Okanagan Shuswap British Columbia 2012/2013 ANNUAL Valley Guide Okanagan Shuswap

KELOWNA WEST KELOWNA VERNON PENTICTON LAKE COUNTRY PEACHLAND SUMMERLAND NARAMATA OLIVER OSOYOOS SHUSWAP

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Tours & Tastings Daily contributing writers Laurie Carter 267 Bernard Ave, Kelowna Karen Slivar 778 484 5174 contributing Laurie Carter 2920 - 28th Ave, Vernon photographers Bruce Kemp 250 549 3120 Chris Mason Stearns Mishell Raedeke okanaganspirits.com Andrea Williams

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4 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com CONTENTS YEARS “Our insider’s guide to enjoying the Okanagan, Shuswap and wine country.”

Wine | Food 6 6 9 Arts | Culture 8 Nature | Eco 9 Hiking | Biking 10 Golf 12 Winter Sports 14 Adventures 16

COMMUNITY ROUNDUP 12 Introduction 17 Kelowna 19 West Kelowna 23 Vernon 24 Lake Country 25 Peachland 25 Penticton 26 8 34 Summerland 27 Naramata 27 Oliver 28 Osoyoos 28 Shuswap 29 Okanagan Types 34 Ironman 44 Okanagan Developers 49

57 RESULTS OF OKANAGAN LIFE’S 18TH ANNUAL READERS’ CHOICE BEST RESTAURANTS AWARDS 57 compiled by Wendy Letwinetz

ON THE COVER: SHY LITTLE LINCOLN AT THE BEACH ON OKANAGAN LAKE

Call 250.861.5399 or [email protected] okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 5 wine | food

GRAY MONK ESTATE WINERY (Laurie Carter)

BOOKWORM'S BACKPACK

OKANAGAN GRAPES (Laurie Carter) THAT'S AMORE GIFTS OF THE OKANAGAN OKANAGAN WINE Ricardo Scebba, 2011 Laurie Carter & Bruce Kemp, 2011 TOUR GUIDE Treasured family recipes featured Stunning coffee table book, a John Schreiner, 2012 on the menu at Ricardo's visual celebration of the multi- Must-have guide to wineries, The Okanagan Valley entered my Mediterranean Kitchen in Kelowna. faceted Okanagan Valley. owners and winemakers. counsciousness around Grade 5 in a social studies class where I learned to associate the name with fruit growing. Living in the visitors to the Okanagan can meet rolling farmland of eastern Canada, I had no idea of the forested the people and see the places for mountain ridges and string of lakes that moderate the climate themselves. Along with the traditional and store water to irrigate the dry but rich glacial and volcanic roadside stands and U-pick operations soil. I simply learned that this was one of the few places in Canada a number of farms have developed and the only region in BC where peaches and apricots will grow extensive visitor-friendly experiences. along with other tree fruits like cherries, plums, apples and Some are specifically geared to pears. Back then nobody was paying much attention to grapes. families with attractions like farm- From the beginning of human habitation, this land themed playgrounds, tractor pulled has been a good provider. The Okanagan People have wagon rides, places for kids to interact harvested its bounty for thousands of years and from with goats, sheep, chickens and other the time of European contact, agriculture in one form or barnyard critters, corn mazes to explore another has drawn settlement. Cattle ranching has largely and activity-centred apple and pumpkin gaven way to fruit growing and the industry continues to festivals. Adults are more interested in evolve as orchards of tall fruit trees morph into neat rows cheese making, lavender harvest, vinegar of dwarf varieties with their branches strung along works and production of syrups, jams, wires for maximum sunlight and easy picking. jellies, ciders and distilled spirits, while These modified orchards look remarkably everybody seems to get buzzed about similar to the acres of new vineyards that signal peeking into a working bee hive. yet another development in the industry. Weekly farmers' markets in In a time of increasing concern over the every community bring producer who, where and how of our food production, and consumer together at stalls filled

WINE TRAILS

KELOWNA, LAKE COUNTRY WEST KELOWNA BOTTLENECK DRIVE NARAMATA BENCH AND NORTH OKANAGAN AND PEACHLAND Summerland AND PENTICTON Many Kelowna wineries enjoy the In West Kelowna wineries mostly Most wineries on this tour route are Plan extra time to tour this compact sunshine on slopes south of the city. cluster around Mount Boucherie. relative newcomers. They're taking area, home to some 30 wineries. Further north, new vineyards are Varietals like Pinot Noir and Riesling advantage of the predominantly Merlot, Bordeaux reds, Pinot Noir joining the long established in Lake do well here and some reds are cool climate conditions and volcanic and Syrah plus a variety of whites Country and even Vernon. Cooler successful as well. One block of soil around Giant's Head Mountain love the long growing season. Red conditions favour white wines. Well- Marechal Foch vines goes back to to make whites like Chardonnay, Rooster, Poplar Grove and Lake know wineries include Calona, Gray the 1960s. Regular tasting stops Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. Popular Breeze feature on many tours. For Monk and Summerhill. Kelowna's in this area include Quail's Gate, stops are Sumac Ridge, Dirty one-stop shopping, drop by the VQA VQA shop offers one-stop tasting. Mission Hill and Mount Boucherie. Laundry and 8th Generation. store in the Penticton Visitor Centre.

6 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com CARMELIS GOAT CHEESE ARTISAN (Laurie Carter) FARM FRESH

Farmers' Markets, Valleywide: Meet the people who produce our food and buy farm fresh. Locations, dates and times at ROADSIDE STAND (Laurie Carter) FARM TO TABLE (Laurie Carter) FERNANDES FRUIT MARKET (Laurie Carter) www.bcfarmersmarket.org Davison Orchards, Vernon: Orchard tours, playground, farm market, with fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meats, cheeses, honey, food service, family festivals. salad dressings, relishes, antipastos, pickles and preserves. www.davisonorchards.ca Interest in food has also been sparked as an indirect result of Planet Bee, Vernon: Demonstration explosive growth in the wine industry that has now planted well over hive, education sessions, bee 100 wineries in the Valley landscape. Sophisticated wine tourists products. www.planetbee.com expect equally sophisticated dining options. A bevy of talented Okanagan Lavender Farm, and award-winning chefs who have gravitated to the Okanagan in Kelowna: Self-guided tours, answer to the call are creating a distinctive wine country cuisine that U-pick, products, events. spotlights fresh, often organic, locally sourced products paired with www.okanaganlavender.com just the right Okanagan vintage. Wineries such as Quail's Gate, Gray Carmelis Goat Cheese Artisan, Monk, Summerhill, Sumac Ridge, Nk'Mip, Hester Creek, Tinhorn Kelowna: Goat farm, tasting room Creek and Burrowing Owl offer visitors excellent on-site dining. and cheese shop plus gelato. The Okanagan also hosts a number of venues with extensive www.carmelisgoatcheese.com cellars that feature labels from this region and beyond available Vinegar Works at Valentine Farm, by the glass for sampling. Not that wine is the only highlight of Summerland: Tasting room and Okanagan eateries. The Valley boasts a wide range of ethnic cuisine shop. www.valentinefarm.com reflecting the diverse heritage of its residents and many restaurants Summerland Sweets, Summerland: are famous for waterfront decks, sunny patios and signature views. Fruit syrups and preserves, For wine lovers and foodies who want the full observation window and shop. immersion experience, the Okanagan offers a range of www.summerlandsweets.com accommodations specifically tailored to enhance the field Covert Farms Organics, Oliver: to table experience. Choices include orchard B&Bs, winery Self-guided tours, U-pick, guest houses, a heritage inn and luxury resorts complete with market, winery, restaurant, spa amenities located in the heart of working vineyards. events. www.covertfarms.ca It's easy to develop a taste for the Okanagan. —LC

CORKSCREW DRIVE GOLDEN MILE BLACK SAGE ROAD OSOYOOS LAKE BENCH Okanagan Falls/Skaha Lake Oliver Oliver Osoyoos This wine route features stops The clay and glacial gravel on the On the east side of the Valley, across At the foot of the Valley, the area along the shores of Skaha Lake and west side of the Valley between from the Golden Mile, vines grow around Osoyoos is known for reds around Okanagan Falls including the Oliver and Osoyoos favour in a deep layer of sand and bask like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, highest elevation vineyards in the white wines like Riesling and in sunshine for considerably longer Syrah and Pinot Noir. You'll also find Valley. Varied growing conditions Gewurztraminer and powerful, fruity each day. These conditions produce Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and produce a broad range of varietals reds. Touring this area is rewarding big reds and flavourful whites. Viognier. Many Okanagan wineries and blends. Well known wineries with 13 wineries closely spaced. Burrowing Owl, Quinta Ferreira and use grapes grown in this area. include See Ya Later Ranch, Blasted Popular choices include Tinhorn Sandhill are among the best known Wineries to visit include Nk'Mip Church and Blue Mountain. Creek, Road 13 and Inniskillin. of the wineries located in the area. Cellars, Moon Curser and LaStella.

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 7 arts | culture

SUMMERLAND MURAL (Laurie Carter) PRIME TICKETS

Okanagan Symphony Orchestra: Season runs from October through May. Concerts perfomed RETAIL ARTS (Laurie Carter) PENTICTON ART GALLERY (Laurie Carter) in Kelowna, Vernon and Penticton. www.okanagansymphony.com Caravan Farm Theatre: Follow the Culture blooms in a fertile landscape and the Okanagan Valley action in an Armstrong farmer's provides inspiration for every facet of the arts. Local creators field. Pro theatre company and performers channel their talents into painting, photography, performs summer and winter. sculpture, crafts, music, dance, theatre, poetry and prose. www.caravanfarmtheatre.com Much of this work is displayed as public art, while a host of Many Hats Theatre Company: Top private and public studios and galleries welcome visitors. quality theatre in Penticton. Five I've chatted with artists who create their works in shows produced annually. studios at Kelowna's Rotary Centre for the Arts, listened www.manyhatstheatre.com to authors read from their latest releases at a bookstore Lake Country Art Walk: Annual in Penticton, learned about firing techniques from a September event features potter near Naramata and talked with the lead artist visual and performing arts by as she painted one of Vernon's heritage murals. Okanagan talent. www.artwalk.ca The Okanagan inspires creativity you can see on stage in Ballet Kelowna: Professional dance community theatre productions throughout the Valley. And company performs thorughout how about a company of professional actors that leads the BC. www.balletkelowna.ca audience around a farmer's field near Armstrong. And speaking Kelowna Actors Studio: Licensed of farmers, hit any of the weekly farmers' markets held in dinner theatre presents six communities up and down the Valley during summer, and you'll Broadway musicals annually. get an eyeful of creativity crafted into the likes of deer skin www.kelownaactorsstudio.com moccasins, wooden bowls, funky jewelry and tie-dyed fabrics. Concert Tours: Top name touring We've got amazing musicians writing and performing artists make stops at Prospera everything from country to classics. I never miss the symphony, Place in Kelowna, the Vernon love hearing our rising young stars at community events and & District Performing Arts cheering on some very cool weekend warriors as they light up Centre and the South Okanagan the stage at cafés and coffee houses. Take your pick. —LC Events Centre in Penticton.

CULTURE TRAIL

KELOWNA PENTICTON VERNON NK'MIP DESERT CULTURAL DISTRICT ART GALLERY HERITAGE MURALS CULTURAL CENTRE Six square blocks in downtown This public gallery near the Penticton Vernon wears its history on its walls The heritage of the Okanagan Kelowna packed with museums, waterfront looks sophisticated but with larger than life depictions of People is masterfully interpreted galleries, performing arts venues, retains an intimate feel. Exhibits the people, events and institutions in this stunning desert centre, trendy shops, eclectic eateries of holdings from the permanent that formed the community of today. created by the Osoyoos Indian and an eye-popping collection of collection and specially mounted Maps are available for self-guided Band near Osoyoos. Multi- public art. Take a break with a shows highlight the talents of tours but it's more interesting to media presentations, wildlife stroll on the boardwalk, lay out a artists from the Okanagan and drop by the old train station and demonstrations, nature trails and picnic in the park or soak up some beyond. The gallery also host a join a conducted tour or rent an a recreated village contribute to sun on the beach. Very uptown. variety of community events. MP3 player and get the full story. a unique cultural experience.

8 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com nature | ecology

LOON FAMILY (Laurie Carter)

BOOKWORM'S BACKPACK

BIRDS OF INTERIOR BC OKANAGAN PLANTS OF SOUTHERN YOUNG DEER (Laurie Carter) WATER LILY (Laurie Carter) AND THE ROCKIES GEOLOGY INTERIOR BC Richard Cannings, 2009 Roed & Greenough, 2004 Parish, Coupe, Lloyd, 1996 Full colour, pocket size field Layperson's guide to Full colour guide to trees, guide with photos of male geological landmarks and wildflowers, shrubs and and female of the species. how they were formed. other plants of the region.

