Osoyoos Pocket Guide 2024

by Debra Ceravolo

Photography

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 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 was founded much later than other villages and towns in this area but it seems to make up for that each summer. Come the height of summer this little town of just over 5,000 people sheds its slow paced life as it swells to as many as 20,000 people on a summer long weekend.

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 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 triples 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 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

Osoyoos is located on the traditional lands of the Syilx Suknaqinx (Okanagan) Nation that once spanned a wide swath of south central BC including the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys and as far east as Alberta down into Washington State as far as Coulee City.

The Syilx Suknaqinx Nation is now made up of eight communities in the interior of British Columbia and in the US.

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.

Photography by Melissa Fowler | @melissamfowler

Photography by Don Urquhart

We are beautiful

We are Okanagan

Because our land is beautiful

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 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.

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.

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 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 at Spirit Ridge.

Marcia Hurley Art

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 sculptors and photographers. 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.

Photography by Frank Fik

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 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 gallery tucked just around the corner from Main Street.

Photography by Don Urguart

MURAL WALK

For a unique art experience check out Osoyoos’ burgeoning outdoor mural collection, found on the sides and backs of buildings all over town.

1The wall of the Osoyoos & District Museum and Archives has large historical photos covering one entire side of the building. 8702 Main St.

2The wall of Fields Department Store behind the Bank of Montreal 8502 Main St. features a “postcard mural” with different aspects of Osoyoos.

3The 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.

4The back wall of 8302 Main St. features a heart done in tattoo style, also by Mavik.

5

Gino’s Coffee House features both a painting by a young local artist Emily Muller along with a mural by Mavik, both at the back in the outdoor seating area.

7Just east up 74a Ave. is a Buddha mural by Mavik at Heaven on Earth Total Body Care & Wellness.

8The east wall of the Pioneer Car Wash at 8306 74th Ave. features another Mavik mural, this time portraying fun on Osoyoos Lake.

9The latest addition to the Osoyoos mural collection is one by Quebec artist Dominic Lessard depicting the work of seasonal workers. It’s located at 8501 Main St. across from the Nesters Market/liquor store parking lot.

10In 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.

6Home Hardware at 8501 Main St. features historic photos on one wall along with two full walls at the back of the building plus warehouse with murals by Mavik.

11This one is a bit far to walk to from the downtown core but well worth stopping by to check out. Three walls of the Sessions Outdoor Sports store at 7214 97th St. are painted in vibrant colours featuring people playing various sports by Guatemalan artist Alexander Lopez.

EVENTS

The festival scene in Osoyoos is yet another reason to pay a visit to this lakeside town.

All year-round – even in December – 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 brave 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. The fun never stops!

Photography by Farah Florentino

APRIL

OSOYOOS OYSTER

FESTIVAL

April 11, 12

The much loved Osoyoos Oyster Festival mounted a fabulous return in 2024 after a four year hiatus with two events – one casual, one gala – pleasing fans of fine wine and the briny delight of fresh oysters.

RUN AROUND BUCKLE SERIES BARREL RACE

Desert Park

April 18 to October 3

(every other Tuesday evening) desertpark.ca

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

April 20

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

MAY

PIG OUT

May 2, 3

Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country’s everpopular Pig Out Festival returned to its original spring timing and single location format for the first time since 2019. An unapologetic celebration of all things pork and local wines is not to be missed. oliverosoyoos.com

OSOYOOS SPRING FESTIVAL

May 4 to 13

The annual Osoyoos Spring Festival is now in its third year with a mix of events around a varied musical lineup of paid and free concerts. Presented by the Osoyoos & District Arts Council (ODAC) the admission is by donation.

