With Alberta's winter still going strong, escaping Calgary to indulge in a bit of pampering might be the best idea you've had so far this year. And there’s no better way than a luxurious visit to Vernon, B.C. — home to Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa.
Not only can you refresh your mind, body and soul with a much-needed break, but you can do so among the 3.5 million Swarovski crystals that decorate the property in the form of chandeliers, wall details and fixtures.
With rooms that all feature floor-to-ceiling windows and two-person soaking tubs, Sparkling Hill offers guests an unparalleled getaway surrounded by magical scenery and free of touristy vibes.
A couple relax in the Panorama Sauna at Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa.Courtesy of Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa
After settling into your room, it's time to don your complimentary plush robe and slippers and pay a visit to Sparkling Hill's KurSpa — the largest luxury spa in B.C.
Here, you can enjoy glamorous treatments such as the Fire & Ice Stone Massage, Himalayan Detox or Canadian Maple Syrup Body Scrub or move between one of the uniquely themed seven Steams & Saunas. The resort is also home to a state-of-the-art Cryo Cold Chamber treatment — perfect for those needing a cooling full-body boost.
KurSpa has a classic Finnish-style sauna, another with a stunning panoramic view of Okanagan Lake, and a Herbal Sauna with pine aromatics to transport you to a forest haven.
A guest relaxes in the Aqua Meditation Steam room at Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa.Courtesy of Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa
Take advantage of the mint aromatics of the Crystal Steam room, the soothing vibes of the Salt Steam, the romantic energy of the fragrant Rose Steam room or the centring energy of the Aqua Meditation Steam room as water gently drips into the Swarovski crystal basin.
Of course, a visit to Sparkling Hill isn't complete without a dip in the iconic outdoor infinity pool, heated year-round to keep you nice and cozy as you take in the sweeping views of the mountains and lakes of the North Okanagan.
The infinity pool overlooking Okanagan Lake at Sparkling Hill Resort & SpaCourtesy of Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa
Dining here is just as glamorous. Sitting down under a decadent crystal sculpture to enjoy PeakFine at Sparkling Hill's ocean-to-table, farm-fresh menu is a not-to-miss experience.
You can also enjoy light fare, coffee or cocktails at Barrique & Java or tuck into delicious traditional Austrian dishes at Gerni's Farmhouse.
PeakFine at Sparkling Hill's restaurant with fireplace and Swarovski crystal decoration Courtesy of Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa
And that's all before you head to Vernon, where plenty of fantastic activities await. Not sure where to start? No problem. Take inspiration from Tourism Vernon’s Hand-Picked Journeys — a perfectly curated list of itineraries with unique stops to satisfy your cravings.
Guests doing a tasting at Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, Vernon, B.C. Courtesy of Tourism Vernon
A great way to start is with drinks in the Pour & Explore Loop. Sip on locally-crafted beer, cider, wine, mead and spirits while enjoying exceptional views of the valley. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stroll along the Culinary Crossroads. There, you’ll find deliciously diverse dining options to fully immerse yourself in Vernon's flavours.
Another great way to enjoy your Vernon adventure is through the Farms & Flavours Trail. Relish in the local agricultural heritage and visit everything from markets and farm-to-table restaurants to orchards.
A couple holding hands walk through Davison Orchards in Vernon, B.C.Courtesy of Tourism Vernon
Plus, getting there is super simple all year round. You can find up to 10 daily direct flights between Calgary and Kelowna that are just over an hour long, with Vernon and Sparkling Hill only a 30-minute drive away once you land.
Now that you know this North Okanagan paradise is just a short flight away from Calgary, who are you taking to Sparkling Hill and Vernon?
To learn more about Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa, visit their website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube. To learn more about Tourism Vernon, visit their website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.