An unusual array of ecosystems ranging At the north end of the Valley, a drive from Vernon to from Canada’s only desert to the Interior Silver Star Mountain Resort highlights many of the same Rainforest coexist in and around the eco characterisitcs, but you'll notice that slightly cooler Okanagan Valley. Elevation, aspect, latitude temperatures and a little more moisture produce more grassland and availability of water are the major instead of sage and antelope brush. Ride the chairlift to the factors determining the characteristics of summit on your own or join a guided nature tour. From the plant and animal life in any given area. top you can see the edge of the Interior Rainforest just to the I've found one easy way to experience east before hiking down through oceans of wildflowers. this remarkable diversity is to take a Many of the Okanagan's fragile ecosystems are under drive from Osoyoos to the summit of serious pressure from agriculture and development. Only Mount Kobau. On the Valley floor, the about nine per cent of the antelope brush habitat remains narrow leafy riparian zones bordering undisturbed and residents like the burrowing owl, spadefoot Okanagan River and Osoyoos Lake toad, tiger salamander and mariposa lily are either threatened immediately give way to the semi-arid or endangered. Fragile grasslands are also in trouble and while antelope brush ecosystem. Gaining conservation efforts are under way, it’s a tough battle. elevation on Hwy 3 west of town, you’ll But there are still loads of ways to enjoy and learn from pass through grasslands, then higher up, this unique environment. Look for interpretive signs on many on the gravel forest service road that climbs trails, settle in a birdwatching blind at Haynes Point or Vaseux the mountain, you'll see the grasslands Lake, watch spawning salmon in creeks and rivers in the fall, give way to zones of ponderosa parkland, join a tour during the Meadowlark Festival in May or take an Engleman spruce and lodgepole pine indepth look at various aspects of the ecology, flora and fauna before emerging on subalpine meadows. at one of our interpretive centres. It's all natural. —LC

ECO ATTRACTIONS

ALLAN BROOKS NATURE MISSION CREEK DESERT CENTRE VASEUX LAKE, Between CENTRE, Vernon GREENWAY, Kelowna Osoyoos Okanagan Falls and Oliver level, easy path moderate climb

Located in former hilltop weather Linear park borders salmon Interepretive centre with 1.5 km Excellent birdwatching area off birdwatching station. Hands-on exhibits spawning creek in midtown Kelowna elevated boardwalk providing Hwy 97 at Vaseux Lake Migratory of North Okanagan ecology, with 17 km of nature trails (one access and protecting the delicate Bird Sanctuary. Boardwalk and prominent wildlife weather and water. Panoramic section flat, one section more antelope brush ecosystem. Self- bird blinds to look for more than views. Naturescape garden and challenging), interpretive signage, guided and guided tours. Indoor 220 species. Also keep an eye out abundant flora grasslands nature trail with environmental education centre, exhibits, native plant garden, for mountain goats and California Marmot City. May–October. xeriscape garden, playground. bird boxes. April–October. bighorn sheep on the cliffs. spawning salmon

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 9 hiking | biking

BACKCOUNTRY HIKE (Laurie Carter)

BOOKWORM'S BACKPACK

DAVIDSON CREEK TRAIL (Laurie Carter) CYCLING THE KETTLE GRANDMA WEARS HIKING TRAILS VALLEY RAILWAY HIKING BOOTS Vernon Outdoors Club, 2009 Dan and Sandra Langford, 2011 Laurie Carter, 2010 Detailed guide to day hikes A kilometre-by-kilometre guide Hiking and biking adventures plus in and around the North to everything along the line. wine, food, history and family fun. Okanagan and Monashees.

The Okanagan is hiking and biking paradise. the other hand — I’ve seen my share Hiking trails range from easy strolls along paved, boarded from the ground and on two wheels. and gravelled walkways to calorie burning climbs. The On one memorable occasion network of paths will take you through grasslands, old forests, mountain biking with a friend in broadleaf woodlands, coniferous woodlands and riparian Okanagan Mountain Park, we came zones. Plant guidebooks help you identify all that you see. upon a bear blocking our path at From spring through autumn a riot of colour flourishes the top of a rise. We stopped and in this seemingly harsh environment. Lupine, arrow-leaf waited for it to see us, obviously he balsamroot and showy phlox make big splashes against the hadn’t heard us huffing and puffing landscape. While prickly pear cacti, shooting stars and mariposa up the hill. When he finally took lilies will have you crawling on your knees to take a closer look. notice he reared up onto his hind If waterfalls make your heart beat faster then you legs, pawed and sniffed the air. I are going to enjoy some time exploring the many creeks. I froze in my tracks with surprise, but recently discovered one little treasure on Mill Creek near my friend remembered to shout and the Kelowna airport. It’s not rip roaring like Shorts Creek clap his hands, whereupon the bear Falls, in Fintry Provincial Park, more like a muted tumble dropped down and took off into the over a half-flight of stairs. Still, it’s just as photogenic. bush — running. That’s my closest If the very idea of hiking in forests and grasslands where encounter, usually I only hear them the bear, coyote and rattlesnake play, makes you nervous, don’t thundering through the brush away be. I’ve been hiking and biking in this Valley for 20 years and from me—yeah, I smell and sound scary. have never heard, let alone seen, a rattlesnake. Spotting a coyote Still not convinced. Then you in the bush is a pleasure not a frightening experience. Bears on might want to consider joining a

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

ENDERBY CLIFFS BX CREEK & FALLS SHORTS CREEK CANYON RIM MYRA CANYON TRESTLES level, easy path Enderby (9km) Vernon (6km) near Fintry (9km) Kelowna (12km one way) 720 metre 265 metre moderate climb elev. gain elev. gain

most difficult A gasper. Trail takes you to the top Cool retreat in summer. Discover Colourful lichens on the sheer Great escape from the city. Walk or climb of the cliffs and continues north an oasis filled with birch and cliffs at the end of this trail are the bike the stretch between Myra and scenic views along the edge to the ultimate cedar trees, devil's club and star attraction. Well-maintained Ruth stations. Cross 18 trestles and prominent summit. In June the top is flush horsetail as you walk along the trail crosses a couple of creeks pass through two tunnels. Discover wildlife with wildflowers. Caution: there are creek. Stairs at top end give you before it follows the canyon rim, a rock oven used by workers to ropes on the steepest sections of the a view of the falls. Two access climbing steadily. Access point: bake bread during the construction abundant flora trail to help you stay on your feet. points: Star and Tillicum roads. Beau Park Road off Westside Road. of the railway (1910-1915).

10 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com MYRA CANYON TRESTLES (Laurie Carter) OUTSIDER TIPS

Bike helmets are mandatory in BC. Share the trail. Cyclists should yield to everyone and hikers yield to horses. CATHEDRAL PROVINCIAL PARK (Laurie Carter) WINE TOURING NEAR OLIVER (Laurie Carter) MYRA CANYON TRESTLES(Mishell Raedeke) Stay on designated trails. Many plants are sensitive to bike, foot and hoof traffic. hiking club like the Vernon Outdoors Club, safety in numbers. Respect private property. Ask The club maintains a list of trails and leads group hikes and for permission and do not bikes. Beware though, if you imagine hiking with a group of trespass when asked not to. retirees will be easy, think again. The Sunday hikes are long Bring plenty of water. Summer and gruelling. Many of its members are twice my age and think temperatures often exceed 30 C. nothing of a nine-kilometre hike with a 700-metre elevation gain. Also bring a hat and sunscreen. Skinny- and fat-tire riders, you're going to think you've died Don't pick wildflowers. and gone to heaven. The Valley’s picturesque roadways offer hours Let nature flourish. of riding. A favourite is Westside Road from Kelowna to Okanagan Give rattlesnakes space. Any Lake Resort, where you can take a break on the patio, order up bite should be regarded as a cold drink and dig into a calorie dense meal before you head life threatening and requires back. And for easy, scenic riding, nothing beats the KVR Trail. immediate hospital treatment. Mountain bikers can test their skills on logging roads Beware of ticks. After finishing and miles of single track. If you like getting together with your outdoor activity, check a group to ride hard, often, then check out the Mountain your clothing and your entire Bikers of the Central Okanagan or the nearest bike shop. body for ticks. If you find a You’ll find Silver Star Mountain Resort, in Vernon, is just tick attached to your skin, use as busy in summer as it is in winter. When the white stuff tweezers to remove it. Grasp its melts and the alpine meadows bloom, the hill is transformed head and mouthparts as close into a hiking and biking mecca. The best part is you don’t have to your skin as possible and pull to catch your breath, just the chair. Beginners can cruise the slowly until the tick is removed. wide paths until they work up to the challenge of tackling sky Bear aware. Bears usually avoid bridges, jumps and stumps (body armour recommended). people. Travel in groups. Make Lace up your boots or mount your bike and take off lots of noise by talking or singing. on a trail to explore the Valley for yourself. —KS

HIGH RIM TRAIL PINCUSHION MOUNTAIN GOLDEN MILE TRAIL TESTALINDEN TRAIL Kelowna (8km) Peachland (5km) Oliver (10km) Osoyoos (5km) 460 metre 245 metre elev. drop elev. gain

All downhill — mostly! Trail wanders Steep climb. Rest stops along the Walk or cycle through grasslands, A loop. Trail circles the summit of through forest, brush and grassland. way give you a chance to catch forests, riparian zones, orchards Mount Kobau through mixed sub- Wildflowers galore. Bring a compass your breath and admire the view. and vineyards. Along the trail alpine forest and open grassland. In and detailed map. Keep eyes open Watch for deer and grouse. Warning: are remains of many abandoned spring the wildflowers put on a show. for old trail markers. Bring two cars: it is easy to loose your footing on mineshafts. Detour to the Stamp Sign marks detour to the abandoned park one at Goudie Road trailhead the gravel going down. Trailhead Mill ruins (over 100 years old). forest lookout and more views. Access: and other at Philpott Road exit. at end of Ponderosa Drive. Trailhead: Tinhorn Creek winery. Mt. Kobau Forest Service Road.

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 11 golf

FAST GREENS (Laurie Carter) PLENTY OF CHALLENGE (Laurie Carter) A WALK IN THE WOODS (Laurie Carter)

Just when you think you've finally managed to tackle in March and mid-November when every challenge the can throw at your drivers, wedges the links are open and there's snow and putters, another course opens up. In little more in the alpine. Decisions, decisions! than a decade, the Valley has evolved from a good place And there's even more variety to work in a round during the family beach vacation when you trek a little to the north to a full-fledged international golf destination. and check out courses in the Shuswap Course designers must think they've died and gone where a whole different array of lake to heaven with the wealth of varied terrain. I personally and mountain views make it tough wish they'd stick to wide flat fairways on the Valley floor, to keep your mind on the game. but it's easy to see why they can't resist the potential for Courses throughout the elevated tee boxes, tumbling water hazards, pine forest Okanagan Valley and Shuswap or sagebrush roughs and accuracy-testing approaches regions provide a wide range of dog legging around rocky outcrops and canyon walls. amenities to complement your golf Fabled names among course designers like Nicklaus, experience. Highly qualified pros Furber, Cooke, Trent Jones and Norman are linked with (including a former LPGA player), our links and they've tested the best in the sport. I can offer private and group instruction. still feel the thrill of seeing Garcia, Couples, Mickelson Whether you're picking up a club for and Weir tee up for the first of two PGA Skins Games the first time, trying to correct that hosted by one of the Okanagan's premier venues. nasty slice or honing your short-game, Options for play are as varied as the landscape there's nothing like a lesson from with enough friendly 9-hole layouts and tee placements an expert to ramp up your game. on even the toughest championship courses to give us You'll also find well-stocked pro high-handicappers a chance to save a little face. shops, excellent practice facilities The Okanagan's hot, dry summers and relatively mild and food service options from overall climate make for a long season. Locals face tough choices snack shacks to fine dining. —LC

SIGNATURE VIEW HOLES

THE GOLF CLUB AT THE HARVEST GOLF OKANAGAN GOLF CLUB THE CLUB AT TOWER THE RISE, Vernon CLUB, Kelowna BEAR COURSE, Kelowna RANCH, Kelowna HOLE #17 HOLE #2 HOLE #3 HOLE #17 The best view on this course is Be careful not to hold up play Take in the sweeping view of You'll need to swing like you mean a tough call, but we're picking while you ogle this wide-angle the Okanagan Valley from the it on this hole at nearly 600 yards the 17th. When you tee up for view of Kelowna, Okanagan Lake extremely elevated tee on this from the championship tee. Stay this beauty, it feels like you're and the mountains. It's even more 453-yard, par 4 hole, then get close to the hillside and get some driving at the biggest water amazing with the orchard trees in ready to concentrate. Driving help from a good roll. When you hazard in the Valley, Okanagan fall colours. Now pay attention. accuracy is a must to negotiate get to the green, try to ignore Lake, 400 metres below. Fred If you're shooting from the black the heavily tree-lined fairway the view from 500 feet above Couples took full advantage of tees it's 579-yards to a par 5. leading to a small sloping green. Kelowna International Airport. the terrain on this design.

12 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com

Luxury TOWNHOMES At the Top of Dilworth Mountain SCENIC HOLES(Laurie Carter) TOP RATINGS NEW SHOWHOME NOW OPEN Predator Ridge Golf Course, 588 Harrogate Lane noon-5pm daily (except Fridays) 250.861.8989 Vernon — 7,144 yd, 18 hole, par 71, Les Furber design: Two PGA Skins Games, ranked among Score Golf's top 25 courses in Canada and a 4+ star rating Harrogate from Golf Digest. New 18-hole Fairmont Glenmore Valley Selkirk Ridge Course (Doug Carrick design) opened August 2010.

Fairview Mountain Golf Club, Summit Selkirk Oliver — 7,030 yd, 18 hole, par 72, Starting at Les Furber design: Consistently Lillooet

Dilworth Dr + HST rates as a Golf Digest 4 star course. Score Golf has placed $474,900 it in the Top 100 golf facilities and the BCPGA has twice named it facility of the year. Your Home...Your Way Gallagher's Canyon Golf & Country Club, Kelowna — 6,802 yd, 18 hole, par 72, Bill Robinson design, plus 9-hole executive course: Ranked among the top 50 courses in Canada by Score Golf and a Golf Digest 4 star course. Sunset Ranch Golf & Country Club, Kelowna — 6,500 yd, 18 hole, Kelowna BC par 72, J. Bruce Carr design: Voted Top 3 New Canadian Courses A Golf Digest 4 star course. Harvest Golf Club, Kelowna — 7,109 yd, 18 hole, par 72, Graham Cooke design: A Golf Digest 4 star course.

