarketonmain.ca

Running from May through September, the market brings together a delicious combination of home-made, homebaked, and home-grown. This includes a variety of artisan crafts, fruits and vegetables, baked goods and wine/ cider/beer/spirits.

PEACH HILL FARM & FRUIT MARKET

97 Hwy, 9105 176th Ave. Osoyoos

250.495.5060

THE WINE ROUTE

The heart of BC’s premier wine country is found in the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys which lie between the 49th and 50th parallels, the same latitude of the famous European wine regions of Champagne and Rheingau. But the wineries of these two BC valleys are famous not from that simple geographical similarity, but for the quality of wine on par with the best of the world.

Most of these wineries offer tastings typically at a minimal charge which is often reimbursed upon the purchase of some wine. Some of the Okanagan Valley’s top dining destinations are also located at these wineries, offering a wide range of culinary delights including an emphasis on farm to table ingredients. Some also offer accommodation onsite enabling an immersive winery experience.

Photography by Lionel Trudel

HISTORY

It may surprise many to know that the roots of the region’s wine industry date from the 1850s with the establishment of Father Pandosy’s Okanagan Mission, and the planting of vineyards for making sacramental wines. Prohibition, from 1918-1920, brought this to an end, with the commercial wine industry only recovering in the 1930s with the first modern-era winery – Calona Vineyards. This winery started in 1932 and remains the oldest continuously running winery in the province.

It wasn’t until the 1970s with experimental plantings of Vitis vinifera grapes that the industry embarked on the start of a journey that has brought it to the world recognised stature it now enjoys. Free trade agreements with the U.S. in the late 1980s provided further impetus to shift from the poorer quality hybrid and labrusca vines.

Another key transition for the BC wine industry was the adoption of the Vintners Quality Alliance designation which verifies wine origins, grape varietals and vintages.

Photography by Don Urquhart

One of the key things this did was to clearly differentiate wine made from bulk imported grapes and “cellared in Canada” versus those wines made from grapes grown in BC.

Another evolutionary step in BC’s wine industry was the rollout in April 2021 of the Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia (SWBC) Winery Standard. The far-reaching standard covers everything from waste management, water and irrigation issues, carbon emissions, soil nutrition, crop spraying, to safety issues, human resources, social equity,

and even succession planning. An extensive audit is required for each of the two sustainability standards – one for wineries and one for vineyards.

This is ever more important given that sustainability issues are rightly taking centre stage in an era where climate change is increasingly impacting our lives. It’s also important for wine exports, particularly to Europe.

The region now grows more than 60 grape varieties producing virtually every style of wine across the spectrum of sweetness levels, including still, sparkling, fortified and dessert wines, and even ice wines. The Okanagan Valley and Similkameen Valley account for 80 per cent of all wine produced in the province.

More recent plantings include: Sangiovese, Syrah, Tempranillo, Trebbiano, Pinotage, Malbec, Barbera and Zinfandel, all varietals typically associated with warm climates.

THE WINE ROUTE

Photography by Don Urquhart

OKANAGAN VALLEY

Stretching over 250 km, the Okanagan Valley with its stunning, sun-bathed landscape punctuated by tranquil lakes set between brush covered hillsides is the jewel in the crown of the BC wine industry. Micro-climates and soil types vary from end-to-end across a number of sub-regions, each with distinct conditions, or terroir.

This is the valley of award-winning wines delighting even the most fastidious of connoisseurs with sun-drenched big, bold reds to lively crisp whites.

The Okanagan has four officially recognized geographical sub-regions, or sub-appellations: Skaha Bench, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Falls and the Golden Mile Bench. The Osoyoos-Black Sage area is often considered a sub-region with its

own unique terroir but currently lacks official designation as such.

A key factor in Okanagan Valley’s uniqueness for wine production is its climate. Daytime temperatures can reach 40°C, but the cool nights allow the grapes to maintain their natural acidity.

The hot days and cool nights produce wines with ripe fruit character, fused with a distinctive acidity. This unique growth profile is widely recognized as a signature trait in BC wine and an important factor in its superlative quality.

