Kelowna: My surprising adventure that will surprise you.
If Kelowna wasn’t on your radar before, I’ve got some reasons why it should be! Yes, Kelowna: My surprising adventure that will surprise you. Wintertimes are quieter, and that’s just how I like it! It’s the perfect season for hiking with a light jacket, fat biking with friends, or strolling alongside the boardwalk—some of my favourite activities in Kelowna. (⬅️ link to Instagram video)
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Having recently landed in Kelowna, BC, I can’t believe the picturesque scenery it offers. Mountains and lakes surround you, providing breathtaking views from every angle. This trip promises to be a fantastic vacation.
Hotel Eldorado: A Winter Retreat
Let’s dive right in. Here’s a glimpse of Hotel Eldorado, showcasing views from the rooftop, boardwalk, and my room. Waking up each morning to a snow-covered mountaintop and witnessing boats in their lifts along the piers creates a unique and enchanting experience.
Hotel Eldorado boasts a fantastic long boardwalk perfect for summer patio space, a restaurant, a spa, an indoor heated pool, and a summer outdoor pool. The Sunday brunch in the main lobby is a culinary delight, featuring dishes like avocado toast, eggs benedict, omelettes, yogurt, and granola, all accompanied by a beautiful view of Okanagan Lake.
Start Your Day with a Scenic Hike at Johns Family Nature Conservancy Regional Park
Begin your morning with a brisk hike to a snow-covered peak at Johns Family Nature Conservancy Regional Park. This vantage point offers breathtaking views of Kelowna, including the city, lake, and local hotspot Crags, famous for bouldering and climbing.
The park is home to some wildlife; as a result, you may come across deer, spot various birds, and enjoy exhilarating vistas. Furthermore, the hike takes about 45 minutes; however, there are trail extensions with longer walking distances for those seeking more adventure.
So, prepare for a refreshing and invigorating experience in the heart of nature.
Explore Mission Hill Winery: A Must for Canadian Wine Lovers!
Do you enjoy Canadian wine? You should incorporate Mission Hill Winery tasting tours into your plans; an introductory tour costs less than $40. Furthermore, the architectural details and decor alone make it worthwhile. Don’t worry if you need more time for the tour but still want to experience the winery!
The open gift shop offers most of its wines, glassware, and gifts to remind you of Mission Hill Estate. You can quickly stroll to the ground area and explore the grape plantation, where deer often roam. It’s a win-win!
Exploring Kelowna’s Lakeside Paradise: The Okanagan Lake Boardwalk
Discover the beauty of Kelowna along the Okanagan Lake on a two km-long boardwalk. Not only is it leash-dog friendly, but it also offers the most fantastic views of the surrounding area. The boardwalk provides easy access to marinas, playgrounds, and beaches, making it a versatile and enjoyable destination.
As you stroll along, you’ll come across the Kelowna Visitor Centre. This team is a wealth of knowledge, ready to provide all the necessary answers about the area. Additionally, they can assist you with information on booking various experiences, ensuring your visit to Kelowna is filled with memorable adventures.
Savoring Delights at Grizzli Winery: A Kelowna Gem
Embark on another fantastic winery tour at Grizzli Winery, conveniently located at 2550 Boucherie Rd, Kelowna, just a few minutes from the downtown core. Grizzli Winery’s main attraction is its delicious ice wines, adding a unique touch to your tasting experience.
The winery also hosts indoor markets featuring local artisans. It’s a delightful place to spend the day, with cozy fireplaces for sipping hot chocolate while your spouse explores the shopping opportunities.
If the weather is pleasant, take a stroll around the grounds. The view is nothing short of impressive. What more could you ask for in a winery experience? Grizzli Winery promises exquisite wines and a charming ambiance that invites you to make the most of your time there.
Other Culinary Adventures in Kelowna
While we couldn’t explore as many tours as we had hoped, day 2 treated us to an exceptional food tour in Kelowna. Delving into the city’s culinary scene proved rewarding, covering everything from Craft 42 Roaster coffee shop and Kelchilango’s Mexican to In and Out Arabic Cuisine, cuisine and a delightful dessert hotspot. Each restaurant we visited had something unique to offer.
A Culinary Gem: Kekuli Cafe’s Indigenous Delights
Among the standout experiences was Kekuli Cafe, an Indigenous business with four thriving locations. The bannock donut style, a true crowd-pleaser, paired well with hot chocolate or freshly roasted coffee, enhancing the delightful experience.
Ever curious about the origin of the name “Kekuli”? As shared by Sharon, the founder (as per their website), she stumbled upon the word “Kekuli,” signifying “house,” which was the dwelling of the Thompson Indians centuries ago. Inspired by this discovery, Kekuli Cafe came into being that very day, officially registered and ready to share its cultural and culinary treasures.
Indulge in Unique Dining at Oak And Cru’s Evening in a Dome
Suppose you’re craving a truly distinctive experience. Oak + Cru beckons with their enchanting evening in a dome!
The service surpassed my expectations, and the culinary journey exceeded all imagination. The evening unfolds as a 4-course extravaganza, all priced under $100.00 per person—a worthwhile investment for the quality of the experience. The overall ambiance was superb—delectable cocktails, the company of friends, and being pampered in this unique setting made for a fantastic evening.
As a delightful finishing touch, you can extend your time with smores over a firepit, relishing the fresh outdoor air and a breathtaking view outside the Delta Grand Hotel.
Morning Exploration: Knox Mountain Hike and Spectacular Views
Embark on another beautiful morning with a hike to the halfway mark of Knox Mountain. For the avid hiker, venturing to the next lookout promises a 360-degree panoramic view of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, offering breathtaking moments to savour.
The trail is enjoyable for humans and dog-friendly, welcoming our canine companions on a leash. Surprisingly, we even encountered a feline adventurer descending with its family, proving that this trail accommodates our four-legged friends, whether they bark or meow.
Kelowna Winter Wonderland: A Family-Friendly Adventure
Kelowna: A Surprising Adventure: is a haven for winter activities catering to the whole family in the heart of British Columbia. Having immersed myself in the local offerings over three days, I am excited to share the crème de la crème of activities, culinary delights, and a captivating visual narrative on social media and here.
Now, the baton passes to you! It’s time to book your flight to Kelowna and experience the magic firsthand.
Thank you for the fantastic experience! Kelowna awaits you in this winter wonderland. 🙂
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment!
Roland 🙂