SONORA DUNES, NK'MIP RESORT, Osoyoos HOLE #8 The view from this tee is awesome and awful. Look to the side New owners. Better rates. beyond the 7th green and see a panorama of desert, vineyards, Same championship golf course. lake and mountain. Look straight ahead and start figuring out how to hop the pond to land Rates starting from $69 including cart* your shot on the par 3 green. 250-491-8211 *Booking restrictions apply www.golftowerranch.com OUTSTANDING CONDITIONS! okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 13 winter sports

FUN FOR KIDS AT BIG WHITE (Laurie Carter) WINTER SLEIGH RIDE (Laurie Carter) TELEMARK CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CLUB (Laurie Carter)

I’ve met people who retired and moved here from the prairies With 115 marked trails and 760 metres not because of our summer reputation but for our skiing. of vertical, this is a super choice. Okanagan mountains are legendary for deep champagne Apex is where diehards go for an powder and snow ghosts (trees encased in the white stuff). extreme challenge. Not surprising, The region offers up three major league ski-in, given that Apex is now recognized as a ski-out resorts in the three major centres: Big White national training centre for both aerials Ski Resort in Kelowna, Silver Star Mountain Resort in and moguls. Yet this is also a family- Vernon and Apex Mountain Resort in Penticton. oriented resort with runs for all levels. Big White boasts an average of 750 cm of snow annually and In addition, the Okanagan hosts is rated as having the best powder in North America by Condé two small-scale family operations: Nast Traveller. Expert skiers and boarders find Crystal Mountain Resort in West numerous challenging black-diamond runs off Kelowna and Mount Baldy in the south. the Gem Lake Express, but Big White is also All the resorts offer a range of recognized by Ski Canada magazine as having lodging from luxurious self-contained the best family skiing. Open glades and mixed vacation homes with hot tubs to terrain allow groups of sliders and riders of cozy condos and hotels. Dining, different levels to stay together. And après-ski shopping and entertainment ensure activities are clearly geared toward parents and your days and nights off the slopes kids. In total, Big White offers 118 runs and 16 lifts. are just as perfect. Your kids can Silver Star with its jelly bean coloured Victorian test their skills on the double-black faux-mining village is my personal favourite because diamonds while you play on the easier it has some of the best long, gentle runs in the Valley. stuff and afterword you can meet There's lots of snow with 700 cm a year and Ski Canada has up with the gang for a sleigh ride. repeatedly awarded it "best powder" honours as The season generally runs mid- well as citing it for having the best weather. November through April. —KS

ADDED ATTRACTIONS

TERRAIN PARKS CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING SNOWSHOEING TUBING For riders and skiers, Big White, Gliders, take your pick. The Snowshoes have come of age. Can you spell fun — tubing. I don’t Silver Star and Apex offer the Okanagan has four Nordic clubs: High performance lightweight gear know about you but for me tubing ultimate experience. From beginners Sovereign Lake (Vernon), Kelowna with easy to use bindings make brings back fond memories of to world-class champions, the Nordic (Kelowna), Telemark learning the sport a breeze. A little childhood sliding down the molehill terrain parks and rail gardens lay on (West Kelowna) and Nickel Plate tip, breaking trail is more work in the neighbourhood. At the local an assortment of tabletops, step up (Penticton), which boasts 65 than following. Ski resorts offer ski resorts tubing is bigger and jumps and spines. For a good mix of kilometres of groomed trails for guided adventures. Discover the better. Tube lifts let you make metal to grind, you'll also find minis, both classic and skate skiing. natural wonders of winter following run after run without having to flats, rainbows, kinks, wide rails and Beginners will enjoy the gentle wildlife tracks and historic trails. hike back to the top of the hill, or boxes to satisfy your park cravings. terrain (skin tight attire optional). Don’t forget to bring your camera. ever having to carry your tube.

14 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com LIVE DIFFERENT

TUBE TRAIN (Laurie Carter) BACKSEAT TIPS

Snow tires or carry chains. Travelling on our snow-covered roads you will need a good set of snow tires or chains for your vehicle. All sea- OF VIEW  son tires — better known as spring, OUR POINT KELOWNA FROM summer and fall tires — are not designed for snow-covered roads. Be kind to snowplow drivers. They’re COME VISIT OUR DISCOVERY CENTRE up when you’re asleep, work The Village of Kettle Valley — a thoughtfully planned, in conditions you avoid driving award-winning community unlike any other. Here are in, all in order to clear the path stunning streetscapes, beautiful parks, extensive nature for you. Give them plenty of trails, breathtaking lake and city viewscapes, a charming Village Centre and state-of-the-art elementary school. space. Keep your beams low. Be Come see for yourself how life is different up here! patient, the driver will allow you

room to pass when it is safe. Kettle Valley Discovery Centre 447 Lakepointe Drive Emergency equipment. In winter driv- 250.764.2199 [email protected] kettlevalley.com ers should carry emergency equip- ment in their vehicle in the event they get stuck. Important items include warm clothing, blanket, shovel, sand, ice scraper, first aid kit, flashlight, candle and matches. Bus service from town. Don’t want Take time... to drive — a shuttle runs from “One of the 25 Best New Trips town to Big White Ski Resort in the world for 2010” with pickups in West Kelowna, National Geographic Adventure Magazine Kelowna and Lake Country. For schedule visit www.bigwhite.com. Slow down. Four-wheel drive vehicles have no more traction on ice than any other type of vehicle.

Fall colours SKATING In a country where the national sport is hockey, you’ve got to know that we’re going to have some awesome open-air rinks. Apex maintains both a regulation-size hockey rink and a one-kilometre lit skating loop. At Silver Star, there’s space for both Pedi-cab Historical K.V.R. Snowbiking Snowshoeing hockey and free skating on Brewers Pond and Big White’s got the same BOOK YOUR RESERVATION. CALL NOW! kind of dual rink in Happy Valley. WINTER TOURS CYCLE TOURS CYCLE RENTALS CYCLE TRANSPORT 250-76CYCLE (2-9253) WE CUSTOMIZE FOR GROUPS WWW.76CYCLE.COM

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 15 adventure

WAKEBOARDING ON OSOYOOS LAKE (Laurie Carter)

BOOKWORM'S BACKPACK

PARAGLIDING NEAR LUMBY (Laurie Carter) SKAHA ROCKCLIMBS KELOWNA ROCK CLIMBING DIVING BRITISH COLUMBIA Howard Richardson, 2003 AND BOULDERING LAKES AND RIVERS Written by one of the most Jani Vaaranpaa, 2008 William M. Hall, 2008 experienced climbers Guide to climbing routes All you need to know of the Bluffs. Available and boulder fields. Buy about local dive sites. at local bookstores. at local bookstores. Available at dive shops.

Want to push the envelope — looking for that next big If your interest in water runs a rush— check out our adventure sports. Even if you're not little deeper, Okanagan Lake presents an adrenaline junkie, we've got some options for putting some interesting scuba diving the thrill factor in your day. Scale a vertical rock face, possibilities. Don't expect swarms explore the depts of a lake, ride a kite across the wavetops of neon-coloured fish swimming or, my personal favourite, jump off a mountain. through crystal waters, but there are Hang gliders and paragliders from around the world some interesting wreck sites, rock know the North Okanagan for its excellent launch formations and man-made attractions. and landing sites and reliable wind conditions. It's Adventure seekers who prefer not by chance that the British Army has used to keep at least a finger and toe-hold this area as a training ground or that top level on terra firm strap on the chalk bag, competitions are regularly hosted near Lumby. harness up and make like Spider Man I took the leap on a tandem flight. Strapped on challenging boulder fields and at to the wing with a veteran pilot, I felt the pure internationally known Skaha Bluffs. exhilaration of aerodynamic lift, silently following According to the rock climbers I know, the eagles and floating on the updrafts. Addictive. this sport combines the heart-stopping For a different flying pulse-pumper, wait for the wind to swoop horror of narrowly avoiding a big fall down the mountainsides and sweep across Skaha Lake, strap on with the elation of reaching the top of the a board and turn yourself into a human kite tail. Kiteboarders climb. Since getting there is half the fun, love the predictably blustry conditions in late autumn when they Skaha is an ideal venue with hundreds can build up maximum speed for maximum airtime. Even if of cliff faces and climbing routes for you're not into aerial acrobatics, this is a great spectator sport. beginners to advanced. Go for it. —LC

ADVENTURE SITES

PARAGLIDE CANADA ELLISON PROVINCIAL PARK SKAHA BLUFFS THE BOULDERFIELDS Vernon Vernon Penticton Kelowna A tandem flight is an inexpensive Western Canada's first freshwater More than 650 routes on cliffs ranging Located off Gillard Forest Service way to get a thrill and see if you'd snorkel and scuba park. A dive up to 80 metres. Most routes are in Road in the Mission district, like to pursue this sport. Paraglide dome, tugboat wreck and other the 5.8 to 5.12 range of difficulty. this mix of big walls and giant Canada owner/operator Glenn submerged items lie in no more Known as a great destination for sport boulders provides some 32 Derouin is a fully rated senior than 20 metres of water. Accessible climbers, with plenty of bolted routes, developed walls with more than paragliding instructor with the both from the beach and by boat. the terrain is ideal for beginners 140 developed climbs along with Hang Gliding and Paragliding The park also includes granite and intermediate level climbers. But plenty of challenges that don't Association of Canada. Introductory cliffs ideal for beginning level rock traditional climbers will find lots show a sign of anybody else's chalk. and certification lessons available. climbers and some hiking trails. of opportunity to test their skills. Tough terrain, great scenery.

16 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com By Laurie Carter Community roundup

Okanagan communities fall into three loosely defined City buzz and geographic regions. The Central Okanagan has emerged as the commercial and transportation hub. Kelowna country calm has a sophisticated urban appeal while Peachland, Lake Country and West Kelowna retain more of a small-town feel. Extending into the rolling farmlands beyond Vernon at the head of Okanagan Lake, the North Okanagan is different from its southern neighbours. Life reflects the region’s cattle ranching and agricultural foundations. The South Okanagan is unique in Canada with rare eosystems and a relaxed lifestyle. Communities include Summerland, Naramata, Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos. Beyond the Valley to the north, the Shuswap region blends agriculture, homegrown arts and a zest for outdoor recreation.

PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 17 This incredible estate is currently available for Private Viewing Experiences and a Buy It Now price is posted online for those looking to snatch it up before the upcoming auction. For more information please visit www.thegaragesale.co/blockbuster23

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18 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Kelowna

High-power, high-tech, high- the Cultural District are museums, art galleries, unique rise … Kelowna is all grown up with a restaurants, the ornamental Kasugai Gardens and population over 121,000 and the urban intriguing sculptures on permanent display. Further amenities you’d expect in a community afield, early European settlement is remembered at the this size. If you want to be in the thick Father Pandosy Mission and Guisachan House. of the action, this is the place. As the The city’s fast developing culinary culture has regional shopping hub, Kelowna offers attracted a cohort of top chefs whose restaurants malls, big box stores, quaint shops, are dedicated to preparing locally sourced funky boutiques, many clustered foods and spotlighting Valley vintages. around downtown Bernard Avenue and Downtown, wine lovers head for The Rotten Grape and Pandosy Village in the Mission district, nibble tapas with a boggling selection of wines by the glass. and a lively farmers’ market. An array Stop by the Bohemian Cafe & Catering Co. It’s popular with of hi-tech companies has chosen to everybody from artists to lawyers and hosts a great Sunday locate in Kelowna while opportunities brunch. Bouchons Bistro presents a wine list rated by Wine for higher education include UBC Spectator as one of the most outstanding in the world to Okanagan and Okanagan College. complement regional French cuisine. Select the daily chef’s Kelowna hosts many events table or dine à la carte. At RauDZ the look is sleek and a and activities focused in its vibrant little flip. The menu celebrates local bounty and offers some downtown Cultural District. Notable surprises and you’ll still find chef Rod Butters signature venues include the Rotary Centre for dishes. Stop by the Yellow House Restaurant for lunch or the Arts, a multi-purpose facility for dinner in a 1906 heritage home. If your taste runs more to the artistic and cultural experiences; exotic, sample authentic East Indian at Dawett Fine Indian the Kelowna Community Theatre, Cuisine, Japanese at Ginza and Momo or Thai at Bai Tong. which hosts the Okanagan Symphony In the Pandosy/Lakeshore Road area, Hector’s Casa Orchestra, concerts and the performing serves Mexican. Celebrity chef Ned Bell presides over the arts; and Prospera Place, 6,000- open kitchen at city chic Cabana Bar and Grille. Try a hand seat home of the Kelowna Rockets mulled Mangohito in the lounge. Wine Spectator magazine hockey team and site of performances gave an award of excellence to the Hotel Eldorado and by major touring entertainers. locals say it has the best patio in the city. Check out the Also scattered throughout appies and lively music scene at the Minstrel Café & Bar.

PHOTOS BY LAURIE CARTER, BEACH SCULPTURE BY MISHELL RAEDEKE okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 19 Community of the Year!