Interestingly, the Okanagan Valley is also warmer and more arid than California’s Napa Valley, and gets nearly two hours more sunlight per day during the peak growing season because of its northern latitude.

Photography by Don Urquhart

GOLDEN MILE BENCH

The Golden Mile Bench is aptly named, as this sun-drenched shoulder on the west side of the valley running from Oliver towards Osoyoos was the first sub-region demarcated in 2015. Its southern facing aspect provides a warm climate with morning sun, rather than afternoon sunshine, making it a cooler microclimate than those located on, or across the valley floor.

This makes it ideal for full-flavoured white wines such as Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, alongside bright fruity reds like Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

With an average of 1,484 growing days the soil in the Golden Mile Bench features well-drained fluvial fans of stony gravelly, sandy loams or gravelly, loamy sands.

BLACK SAGE/OSOYOOS

Stretching from just north of Osoyoos on the east side of the valley up to Oliver is the Black Sage grape growing area. With full afternoon sun in what is the hottest location in Canada and an average of 1,551 growing degree days, this intense daytime heat is offset by cool nights giving wine from this area big flavour with vibrant acidity.

This unique microclimate gives rise to big bold reds such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah/Shiraz, and also whites such as Chardonnay. The soil plays its part with very deep sandy glaciofluvial materials overlying granite bedrock.

Other wineries slightly south of Black Sage are dotted on the slopes around Osoyoos making them very accessible to visitors staying in the range of waterside resorts in the town. Located in the youngest of the region’s wine areas, the Osoyoos Indian Band’s Nk’Mip Cellars was the first to open its doors in 2002.

Similar to Black Sage wineries those located around Osoyoos excel in the crafting of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah/Shiraz, and Chardonnay wines.

Our Signature Red Roof Apple Cider promises to deliver a refreshing alcoholic beverage that will leave your taste buds thirsting for more! Be sure to come by and visit us at 3480 Fruitvale Way, Oliver, B.C!

Our Signature Red Roof Apple Cider promises to deliver a refreshing alcoholic beverage that will leave your taste buds thirsting for more!

Open 7 days a week:

Be sure to come by and visit us at 3480 Fruitvale Way, Oliver, B.C.

Open 7 days a week: July and August - 8 am to 7 pm

July and Aug: 8 am to 7 pm June, Sept, Oc t: 9 am to 6 pm Winter and Spring: by appointment

June, Sept, Oct - 9 am to 6 pm • Winter and Spring by appointment

778.437.2335 and 250.535.2240

www.orchardhillcider y.com

Photography courtesy of OOWA

THE SIMILKAMEEN VALLEY

Just northwest of Osoyoos is a hidden gem in BC’s wine industry and has been gaining ever greater notoriety for its award-winning wines. Lush vineyards in the arid land are set against a fabulous backdrop of rugged, rock-faced mountains.

The majority of the wineries - typically smaller in scale than many of those in the Okanagan Valley - are grouped around the two small towns of Cawston and Keremeos.

The surrounding mountains act to reflect the heat into the valley long after

Photography by Leila Kwok

the sun has set each day. Similar to the Golden Mile Bench, the Similkameen Valley averages 1,533 growing days. The soil in the area is varied and includes stony, gravelly, and silty loams from glacial rock formation.

The combination of an arid valley floor and persistent winds make irrigation a challenging task in this region. It does have the benefit of keeping mildew and insect pests in

check, which means vineyards can often avoid the need for spraying. This coincides with the area’s emphasis on organically grown fruit and vegetables.

The first winery in the area was Keremeos Vineyards (now named St. Laszlo) established in 1984 with some 15 wineries currently in operation. The valley is known for its Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling.

