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
On behalf of Osoyoos Town Council, staff and our residents, we offer ”Canada’s Warmest Welcome” to our visitors and tourists. We hope you enjoy our parks and trails, beaches, swimming in the warmest lake in Canada and all the annual special sporting events, festivals, art shows and music concerts. Visit our local wineries, restaurants, fruit stands, farmers markets and welcoming businesses. Our desert climate and warm sun will tempt you to return again soon!
Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff
OSOYOOS SNAPSHOT
Osoyoos may be a sleepy little town by winter, but come summer the population swells from just over 5,000 people to as many as 20,000 people on a summer long weekend as tourists flock to the sun-kissed lake and numerous wineries in the area.
The first step in getting to know this beautiful lakeside town is to learn how to pronounce its name. Osoyoos stems from a First Nations word sẁiẁs, which is pronounced ‘s-wee-yous’, meaning ‘narrowing of the waters’ in nsyilxcən, the language of the Syilx Suknaqinx (Okanagan) Nation language.
During the period of European colonialism 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 making it one of the younger towns in the region.
Agriculture (fruit trees, vegetables and grapes for wine) along with tourism are the community’s largest economic drivers.
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 much colder 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 Steele 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 Sylix Suknaqinx Nation
Photography by Melissa Fowler | @melissamfowler
Osoyoos is located on the traditional lands of the Syilx Suknaqinx (Okanagan) Nation that once spanned a wide swath of south central British Columbia including the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys, Arrow Lakes region and east towards Alberta, and down into Washington State as far as Coulee City.
Thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers, the ancestors of current day Syilx people used the modern day 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.
For thousands of years prior to the arrival of European settlers, the Syilx people were self-reliant through their own ingenuity and use of the land and resources. United as a nation and operating with a structured economy, the Syilx traveled widely across their territory; hunting, fishing, growing, harvesting, and trading which created a sustainable existence that met their needs.
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.
With the slow and steady influx of settlers basic arrangements for cohabitation on the land gradually gave way as colonization became the dominant force, dividing people from one another and from their way of life. As the Indigenous people across “Turtle Island” (present day North America) became dispossessed from the resources they relied upon, their self-sufficient economy collapsed.
In the Okanagan, increasing settlement, the creation of the border with the United States and British Columbia’s joining of the confederation put pressure on the BC government of the day to designate reserves for “Indians”. Reserves were established in the early 1900’s and opposed by the Syilx people who sought to first negotiate a treaty.
are beautiful We are Okanagan
Because our land is beautiful
The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) was formed in 1981 as the inaugural First Nations government in the Okanagan which represents the 8 member communities including; Okanagan Indian Band, Upper Nicola Band, Westbank First Nation, Penticton Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band and Lower and Upper Similkameen Indian Bands and the Colville Confederated Tribes (Washington State) on areas of common concern. Each community is represented through the Chiefs Executive Council (CEC) by their Chief or Chairman.
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.
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 Robert Brunet
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.
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 a 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.
ART IN OSOYOOS
The art scene in Osoyoos continues to thrive with new artistic talent constantly emerging. The artistic product 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 at Spirit Ridge.
Marcia Hurley Art
C21 POP-UP ART SHOW
Century 21 Premier Properties
8317 Main St. Osoyoos
The Century 21 building features a long wall that functions as a pop-up gallery with changing artwork from local artists that are part of the Okanagan Art Gallery collective.
GINO’S COFFEE HOUSE
8316 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.6652 ginoscoffeehouse.com
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 photographers and now a glass artist. Often the gallery doubles as a bit of a studio with an artist or two creating their art and also hosts First Friday events with artists on hand and local wine for purchase by the glass.
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.
Painting by Claudia Punter
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 and more, this jampacked business has one wall dedicated to gallery space and features exhibitions that periodically change, often of less-known artists and first time exhibitors.
WIDE ARTS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (WANA)
Unit 5 - 8302 Main St. Osoyoos widearts.ca
With a mission of fostering inclusion and the enrichment of the community, WANA actively supports performing, visual and literary arts in Osoyoos and the surrounding area. WANA also has a tattoo business and gallery tucked just around the corner from Main Street.
