What to Do in Okanagan
I can’t stress enough the importance of not taking your backyard for granted.
A couple of weeks ago me and a couple of friends did a 3 day trip inland of British Columbia – to beautiful Okanagan. We drove from Vancouver to Vernon, covering Summerland, Penticton, Osoyoos and driving back to Vancouver in the next 3 days.
Okanagan warms my heart. Whether it’s because of its warm weather, endless peach, apple and berry farms and vineyards, or because of its lakes, vast valleys and beautiful hills that remind me of my beloved Sicily. I say it’s all of the above.
Besides the breathtaking nature and Sasha exclaiming “OMG, it’s so beautiful!” at least every minute, here are some highlights from our trip. These places and activities will hopefully add a little somethin’ to your life:
1.Visit olive oil & vinegar tasting room in Vernon.
I’ve heard of other kinds of tastings before, but this one was a first. And in Vernon! How random. If you can finish a whole baguette dipping it in olive oil and vinegar (like I can), this place is heaven for you!
2. Hold a baby kangaroo at the Kangaroo Creek Farm.
2. Ride the Kettle Valley Steam Railway in Summerland.
The old train ride is worth to do for the steam operated locomotive and the Okanagan landscapes, especially when the sun is setting.
3. Steal an apple from the apple farm in Summerland.
Just do it. You can pick the one that just dropped on the ground to make yourself feel better. They are the juiciest little things I’ve ever tried!
4. Buy some Okanagan peaches.
Stealing a peach would be too much for your morals, but they are the best at the end of August – beginning of September and super cheap. We got a whole box for 5 CAD.
5. Visit some vineyards in Osoyoos.
My personal favourites were La Stella and NK’MIP Cellars. For wine lovers: at La Stella I got the 2015 Vivage Pinot Grigio and at NK’MIP – a beautiful 2015 blend of Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Ehrenfelser, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay, named Dreamcatcher.
6. Stop by the Spotted Lake on the way back to Vancouver.
To quote Hello BC: “Spotted Lake is a small lake rich in a variety of minerals, including calcium, sodium sulphates and magnesium sulphate. During the hot summer months, much of the water in the lake evaporates, leaving concentrations of these minerals that form the spots visible in the lake.” Oh, the wonders of nature!
7. Enjoy your ride home on highway 3!
Happy traveling!
Xoxo,
Sasha