WINE COUNTRY DRAG RACING

May to September Winecountryracing.ca

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 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

JUNE

OSOYOOS MUSIC IN THE PARK

Gyro Bandshell

Fridays June to September

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

CACTUS JALOPIES

Returning June 2025

Gyro Park, Osoyoos

Cactus Jalopies is a very popular annual event drawing some 10,000 car enthusiasts and 500 vehicles which are on display along the shores of the lake. Cactusjalopies2023.ca | 250-495-6959

Photography by Digital Maege Media

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

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

PRIDE ARTS FESTIVAL

Gyro Park

September 7

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. widearts.ca

FALL FESTIVAL WEEKEND

Kick-Off Party - District Wine Village Sept 20

Cask & Keg Sept 21

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 22

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

DRAGON BOAT FLAG

RACE FESTIVAL

September 21

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

Photography by Don Urquhart

OCTOBER

ALL HALLOW’S EVE FESTIVAL

Gyro Park

October 26, 27

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 29-30

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

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

CHRISTMAS LIGHT UP osoyoosfestivalsociety.ca

Photography by Don Urquhart

EXPLORE OUT-OF-DOORS

The unique environment of the Osoyoos area, known as a “pocket desert” (or more properly “semi-arid shrubland”) 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 Trevor Reeves

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 Trevor Reeves

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. Unfortunately last year’s Eagle Bluff wildfire 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 on of the local bike shops – Double O or Sessions Outdoor Sports – as they will be able to update you on what trails are accessible.

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

Photography by Trevor Reeves

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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

Photography by Farah Florentino

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.

ATTRACTIONS

• PLAY IN THE LAKE

• FAMILY FUN

• GOLF

Visitors to Osoyoos usually have one thing top of mind: the lake. The perfect way to start off a vacation in Osoyoos is to get in, on or around the lake. Stretch out on a sunny sandy beach or spread your picnic blanket on the grass and soak in the “lake life”.

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.

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.

New in 2024, a safe boating station with safety information and life jackets will be 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, 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

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.

OUTDOOR SPORTS

For all your outdoor needs including cycling, e-biking, pickleball, running, skiing and snowboarding, and camping.

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.

Photography by Don Urquhart

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!

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!

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

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.

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 Gustav Klotz

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

6511 Main St Unit 4

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), Stumptown Coffee, nitro cold brew, espresso, smoothies, baked goods, ice cream buns 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

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.

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.

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.

KETTLE CANDY CO.

8111 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.495.4030

Sweets of all kinds.

LA MARQUEZA MEXICAN TACOS

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

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.

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 | 250.242.2224

CWM45@Outlook.com

Classic Canadian food in generous portions.

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.

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

It’s hard not to make the association between the Okanagan Valley and fruit, especially in the South Okanagan. And 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. 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 midJune 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. This has earned it its historical tagline “the earliest fruit in Canada”.

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 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 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.

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 (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

| 250.495.6604

| 250.485.2266

OSOYOOS FRUIT BASKET 9910 Crowsnest Hwy. Osoyoos | 250.689.8988

OSOYOOS FRUIT MARKET 10105 100th Ave. Osoyoos | 250.485.2485 osoyoosfruitmarket.com

OSOYOOS FARMERS MARKET Town Hall Square - Saturdays 9am to 1pm Gyro Park - Tuesday 5pm to 8 pm (July and August) 250.495.3537 | 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

Photography by Don Urquhart

THE WINE ROUTE

The vineyards around 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. These valleys which lie between the 49th and 50th parallels are 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.

The severe cold snap that sent temperatures in the area down past -20 C in January of 2024 have been estimated to have severely damaged or killed at least 80 per cent of the vines but wine lovers shouldn’t worry about this year as last year’s harvest are filling the bottles. As for next year it will be a challenging one for the industry but vineyards are already replanting and taking the opportunity to make improvements.

Photography

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.

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.

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 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 OsoyoosBlack 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.