Photography by Don Urquhart
MURAL WALK
For a unique art experience check out Osoyoos’ burgeoning outdoor mural collection, found on the fronts, backs and sides of buildings all over town.
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The front of the Diamond Steak & Seafood House (8903 Main St.) is the most recent to get an artistic make-over with a mural by Mavik depicting a street scene from the owners’ beloved Greece.
2The wall of the Osoyoos & District Museum and Archives (8702 Main St.) has large historical photos covering one entire side of the building. Inside the museum check out the large mural that was created to cover a large blank wall of the former Co-op packinghouse (the present day location of the Watermark Beach Resort). Created by famed artist Jack Campbell in 1989 based on the theme “what Osoyoos is and what it has”.
3The wall of Fields Department Store behind the Bank of Montreal 8502 Main St. features a “postcard mural” with different aspects of Osoyoos.
6Gino’s Coffee House features both an exterior painting by a young local artist Emily Muller along with a mural of the cafe’s namesake along with a southern valley perspective by Mavik, both at the back in the outdoor seating area.
7Home Hardware at 8501 Main St. features historic photos on one wall along with murals by Mavik on the rear of the building plus warehouse.
8Just east up 74a Ave. is a Buddha mural by Mavik at Heaven on Earth Total Body Care & Wellness.
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The east wall of the Pioneer Car Wash at 8306 74th Ave. features another Mavik mural, this time portraying water sport fun on Osoyoos Lake.
10Quebec artist Dominic Lessard’s art depicting the work of seasonal workers is located at 8501 Main St. across from the Nesters Market/BC Liquor store parking lot.
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4The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 173 hall has three of its walls covered in stunning imagery created with spray paint by local artist Mavik. 8310 78 Ave.
5The back wall of 8302 Main St. features a heart done in tattoo style, also by Mavik.
In front of the Sonora Community Centre at 8505 68th Ave is a unique tiled mural. The Osoyoos Portuguese Commemorative Mural features over 400 tiles depicting Portuguese orchard workers picking apples in their Osoyoos orchard.
EVENTS
Nothing says Osoyoos like festivals! Each year the town hosts a large variety of festivals year round. There are festivals celebrating everything from the all-mighty grape to beer and cider, cherries, cars, and more traditional events like Halloween and Christmas.
And for the sturdy of heart, there is the annual Desert Dip in the chilly waters of Osoyoos Lake January 1. And let’s not forget the long weekends from Victoria Day, to Canada Day all the way up to Thanksgiving. During the summer weekends many of the wineries around Osoyoos offer live music, some with food trucks.
The fun just never stops!
OTHER MURALS
Three more locations feature outdoor murals which are a bit further off the downtown area but are still easily accessible.
Sessions Outdoor Sports store at 7214 97th St. has murals on three walls painted in vibrant colours featuring people playing various sports by Guatemalan artist Alexander Lopez.
Desert Surfside Waterfront Accommodations at 7310 Main St. features a large mural of a woman waterskiing on the western side of the building. Goodman Park on the shores of the South Basin of Osoyoos Lake features a mural by local artists Sharon Leonard and Nancy Gray portraying the lake scenery of the area. Originally installed at the Town Hall park in 2015, it was moved to the present location a few years ago.
Photography by Greg Reely
SEASONAL
FIRST FRIDAY RECEPTION
Art and cultural venues around Osoyoos host a monthly First Friday event on the first Friday of each month year-round. It’s a chance to get out, view some art, chat with artists and watch some at work. Some refreshments are typically available. Participants include: Okanagan Art Gallery, Wayside Select Books and Art, C21 Pop-Up Art Show,The Art Gallery Osoyoos (TAGO) and Osoyoos Museum.