For excellent noshing with your shopping, stop by the Kelowna Farmers’ A unique community within and Crafters’ Market Saturday morn- walking distance to downtown. ings. For a comprehensive list of the • Over 30 housing awards Valley’s Best Restaurants, as selected by the readers of Okanagan Life magazine, • Quality craftsmanship log in to www.okanaganlife.com. • Outstanding custom designs Wine lovers find plenty of scope • Heritage style homes for touring and tasting. Drop by the visitors centre or download a copy of • Private creekside park with the Kelowna Wine Trails brochure ponds, paths and bridges! for maps and listings of the area’s five distinct wine trails. Start with the roots You owe yourself a visit! of the Okanagan wine industry on the Downtown Heritage Trail with a visit to Calona Vineyards Winery, established in 1932 as BC’s first commercial winery. Head north for a drive in the coun- try through Lake Country’s Scenic Sip wine route. More spectacular views and excellent wine tasting will attract your attention on the Lakeshore Wine Route, while the wineries of the East Kelowna Wine Trail display a distinctly artistic flair. Finally, cross the lake and taste the difference volcanic soil produces at wineries on the Westside Wine Trail. Show Homes Open Daily The largest city in the Okanagan noon - 5pm also offers plenty of great outdoor escapes. One of the beauties of Kelowna 1358 Glenview Avenue, Kelowna, BC is the ability to go from a busy city street corner to a mountaintop experience in a matter of minutes. 250.763.7209 www.bridgesliving.com PHOTOS BY MISHELL RAEDEKE 20 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com One such spot is Knox Mountain Park, located at the north end of Ellis Avenue on the shores of Okanagan Lake. Covering 580 acres of environmentally sensitive ponderosa pine forest and grassland, its well-maintained trails attract hikers, joggers and mountain bike riders. Two parking lots offer easy access to the trails. You can also enter the park through C   points in the Magic Estates subdivision FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! or by boat at the cove below the historic site of Paul’s Tomb, built by early pioneer Rambler Paul in 1910. This area is also home to an underwater dive park, where a seven-metre model of Ogopogo lies submerged. The Mission Creek Greenway is a popular walk/bike linear park in the heart of the city with a wide, flat and mostly shady seven-kilometre trail accessible to all and a nine-kilometre tougher climb through canyons and over bridges as you ascend into the hills. Kelowna’s downtown waterfront area offers a more level stroll. Parking is plentiful near Prospera Place, putting you right at the entrance to Waterfront Park, an amazing collection of lagoons, F ug’sl  FlowRider Wave Surf Simulator Wave Pool River Run 3 Waterslides

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okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 21 knolls and pathways jutting into and the slopes feel uncrowded Okanagan Lake. Walk north to a even at peak times. Precision rid- walkway through the rehabilitated ers check out the Telus Park. Brandt’s Creek wetlands where you The nearby Nordic Cross-Country can watch the water birds and nesting Ski Club challenges every level of ospreys from the viewing platform. free-heeler with 68 kilometres of Head south past the marina and groomed trails. The club is located you’ll come to City Park with its near the KVR Trail/Trans-Canada children’s water park, playgrounds Trail. The parking area is adjacent and gardens. Many concerts are to the heated main cabin where held in the park each year. you’ll find an overall trail map. Just outside of the city core, the Add all these amenities to the Myra Canyon section of the KVR fantastic scenery and mild climate Trail/Trans Canada Trail is a very and it’s easy to see why many con- popular hiking and biking venue sider Kelowna the central attrac- with its 18 tressles and two tunnels. tion of the Okanagan Valley. A short drive in any direction presents orchards and farm markets Bounty Cellars to explore, mountain trails to Planning an event or opening a hike and bike, and golf courses to restaurant? Looking for a corporate conquer. Swimmers, boaters, water gift, or a unique fundraising or sports enthusiasts and anglers head marketing idea? Mark an occasion or for the sunny beaches of Okanagan build your brand with a quality wine, Lake and for winter fun, three customized with your own label. major ski hills beckon within a Bounty Cellars creates their wines one-hour drive of downtown. by blending grapes purchased from At Big White Ski Resort, the a variety of growers. These wines powder is deep and dry and you’ll are offered for sale under the find the full cold weather experience DO YOU OWN A HIGH QUALITY WATCH? Bounty Cellars label, or supplied WHY RISK DAMAGE BY NOT TAKING IT TO A with downhill and cross-country to customers under their own WATCHMAKER? skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, individualized labels. Customers La Roca Watch & Jewellery specializes in battery snowmobiling and ice skating. can order as few as two cases, replacement and mechanical watch service for all Ride and glide forest glades or arrange for larger, long-term high quality watches (Gucci, TAG, Cartier....) The only place in Kelowna where you can get your and gentle slopes or attack deep volumes. (Bounty Cellars can create battery professionally replaced. powder and moguls. With 118 completely unique wines, too.) Find marked downhill trails and 16 out how it works. Call 1.866.465.9463, lifts—line-ups are reasonable or visit www.bountycellars.com.

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2915 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC • (250) 862 9287 PHOTO BY MISHELL RAEDEKE 22 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com West Kelowna

Vineyards and high-country lakes, the renowned Old Vines Restaurant, and Mission Hill, with housing tracts and burgeoning its iconic 12-storey bell tower, carillon and celebrated commercial space — there seems to be Terrace Restaurant, are joined by newcomers such as room for it all in this fast-changing Kalala, Rollingdale, Little Straw and Beaumont Estate. area. Rich in culture and history, from West Kelowna and the west side of Okanagan Lake provide the Westbank First Nation (WFN) a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can to the early pioneers, today West take their pick from a leisurely stroll along the waterfront Kelowna is home to over 28,000 to a mountain trek. Recommended trails include Rose Valley, people with another 8,000 native and Glen Canyon, McDougall Rim, Kalamoir and the flanks of non-native residents on band land. Mount Boucherie, the remnant of a dormant volcano. At Bear New residential neighbourhoods Creek Provincial Park, the attractions include waterfalls, loop are popping up everywhere — at golf trails, fabulous views and spawning kokanee salmon spotting. courses, on the lakeshore and in the For downhillers, boarders and snowshoers, Crystal Mountain woods. Commercial complexes along Resort is only 15 minutes from town. Nearby, the Telemark Hwy 97 provide big box shopping club offers extensive cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, and places to meet for coffee or also used by mountain bikers and hikers in summer. gather for dinner without crossing Gellatly Nut Farm is a unique heritage park. Over a century the bridge to Kelowna. Meanwhile, old, it was the homestead of one of the area’s earliest pioneer traditional orchards still dot the families. In the fall visitors can buy nuts by the pound or landscape and offer fresh fruit in harvest them from the ground. Nearby, the Gellatly Heritage season at roadside stands. And the Regional Park features historic buildings, an interpretive community hosts the Westside walking trail, family cemetery, picnic area and a very close Wine Trail where long established view of the aftermath of the 2009 Glenrosa wildfire. names like Quail’s Gate, home of Country meets city in West Kelowna.

BUILDING PHOTOS BY MISHELL RAEDEKE; VINEYARD PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 23 Vernon

Strongly connected to its deep historic roots, this city excellent Vernon and District maintains a sense of time and place that anchors a Performing Arts Centre; shows vibrant and growing community. Vernon nestles between by touring performers at the Swan, Kalamalka and Okanagan lakes on Hwy 97 in the Wesbild Centre, a multi-purpose North Okanagan. Incorporated on Dec. 31, 1892, Vernon facility that also hosts the Vernon was settled by gold miners and cattle ranchers during the Vipers hockey team; and shows at 1860s and ’70s. With the benefit of irrigation water from the artist-run Gallery Vertigo. nearby rivers and streams, the area prospered as a major The dining scene encompasses a ranching and orchard centre by the turn of the century. broad range of styles and cuisines The agricultural tradition continues and evolves, with with perky Tex-Mex, traditional popular attractions like Davison Orchards and Planet Bee steakhouse fare and a choice providing a fun way to connect with food production. of Mediterranean eateries. The city of about 38,000 celebrates its past with Vernon also offers outstanding preserved heritage buildings, a comprehensive museum, parks, sandy beaches and extensive the popular O’Keefe Ranch historic site, a collection of hiking trails. The surrounding lakes outdoor murals depicting various aspects of Vernon’s invite all forms of water sports from past and an array of heritage homes in the East Hill area. swimming and wakeboarding to Vernon also embraces the future with destination golf kayaking and scuba diving. Silver courses, lakeview subdivisions and the expansion of the Star Mountain Resort, northeast of Vernon hospital. Big box shopping on the north edge of the city centre, is known for superb town and continuing revitalization of the downtown skiing, boarding and snowshoeing core are further indicators of forward momentum. in winter plus mountain biking Vernon hosts a variety of annual events ranging from the and hiking to wildflower-carpeted Funtastic slo-pitch tournament and Creative Chaos arts and alpine meadows in summer. The crafts show to the family-centred Vernon Winter Carnival. adjacent Sovereign Lake Nordic The city supports an active cultural community with Club adds still more winter trails. concerts by the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra at the Past and future connect in Vernon.

PHOTOS BY LAURIE CARTER 24 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Peachland

Life’s a beach … and with one of the best waterfronts in the Valley, this town has the life. But it was actually a peach that gave developer John Moore Robinson the idea to buy ranchland, develop it into orchards and sell it to easterners. The municipal district was incorporated in 1909. Today it counts more than 5,000 permanent residents and thousands more in the summer. Being sandwiched between Okanagan Lake and the mountains, many homes come with a view — the winery comes with a view — even the golf course (currently under development) has a panorama from its plateau a mile from the lakeshore. Lake Country The Beach Avenue waterfront attracts sun worshippers, swimmers, Bountiful orchards, reflective lakes June to September in Swalwell Park. boaters, picnicers, shoppers and and hikeable hillsides — so much in- There’s no need to travel far for diners who want to watch the show spiration, you may just find your inner the finer things in life. The region from sidewalk tables or patios. artist. Lake Country, a municipality of boasts award-winning wineries History stands still at the eight- just over 11,000 people formed by the such as Gray Monk, Ex Nihilo sided Baptist Church, built in 1910, amalgamation of the formerly indepen- and Arrowleaf Cellars on the Lake that now houses the Peachland dent communities of Carr’s Landing, Country Scenic Sip trail. You’ll Museum, while Hardy Falls, at the Okanagan Centre, Oyama and Winfield, also find notable eateries and a south end of town, is an easy-access, is forging a new identity of its own. flourishing arts community. stroller-friendly park with spawning Orchards and vineyards fill the Lake Country hosts Art Walk kokanee salmon and waterfalls. Valley floor and climb the lower slopes each September. Many artists call the Peachland hosts the annual of the ridges between the area’s three community home and invite visitors World of Wheels classic and antique defining lakes: Okanagan, Wood to their studios. Parks display public car show and the seven-kilometre and Kalamalka. Continuing its long art and the performing arts take Rattlesnake Island Swim. During the agricultural tradition, fresh produce is centre stage at the Creekside Theatre. growing season, buy fresh produce at sold at roadside stands and a farmers’ Golf, hiking, birdwatching and water the Peachland Farmers’ and Crafters’ market that runs Friday evenings from sports round out life in Lake Country. Market on Sundays at Heritage Park.

PHOTOS BY LAURIE CARTER okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 25 Penticton

Tucked between Okanagan and Skaha lakes and framed break from the chains with a stroll by dramatic bluffs and scenic slopes, Penticton is the downtown and among the trendy economic and cultural hub of the South Okanagan. A city shops of Colourful Front Street. This with aboriginal beginnings, it was once a large Okanagan vibrant section of town takes full Nation settlement on the east side of the Okanagan River, advantage of the brick exteriors and called Snpinkten, which translates as “a place to stay distinctive architecture of the city’s forever.” Early European settlement was based on beef early 19th century architecture. Today production, but the cattle ranches eventually gave way to fruit the brightly painted facades, banners, orchards and today Penticton is known as the Peach City. murals, trees and flowers decorate Although mountains on both sides and lakes north and popular cafés and restaurants, galleries, south confine the municipality to a relatively compact bookstores, clothing boutiques and area, Penticton is still a growing concern that maintains its gift shops. Around the corner, the foot small town feel. At some 33,000 residents, this community of Main Street shuts down for the is big enough to provide loads of amenities, but avoids Penticton Farmers’ Market on Saturday the breakneck pace of large metropolitan centres. mornings from May to mid-October. The waterfront on Okanagan Lake is known for its wide Diversity is the key to this sandy beach, walking paths, Ikeda Japanese Garden, public appealing town. With cultural art gallery, casino, varied restaurants and the historic S.S. events and international hockey Sicamous sternwheeler. Skaha Beach is home to muscle and schools, orchards, vineyards and bikini contests, sandcastle building competitions, water parks manufacturing plants, great beaches and playgrounds. Penticton also hosts a diverse array of events and renowned Apex Mountain like the Okanagan Fest-Of-Ale in April, Peach City Beach Resort plus housing options ranging Cruise and Elvis Festival in June, Penticton Peach Festival in from heritage bungalows and view August and the Pentastic Hot Jazz Festival in September while condos to retirement communities ultra-athletes from near and far converge on the city every next to family apartments, Penticton year for the popular Subaru Ironman Canada Triathlon. is a place to come for a visit and Shoppers can tune up their skills at the mall or take a quite possibly stay forever.

26 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Summerland Naramata

This town earns its name with summer- In many ways time stands still time abundance and sleepy ambience. in Naramata and locals like it Known for its orchards and vineyards, that way. More than a century beaches and Tudor style, Summerland’s after the settlement began, this agricultural roots date to the late 1800s. place retains the quiet charisma Fresh fruits and vegetables are as close that earned it certification by May Day and Naramata August as the nearest stand. And the latest evo- the international Cittaslow Faire festivals, and Wharf Park lution of the fruit industry is turning movement (think Slow Food hosts the farmers’ market on this quiet burg into a happening wine on a community level). The summer Wednesday afternoons. region known as the Bottleneck Drive. village first bloomed as a cul - The labyrinth at the Naramata Summerland is home to the Pacific tural centre when lake steamers Centre is perfect for meditation, Agri-Food Research Station where the brought visitors. The opening while the Trans Canada Trail first orchard and ornamental gardens of the Kettle Valley Railway on the abandoned Kettle Valley were planted in 1916. You’re welcome along the ridgeline above the Railway (KVR) provides an to wander through the gardens and village in 1914 forged an even easy route to signature views. museum. Other heritage attractions stronger link. Ironically, the Now that’s the slow life. include the Kettle Valley Steam Railway age of the automobile left Nara - and Trout Creek Trestle Bridge. mata an isolated enclave — and The district claims over 11,000 that’s not a bad thing. residents who enjoy the lake, hiking To get home, village residents trails and golf courses. Summerland (some 1,800 of them) must boasts one of the best beaches in the drive the scenic route among Valley at Sun-Oka (for Sunny Okanagan) orchards and vineyards above Beach Provincial Park. Downtown, chic Okanagan Lake, resisting the restaurants take their place next to art temptation to stop at too many gallery and museum while specialty of the Naramata Bench wineries. boutiques surprise savvy shoppers. The village centre is the Take in all the sights from the quietest in the Valley with just summit of Giant’s Head Mountain, an a few shops and eateries. Stroll extinct volcano with a 360-degree the elm-lined avenues and panorama, a great place to feel explore the Naramata Heritage the spirit of Summerland. Museum. Manitou Park hosts

PHOTOS BY LAURIE CARTER, TRAIN PHOTO BY ANDREA WILLIAMS okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 27 Oliver

Oliver calls itself the Wine Capital of Canada. A significant proportion of Canada’s grape-growing acreage surrounds this town and two of the Okanagan’s best known wine routes, Black Sage Road and the Golden Mile, run south between Oliver and Osoyoos. And there’s plenty of other action for the seriously sports minded. The hot summers and mild winters make this an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The area has two 18-hole golf courses, nearby lakes to drop a fishing line, and kilometres of hiking, biking and walking trails. The multi-use International Bicycling and Hiking Trail runs for 18 kilometres alongside the Okanagan River Channel. Forbes Marsh and nearby Vaseux Lake are great places to bird watch. Located in the arid region known Osoyoos as Canada’s only desert, the area is home to many unique species. Extending “Canada’s warmest wel- a warm weather playground and a Beyond the orchards and vineyards come,” this desert gem boasts the winter nesting spot for snowbirds. look among the sagebrush and cactus warmest lake, about the lowest The main drag of the relaxed for lizards, snakes, bats, toads, deer, rainfall and highest temperatures community of about 5,200 takes coyotes, bighorn sheep and rare in the country. This arid zone is you through the commercial birds like the burrowing owl. part of the huge Sonoran Life Zone, section of town. Cross over to Oliver is a small town with a which stretches all the way to the east side of Osoyoos Lake, population around 4,500, but there’s Mexico. The climate makes Osoyoos the warmest fresh water lake in lots going on. Throughout the year Canada, and you’re in holidayland events includes concerts, holiday where the beaches are lined celebrations, festivals, art shows and with campgrounds and hotels. dances, many hosted at area wineries. Local residents also have close ties with the Osoyoos Indian Band, one of Canada’s most financially independent and business savvy aboriginal communities. The band’s Nk’Mip complex includes a winery and the renowned Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre where you can learn about the Okanagan People and the flora and fauna of the desert. For a different take on the local environment, stroll the boardwalk at the Osoyoos Desert Centre, the wetlands of Haynes Point Provincial Park or the Osoyoos Oxbows. Agriculture is big in this area with many roadside fruit stands and award-winning wineries offering local wine tours and tastings.

