If you’re prepared to begin organizing your springtime getaway, focus on Vernon, British Columbia, a hidden treasure in the Okanagan Valley.
The Trails Capitol of British Columbia, Vernon, is known for its turquoise lakes, ciders, and orchards. You may hike there, scramble up Turtle Mountain, or visit the area’s farms and vineyards.
Vernon is a terrific choice all year round and is only a half-hour drive from the Kelowna airport. It is also a beautiful trip from wherever. Also, you may experience everything the southern interior of British Columbia has to offer while avoiding high-season pricing when the valley awakens.
Here are seven things to do in Vernon to get your Okanagan vacation started if you’re prepared to do so.
1. Explore the Trails Capital of BC by bike and on foot.
You may get your fill of nature while bicycling and trekking the area around Vernon, where there are more than 50 routes to explore. Also, 23 of the trails are classified as accessible.
Choose a route from the city, a lake, a creek, or a forest (or all of the above), and enjoy the valley as it blossoms after ski season.
2. Play while admiring the majestic vistas.
Drive through the fairways and, with the magnificent Okanagan as your backdrop, putt your way to par (hopefully).
Golfers of any skill level can choose from five courses in the area depending on the mood they’re going for: Vernon Golf and Country Club offers a stroll along the willow-lined links, Predator Ridge Resort conducts prestigious international competitions, and The Rise provides accessible greens.
Gather your closest friends (golf pro not required) and head to the clubhouse for dinner, a lesson, and a twilight tee time one spring evening in British Columbia.
3. Drink local cider with your friends.
At Cambium Cider Co., the goal is to produce handmade ciders that are naturally tasty by using apples that are produced on-site.
You’ll get cider produced with healthful ingredients and no chemical flavors, whether you prefer a dry apple, fruit-infused, barrel-aged, or botanical brew.
Eat farm-to-table food from local valley suppliers while you’re sipping. The weekly menu at Cambium Cider Co. features the best seasonal fare.
4. Visit the orchards to purchase the freshest seasonal food.
A short distance from Vernon’s downtown, Davison Orchards offers fresh produce grown locally as well as a variety of adorable farm animals.
Visit this 90-year-old valley institution to see examples of sustainable farming in operation. Enjoy the results of your labor in the on-site bakery and cafe, or bring home freshly picked local veggies.
During a farm trip ($5–$8), you can also pick your own delicacies if the time of year is right.
5. Embrace lake life
With three lakes nearby, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the best lake life.
Several valley villages are connected by Okanagan Lake to Vernon to the north. Choose from a variety of beaches and fishing locations all around this enormous lake, which is over 930 feet deep in some places.
The brilliant blue water of Kalamalka Lake is renowned, and it’s the ideal location for a paddle to discover the secret coves. Swan Lake is a haven for water-loving birds and a haven for all kinds of plants and fauna.
6. Enjoy some music and the sun at a historic lake house.
This is the ideal method to take advantage of the pleasant springtime air.
In spring, reserve an afternoon tea or a tour of the old Mackie Lake House. You can visit during one of their various events or attend one of their well-liked outdoor concerts for even more enjoyment.
The century-old chateau, which is situated next to Kalamalka Lake, is a lovely location for tea, music, and other activities.
7. Spend your beach holiday in a chic mini-suite.
With stuffed micro apartments outfitted with kitchens, in-suite laundry, comfortable living areas, and a beautiful view of the sea, the fully stocked Vita Resort gives the conveniences of home.
These condo-like accommodations on Okanagan Lake are just steps from the shore and provide reasonable weekly and monthly prices in case you choose to spend a season in the valley.
Vernon is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay because it is tucked away in a valley full of outdoor activities and city excursions.
There is something for every traveler in Vernon, whether they just want to relax by the lake and enjoy the sunshine or they want to work up a sweat on one of the many trails.
Visit this spring to discover for yourself why it is referred to as the “365 adventure capital of the Okanagan.”