OSOYOOS MUSIC IN THE PARK
Gyro Park Bandshell
Free live music every Friday evening 6:30 –8:30 p.m. from June 27 to August 29. This year’s season kicks off on Saturday, June 14 with the Osoyoos Children’s Concert at Osoyoos Town Hall Park from 1-3 p.m. osoyoosmusicinthepark.com
WINE COUNTRY DRAG RACING
May 3-4, 24-25; June 14-15; Sept. 20-21 and Oct. 4-5, Osoyoos Airport, Weekend drag racing events at the Osoyoos Airport winecountryracing.ca
JANUARY
7TH ANNUAL DESERT DIP
January 1
Nothing like a New Year’s dip in the lake to clear the brain fog from celebrations the night before! Now in its seventh year a bonfire and heating tent have pumped up the comfort level significantly. The Gyro Park washrooms are specially opened for the event as well.
FIRST RESPONDERS GALA
Hosted by Rotary Club of Osoyoos, to recognize and honour the dedication of local first responders . Usually held in January.
APRIL
OSOYOOS OYSTER FESTIVAL
April 17-18
The much loved Osoyoos Oyster Festival mounted a fabulous return in 2024 after a four year hiatus with two events – one casual (Osoyoos Golf Club), one gala (Walnut Beach Resort) – pleasing fans of fine wine and the briny delight of fresh oysters. The same format continues this year.
EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA
April 4
A pancake breakfast kicks off a day of games for the kids, bike and hat decorating contests, games and of course the highlight of the day – an easter egg hunt. All the action takes place at Gyro Park. osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca
MAY
PIG OUT FESTIVAL
May 1-2
Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country’s everpopular Pig Out Festival comprised of an unapologetic celebration of all things pork and local wines is not to be missed. The event kicks off each year with a Guest Chef Dinner with wine paired with pork dishes. On Saturday the festival continues with wine and food stations spread around the grounds of the Cellar Door & More north of Oliver near the District Wine Village. oliverosoyoos.com
OSOYOOS SPRING FESTIVAL
May 17-18
The annual Osoyoos Spring Festival is now in its fourth year with a new format this year. Saturday will consist of a “Taste of Mexico” featuring a variety of Latin music while Sunday will see jack and Jill & Friends along with Vincent DeCowans and Jeff Smith “Rocking the Park”. On at Gyro Park from 12-10 p.m. each day.
HALF CORKED MARATHON
May 30, 31
A highly anticipated event so popular that a balloting system is in place due to the overwhelming demand for places in the halfmarathon. The event, which is organized by the 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. The weekend kicks of with the Primavera Party. The party at the finish line sees an afternoon of food, wine and revelry at the Oliver Community Park. oliverosoyoos.com
JUNE
CANADA DAY WARM-UP PARTY
June 13, 7-11 p.m. Watermark Beach Resort Fireworks fundraiser.
1ST ANNUAL DESERT OPEN
INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT
June 13-15, Osoyoos Lawn Bowling Club osoyooslawnbowling.ca
JULY
75TH ANNUAL CHERRY FIESTA, CANADA DAY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS
July 1
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. Live music, 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 on shore of the lake. osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca
AUGUST
41ST MOUNT KOBAU STAR PARTY
August 3-11, Mount Kobau
The Star Party for serious star gazers who gather atop the mountain – far above the light pollution below – which towers above the Similkameen Valley on one side and the Southern Okanagan Valley on the other. These are the only days camping is permitted on the mountain top. From beginner to grizzled sky-veteran, all are welcome. mksp.ca
SEPTEMBER
PRIDE ARTS FESTIVAL
September 6, Gyro Park
The Pride Arts Festival celebrates diversity in both 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, as well as black and racialized communities with a day long event filled with entertainment of all sorts. Belly dancers, singers, poets, and musical acts along with vendors and food trucks make this a great way to spend the day. pridearts.ca
SEPTEMBER
LOBSTER ON THE BEACH
September 13
Rotary Club of Osoyoos serves up fresh Nova Scotia lobster at Gyro Park at club’s major fundraiser.
WINE CAPITAL WEEKEND
Sept 19-21, Kick-Off Party –District Wine Village, Sept 19
Cask & Keg – Oliver Community Park, Sept 20 Festival of the Grape –Oliver Community Park, Sept 21
Enjoy the hand-crafted flavours produced by a host of regional breweries, cideries, and distilleries at Cask & Keg. Browse the grounds sipping and indulging in mouthwatering morsels from various food trucks, with live music.