SIMILKAMEEN WINE REGION

FORBIDDEN FRUIT WINERY forbiddenfruitwine.com

S’MILKA VISTA VINEYARDS smilkavista.com

SEVEN STONES WINERY sevenstones.ca

VANESSA VINEYARD ESTATE WINERY vanessavineyard.com

SHARPE DISTILLERY sharpedistillery.com

CROWSNEST VINEYARDS crowsnestvineyards.com

TWISTED HILLS CRAFT CIDER twistedhills.ca

OROFINO WINERY orofinovineyards.com

KLIPPERS UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER klippersorganics.com

RUSTIC ROOTS WINERY rusticrootswinery.com

HUGGING TREE WINERY huggingtreewinery.com

CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY closdusoleil.ca

CORCELETTES ESTATE WINERY CorcelettesWine.ca

ROBIN RIDGE WINERY robinridgewinery.com

OLIVER & OSOYOOS WINE REGION

BORDERTOWN

BURROWING

CELLAR

CHURCH

COVERT

RUST

SILVER

SONORA

TINHORN

Wine Country Passport

SHOP

BEACH CHIK ISLAND TIME

8509 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.463.9591

BRUSHED SAGE COLLECTIVE

#100, 8129 Main St. Osoyoos

250.408.8092

BUY-LOW FOODS

Unit 3 - 9129 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.5355

CALIFORNIA DAY

8120 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.495.5150

CHEEKS WEAR

8131 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.1495 | cheekswear.ca

DOUBLE O BIKES

8905 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.495.3312 doubleobikes.com

ELVIS FINE JEWELRY & MUSIC ROOM

8302 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4484

FIELDS

8506 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2558 | fields.ca

FLOWERS ON MAIN

8317 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2200 | osoyoosflorist.com

HAPPY PAPER PARLOR

7602 85th St. Osoyoos

250.495.0277 | happypaperparlor.com

LEVEL UP GAMES

8141 Main St. Osoyoos

250.408.5853 | levelupgamesshop.com

NESTERS FOOD MARKET

8130 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6818

OSOYOOS HOME HARDWARE

8501 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6534

osoyooshomehardware.ca

PHARMASAVE OSOYOOS

8301 C 78th Ave. Osoyoos | 250.495.7424 pharmasave.com/osoyoos

POLKA DOT DOOR

8522 Main Street. Osoyoos

250.495.2226 | polkadotdoor.net

RELKIE ART GLASS

700 Cougar Ct. Osoyoos | 250.714.6399

RED APPLE

9150 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.5448

SAGE TO SEA BOUTIQUE

15 Solana Key Ct. Osoyoos | 250.689.4711

SESSIONS OUTDOOR SPORTS

7214 97th St, Osoyoos | 250.437.7676 sessionsoutdoorsports.ca

SHOE BIZ

8302 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7795 | shoebizokanagan.ca

SHOPPERS DRUG MART

8305 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6055 | shoppersdrugmart.ca

STRIKE THE POSE

Unit 104 - 8313 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6644 | strikethepose.ca

THE CURATOR

Unit 3 - 8302 Main St. Osoyoos

250.408.5162

curatorsdesigns.com/osoyooshome

UNITY CLOTHING

8519 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4456 unityosoyoos.com

WANDER HOME

8320 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6990 | wanderemporium.com

WAYSIDE SELECT BOOKS & ART

8317 Main St. | 250.486.2929

YOUR DOLLAR STORE WITH MORE

Unit 5 - 9143 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.0404

ART THERAPY CORP.

Unit 4, 8302 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7868 | arttherapycorp.com

BEYOND BEAUTY HAIR STUDIO

Unit 5 - 6511 Main St. Osoyoos |

250.495.4406 beyondbeautyosoyoos.com

BONNIE DOON HEALTH SUPPLIES

8515A Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6313

FIRST CHOICE HEALTH FOODS

8511 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.5320

HEAVEN ON EARTH

8315 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.1919 heavenonearthwellness.com

