The Thompson Okanagan region is the Napa Valley of British Columbia. There are dozens of wineries between Kelowna on Okanagan Lake, and Osoyoos near the US border. The area has become a destination for both wine connoisseurs and initiates – both of whom are welcome at local South Okanagan BC Bed and Breakfasts.
Okanagan Lake and Vineyards.
Wine tasting can be the main reason one travels to the Thompson Okanagan, or it can be a nice addition to business travel or a vacation. With so many wineries in and around Kelowna, it’s easy to fit in at least one wine tasting no matter why you’re there. Oenophiles will find wine tasting tours to be abundant: there are self-guided tours, bicycle winery tours, and tours that include transportation.
Summer in the Okanagan is resplendent, and wine festivals are abundant. With so much great wine and such a beautiful setting, it stands to reason that people look for reasons to enjoy wine in scenic spots. In Kelowna alone, there are several events in July worth attending:
- Pop Goes the Cork Saturday: July 9, 2011. A summer evening of wine tasting (over 30 Okanagan wineries participating), Canadian cheese, and live music at the Arts Common in Kelowna. Call 250.717.5304 for tickets.
- Bartenders Mixology Competition at the Kelowna Art Gallery: July 15, 2011. A good glass of wine stands alone, but it can also be fun to use Okanagan wine in tasty, original cocktails. Guests will sample the wines and the cocktails. Call 250.717.5304 for tickets.
- Discover the Westside Wine Trail: Visit 9 great wineries any time during the Summer Wine Festival, stamp your “passport” at each one, and you may win a prize. More information available at the West Kelowna Visitor Centre.
When all you want to do is stretch the legs and enjoy a glass of wine in a pleasant setting, take advantage of the fact that several Kelowna, British Columbia Bed and Breakfasts are located within walking distance to one or more Okanagan wineries. Stroll to a winery, find a wine that seems right for the evening, and then return to your inn to enjoy it in the gardens or on the deck. Now that’s a perfect Thompson Okanagan BC vacation.