Festival of the Grape is a solid one day celebration of the all mighty grape: wine tastings, live music, food trucks, an art market, and grape stomping competition. olivercaskandkeg.ca oliverfestivalofthegrape.ca
DRAGON BOAT FLAG RACE FESTIVAL
September 20, Safari Beach
The Osoyoos Lake Paddling Club hosts its annual Dragon Boat Flag Race which sees up to 15 teams competing from the Okanagan and also the Lower Mainland. osoyoosdragonboat.weebly.com
OCTOBER
ALL HALLOW’S EVE FESTIVAL
October 26, 27, Gyro Park
The ultimate Halloween festival 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 27 to 29
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 5-7
Wineries of Oliver and Osoyoos put together special promotions for both weekends of Winter with Wine Country and throughout the holiday season. oliverosoyoos.com
OSOYOOS CHRISTMAS LITE-UP
December 5
Two days of everything festive including the Kiwanis toy drive, farmers market, Christmas parade on Main St., Christmas carols and bonfire at Gyro Beach, fireworks, and breakfast and photos with Santa. osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca
EXPLORE OUT-OF-DOORS
The unique environment of the Osoyoos area provides numerous opportunities for out of doors 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 Kruger. 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 Greg Reely
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.
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 light trucks or SUVs.
MOUNT KRUGER
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. Unfortunately the Eagle Bluff wildfire of 2023 destroyed large areas of Mount Kruger and some of the trails are now out of bounds in order to let the habitat restore itself. Check with one of the local bike shops – Double O Bikes & Sports or Sessions Outdoor Sports – as to which trails are open.
Photography by Peter Hovestad
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.
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 smartphone. Visit bcbirdtrail.ca/trails/ okanagan/osoyoos for more information.
Photography by Trevor Reeves
Photography by Greg Reely
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.
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.
GOLDEN MILE STAMP MILL 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 (when the trail forks take the left fork).
Artwork by by Trista Bassett
LOCAL PARKS
Although the stunning Osoyoos Lake is the main draw, the town features a variety of parks offering various amenities. Please remember dogs must be onleash 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 also features a volleyball net and has an accessibility mat from pavement to water. Osoyoos’ new Accessibility Trailer which contains two Mobi-Chairs (floating mobility aids), and TrailRider (all-terrain mobility aid).
Photography by Peter Hovestad
LEGION BEACH PARK
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. Amenities include washrooms and showers. The beach features a grassy area, picnic tables, big trees for shade and a sandy beach in addition to a designated dog swimming area. The beach is also connected to the popular Jack Shaw Splash Park by a pedestrian tunnel.
LION’S PARK
Lions Park features 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 the busier 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 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 on the east side of the lake near the border. 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. Accessible from both 89th ST, Kingfisher Drive and Legion Beach Park.
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 Farah Florentino
ATTRACTIONS
• PLAY IN THE LAKE
• FAMILY FUN
• GOLF
Lying beside, diving in, floating on top, swimming through and gliding along its surface – Osoyoos Lake is the magnet that pulls people from around the world to our little patch of paradise. Nothing beats a refreshing splash in the lake on a scorching hot summer day. Lots of non-lake related things to do include paintball, an amusement park, go-karts, bowling and much more.
by Karen
Photography
Lundin
PLAY IN THE LAKE
Osoyoos offers plenty of spots to soak in the “lake life” depending on what you’re looking for. If you like being in the centre of it all then check out Gyro Beach, or for less-touristy ones there’s Lion’s Beach, Legion Beach or Osoyoos Lake Regional Park.
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).
And one for the whole family is the Osoyoos Wibit at Gyro Beach that offers a unique water park adventure on the lake itself. For more land-based water fun for your kids, check out the Jack Shaw Splash Park.
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.
And for those who like to fish, Osoyoos
Lake has close to 20 kms of shoreline with 43 species of fish waiting to take the bait. Just don’t forget to get your fishing license.
A new addition late last year is a safe boating station with safety information and life jackets for free borrowing located at Osoyoos Boat Launch and Marina, 8215 Spartan Drive, which has two public boat launches and a 32 slip marina.