LEVIA WELLNESS SPA

Unit 232 - 15 Park Pl. Osoyoos | 250.495.8312

leviawellnessspa.com

LUNA DEL SOL HAIR DESIGN

8316 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.3939

MOVE THERAPIES

Unit 101 - 7611 Spartan Dr. Osoyoos

250.535.1199 | movetherapies.com

NEEDS GYM

7802 85th St. Osoyoos

250.495.0477 | needsgym.ca

OKANAGAN-SIMILKAMEEN COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE

8521 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.499.1905

OSOYOOS MASSAGE THERAPY

8317 68th Ave. Osoyoos | 250.495.2273

osoyoosmassagetherapy.com

OSOYOOS NAIL STUDIO

8311 - 78th Avenue. Osoyoos

250.495.3505 | osoyoosnailstudio.ca

OSOYOOS PHYSIOTHERAPY

8301 78 Ave. Osoyoos | 250.495.2225

PRETTY CUT AND DRY

HAIR STUDIO

8319 Main St. Osoyoos | 778.892.4247

RHONE BEAUTY

LASH EXTENSIONS

Unit 104 - 8111 Main St. Osoyoos

250.528.2229 | rhonebeauty.com

SAFFRON HAIR DESIGN

8143 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.0565 | saffronhairdesign.ca

SALON 85

Unit 2 - 7405 - 85th St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7909

SOLTERRA DESERT SPA

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.2119 | solterradesertspa.com

SOUTH OKANAGAN

MASSAGE THERAPY

8127 Main St. Osoyoos | 778.437.2117

southokanaganmassagetherapy.com

STUDIO 23

8115 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7850

SUNSHINE VALLEY FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

8507 74th Ave. Osoyoos | 250.495.4810

sunshinevalleychiropractic.com

THE GOOD LIFE

8905 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4425

THREE60 FITNESS

250.485.3228 | three60fitness.ca

VENGEANCE FITNESS

8404 - 97th St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7237 vengeancefitnessosoyoos.com

Photography by Don Urquhart

DRINK CANNABIS

BC LIQUOR STORE

8110 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.495.7321

NORTH BASIN BREWING CO.

Unit 226 - 15 Park Pl. Osoyoos |

250.782.0923

northbasinbrewing.com

ORCHARD HILL ESTATE CIDERY

3480 Fruitvale Way. Osoyoos

250.535.2240 250.493.9412

orchardhillcidery.com

OWL COLD BEER, WINE & LIQUOR STORE

8613 Spartan Drive, Osoyoos | 778.437.3737

SAGE PUB & LIQUOR STORE

6403 Cottonwood Dr, Osoyoos | 250.495.7179

SONORA SPIRITS CO.

6201 45 St unit 2, Osoyoos | 250.408.8670

sonoraspirits.com

TUMBLEWEED SPIRITS

6001 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos 778.437.2221

tumbleweedspirits.com | sagepub.ca

DESERT VALLEY CANNABIS

6205 45th St. Osoyoos | 236.700.5203

INTERIOR CANNABIS

8304 72nd Ave. Osoyoos | 250.535.0506

interiorcannabis.wm.store

MAPLE LEAF GREENERY

8322 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.1992

WINE TOURS

DESERT COUNTRY WINE TOURS

250.498.7316

desertcountrywinetours.com

MOXIE TOURS

250.408.9226 | moxietours.com

OK WINE SHUTTLE

250.495.3278 | okwineshuttle.ca

SAGEBRUSH TOURS

250.859.5982 | sagebrushtours.ca

SẀIẀS SPIRIT TOURS

250.689.1549 | swiwsspirittours.com

WINE TOURS GONE SOUTH

250.498.7501

Photography courtesy of DeVino Wine Tours

STAY

Osoyoos offers a wide range of accommodation with options for every budget and taste. From campsites and RV parks, to budget-friendly motels, B&Bs, waterfront hotels and five-star resorts.

Several of the wineries in the area also offer accommodation for a truly unique experience staying amongst the vineyards. Nothing beats waking up to the jaw-dropping view of verdant vineyards stretching down the hillsides of the South Okanagan valley. No better way to start the day!

