Kelowna Adventure Guide: Top Things to Do & Must-Try Activities
If Kelowna wasn’t on your radar before, I’ve got some reasons why it should be!
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Winter in Kelowna is peaceful, and that’s exactly how I like it! It’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures—hiking in a light jacket, fat biking with friends, or taking a stroll along the scenic boardwalk. These are just a few of my favourite ways to experience this incredible destination.
When I landed in Kelowna, BC, I was captivated by its breathtaking scenery. With majestic mountains and serene lakes surrounding you at every turn, the views are unforgettable, making this trip one for the books.
Hotel Eldorado: A Winter Retreat
Let’s dive right in! Here’s a glimpse of my stay at Hotel Eldorado, featuring stunning views from the rooftop, boardwalk, and my cozy room. As I wake up each morning, I’m greeted by a breathtaking sight—a snow-covered mountaintop and boats resting in their lifts along the piers. This combination creates a unique and enchanting winter scene, making every moment feel magical.
Hotel Eldorado boasts a fantastic long boardwalk, perfect for summer patio lounging. The hotel also features an elegant restaurant, a relaxing spa, and an indoor heated pool for winter and an outdoor pool for the warmer months. One of the highlights? The Sunday brunch in the main lobby—a culinary delight featuring avocado toast, eggs Benedict, omelets, yogurt, and granola, all paired with a breathtaking view of Okanagan Lake.
Stay tuned as I uncover more incredible experiences in Kelowna!
A Day with a Scenic Hike at Johns Family Nature Conservancy Regional Park
Start your morning with a brisk hike to a snow-covered peak at Johns Family Nature Conservancy Regional Park. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Kelowna. On a clear day, you can see the city and the lake stretching before you. Moreover, for those seeking adventure, visit the local hotspot Crags, which is famous for bouldering and climbing. As a result, this makes it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the Trails and Wildlife
For those seeking more adventure, there are trail extensions with longer walking distances. The park is also home to diverse wildlife—you may encounter deer, spot various bird species, and take in exhilarating vistas along the way. The main hike takes about 45 minutes and perfectly balances nature and 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, and 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 features a selection of wines, elegant glassware, and unique gifts that serve as perfect mementos for your visit to Mission Hill Estate. After browsing, you can stroll through the grounds and explore the grape plantation, where deer are often spotted roaming. Moreover, the experience is a win-win, blending fine wine, scenic beauty, and a touch of nature! Additionally, the tranquil surroundings enhance the overall charm of the visit.
Exploring Kelowna’s Lakeside Paradise: The Okanagan Lake Boardwalk
Discover the beauty of Kelowna along the Okanagan Lake on a two-kilometre boardwalk. Not only is it leash-dog friendly, but it also offers 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. Here, the team has a wealth of knowledge and is ready to offer all the necessary answers about the area. Moreover, their expertise will help you make the most of your visit to Kelowna. They can also help you find information for various experiences, ensuring your visit to Kelowna is filled with memorable adventures.
Savoring Delights at Grizzli Winery: A Kelowna Gem
Start your next incredible winery tour at Grizzli Winery, conveniently located at 2550 Boucherie Rd, Kelowna, just minutes from the downtown core. In addition, Grizzli Winery is known for its delicious ice wines, offering a unique and flavorful touch to your tasting experience. As a result, it’s a must-visit destination for wine lovers looking to enjoy something special.
The winery also hosts indoor markets featuring local artisans, making it a delightful place to spend the day. Cozy fireplaces offer the perfect spot to sip hot chocolate and relax. Meanwhile, your spouse can explore the various shopping opportunities.
If the weather is pleasant, take a stroll around the grounds. The impressive view makes it the perfect backdrop for your winery experience. What more could you ask for? Grizzli Winery offers exquisite wines and a charming ambiance that invites you to relax and savour every moment.
Other Culinary Adventures in Kelowna
We couldn’t explore as many tours as we had hoped, however, day two treated us to an exceptional food tour in Kelowna. In fact, we delved into the city’s vibrant culinary scene, which proved to be an enriching experience. Our stops included Craft 42 Roaster, where we enjoyed expertly brewed coffee, and Kelchilango, where we were delighted by authentic Mexican cuisine. Additionally, we also enjoyed In and Out Arabic Cuisine and a delightful dessert hotspot. Ultimately, each restaurant we visited had something unique to offer.
A Culinary Gem: Kekuli Cafe’s Indigenous Delights
Among the standout experiences was Kekuli Cafe, a thriving Indigenous business with four locations. Notably, their signature bannock donut is a true crowd-pleaser, perfectly paired with hot chocolate or freshly roasted coffee, which enhances the delightful experience. Moreover, the cafe’s warm atmosphere adds to the overall charm, making it a must-visit spot.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name “Kekuli”? Sharon, the founder, discovered the word during a web search. It means “house” and refers to the traditional dwellings of the Thompson tribe centuries ago. Inspired by this rich history, she founded Kekuli Cafe that day, officially registering it and preparing to share its cultural and culinary treasures with the world.
Indulge in Unique Dining at Oak And Cru’s Evening in a Dome
If you crave a truly distinctive experience, Oak+ Cru enchanting evening in a dome!
The service surpassed my expectations, and the culinary journey exceeded all imagination. The evening unfolds as a four-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. Enjoy the fresh outdoor air. Take in 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 offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view showcasing Kelowna and Okanagan Lake. These breathtaking vistas create unforgettable moments to savour.
The trail is not only enjoyable for hikers but also dog-friendly, welcoming our canine companions on a leash. To our surprise, we even encountered a feline adventurer making its way down with its family, proving that this trail truly welcomes all explorers!This proves that the trail accommodates our four-legged friends, whether they bark or meow.
Kelowna Winter Wonderland: A Family-Friendly Adventure
Kelowna: A Surprising Winter Adventure
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Kelowna is a haven for winter activities, offering something for the whole family. Over three incredible days, I immersed myself in the best local experiences, from thrilling outdoor adventures to mouthwatering culinary delights. I can’t wait to share the crème de la crème of what this destination has to offer, along with a captivating visual journey on social media.
Now, it’s your turn! Book your flight to Kelowna and experience the magic firsthand.
Thank you for the unforgettable experience—Kelowna awaits you in this breathtaking winter wonderland!
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment! 😊Roland Bast 🙂
