A BLONDE VINTAGE

I love Canada. And it’s not just for those tasty maple cookies (which, and don’t hate me, I find better than Girl Scout Cookies). Canada has some of the nicest, kindest people, the most amazing scenery, the best food (I swear “farm-to-table” was invented in Canada), and some seriously delicious wine. That’s why you need to plan your next trip to Canada and dog ear this travel guide to Kelowna, British Columbia.

Kelowna, BC is located in the Okanagan Valley which runs 125 miles along a chain of lakes, also known as “Lake Country”, that stretches from Armstrong, BC to the Washington border. It’s considered to be the northernmost serious wine region in the world and the views are spectacular.

Kelowna Downtown Marina

How To Get To Kelowna

Whether you decide to arrive by car or plane, Kelowna is a very easy place to get to. If you arrive by plane, I recommend renting a car.

Fly – Alaska Air offers daily direct flights from Seattle and Vancouver, BC and Air Canada and WestJet have direct flights from Calgary or Vancouver, BC to the Kelowna Airport (YLW).

Drive – The Okanagan valley’s southern tip connects to North East Washington State and is three miles north of the U.S. border on Highway 97.

When To Go To Kelowna

Spring and Fall are the prime seasons to visit Kelowna. Farmers Markets are brimming with local produce, summer crowds have either not yet come or have just dispersed and hotel rates are much more economical.

View from Delta Grand Okanagan Resort by Marriott

Where To Stay In Kelowna

It’s good to note that Kelowna is divided into two – West Kelowna and Kelowna. Each town is on opposite sides of Okanagan Lake and connected by a long bridge. My recommendation for convenience, walkability and proximity to restaurants is to stay in Kelowna proper. If you’re looking for more of a resort, relaxation location and will not be doing day trips then you might be happier staying along the lake in West Kelowna. Whatever you choose, you will have a great time!

Delta Grand Okanagan Resort by Marriott  Offering an indoor pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site casino and full-service spa, this resort hotel is located on Okanagan Lake and has spectacular views. I recommend booking a club level room, which then includes breakfast, beverages and snacks throughout your stay served in the Club Room on the top floor of the hotel.

Hotel Eldorado Set on the shores of Okanagan Lake, this hotel dates back to 1926. This quaint property with an ivy-covered entrance has direct beach access and is set next to a Marina. It’s also walking distance to many restaurants and boutique shops.

The Cove Lakeside Resort (located in West Kelowna) Located on the West Bank of Okanagan lake in British Columbia this resort offers beautiful views of the lake and mountains, an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant and on-site spa. It’s also an all-suite property offering one, two and three bedroom condo-style units, perfect for large groups or families staying for an extended period of time.

Quail’s Gate Winery

Things To Do In Kelowna

Winery Hopping With over 40 wineries within a 20 minute drive of downtown Kelowna, you will have plenty of sipping opportunities! A few of my favorites are Quail’s Gate, Hatch, Mission Hill, Tantalus & Summerhill!

If you’re looking for a nice place to relax and have lunch or dinner, both Quail’s Gate and Mission Hill have amazing restaurants. You cannot go wrong.

If you’re wanting a nice little brunch spot (make sure to check open hours/season) head over towards Summerland on the westside of the lake, and visit Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards at Greata Ranch.

Tour a Lavender Farm With rows of beautiful lavender flowers, the colorful blooms provide a great backdrop for taking pictures or simply provide a nice aromatherapeutic stroll. The farm hosts workshops on aromatherapy, cooking, body care and more so you can discover all of the different uses of the herbs grown on the farm. Just make sure to pre-register for the workshops on their website!

Kangaroo Creek Farm Visit kangaroos, wallabies and many more animals, without fences in the way! Pet a roo and hold a joey and have a hands on learning session about these fascinating animals. This was definitely the highlight of our last trip to Kelowna!

Get out on Okanagan Lake  My favorite part about Kelowna is its front row seat to Okanagan Lake. Make sure to consider renting a boat from Maeg’s BBQ Boats or take a lunch or dinner cruise with Kelowna Cruises! You can also rent boats from the Kelowna Downtown Marina!

Where To Eat In Kelowna

Kelowna has some serious good eats, and you can hardly go wrong. However, these are some of my top picks, in no particular order!

Bliss Bakery By far the best baked goods in the city and their coffee is pretty delicious also!

Raudz Regional Table  Leading the way by always using organic, sustainable and naturally raised ingredients this little gem excels at the food game.

Cactus Club Cafe A local Canadian chain that redefines what it means to be part of a chain restaurant. The food is delicious and the location cannot be beat! They also offer an amazing Happy Hour.

Quail’s Gate Winery If you go out to eat to one place, and one place only, make sure it’s at Quail’s Gate. It is absolutely perfect in every way, the food, service, wine makes for a memorable evening.

Perch Cafe & Lounge (Rooftop) Sophisticated, edgy, and set up high. This rooftop cafe & lounge focused on organic and sustainable practices, is the perfect place to either start or end your night!

Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar This place is a total hidden gourmet gem. Great wine list, mouth watering food to a quaint ambiance, this will be one of the best meals of your entire trip.

I hope you enjoyed this Travel Guide to Kelowna, British Columbia!

XO,

M

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