PHOTOS BY LAURIE CARTER 28 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Shuswap communities on the north shore. season, Salmon Arm and Sorento Summer in the Shuswap is practically The lakes anchor the family fun with host weekly farmers’ and crafters’ a cliché. Shuswap Lake and its beaches, city piers and vast areas markets, private farm markets are smaller cousins, Mara Lake and of wilderness seclusion. Golfers open daily and Shuswap wineries Little Shuswap provide more than beware, Shuswap courses present welcome visitors for a sip. a thousand kilometres of shoreline an exciting challenge and with all There’s still more action in the with beaches, parks and great that natural beauty, keeping your white months. Hundreds of kilometres communities including Sorrento, eye on the ball can be a real trial. of trails are ideal for snowshoeing Salmon Arm and Sicamous strung Food is a central theme in the and skiing. The Shuswap is also along the Trans-Canada Highway, Shuswap where the agricultural famous for sledding, from groomed and an array of small arts-friendly roots grow deep. Throughout the alpine trails to deep powder bowls.

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okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 29 Challenge! Adventure!

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Enterprising Shuswap

One good way to learn more perfect place to escape from it all and about a region is to take a closer invest in time with your family. Don’t look at some of the businesses miss this opportunity to be part of and events that flourish there. what is the most sought after resort Kid’s tree community in the Shuswap. To find out Hummingbird Beach Resort more call 1.877.707.0097 or visit adventure! Summertime at Mara Lake. Those of us www.hummingbirdbeachresort.ca. lucky enough to vacation with fam- ily recall days filled with unlimited SkyTrek Adventure Park possibilities. Those lucky enough to Why SkyTrek? Because the adventure return each year looked forward to happens in the treetops! Zip lines, rekindling old friendships and forg- scramble nets, suspension bridges and ing new ones, as each summer blended swinging logs offer plenty of action- into another to weave a wonderful packed fun high in the old growth tapestry of summertime memories. cedars. Test your strength, stamina and Today, Hummingbird Beach Resort agility with the high ropes challenge offers a unique opportunity to own courses. Tackle the 12-metre climbing a home on Mara Lake and enjoy a wall, or dare to base-jump or sky swing lifetime of lakeside vacations with in full free-fall at the adventure tower. family and friends. Just minutes from Younger members of the family Sicamous, this low-density cottage can start out with the jungle gym and community provides a quality mix work their way up to the kids’ course. of beachfront townhomes, detached (Less-adventuresome family members cabins and creek-side cottage sites. will also enjoy visiting our “twin” From the white, sandy beach to attraction, the Enchanted Forest.) the crystal clear lake, the natural SkyTrek Adventure Park is just west setting is spectacular and recreational of Revelstoke on the Trans-Canada opportunities abound. Spend the days highway. It’s a great venue for a truly Open from May ‘til October boating, swimming, fishing, hiking or memorable birthday party, and our riding. Or just settle in on the beach corporate retreats offer an exhilarating or your own deck with a cool drink and effective team building experience. and a good book, and enjoy. Come We’re open daily from mid- evening, gather around the barbecue May through early-October. While and then wrap it up at the campfire. reservations are necessary on weekdays The resort offers amenities to suit all during May, June, September and ages, including Mara Lake’s best marina. October, it’s first-come, first-served on A four-season destination, weekends, holidays and through July Contact us 1 866 944 9744 Hummingbird Beach Resort is the and August. Find out more about hours www.skytrekadventurepark.com PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER 30 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com and reservations at www.skytrekadventurepark.com or call 1.866.944.9744.

Twin Anchors Create your own experience on a Twin Anchors Houseboat on Shuswap Lake. Imagine being rocked to sleep by gentle waves, lulled into a relaxing state aboard one of Twin Anchors luxurious CruiseCrafts. Picture the excitement of waking up refreshed just a few steps from being able to jump into the water, sunbathe on the roof, go for an early morning hike or enjoy your morning coffee surrounded by stunning scenery. Six different models of CruiseCraft houseboats are built in Sicamous, BC, to Twin Anchors specifications. Each style is uniquely designed to meet individual preferences and usage requirements. Whether you want to bring your partner and small family, host a family Your next reunion or get together with a group of friends, we have the boat for you. With accommodations for four to 24, you’ll getaway find all the amenities of home and more, helping to make this one of the easiest isn’t far vacations you will ever take. And it’s so accessible right here in the Shuswap. away... Twin Anchors operates two marinas, providing hospitable service right from reservation, through departure to check out at the end of your voyage. Twin Anchors is service and detail oriented. We look forward to making your houseboat vacation an experience to remember. Book online at www.twinanchors.com or call toll free at 1.800.663.4026.

Quaaout Lodge Here’s Breakfast!... With a private beach on Little Shuswap Lake, Quaaout Lodge is the perfect place for your next getaway. Guest rooms range from one bedroom suites and Jacuzzi rooms with fireplaces to Here’s Brunch!... standard rooms, all with a balcony or patio overlooking the lake. You probably won’t want to spend much time in your room, though: there’s too much to do. and We Cater!... Bike, boat, fish, hike or golf a round or two on the 18-hole championship course, Talking Rock. Work out in the fully equipped fitness room or the 524 Bernard Avenue Downtown Kelowna, BC Phone: 250-862-3517 www.bohemiancater.com

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 31 indoor pool. Visit the pro shop and the gift shop, or relax in the Le7Ke (pronounced La-Ka) spa, on the beach or at Jack Sam’s Restaurant & Lounge. While you’re here, spend some time soaking up First Nations Secwepemc culture. Choose from a GET OUT AND LIVE LIFE ON SHUSWAP LAKE! variety of workshops and activities: participate in a talking circle, discover your inner warrior, make bannock over an open fire, or a birch bark book mark, pine needle basket or hand drum. (Activities range in cost and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.) Find out more at www.talkingrock.ca or Good Friends. Legendary Service. Luxurious Houseboats. call 1.800.663.4303. Shuswap Lake Estates Experience one of BC’s legendary adventure vacations - it will be one of the Are you yearning for a relaxed and best vacations you ever have! Small family get-aways, large groups and healthy lifestyle, in a retirement corporate events - we’ve got a boat especially for you! community filled with like- Call today to reserve your houseboat adventure, minded people? Look no further than Shuswap Lake Estates. Just 15 minutes from Salmon Arm, and within a few hours of Calgary, Vancouver and Kelowna, Shuswap Lake Estates offers splendid views of Copper Island, the lake and the surrounding Monashee Mountains—plus a superbly manicured 18-hole golf course. A challenge for both the accomplished and the casual golfer, our professionally designed par-72 championship course offers well bunkered, undulating greens and

1.800.663.4026 twinanchors.com

32 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com generous fairways. Hone your skills on our driving range, two practice greens, and practice sand bunkers. All building sites at Shuswap Lake Estates are fully serviced, with architectural guidelines to safeguard your investment. Sites start at $144,000. And you won’t pay strata fees: all sites are freehold. With the purchase of your site, initiation fees are waived at the golf course, and you also get access to tennis courts, a community centre, sandy beaches and a marina. Visit us in beautiful Blind Bay. Come Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival Blues 20 promises to be the most for a round of golf. Enjoy a game of The Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival spectacular festival to date. A pool, some great food and drinks with is the largest and most musically diverse musical feast with course after friends at the Duffers Den lounge, or festival in the interior of British Columbia. course of amazing performance, settle in at the Log ’N Hearth restaurant It has gained a solid reputation for its top this year’s program is sure to sate for a fine dining experience. You’ll quality presentations and organization. any listener’s appetite. Hungry for soon see why Shuswap Lake Estates We’re celebrating a landmark year in appetizers? Try the pre-festival is the perfect place to live and play. 2012 — the very special 20th anniversary outreach, Routes & Blues, August Find more details on healthy, of the festival — with an incredibly 9– 16, which offers eight glorious active living with great Shuswap diverse line-up that crosses cultural days of Shuswap exploration. golf and outstanding residential boundaries and presents new forms of For tickets and info visit opportunities call 1.888.675.2523 or music while simultaneously embracing www.rootsandblues.ca or check out www.shuswaplakeestates. the festival’s roots (and blues!). Roots & phone 250.833.4096.

FACING PAGE PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER; ROOTS & BLUES PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 33 Ordinary, extraordinary Okanaganites

Pigeon-holing? Not so much my style. But a few months ago, I was people-watching from a downtown Kelowna bench and it struck me that there are some incredible types milling around. The girl with the sandals and the pug? She just might head up the latest game studio. The guy on the bike? Maybe a somme- lier, stay at home dad or Ironman contender. Sure, the Okanagan’s got unique places to explore and activi- ties to try. But even more fascinating about this landscape are the regular folks — the ordinary, extraordinary people you walk by every day. The ones I found are happy to tell you why they’re here, and about the places and spaces they occupy in the Okanagan. We know you’ve got your own favourite places, secrets and struggles. Add your profile by posting a comment on this story at www.OkanaganLife.com. OKANAG N types, tips & secret bits

By Deanna Kent-McDonald

The Tranquility Seeker 20-something single By day, this Toronto transplant with the girls. Clothes shopping habits: Online, creates delightful user experi- Sunday afternoon: hot yoga. consignment downtown. ences online. And on her own time? Picnic place: lots of little Okanagan secret: Last summer I Drop the “online” and this single beaches on Pandosy. drove past Summerhill Winery, and girl’s determined to create a great Websites browser: Fast Company. decided to continue driving uphill, UX for her new life. Despite some Dream: traveling around just to see what’s there. I stopped initial urban withdrawal, she’s the world with friends. my car on the side of a mountain finding that the Okanagan’s got a Saving for: a beautiful pent- hoping to get some photos of the good framework to work with. house loft in Toronto. Valley. To my surprise there’s a Okanagan events you never miss: path that goes all the way down the Friends would say: funny, cre- the One of a Kind show at mountain to a public beach with ative, generous, spontaneous. Summerhill Pyramid Winery. waters so crystal clear that you Talents and hobbies: yoga, medita- Fave summer drink: mojito. could see the colours of the rocks tion, travel, photography, painting. Best free Okanagan entertain- in the water. I was blown away and What you’d say to a friend moving ment: Pecha Kucha Kelowna. inspired to continue exploring. here: It’s got a sense of tranquility Social media: Facebook, Who you are in the context of the you can’t find in a bigger city — an Pinterest, Twitter, LinkedIn. Okanagan: It took time for me to amazing retreat from the busy life Mobile: 24/7 — always on. adjust to living here. I now have time to more simple and abundant. Apps? Etsy, Clear, Evernote. to be more creative and paint dur- Summer activity: wine tast- Worst thing about Okanagan ing the winter, and truly relax in ing and boating with friends. living: lack of winter sun — the summer with friends. Being here Winter activity: cross- hurray for Vitamin D! has allowed me to see, taste and feel country skiing. Neighbourhood: I live mid-town so everything so differently from what Wednesday evening: dinner I can easily commute on my bike. I’m used to and I’m really thankful.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 35 The Adventure Seeker

Ethan is a big Seven-year-old hockey fan, but Sports star, game champ, snow fresh bread and popcorn at the he loves lots of warrior, sun-seeker, loves friends Farmers’ Market, making giant sand- other sports, too. and always finds frolic. For this castles at the beach with auntie. seven-year-old, the places and Best thing in the summer: spaces of the Okanagan are perper- swimming in the lake. fect backdrops for new advenadven- Best thing in the winter: snow- tures. No matter the season, ball fights, tubing at Silver Star, Ethan is ready for more. ski lessons at Big White. Favourite breakfast: with Friends would say: my family in my kitchen. nice, fun kid. Best overall Okanagan If one of your buddies were spot: Rotary Beach. moving here: “Cool! You’ll love it.” Best dinner: BBQ hamburg- Inside adventures: mini- ers at home, East Side Marios. golf, video games, Lego. Best thing about the Okanagan: Sports adventures: road we get snow in the winter and hockey, scootering, biking, hot sun in the summer. golf at Michaelbrook, ziplin- Worst thing about the Okanagan: ing in my friend’s backyard. winter’s always a bit too long. Creature adventures: catching Dream: being a hockey player. grasshoppers, watching salmon Okanagan secret: the cof- spawn in Mission Creek. fee shop in Kettle Valley has Seasonal adventures: the best frozen yogurt ever. Davison’s orchard and pump- Final adventure ideas: kin patch in Vernon, buying the library’s cool.