ABOVE THE BOARD WATERSPORTS
5815 Oleander Dr. Osoyoos 250.498.9044 | atbwatersports.com
Choose your sport from wakeboarding waterskiing, wake surfing, wake skating, air chair, kneeboarding or tubing. There’s something for everyone from beginners to advanced.
Photography by Don Urquhart
Photography by Don Urquhart
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.
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.
FAMILY FUN
KARTPLEX 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Photography by Don Urquhart
Photography by Don Urquhart
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.
OSOYOOS PAINT BALL
4702 Main St. Osoyoos
250.499.0960 | osoyoospaintball.ca
Both low-impact (0.50 cal) and higherimpact (0.68 cal)paintball games are offered at this outdoor facility, accommodating all levels of play.
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!
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.
SESSIONS OUTDOOR SPORTS
7214 97th St. Osoyoos | 778.437.7676 sessionsoutdoorsports.ca
For all your outdoor needs including cycling, e-biking, pickleball, running, skiing and snowboarding, and camping.
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.
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.
GOLF
Golfers will delight in the Osoyoos Golf Club’s 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.
And over at Sonora Dunes Golf Course a professionally-designed, nine-hole, par-35 course with impeccably manicured greens and emerald fairways winding through the desert environment.
THE 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.
Photography by Greg Reely
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.
BARN OWL EATERY & CAFE
6511 Main St., Unit 7 & 8 Osoyoos
250.689.8880 | barnowleatery.ca
On-the-run brunch menu with convenient and quick items made to order. Breakfast egg sandwiches, fresh deli sandwiches, crispy potato bites (aka tater tots), smash burgers, Stumptown Coffee, nitro cold brew, espresso, smoothies, and more.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
A wide range of delicious food options from food trucks, cafes and artisan food shops to standalone restaurants and winerybased restaurants. Dotted in and around Osoyoos these foodie delights offer endless choices of cuisines catering to every craving, taste and lifestyle.
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.
Photography courtesy of Footprint
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.
DOSA CREPE CAFE
8143 Main St. Osoyoos
778.597.0245 | dosacrepecafe.com
Fusing South Indian Dosas and French crepes. Gluten free.
FOOTPRINTS BEACH BAR & GRILL
1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos
250.495.1143
Casual beach fare with direct dock access. Fun, relaxed extension of Spirit Ridge Resort.
GINO’S COFFEE HOUSE
8316 Main St. Osoyoos
250.495.6652 | ginoscoffeehouse.com
Coffee beverages and made-to-order sandwiches, homemade soup and daily baked goods.
GREENSIDE 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.
INDIAN FLAME
8527 Main St. Osoyoos
250.495.9000 | indianflameonmain.com
Serving up a wide variety of authentic Indian food items.
JUNCTION 3 COFFEE HOUSE
3 Harbour Key Dr. Osoyoos
778.823.0199 | junction3.ca
Coffee and baked goods.
THE TREAT LAND
8111 Main St. Unit 105 Osoyoos
778.437.2080
Sweets of all kinds and ice cream.
LA MARQUEZA MEXICAN
TACOS & MARKET
8526 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 Meat and veggie platters, sides and salads, shawarma, and cheesesteak sandwiches.
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.
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.
SWEETGRASS 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.
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.
NATURE’S FRUIT BASKET
The historical tag line of “Canada’s First Fruit” remains true to this day and it’s impossible not to make the association between the South Okanagan Valley and fruit. Certainly one of the most anticipated events locally is the beginning of fruit season when local orchards and farms unfold in all their luscious glory.
Cherries are the first fruit, 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. The sights, scents and tastes of the region’s progressing fruit and vegetable season is an unmistakable and everdelighting local feature.
The destructive cold snap of January 2024 meant last summer saw virtually no local tree fruit but this year looks set to return to the normal delicious bounty.
U-PICK
Roadside fruit and vegetable stands dot the highways from Keremeos to Osoyoos and north through Oliver. You can ask a local for their favourite, but just know everyone has their own preference and you really 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 typically sport ‘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.