Photography courtesy of Walnut Beach Resort

RESORTS

SPIRIT RIDGE RESORT

1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos

250.495.5445 | spiritridge.hyatt.com

Pool | Free Parking | Fitness Centre | Free WiFi)

Restaurant/Bar/Lounge | Spa | Adult pool |

Air Conditioning | Banquet Room | Conference

Facilities | Golf Course | Heated pool | Hot Tub

Laundry Service | Meeting Rooms | Microwave

Non-Smoking | Outdoor pool | Pets Allowed

| Refrigerator in room | Self-Serve Laundry |

Shuttle Bus Service to beach

WALNUT BEACH RESORT

4200 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.5400 | walnutbeachresort.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Restaurant | Fitness

Centre | Air Conditioning | Banquet Room

| Business Centre | Children Activities |

Conference Facilities Outdoor Pool |

Hot Tub | Laundry Service | Meeting

Rooms | Self-Serve Laundry | Wheelchair

Access | Bar/Lounge | Spa

WATERMARK BEACH RESORT

15 Park Pl. Osoyoos | 250.495.5500

watermarkbeachresort.com

Outdoor Heated Pool with Waterslide |

Free Parking | Restaurant | Free WiFi |

Fitness Centre | Beachfront | Bar/Lounge |

Spa | Air Conditioning Banquet Room |

Business Centre | Conference Facilities |

Outdoor Hot Tub | Laundry Service |

Meeting Rooms | Microwave | Pets Allowed |

In room Refrigeration | Self-Serve Laundry | Wheelchair Access

HOTELS & MOTELS

ADRIATIC MOTEL

5501 Main St., Osoyoos | 250.495.3250

Pool | Free WiFi | Free Parking | Air Conditioning | Suites with Kitchenette | Wheelchair Access

AVALON INN

9106 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6334 | www.avaloninnosoyoos.com

Pets allowed | Free WiFi | Free Parking | Air Conditioning | Suites with Kitchenette | Wheelchair Access | Non-Smoking

HOTELS & MOTELS

BELLA VILLA RESORT MOTEL

6904 Ponderosa Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.6751 | bellavillamotel.com

Beachfront | Pets allowed | Free WiFi | Free Parking Air Conditioning | Suites with Kitchenette | Laundry Service | Non-Smoking

BEST WESTERN PLUS

5506 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4000

bestwesternosoyoos.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Restaurant | Breakfast included | Fitness Centre | Air Conditioning |

Banquet Room | Business Centre | Children

Activities Conference Facilities | Heated pool |

Hot Tub | Indoor pool | Laundry Service | Pets

Allowed | Shuttle Bus Service | Wheelchair Access

BOUNDARY MOTEL

7416 Hwy 97. Osoyoos

250.495.6050 | boundarymotel.com

Pets allowed | Free WiFi | Free Parking | Air

Conditioning | Suites with Kitchenette | Wheelchair Access | Non-Smoking

CASA DEL MILA ORO RESORT

5401 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos | 250.495.2373

casadelmilaororesort.com

Pets allowed | Heated Pool | Hot Tub | Free Parking

Air Conditioning | Self-Serve Laundry |

Conference Facilities | Meeting Rooms

COAST OSOYOOS BEACH HOTEL

7702 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6525 | coasthotels.com

Pool | Beachfront | Free Parking | Free WiFi

| Breakfast included | Fitness Centre | Air

Conditioning | Heated pool | Hot Tub |

Indoor pool | Pets Allowed

DESERT SURFSIDE WATERFRONT

7310 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2228 | surfside-osoyoos.com

Free Parking | Beachfront | Free WiFi | Air

Conditioning | Microwave | Non-Smoking |

Refrigerator in room | Wheelchair Access

FALCON RESORT

7106 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7544 | falcon-spanish.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pool | Air Conditioning | Laundry Service

GREEN GABLE BEACH RESORT

7304 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6828

greengablesbeachresort.ca

Free Parking | Beachfront | Free WiFi | Cable | Guest laundry | Air Conditioning | Microwave | Non-Smoking | Wheelchair Access | Ground floor, balcony & courtyard | Picnic tables & communal Bbq’s | All suites have full kitchens/ kitchenettes & full bathrooms

