Travel
City Escape: The Mountains, Wineries, and Waters of Kelowna, B.C.
Photo courtesy tourismkelowna.com/Ken Hagen
Travel
City Escape: The Mountains, Wineries, and Waters of Kelowna, B.C.
Nestled in the lush Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is the gem of British Columbia’s interior.
The city isn’t exactly small—it’s home to over 150,000 people—but it has a charming small-town vibe that welcomes visitors with open arms.
With rolling hills, the shimmering waters of Okanagan Lake, and no shortage of wineries with awe-inspiring views, Kelowna offers endless travel opportunities. Indulge in the rich food and drink scene, head outside to soak up the local trails and water activities, and wander the lively downtown.
Here’s everything that’s on our Kelowna bucket list.
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Where to stay
Soma Craft Cidery Inn
Just steps away from Soma Craft Cidery’s tasting room, this 10-room inn is tucked in the rolling orchards. The small-batch cidery is also home to friendly alpacas that guests can wander over to visit.
Hotel Eldorado
Built in 1926, this historic stay is on the edge of the lake. With stunning sightlines and a lively boardwalk resto, the Hotel Eldorado is an iconic retreat in Kelowna.
Château Okanagan
Along the shores of Okanagan Lake, this 44-acre property is a luxurious retreat in Kelowna. The French-style estate features a spa, an array of dining opportunities, and beautiful suites with unparalleled views. P.S. Château Okanagan was the filming location of Netflix's hit series Million Dollar Secret!
Where to eat and sip
Kin & Folk
Kin & Folk is a refined neighbourhood restaurant that celebrates Asian flavours and fresh ingredients. Come for the bao buns and Mr. Chan’s family fried rice, stay for the cocktails and 'Tiramiso'—a fan favourite!
Kekuli Cafe
Founded by chef and Nooaitch First Nation member Sharon Bond-Hogg, Kekuli Cafe is a local coffee chain that celebrates its heritage. The low-key, community-focused atmosphere is completed by the sweet and savoury bannock the cafe is known for. Be sure to give their bannock brekkie sandwiches a try for a delicious start to your day.
Wildling
A new member of the Kelowna culinary scene, Wildling is a quaint wine bar with seasonal sips and bites. Head over to their Apero Hour for a tasty drink and a homemade snack on the house.
Sprout Bread
Sprout Bread is Kelowna’s ultimate artisan bakery. This family-owned-and-operated shop is centered around delicious sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, coffee. We're still dreaming of their loaded avocado toast on some of the bounciest, crustiest sourdough we've ever tried.
What to do
CedarCreek Estate Winery
Kelowna is home to countless incredible wineries, but we’re partial to CedarCreek’s incredible property and wines. The contemporary estate overlooks the lake, and is home to a stunning restaurant using local ingredients, bees, Scottish Highland Cows, and of course, rows of vines.
Explore local trails
Get outside—you are in B.C. after all! Kelowna is home to dozens of hiking and cycling trails. Head to the Apex Trail at Knox Mountain for panoramic views of the city and lake, bike along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, or visit Goats Peak for natural beauty minutes from downtown.
Paynter's fruit market
Paynter’s Fruit Market is a family-run business that’s been passed down through generations. Visit the farmstand for fresh produce and local goods. Head to the orchards to pick fresh apples, pumpkins, and wildflowers.
Luckhurst distillery & farm
Luckhurst isn’t just a simple distillery—the family-run company produces gin, vodka, limoncello, and whiskey using homegrown grain. Visit the property for a tasty cocktail or stop by the farm to say hello to their animals.
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