Apples
Apricots
Blackberries
Blueberries
Cherries
Grapes
Melons
Nectarines
Peaches
Pears
Plums
Raspberries
Strawberries
HISTORICAL ROOTS
The historical roots of the Okanagan fruit industry run deep, having first started in BC in the early 1800s with
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 were planted around Penticton 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
Photography by Don Urquhart
LOCAL FARM MARKETS
THE WINE ROUTE
The vineyards and wineries of Osoyoos and Oliver in the Okanagan Valley and Keremeos and Cawston in the Similkameen Valley make up the best of BC’s premier wine industry that now enjoy global recognition. 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. Most of these wineries offer tastings typically at a minimal charge which is often reimbursed with a purchase and some donate the fee to charity.
It’s been difficult two years for the wine industry with two consecutive years of severe cold snaps that sent temperatures plummeting with the 2024 cold snap in particular resulting in a 97-99 per cent reduction in grape and wine production. Some wineries opted to import grapes or grape juice from the US, primarily from the wine growing regions of Washington and California States. Winemakers across the region continue to produce excellent wine. Substantial replanting took place with government funding support along with other resiliency efforts. This past winter exhibited more typical temperatures and this spring saw healthy bud break giving the industry a rosier outlook going forward.
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 globally recognised stature it now enjoys. Free trade agreements with the US in the late 1980s provided further impetus to shift away 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.
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 but the devastation from the unseasonable cold has tempered the enthusiasm for these warm climate varieties somewhat.
Photography by Trevor Reeves
OKANAGAN VALLEY
Stretching over 250 km, the Okanagan Valley with its stunning, sun-bathed landscape punctuated by tranquil lakes set between sagebrush 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. Similar to Black Sage wineries those located around Osoyoos excel in the crafting of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah/Shiraz, and Chardonnay wines.
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.
The Osoyoos Indian Band should be highlighted for its early involvement in the wine industry. With much foresight the OIB made the decision to plant grapes as early as 1968 marking the beginning of Inkameep Vineyards, an early and important step towards establishing their own winery, an early start of what has become a stunning road of economic success.
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! Be sure to come by and visit us at 3480 Fruitvale Way, Oliver, B.C.
Open 7 days a week: July and Aug: 8 am to 7 pm June, Sept, Oc t: 9 am to 6 pm Winter and Spring: by appointment
Open 7 days a week: July and August - 8 am to 7 pm June, Sept, Oct - 9 am to 6 pm • Winter and Spring by appointment
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 stunning backdrop of rugged, towering 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 the sun has set each day. Similar to the Golden Mile Bench, the Similkameen
Photography by Don Urquhart
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.
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
DRINK
BC LIQUOR STORE
8110 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7321
BACK ROADS BREWING
Unit 226 - 15 Park Pl. Osoyoos |
250.495.0252
backroadsbrewing.com
ORCHARD HILL ESTATE CIDERY
3480 Fruitvale Way. Osoyoos
250.535.2240
orchardhillcidery.com
OWL COLD BEER, WINE & LIQUOR STORE
8613 Spartan Dr. Osoyoos | 778.437.3737 owlpubosoyoos.com
SAGE PUB & LIQUOR STORE
6403 Cottonwood Dr. Osoyoos
250.495.7179 | sagepub.ca
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
CANNABIS
DESERT VALLEY CANNABIS 6205 45th St. Osoyoos |
MAPLE LEAF GREENERY 8322 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.1992
TOURS
DESERT COUNTRY WINE TOURS
250.498.7316 | desertcountrywinetours.com
DEVINO TOURS 604-649-1315 | devinowinetours.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 | winetoursgonesouth.ca
STAY
From budget friendly motels, Airbnbs and B&Bs to beach hotels and five-star resorts, Osoyoos offers a wide range of accommodation for every budget and preference. Several of the wineries in the area also offer accommodation for a truly unique experience staying amongst the vineyards. Wake up to stunning views of vineyards stretching down to the lake as you prepare for a day of wine tasting, or just lazing about.
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 |
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 cont’d
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
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)
PARK INN BY RADISSON OSOYOOS
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
