A BC destination with emerald lakes was named among the spots 'every Canadian should visit'
It has European vibes that will make you feel like you're far away.
The small town of Oliver in BC. Right: Swimming in the Okanagan Valley.
This B.C. destination is summer vibes through and through. We're talking sparkling lakes with rolling mountains wrapping around them, beaches with soft sand, cute small towns, warm water, and scenery that will leave you breathless.
Top it off with famously sunny weather and hillside vineyards that look like they've been plucked out of Italy — and you've got the ultimate summer retreat. It's no wonder this place was named among the places that "every Canadian should visit at least once in their lives," in a poll on the Narcity Facebook page.
One glance at photos from here and you'll be looking at your calendar, trying to work in a vacation. This is the Okanagan Valley, a unique destination that makes for a legendary trip.
The landscape here is the first thing you'll probably notice because it stands out from other spots in Canada. The climate is sunny and hot, and the rolling mountains dip into valleys and blend into desert. It's actually home to Canada's only desert, and a must-do a trip is a visit to the Osoyoos Desert Centre and the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre where you can get tours and learn more about the landscape.
Scattered throughout the region are many towns and communities, each with its own personality and beauty. A trip here calls for a road trip, stopping in at as many beautiful lakeshores, scenic wineries and quaint towns as possible.
[instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr9A5YrvNdU/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=62915a86-6ab6-4c44-8d26-0d1a0e0096e6' expand=1 site_id=21132993 embed_desktop_width=540 embed_desktop_height=1151 embed_mobile_width=375 embed_mobile_height=980]The big city here is Kelowna, which has everything you need in terms of amenities but maintains a laid-back feel and is right on a stunning lake.
Like most of the communities here, it's surrounded by wine country, so you can tour around, sipping your way through a trip.
About an hour away from Kelowna (but only 15 minutes from the city of Vernon) is Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, where you'll find some of the most breathtaking water around.
Osoyoos is another go-to for summer trips and is home to Canada's warmest freshwater lake. The desert landscape here is breathtaking, and sunny days are spent wandering the small businesses and enjoying the water.
"Canada's Wine Capital" is another claim to fame in this region – a title held by the small town of Oliver. It's full of award-winning wineries and beautiful scenery to boot.
If wineries aren't your thing, there are also orchards and farms scattered around (and tons of farmers' markets where you can taste the local produce). There are also towns with names like Peachland and Summerland — which are just as charming as they sound.
Get planning because a road trip awaits!
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.