The Startup Guy Entrepreneur

The undercurrent of entrepre- What you’d say to a friend mov- Best thing about living neurial energy in the Okanagan is ing here: Do it. The Okanagan here: the marsh, the water- fuelled in part by individuals who is beautiful and Vancouver is front and Knox Mountain. believe the culture is just right a short flight or drive away. Clothes shopping: quality at here to make big things happen. Sunday afternoon: run- a low price, except for shoes. I That’s the case with our entrepre- ning or reading. have a Fluevog habit. neur who seems to have a winning Wednesday night: working. Grocery shopping: vegetables mix of dreams and discipline. Breakfast spot: the Bohemian Café come to my fridge to die. for delicious huevos rancheros. Okanagan secrets: the Friends would describe Picnic places: Tugboat Beach. Okanagan Observatory, Mosaic you as: nerdy. Favourite dinner: Mamma Rosa’s. Books, Mad Mango. Hobbies: Electronics, astron- Bookmarked: Brain Pickings, Who you are in the context of the omy, playing guitar, photog- Harvard Business Review, Okanagan: I’d always thought of the raphy, programming. Apple Developer site. Okanagan as a vacation spot. Now I’m Your favourite music: from modern Dream: driving a Lamborghini active in the technology community classical piano to blues and rock — as through northern Italy. and surprised at all the talent here. long as you can’t describe it as Rap Okanagan events you never miss: or Top 40 I’ll probably listen to it. UBCO’s Distinguished Speaker series. Favourite summer activity: running. Best free Okanagan Favourite winter activity: running. entertainment: Parks Alive! Where’d you come from: most Fave summer meal: Moolix Ice recently Vancouver — Toronto Cream. (Ice cream is a meal, right?) before that. Neighbourhood: Downtown. The Down-to-Earths Retired couple Everyone talks about the great golf around here and leaving for Arizona when the first winter chill hits, and there are lots of fancy frou frou spots to tout. But what about the ordinary stuff? This retired couple revels in the wonders of the “regular.” After the work’s all done, there’s a lot to love about an active, uncomplicated Okanagan life.

Friends would describe you as: hopefully as honest, regular people. The Trail Blazer What you’d say to a friend moving here: Be prepared for high housing Outdoor enthusiast costs. Also, it’s become pretty busy Addicted to leaving tracks, our people make homemade lanterns and in the 20-odd years we’ve been 36-year-old Trail Blazer seems an parade them through the streets. here — and will only get more so. interesting paradox. A graphic Favourite summer drink: cucumber Summer activities: fishing in designer, he counteracts his com- water with a splash of bourbon. early summer and swimming/ puter skewed work hours with Social media: Twitter is always beaching in high season. extreme exploring of the natural good for a laugh, a semi-sarcastic Winter activities: skating treasures the Okanagan area offers. discussion about local politics — or and cross country skiing. both. Media helps me stay con- Wednesday evening: home. Friends would describe you as: lots nected more globally than locally. Favourite breakfast spot: Perkins. of fun to be around, but a little crazy. Local media drives me crazy. Hobbies and tinkering: gardening, Music: indie rock. Long term goal: run a 100- home maintenance, fixing things. Favourite winter activity: mile ultra marathon. Favourite picnic spot: near the trail running in the snow. Worst thing about Okanagan Shuswap River at Ashton Creek. Where’d you come from? Vancouver. living: There aren’t a lot of good, Favourite dinner: Capri Why do you stay here? friends, accessible cultural events. You Hotel Vintage Room. work, the outdoors. either have to be rich, have kids Website browser would Sunday afternoon: enjoying or have low expectations. show: Globe & Mail stocks a spicy mocha at Gio Bean cof- Grocery philosophy: Shop Favourite apps: no! fee after a nice long run. local. Buy fresh. It’s better if it Mobile habits: just a pay-and-talk Wednesday afternoon: train- comes without a package. cell phone used mostly to make calls. ing with the P.A.C.E. crew. Clothing philosophy: I don’t Social media: not interested. Breakfast spots: Wild buy clothes with logos on them. Best thing about Okanagan Apple or Bliss Bakery. Companies should pay me to advertise living: ease of access to stores Picnic places: Knox Mountain for them not the other way around. and services, but also some or Bertram Park. Okanagan secret: Carmelis nice scenery, beaches, etc. Favourite dinner: RauDZ. goat’s milk gelato. Worst thing about Okanagan living: Website browser would show: the Best thing about Okanagan it’s getting a little too busy, especially amazing artwork of Françoise Nielly. living: Trail running through the the traffic and so many drivers. Favourite cultural activity: Farmers’ hills; the temperatures are perfect Neighbourhood: Lower Market, Art Walk, Fabulous Finds. every season. There are great trails Glenmore—convenient to all Dream: running a multi-day stage close to town and wonderful world shopping and services. race with my wife and friends. class trail runners who’d love to show Grocery shopping: Superstore Currently saving for: a mountain bike. you around (if you can keep up). I for best overall prices. Okanagan events you never love seeing the lake every day, enjoy- Long term goal: stay as fit as miss: Art On the Line at UBCO. ing local wines at sunset and how possible and enjoy outdoor activities, Best free Okanagan entertainment: summer really lasts until October, family and grandchildren. a lantern festival in the fall where but we don’t tell anyone. (Shhhh.)

HIKING PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER; OTHER PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TURTLE The Social Butterfly ISLAND Plugged-in The Okanagan is abuzz with activ- Winter activity: spending time at GALLERY ity and top-notch entertainment Silver Star Mountain in our cabin. possibilities, all perpetuated by Why you stay in the Okanagan: we & GIFTS people who love the lifestyle. For love the lifestyle — there’s clean, fresh Penny, life in the Valley is about air, a beautiful climate — it’s a perfect capturing the moment, savour- place to raise our two daughters. ing all the best things and keep- Sunday afternoon: I’m a real- ing busy, but also taking time to tor — so hosting an open house. close her wings once in awhile so Wednesday evening: watching she can enjoy the stillness, too. American Idol, showing property. Favourite breakfast spot: Country Tyme Friends would describe you as: Gardens on Kal Lake Road in Coldstream. very busy, very outgoing, with a Picnic place: my beautiful Tonquin - Roy Henry Vickers tremendous sense of humour. back yard in Coldstream. What you’d say to a friend Favourite dinner restaurant: moving here: “Good choice. Bamboo Beach in Vernon. This is God’s country.” Website browser: real estate. Favourite music: Lady Gaga, Canadian Culture: ballet, travel- Tenors and everything in between. ing, live performances.

Sterling Silver Bracelets - Leanne Helin Summer activity: garden- Dreams: being cancer free ing, lunching with friends on for the rest of my life. an outdoor patio, shopping. Currently saving for: Spain!

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Never miss events: Kalamalka Rotary Dream Auction, Run for the Cure, SPCA fundraisers. Best free Okanagan entertain- ment: Davison’s Orchard. ...a different Okanagan secrets: Sparkling Hill Resort, Modern Accents Tablescapes done twice a year by Lynn Archibald breed of florist in Kelowna (sort of table setting 101) Media: KISS FM, CBC, Oprah Winfrey Network. Mobile: Blackberry — used con- stantly — but not for apps. Edithe Ross & Patti Custaloe Neighbourhood: We’ve got an unobstructed view of Kal Lake Kelowna, BC • 250-860-8165 and there’s lots of privacy. Clothes shopping habits: Winners, Jigsaw in Kelowna, www.momandmeflowers.com Crazy River in Salmon Arm.

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Winfield Kelowna P. 250-766-3100 T.F.1-866-488-3101 P. 250-807-2898 T.F. 1-888-456-1808 7840 Highway 97 N (6 km North of Kelowna Airport) 3732 Highway 97 N (Just South of Reid’s Corner) DAVISON ORCHARD PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER; OTHER PHOTO CONTRIBUTED View our inventory online at www.countryrv.net okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 39 The Salsa Storm Tech/art professional

Amongst all the ways to inhabit private spaces and embrace sim- plicity, the Okanagan offers plenty of opportunity for the fast-paced and dynamic. This tech/art pro- fessional has a strong desire to capture both the calm and the chaos. Her balancing trick? Dancing between both worlds.

Friends would describe you as: always up for spontaneous adven- ture, curious, people-centric. Summer activity: road trips, beach BBQs and building sand castles. Dancing! And I’m totally addicted to the road with Ruby (my bike). Winter activities: dancing. Where’d you come from: Regina. I grew up in Williams Lake and Nakusp. Why Kelowna: Family. I travelled and moved around a lot in my late Kelowna’s sizzlin’ salsa scene inspires this young professional. Lessons at teens and 20s. Kelowna became Latinesque Studio and Twisted Salsa Saturdays at the Habitat. home base and I developed close friends I liked to come home to. ingredients to creative satisfaction Okanagan secret: Most inspir- Then I got a crazy cool job and so for me—in work and in life—and ing, community-building activity I stay. It’s hard to find a reason in my work the only way to get any- I love right now is Kelowna’s small to leave (other than wanting to thing done is to collaborate. I get to but growing salsa scene. I take les- conquer the world before 40). work with a huge variety of disci- sons at Latinesque. Warren Eaton Sunday afternoon: napping, plines and different types of people. is owner/instructor and his classes cycling or visiting with friends. Best thing about Okanagan liv- are really fun, a great place to learn Wednesday evening: working ing: outdoors, cycling, summer. and the people who go are all really or out for dinner with friends. Worst thing about Okanagan liv- accepting. Every two weeks he hosts Fave breakfast spot: ing: Can sometimes feel without a Twisted Salsa Saturdays at the my sister’s house. progressive overall spirit. With our Habitat. We dance for hours, with Picnic places: Strathcona Park or structures, we should take a cue friends and strangers. There’s salsa, Hot Sands Beach with family. from Europe and realize function merengue, cha cha, bachatta and Best place for dinner out: and form are equally important. more. You don’t have to know how to Waterfront Wines. Ugly things make people less happy. dance because there are lots of peo- Currently saving for: a rainy Social media: I’ve got a love/ ple to teach you—even a lesson early day in Buenos Aires. hate thing with Facebook. in the evening to get your feet wet. Okanagan events you never Mobile: iPhone—can’t Who you are in the context of the miss: Twisted Salsa Saturdays live without it. Okanagan: Having my family here at Habitat, Footwerk events. Fave apps: Twitter, Shazam, makes the Okanagan feel like home. On work and life: I am fuelled by Fring, Google Maps. I’m Despite a busy, collaborative life, creativity and being around creative into function for apps. in some ways I am defined by really people. I love bringing definition and Long term: To live an honest, simple things here: my family, my form to things. We find ourselves in authentic life. To contribute to work, dancing and my bike. I take new territory — sometimes without making my world—the space a lot of pleasure in small ordinary a map to follow and we get to make that I influence—more beauti- things—good espresso, family BBQs, it up. Collaboration is one of the key ful, better and fulfilling. the beach, lots of walks—and dance.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED 40 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com The Super Duo The Tidal Wave Working couple Teen

By the light of day, Andrew and leries, Andrew’s into drink- Does the Okanagan cultivate Marla both work in the public sec- ing Guinness on weekends. healthier kids? We’re not sure, but tor. But after hours, this daring Dreams: world peace, winning judging by this teen, it’s entirely pos- pair takes time to discover secret the lottery, a flatter stomach. sible. Tia’s on a swim team, loves sled- spots that make the Okanagan Saving for: short-term—a trip to ding, and finds time for friends and “the best place to live in the Europe, long-term—early retirement. family. She’s got some big plans and world.” So far no Kryptonite ... Okanagan events you never miss: dreams — plus the speed and determi- Kelowna Art Gallery fund- nation to chase and catch them all. Friends would describe you as: raiser, Sopa Fine Arts monthly fun, smart, a crazily romantic openings, Okanagan Fest-of-Ale. Friends would describe story or “the good hair couple.” Best free Okanagan enter- you as: funny, loyal. Summer activity: sitting on tainment: people-watching Favourite music: Top 40. the beach followed by hap- in City Park, hiking. Summer activity: beach. py hour on a pub patio. Fave summer drink: Super Winter activity: sledding. Sunday afternoon: shop- Sonic Gin & Tonic at Joey. Sunday afternoon: hang- ping at Costco. Day jobs: Andrew works at Kelowna ing with friends. Fave breakfast: home for Community Resources helping Wednesday evening: swim Marla’s blueberry pancakes. newcomers to Canada get settled practice at H2O. Picnic place: Kalamoir Park. into our community and culture. Breakfast spot: IHOP. Dinner out: Earls (best Caesar Marla does public relations for the Picnic place: field below my house. salad ever!), Quail’s Gate Okanagan Regional Library system Favourite dinner spot: Montanas. for a special occasion. to make everyone aware of all the Websites: Facebook. Website browser: Andrew great resources available to them. Dreams: a swimming scholar- on Facebook and Castanet, Best thing about Okanagan living: ship and going to university. Marla on eBay and urlybits. summers, and everything Currently saving for: a decent Culture: Marla picks art gal- is five minutes away. car for when I turn 16. Social media favourites: Summer drink: slushies Facebook, Twitter, YouTube. at the corner store. Mobile: Andrew doesn’t have a Best thing about Okanagan liv- cell and doesn’t like being reach- ing: quad riding out the back door able, but Marla feels naked without on the best trails in the world. her Blackberry (though consider- Favourite apps: today? ing the big switch to an iPhone). Temple Run. Hobbies: running and fitness, Long term: become volunteering, reading (both), do-it- a teacher. yourself jewelry and fashion (Marla). Mobile: iPod — when Worst thing about Okanagan I have time. living: winters, drivers who Clothes shopping don’t know how to merge habits: going to the Neighbourhood: Casa Loma mall, but not buy- (best kept secret neighbour- ing anything. hood in the Okanagan). Okanagan Grocery shopping habits: hate secret: ZipZone to admit it, but usually big box. Adventure Park Clothes shopping habits: eBay, in Peachland. Value Village (yes!), other pre- loved stores like Frock, The Wardrobe. Also locally-owned Tia is a typical boutiques like Kolu, dlux, Posh. teen with a zest Working couple Andrew and Marla find loads of Okanagan secret: trail running. for the active scope for their ecelectic lifestyle with a mix of Also, Summerland Sweets and Okanagan indoor and outdoor activities and volunteer work. the Village Cheese Company. lifestyle.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED The Superwoman Working Mom