HOLIDAY INN & SUITES

7906 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7223 | ihg.com

Free Parking | Beachfront | Free WiFi | Air Conditioning | Concierge | Microwave | NonSmoking | Pets Allowed | Refrigerator in room |

Wheelchair Access | Indoor Heated Pool | Hot tub | Room Service | Restaurant | Fitness Centre

INKANEEP POINT RESORT

16235, 87th St. Osoyoos

250.495.6353 | inkaneep.com

Free Parking | Beachfront | Free WiFi | Air Conditioning | All suites have full kitchens

LAKEVIEW MOTEL & SUITES

6004 89th St. Osoyoos

250.495.7641 | www.osoyooslakeview.ca

Pool | Free Parking | Free WiFi | Air Conditioning | Heated pool | Microwave | Non-Smoking |

Outdoor pool | Refrigerator in room |

Self-Serve Laundry

POPLARS MOTEL

6404 Cottonwood Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.6035 | thepoplarsmotel.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Air Conditioning | Beachfront | Wheelchair Access |

Self-Serve Laundry

Photography courtesy of Spirit Ridge

RICHTER PASS MOTOR INN

7506 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7229 | richterpass.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Air Conditioning | Beachfront | Laundry

RIVIERA MOTEL

6004 Maple Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.6551 | rivieramotel.ca

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pets Allowed | Beachfront

SAFARI BEACH RESORT

5815 Oleander Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7217 | safaribeachresort.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pool | Beachfront

SAHARA COURTYARD INN

6205 Cottonwood Dr. Osoyoos | 250.495.7211

saharacourtyardinnosoyoos.online

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pool | Pets Allowed |

Air Conditioning | Laundry Service

SANDY BEACH SUITES

6706 Ponderosa Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.6931 | sandybeachsuites.ca

Free Parking | Free WiFi | Beachfront | Air

Conditioning | Laundry Service | Microwave |

Non-Smoking | Refrigerator in room | Self-Serve

Laundry | Tennis Court | Wheelchair Access

SHIRAZ VILLA

12190 Hwy 3. Osoyoos

250.495.8040 | shirazvilla.ca

SPANISH FIESTA

7104 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.6833 | falcon-spanish.com

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pool |

Air Conditioning | Laundry Service

SUN BEACH MOTEL

7303 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7766

New modern suites | Most units with full kitchens

Golf packages | Gas barbeques and picnic tables

Air conditioning | Sun decks/balconies |

Boat docks | Small dogs allowed (off season)

SUPER 8

9130 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.2633 | osoyoossuper8.com

Pool | Free Parking | Breakfast included |

Free WiFi Air Conditioning | Heated pool |

Hot Tub | Microwave | Non-Smoking | Outdoor pool | Refrigerator in room | Self-Serve Laundry

WESTRIDGE MOTOR INN

Junction Hwy 3 & Hwy 97, Osoyoos

778.437.2185 | westridgeinn.ca

Free WiFi | Free Parking | Pool | Pets Allowed | Air Conditioning | Non-Smoking

BED & BREAKFASTS

R & R BED & BREAKFAST

5221 Oleander Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.2962 | www.rnr-bnb.com

REFLECTIONS GUEST HOUSE

6813 Meadowlark Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.5229

www.reflectionsguesthouse.com

ROSE GARDEN SUITE B&B

6 Yucca Pl. Osoyoos | 250.495.8499

www.bbcanada.com/14797

RV & CAMPING

BROOKVALE HOLIDAY RESORT

1219 East Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7514

www.brookvalecampground.com

CABANA BEACH CAMPGROUND

2231 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos | 250.495.7705

ISLAND VIEW RV RESORT

5005 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7696 | www.islandviewrvresort.com

NK’MIP CAMPGROUND & RV PARK

8000 - 45th St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7279

www.campingosoyoos.com

SẀIẀS PROVINCIAL PARK (HAYNES POINT)

Hwy 97 to 32nd Ave. Osoyoos

250.548.0076

www.bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/swiws

WALTONS LAKEFRONT

RV RESORT

3207 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7033 | www.waltonslakefront.com