One of BC's 'prettiest small towns' is this dreamy waterfront spot with natural hot springs

Quaint streets and sandy beach awaits you here.

People on a lake. Right: A lakeside beach.

A waterfront small town in BC with sandy beach.

@ekaraproulx | Instagram, Annefrigon | Dreamstime
Editor

This small village sits on the shore of an idyllic lake in B.C., with mountains wrapping around it. It's known for its friendly community, and was just named among the prettiest small towns in the province. If you're looking for a summer getaway that has beauty, adventure, and charm all wrapped into one, this is the spot to go.

Nakusp was recently dubbed among B.C.'s prettiest small towns, in a Narcity poll, and one look at the scenery and it's easy to see why. Rolling mountains flank the calm lake, which has a sandy shoreline to lie out on and take in the view from. Alongside it all is a vibrant village with local businesses to explore.

Nakusp sits on the edge of Upper Arrow Lake, which is nestled in the picturesque West Kootenay region of the province. It's an area known for its natural beauty with countless hiking trails, sparkling lakes, and breathtaking views.

The small downtown here has restaurants and shops, an art gallery, and a museum to check out.

It's a dreamy little village to walk around, and you can grab a coffee from Mountain Top Coffee before strolling along the scenic waterfront promenade, which has beautiful gardens alongside the lake.

One of the best things about a visit here, though? Soaking in the hot springs.

If you're up for exploring, you can drive just outside of town and find Halfway Hot Springs. The natural springs are nestled in the forest next to a river, creating an incredibly tranquil setting to relax in.

If you want something a bit closer to town, you can check out The Nakusp Hot Springs — a chalet and campground where you can stay, or just go for a dip in the pools, which are on site. The hot pools there are perfect for a soak and are fed by natural mineral springs.

Nakusp is also "home to the oldest operating hotel in BC," according to the tourism website. You can stay in the historic building and enjoy dinner there, from what's known as "the best restaurant patio in town."

If you want a getaway into nature that will leave you feeling at peace, this spot is the place to be.

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.

  • Editor

    Morgan Leet (she/her) is an Editor for Narcity Media Group. After graduating from Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication, she jumped into fulfilling her dream as a journalist, merging her passion for travelling with writing. She got her start working in the print media world on Canada’s East Coast, then joined Narcity with a move to B.C., leading the launch of West Coast coverage. Her focus now is managing a large group of freelance writers, bringing human-forward and opinion content to the site.

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