Life for this working mother is hairspray on people and their dogs. busy. With the philosophy that “it Best free Okanagan entertainment: takes a village to raise a child,” Canada Day at Waterfront Park, Beagle and a great support network of Meetup at the Mission Park Dog Park other moms, she seems to be on on the last Sunday of the month top of the world — or at least the (there’s nothing cuter than a bevy of Okanagan. From skiing to row- beagles chasing each other around, ing and everything in-between, ears flapping and tails at attention). this savvy working mom makes Fave summer meal: Barbecued the most of every minute with an wild BC salmon topped with The Culture outlook that matches summer- fresh local fruit salsa. Consumer time in the place she calls home. Social media: Facebook and Twitter. Tween I haven’t delved into Pinterest Friends would describe you as: too much yet, but it’s next. What’s life like for pre-teens outgoing, energetic, talkative. Mobile: Blackberry Torch in the Okanagan? According Summer activity: rowing, to text, email, update social to Maya, not bad. We’ve got an water skiing, wine tasting. media … and even phone people. appropriate mix of shopping, Winter activity: skiing Fave local apps or follows: Moksha music, access to social net- with my boys. Yoga, The Hot Box Yoga, H20 Fitness works, great food, theatre ven- Where’d you come from? and Adventure Centre, Sparkling ues and (obvs) more shopping... Vancouver, via Nova Hill Resort, Home For Dinner, Big Scotia and Ontario. White Ski Resort, Beth Veenkamp- Friends would describe Why do you stay? family Constructing Life Coaching. you as: loud. (it’s a great place to raise chil- Grocery shopping habits: Kelowna Hobbies: drawing, acting. dren), the people, lifestyle. Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market and Sports: dancing, running. Best thing about Okanagan living: produce stands in summer. Urban Activities: Canadian being a mom here is great — there are Harvest organic delivery is great year- School of Ballet, classes so many of us! I’m lucky to have such round. Save-on-Foods and Lakeshore at the Actor’s Studio. an incredible support network avail- Market in the Mission fill in the gaps. Best place for alone time: able to help out in a pinch or just to Clothes shopping habits: Orchard Park Mall. get together for a glass of vino and Winners, anywhere clearance, Best place to hang with a chat. I can walk to the beach in great finds from Influence, friends: Orchard Park Mall. five minutes and drive less than an Fracas, Bella, The Wardrobe. Fave summer place: beach. hour to ski or taste fantastic wines. Okanagan secret: Riding one of Fave winter activity: Sunday afternoon: at the gym. the city’s double decker transit bus- drink hot chocolate. Wednesday afternoon: working. es — just for a different view. Also, Sunday afternoon: home. Fave breakfast: The Bohemian something else every local mom Wednesday evening: Café, De Dutch. should know about: Bread on Wheels with friends. Picnic place: the beach Bakery. They’ll deliver fresh-baked Breakfast spot: Cinnabon. with my boys. goodies (my kids love the braided Picnic place: Mission Creek. Dinner out: Waterfront Wines, bread and the chocolate croissants), Best dinner: Chopped Leaf. Twisted Tomato, Cabana, RauDZ. Cherry Hill coffee and farm-fresh Culture: music, theatre. Website browser: I research eggs to your door once a week. Saving for: iPhone. everything — travel, entertain- Being a working mom in the Best free Okanagan enter- ment, social media, parenting. Okanagan: Life is busy and family tainment: the beach. Culture: Live theatre, music. time is precious. For me, living across Social media: Facebook. Never miss Okanagan events: the street from H20 and a block Mobile: cell—quite a bit. anything food or wine related, the from the beach helps make things Okanagan secret: SPCA Paws for a Cause walk — my like picnics or after-dinner swims Frock in Kelowna. boys and I volunteer every year at easier. The Greenway and Mission Clothes shopping habits: the crazy hair station where we Dog Park are also easy walks, some- I shop too much! have tons of fun using coloured thing our beagle appreciates.

PHOTO BY LAURIE CARTER 42 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com The Superwoman Working Mom

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okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 43 It takes a team to successfully transition between events. Over 3,200 athletes entered Penticton’s 2011 Ironman.

A 3.8 kilometre swim is the first leg of the competition.

Starts are crowded, but competitors soon spread out. Swimmers are already peeling out of their wetsuits as they splash toward the transition area. Penticton attracts top triathletes to Subaru Ironman Canada

PHOTOS BY BRUCE KEMP

The 6:45 a.m. start time doesn’t deter spectators who Penticton’s Subaru Ironman Canada is the oldest line the course to cheer and shout encouragement. Ironman race held in continental North America. Fans can get closer to the athletes than in almost any other sport.

Some 4,500 volunteers provide a host of services like keeping vital water stations constantly restocked.

Looking strong, Abel Torsten of Tucson, Arizona, kept up the pace in the run and cycling leg to take second place overall in the 2011 event. Meredith Kessler of San Francisco, California, finds a little shade to pre- serve her strength during the 42.2 kilometre run that caps the Ironman. Entrants range in age from under 20 to over 80. John Dobrowlski (55) was just one of a large group of over 50s in the race.

High SPF sunscreen is a vital part of Nearly a third of the the athletes’ kit. competitors are women.

A cyclist reacts to the crowd in Penticton’s Jordan Rapp took first downtown Penticton. place in the 2011 Ironman. Okanagan Life: Trim: 8.375x10.875, Bleed: 8.625 x 11.125, Live: 7.625 (45p9) x 10.125 (60p9) RDX

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okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 49 Bridges at Glenview Pond

People looking for a sense of nature in the city are deal with,” says one new Bridges drawn to Bridges at Glenview Pond in Kelowna. homeowner. “They always received Thousands of daffodils have already bloomed in the our calls in a positive manner and shared green space. The ducks never left and a stately addressed our concerns in a timely blue heron has been spotted at each of the ponds. fashion, which served to strengthen Building continued throughout the mild winter and 10 our builder/client relationship.” heritage style homes are under construction with more in the Bridges is centrally located on works. Visitors to the two showhomes see why Bridges has won the fringe of the downtown core 30-plus awards. Honoured as Community of the Year for Phase with amenities like the Kelowna One in 2009 and again in 2011 for Phase Two, Valux Homes Golf and Country Club, Waterfront Ltd. won a stunning four gold trophies and seven silver awards, Park, Prospera Place and Orchard including Builder of the Year, in this year’s competition. Park Mall just moments away. But more important than all the recognition is the Roads are flat and easy for cyclists constantly growing array of happy clients and new refer- and walkers. Geothermal heating and rals. The Valux team takes pride in getting to know cooling replaces noisy external air their clients’ needs and wants, then using their unique conditioners. Cost effective and green, design process to build a house that fits like a glove. geothermal adds to the tranquil atmo- Valux president, Jim Andrews, truly has his clients’ sphere as residents enjoy the outdoors, best interests at heart. Everyone who comes to Bridges which is one of the most outstanding gets expert advice on the ins and outs of building a new features offered by Valux Homes. home. A designer is available to help with decisions such The Bridges site encompasses as paint colours, flooring and other materials. Onsite, a two-acre park, pond and creek construction manager, Joe Rood, ensures that building area, an upper and lower pond, progresses smoothly and every detail is looked after. waterfalls, an island for picnics— “Joe and Jim are very professional and a pleasure to and those picturesque bridges.

50 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Dilworth Homes

The views from the top are amaz- the Selkirk neighbourhood. Ranging in price from $474,900 ing—lake, valley, city, nature—you to $719,900, the 20 dwellings in this exclusive enclave boast can see it all from Dilworth/Dilworth luxury finishing as standard fare. The Abercrombie show- Mountain Estates where the news home illustrates this quality and attention to detail. The today is the Selkirk neighbour- most spacious of the six plans at Summit at Selkirk, it offers hood. The 2008 Neighbourhood of nearly 3,000 square feet of living space perfectly designed the Year is expanding with a selec- for people who want the convenience of the lock and leave tion of new single family homes lifestyle in a home that’s tailor-made for entertaining. now being built and sold. House The Sandford is another of the featured homes for the and lot packages start at $429,900. new townhome neighbourhood. Buyers can select this In addition, the Summit at Selkirk exact bungalow with walkout floor plan or a customized is the newest and last of the semi- version. Little wonder that readers of Okanagan Life voted detached townhome developments in Dilworth Homes among the Best of the Okanagan for 2011.

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 51 Kate Vance and Julia Debolt handle sales for Ponderosa Ponderosa Living

In an historic partnership with track for the scheduled grand open- and multi-family homes, townhomes, Treegroup and the Westbank First ing in spring 2013. Greg Norman and condos, golf cottages and wine vil- Nation, Greg Norman brings his members of his design team say that las, released in stages. Pre-sales love of the good life to the shores of Ponderosa, with its breathtaking views for craftsman style single family Okanagan Lake with the introduc- and stunning elevation changes, will homes start this spring followed by tion of Ponderosa to the town of rank among the top three courses golf cottages and wine villas. Peachland. A signature golf commu- they have designed on six continents. The Ponderosa team is very excited nity unlike anything in the Pacific Carved from rugged rock and to announce the release of the first Northwest, Ponderosa features a wilderness forest, the 400-acre phase of 69 luxury townhomes for premium estate winery, remarkable Ponderosa community wraps around pre-sale. The 2- and 3-bedroom town- lakefront vistas, expansive amphi- the base of Pincushion Mountain. homes are situated on the signature theatre, NHL-sized outdoor ice rink The all-inclusive village will eventu- Greg Norman golf course and many and a spectacular signature course ally encompass 2,300 residences, the enjoy unobstructed lakefront vistas. personally designed by the Shark. golf course and a premium winery. Construction on the townhomes, The 7,200-yard champion caliber Adding yet more flavour and which range from 1,247 to 1,994 golf course is the centrepiece of the another dimension to the this square feet, is scheduled to begin this community and features incredible unique lifestyle, the winery will spring with the first residents mov- views from 500 feet above the lake. be located in the central plaza and ing in during the winter of 2012. Greg Norman and his team have taken will host events and wine tastings, Realtors Julia Debolt and Kate full advantage of the terrain, using the providing residents with the oppor- Vance operate the Discovery Centre, existing slopes, benches and forest to tunity to pair local food with vin- located at the IGA shopping plaza on create a course that will challenge and tages from their own backyard. the corner of Hwy 97 and Clements engage players of all levels. Fourteen Ponderosa will feature homes in Cres., in Peachland, daily from 12 holes are near completion while exten- a range of prices to satisfy a wide p.m. to 5 p.m. Call today for an sive construction continues on the demographic. The goal is to create: exclusive tour and begin to make last four. Seeding of the 18 holes is “A place that you may never want to your dream a reality, 250.767.2148 planned for this summer, keeping on leave.” Offerings will include single or visit www.PonderosaLiving.ca.

52 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Gerhard Blenk Developer of Wilden Wilden

Wilden is the largest master planned community between Vancouver and Calgary. When complete the develop- ment will encompass more than 2,800 homes north of the Kelowna city cen- tre. Gerhard Blenk, whose long-term vision was to create the finest com- munity in the Okanagan, originally invited five of the best builders in the Valley to construct the homes on the lots he was developing. Nine years and 400 homes later, Authentech Homes, Meadowridge Homes, Fawdry Homes, Rykon Construction and Edgecombe new Skylands neighborhood. Home sites range from private Builders are still working on Wilden. Two of the six showhomes are backyards backing onto forest to This year, the big news on site is currently under construction with unobstructed lake and city views. construction of the $10 million road preparations for the balance to be Even in tough times, the cream joining the east and west sides of the under way and open by the spring rises to the top. Wilden’s new development. The largest private infra- of 2013. Scott and Gina Tyreman of Skylands neighborhood provides structure project in the Okanagan Authentech Homes are opening up what the developer believes are the this year, and completed at the devel- their latest creation in June 2012. best lakeview lots in Kelowna only oper’s expense, this 2.3-kilometre The topography of Wilden cre- 10 minutes from downtown. With drive has been compared with the ates cozy neighborhoods naturally. 15 homes now built and another six impact of the new gondola linking Hidden Lake Lane is a prime example. underway, the Skylands neighbor- Whistler and Blackcomb mountains This little village of 25 maintenance hood is recognized as one of the best at Whistler Resort. When complete, free townhomes is tucked into a lakeview locations in the Okanagan. the road will serve as access to the beautiful pocket above Hidden Lake. Also in the news, Wilden “likes” new Upper Canyon Neighbourhood The 2,700 square foot homes have Facebook. With over 400 homes consisting of 75 incredible view four bedrooms with front and rear now built and with all that’s going lots. This November, the entire decks to take advantage of views on at Wilden, Facebook is the com- Wilden development becomes one. and privacy. Like all neighbor- munications forum for everything Over the years, Wilden and its hoods at Wilden, they work with from events and current offerings, to team of select builders has always nature and the lay of the land. garage sales to baby sitters. Wilden kept fresh and up to date. This Lost Creek is the fastest sell- residents and future residents can tradition continues with the com- ing neighborhood in Kelowna with now stay informed by logging on munity’s fourth Street of Dreams more than 32 house and lot plans to Facebook, searching Wilden and showhomes now being built in the starting from under $400,000. adding Wilden as a friend. Done.