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

Photography by Don Urquhart

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

by

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

Leila Kwok

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

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

BOTTEGA WINE STUDIO bottegawinestudio.ca

OROFINO WINERY orofinovineyards.com

KLIPPERS UNTANGLED CRAFT CIDER klippersorganics.com

HUGGING TREE WINERY huggingtreewinery.com

3BENCHES ESTATE WINERY 3bencheswine.ca

CLOS DU SOLEIL WINERY closdusoleil.ca

CORCELETTES ESTATE WINERY CorcelettesWine.ca

ROBIN RIDGE WINERY robinridgewinery.com

LASS CHANCE BEV CO. lasschance.com

BLACK HILLS blackhillswinery.com

CIDER & WINERY bordertownwinery.com

BURROWING OWL burrowingowlwine.ca

CASTORO DE ORO castorodeorowinery.com

CELLAR DOOR & MORE

CHECKMATE checkmatewinery.com

CHURCH & STATE churchandstatewines.com

CULMINA culmina.ca

DESERT HILLS deserthills.ca

HESTER CREEK hestercreek.com

HOWLING MOON CRAFT CIDER howlingmoon.ca

KISMET kismetestatewinery.com

LASTELLA lastella.ca

CURSER mooncurser.com MYTHOLOGY VINEYARD mythologyvineyard.ca

NK’MIP CELLARS nkmipcellars.com

NOSTALGIA WINES nostalgiawines.ca

ORCHARD HILL ESTATE CIDERY orchardhillcidery.com

OVER THE FENCE overthefencewinery.ca

PHANTOM CREEK phantomcreekestates.com

QUINTA FERREIRA quintaferreira.com

RAINMAKER rainmakerwines.com

RIVER STONE riverstoneestatewinery.ca

ROAD 13

road13vineyards.com

RUST WINE CO. rustwine.com

SILVER SAGE silversagewinery.ca

SQUEEZED squeezedwines.com

TINHORN CREEK tinhorn.com

TUMBLEWEED SPIRITS tumbleweedspirits.com VINAMITÉ vinamitecellars.com

BEACH CHIK ISLAND TIME

8509 Main St. Osoyoos | 250.463.9591

BLUE BARN PET & HOBBY FARM

9150 Main St #7. Osoyoos

250.495.0480 | bluebarn.shop

BRUSHED SAGE COLLECTIVE

#100, 8129 Main St. Osoyoos

250.408.8092

CALIFORNIA DAY

8120 Main St, Osoyoos | 250.495.5150

CHEEKS BOUTIQUE

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

SAVE ON FOODS

Unit 3 - 9129 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.5355

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

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

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

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

SUNSHINE

THREE60 FITNESS 250.485.3228 | three60fitness.ca

VENGEANCE FITNESS 8404 - 97th St. Osoyoos |

DRINK CANNABIS

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 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

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

LOCOS AMIGOS 8304 72nd Ave. Osoyoos | 778-739-0121 llocoamigos.ca

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

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!

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

FALCON RESORT

7106 Main St. Osoyoos

250.495.7544 | falcon-spanish.com

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

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 | 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

R & R BED & BREAKFAST

5221 Oleander Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.2962 | rnr-bnb.com

REFLECTIONS GUEST HOUSE

6813 Meadowlark Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.5229 reflectionsguesthouse.com

ROSE GARDEN SUITE B&B 6 Yucca Pl. Osoyoos | 250.495.8499 bbcanada.com/14797.html

RV & CAMPING

BROOKVALE HOLIDAY RESORT 1219 East Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7514 brookvalecampground.com

CABANA BEACH CAMPGROUND 2231 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos | 250.495.7705

ISLAND VIEW RV RESORT

5005 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7696 | islandviewrvresort.com

NK’MIP CAMPGROUND & RV PARK 8000 - 45th St. Osoyoos | 250.495.7279 campingosoyoos.com

SẀIẀS PROVINCIAL PARK (HAYNES POINT) Hwy 97 to 32nd Ave. Osoyoos

250.548.0076 bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/swiws

WALTONS LAKEFRONT

RV RESORT

3207 Lakeshore Dr. Osoyoos

250.495.7033 | waltonslakefront.com

YAWALKWANALC