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 53 Village at Kettle Valley

From its inception in 1996 to the pres- ally growing village located on the progressing on the remaining three ent day, the Village of Kettle Valley sunny slopes of south Kelowna. communities. The Pointe subdivi- has remained true to its vision of Individual pride in home ownership sion is the first and it will be fol- developing a community based on is evident throughout the community lowed by the Highlands. The final the concept of New Urbanism. An and the developers like to give resi- phase will move on to the Summit, urban design movement that arose in dents credit for helping to shape the which will feature spectacular view the United Stated in the early 1980s, beautiful streetscapes found there. lots sized to accommodate expansive New Urbanism promotes walkable Chute Lake Elementary School floor plans with space for three- neighborhoods that contain a range stands as the cornerstone of all things car garages and in-ground pools. of housing types and amenities such new and exciting in Kettle Valley. The Pointe is a departure from the as a town centre, school and parks. The Village Centre is also expand- quaint traditional architecture normal- Communities like Kettle Valley ing to include new businesses such ly associated with Kettle Valley. While lead the way in reforming many as a new restaurant, daycare centre, this style appeals to many buyers, the aspects of real estate development, coffee shop, health spa and flower developers recognize that it is not urban planning and municipal land shop, with provisions to attract necessarily right for everyone. So the use. It has taken some time, but the more businesses in the future. Pointe will have the feel of being sepa- concept has caught on and you can The core of Kettle Valley is almost rate from the rest of the community. see the living results in the continu- complete and development is now The developer is currently in the process of creating plans with a group of select builders that represent a range of design elements including Tuscan/Mediterranean, European, American cottage, French country and Prairie along with a new style that they call Okanagan transitional, a modern earthy style with hints of architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright. From left: Paul Donaldson, Site Supervisor Paula Fiander, Real Estate Manager Stephen Wells, General Manager Emilienne Hardy, Office Manager

54 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Urban Development Institute–Okanagan

Driving into the Okanagan 15 know someone who is employed by years ago, I opened my windows and one of our members, works for one took one of the deepest breaths of my of the developments being built, is life. The May air was full of blossom housed in one of the buildings created fragrance and warm sun and having or is part of a community created by just driven the 11 hours from northern the planning efforts of consultants Alberta, I knew we had found home. and executed by a construction com- The Okanagan has grown since that pany employed by a developer. The day. Once dependant on a small, uni- UDI represents thousands of people lateral economic base, the region has employed in land planning and devel- emerged with an expanding economic opment including architects, planners, platform. In order to provide for that developers, financial lenders, construc- growth, development companies have tion workers, lawyers and engineers. created homes for people moving into Its mandate is to foster effective the region, offices for corporations, communication between industry, warehouses for manufacturers, hotels government and the public to improve for visitors, and hospitals, universities both housing and job opportunities and schools to serve the community. for the Okanagan Valley. In fact, 18 Developers in the Okanagan are per cent of the people employed in the passionate individuals with vision, Okanagan are employed directly or committed to a life’s work of mak- indirectly by the development indus- ing sure that those structures are the try. Members of the UDI across the most sustainable, viable and beauti- province contribute $30 billion dollars ful that can be offered in the Valley. annually and more than 250,000 jobs. As current president of the As a member of Partners in Urban Development Institute (UDI) Community Building, our organiza- Okanagan, I have taken on a new role tion is committed to working with to ensure that this legacy continues. the public and governments to cre- Leading a team of dedicated and pas- ate and achieve the vision of bal- sionate developers and consultants anced, well-planned and sustainable invigorates my daily routine of devel- communities. It promotes wise and opment. Through the leadership team efficient land use, sound planning the UDI educates, informs and advo- and good development practices. cates for the development industry Part of the reason I chose a career in this region and in the province. in this field was because of this This is important because you impact. I want my children to walk down a street and see a beautiful Renee Wasylyk building built by my company or President, Urban understand how I positively impacted Development Institute– the sustainability of our commu- Okanagan and President, nity. I want my grandchildren to Troika Developments Ltd. know that I helped to build a bet- ter Okanagan community. I want to help move our region into greater maturity and increased health. This growth occurs best when done with thoughtful planning, beautiful architecture, sustainable practices and cultural significance. I am proud that the Urban Development Institute is part of this positive future and love that we are helping to build sustainable communities.

ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 55 The Garage Sale More info

The unique world of the Garage Sale Bridges at Glenview Pond auction event is a modern alterna- 1358 Glenview Avenue, tive for selling your largest and Kelowna most valuable assets in a fixed time 250.763.7209 frame. Auctions allow both buyers www.bridgesliving.com and sellers the opportunity for a faster, more seamless transaction Dilworth Homes when compared with the more tra- Selkirk & Summit ditional, slow moving and often 971 Monashee Place over-negotiated ways of buying Kelowna and selling. Through a strategi- 250.861-8989 cally marketed, event-style auction, www.dilworthhomes.com Garage Sale brings buyers and sellers together and offers both parties an Ponderosa improved way to deal with unique Unit #64 properties and priceless assets. 5500 Clements Crescent The Garage Sale’s latest con- Peachland signment is a multi-million dollar 250.767.2148 estate and classic collector’s wine www.ponderosaliving.ca cellar located in the exclusive com- munity of Sheerwater. The estate Wilden is currently available for private 286 Clear Pond Place viewing and a Buy It Now price is Kelowna posted online for anyone looking 250.762.2906 to snatch it up before the auction. www.wilden.ca

Village at Kettle Valley 447 Lakepointe Drive Kelowna 250.764.2199 www.kettlevalley.com

The Garage Sale 101-1630 Pandosy Street Kelowna 778.484.5300 www.thegaragesale.co

56 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Unless otherwise stated: Central = Kelowna North = Vernon South = Penticton

Our Readers choose their favorites in so many categories and Okanagan Life continues to bring you the results! Welcome to the 18th Annual Best Restaurants issue. Perhaps above all others, this is the keeper issue of the year! Readers try new dining experiences all the time—now you can expand your dining experiences by guarding your issue carefully for the next year—and get ready to dine—Okanagan Life style!

BEST CULTURAL North 3 Rio Grande 2 Curry Pot DINING 1 Isidore’s Cuisine (Silver Star) South South 2 Crush Bistro 1 Vallarta Grill 1 Best of India (Oliver) Best Local / Regional South 2 Navratan Restaurant 1 Bogner’s of Penticton Best Asian Fusion 3 Haveli Central Best Mediterranean Central 1 RauDZ Regional Table Central 1 Yamato’s BEST ATMOSPHERE 2 Cactus Club 1 Ricardo’s Mediterranean 2 Mekong 3 La Bussola Kitchen 3 Hoang Gia Vietnamese Best Décor 3 Fixx Cafe 2 Olympia Greek Taverna North Central North 3 Yamas Taverna 1 Pho Fusion 1 Joeys Kelowna 1 Anchor Inn (Armstrong) North 1 Bamboo Beach Fusion Grille 2 RauDZ Regional Table 2 Allora (Silver Star) 1 Intermezzo 2 Temptasian 3 Vintage Room 3 Range at Predator Ridge 2 Eclectic Med 3 Amarin Thai 3 The Yellow House 3 The Phoenix Steakhouse 3 Dorian Greek Taverna South North South South 1 Benja Thai 1 Earls 1 Local Lounge • Grille 1 Theo’s Restaurant 2 Isshin 2 Intermezzo (Summerland) 2 La Casa Ouzeria 3 Saigon on Main 3 The Pheonix Steakhouse 2 Hooded Merganser South 3 Firehall Bistro (Oliver) Best Mexican / Latin Best Indian 1 Theo’s Restaurant Central Central 2 La Casa Ouzeria Best Northern European 1 Hector’s Casa 1 Dawett 3 The Cobblestone (Naramata) Central 2 Fernando’s Taqueria 2 Poppadoms 1 Gasthaus on the 3 DJ’s Mexican Restaurant 3 Da Tandoor Best Winery Restaurant Lake (Peachland) North 3 Chutney Central 2 Wood Fire Bakery 1 Little Tex North 1 Old Vines at Quails’ Gate 3 Bouchons Bistro 2 Los Huesos 1 The Palace (West Kelowna)

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 57 readers' choice

2 Eldorado Dining Room South 2 The Harvest Grille 1 Valentini’s Café 3 Sunset Bistro at Summerhill 2 Local Lounge • Grille North (Summerland) 1 Alexander’s Beach Pub 3 Bears Den Restaurant 1 Range at Predator Ridge 2 Sir Winston’s Pub Best Lunch 3 Blue Heron Waterfront Pub Central South 1 Joey Kelowna 1 Salty’s Beach House 2 Bohemian Café 1 The Patio at Lake Breeze 3 Earls (Naramata) 3 Wood Fire Bakery 2 Sage & Vines Bistro North 3 Hooded Merganser 1 Earls 2 Dorians Greek Taverna Best Romantic Dining 3 Original Joe’s Central South 1 Eldorado Dining Room 1 Valentini’s Café 2 The Yellow House 2 Pasta Factory The historic allure of The Yellow House Restaurant, one of the first homes 3 Earls on Top 3 Il Vecchio’s built in Kelowna, presents a rewarding dining experience made extra special

by the charm of co-owners Rob Ahlgren and Darren Stanfield. North 1 Intermezzo Best Dinner 2 Eclectic Med Central 2 Grapevine at Gray Monk 2 Ricardo’s Mediterranean South 1 Chop Steakhouse Bar (Lake Country) Kitchen 1 Hooded Merganser 2 The Keg 3 The Terrace at Mission Hill 3 The Blue Gator 2 Local Lounge • Grille 3 RauDZ Regional Table (West Kelowna) North (Summerland) North South 1 Monashee’s Bar & Grill 3 Bogner’s of Penticton 1 Intermezzo 1 Miradoro at Tinhorn 2 Lorenzo’s Café (Enderby) 2 Italian Kitchen Creek (Oliver) 3 Crush Bistro Best Place For A Meeting 3 Tita’s Italian Bistro 2 Sonora Room at South Central South Burrowing Owl (Oliver) 1 Dream Cafe 1 Eldorado Dining Room 1 Theo’s Restaurant 3 Hillside Winery Bistro 2 Zias Stonehouse 1 The Harvest Grille 2 Zias Stonehouse (Summerland) 2 Chop Steakhouse Bar (Summerland) Best Restaurant 3 19 Okanagan Bar + Grille 2 Hooded Merganser With A View Best Place For A Party (West Kelowna) 3 Firehall Bistro Central Central North (Oliver) 1 Grapevine at Gray Monk 1 Kelly O’Bryan’s 1 Vernon Lodge (Lake Country) 2 The Harvest Grille (Best Western) Best Casual Dining / 2 Earls 2 Gasthaus on the Lake South Bistro 2 The Harvest Grille (Peachland) 1 Theo’s Restaurant Central 3 Old Vines at Quails’ Gate 3 Cabana Grille 2 The Copper Cup 1 Minstrel Cafe (West Kelowna) North 3 Medici’s Gelateria (Oliver) 2 Le Plateau Bistro North 1 Monashee’s Bar & Grill 3 The Fixx 1 Blue Heron Waterfront Pub 2 Kelly O’Bryan’s BEST MEAL SPOTS North 2 Alexander’s Beach Pub 3 Eclectic Med 1 Earls South South Best Breakfast 2 Crush Bistro 1 Hooded Merganser 1 Theo’s Restaurant Central 3 Talkin Donkey 2 Lost Moose Lodge 2 Salty’s Beach House 1 The Jammery South 3 Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek 3 Firehall Bistro (Oliver) 2 Cora 1 Sage & Vines Bistro (Oliver) 3 Camp Creek Station 3 Bohemian Café 2 Opus Café Bistro (Naramata) North 3 La Casa Ouzeria Best Dining With 1 Friesen’s Country Live Music Best Patio Dining Tyme Gardens Best Family Restaurant Central Central 2 Diner on Six Central 1 Minstrel Cafe 1 Earls on Top 3 Bean There Bistro 1 Red Robin

58 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com Est. 1996

2 White Spot 2 Moxie’s Grill 3 Montana’s North 1 Boston Pizza when you’re done with wine... 2 KTs Heritage Restaurant visit Kelowna’s only Craft Brewery 3 Red Robin South HOURS 1 Boston Pizza Monday to Friday: 9am - 6pm 2 Cozy Bay Seafood Cafe Saturday: 11am - 6pm 3 Zias Stonehouse (Summerland) June to August - Sundays: 11am - 6pm TASTINGS Best Buffet Central Daily 11am - 5:45pm 1 Manhattan Point TOURS 2 Grand Bay Café Please call for times. 3 Buffet King North 1 Royal Garden 2 BX Creek Bar & Grill ASK ABOUT 3 Yat Sen Restaurant OUR KEGS South FOR SALE! 1 China Palace 2 Isshin Sushi Bar 1083 Richter St. Kelowna, BC 3 Beijing 1-800-663-4847 www.treebeer.com Best Wine Bar Central 1 Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar 2 Rotten Grape 3 Sunset Bistro at Summerhill 3 Old Vines at Quail’s Gate North ISN’T LIFE DELICIOUS?-paris wolf, age 5 1 Intermezzo At RauDZ© we love a good quote and the one above captures both our 2 Crush Bistro business and life philosophy: support local, buy local, eat and drink local. South Although we are serious about our food and wine at RauDZ© we enjoy taking 1 The Cobblestone (Naramata) a fun approach to presentation. Life is delicious and sometimes we need to 2 Bufflehead Pasta & Tapas Room be reminded to see the world through a child’s eyes. 3 Local Lounge • Grille - Chef Rod Butters and Audrey Surrao © (Summerland) RauDZREGIONAL TABLE Open 7 days a week from 5:00 p.m. FRESH • LOCAL • COMFORTABLE Best Sports Bar / Pub 1560 Water Street, Kelowna 250•868•8805 www.raudz.com twitter.com/RauDZ Central 1 Dakoda’s 2 Dave’s Sports Bar njoy ne casual dining 3 Rusty’s Eat the Yellow House North Restaurant & Catering 1 Kal Sports Bar Company seven nights a week and for lunch Monday 2 Checkers Bar & Grill through Friday and a 3 Sir Winston’s Pub delicious la carte Brunch South on Sundays... in a heritage 1 Best Damn Sports Bar & Grill house setting, courtyard patio, summer concert 2 Kettle Valley Station Pub series two rooms, great 3 Peacock’s Perch place for private parties and 250.763.5136 3 Barking Parrot experienced party planning #526 Lawrence Ave., Kelowna and catering services. www.theyellowhouse.ca

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 59 readers' choice

Best Seafood Best Sandwich Central / Wrap / Panini 1 Christopher’s Central 2 Codfathers Seafood Market 1 Subway 2 The Keg 2 Mediterranean Market 3 Ric’s Grill 2 Wrap Zone North 3 Jugo Juice 1 Joey’s North 2 C-Lovers 1 Wrap Zone 2 The Sprouted Fig South 3 Extreme Pita 1 Salty’s Beach House South 2 Cozy Bay Seafood Cafe 1 Dolci Artisan Fare (Osoyoos) 3 Buy the Sea 2 Valentini’s Café 3 The Bench Market Best Poultry Central Best Burger When true pizza lovers crave great pizza, they come to Bordello's Italian 1 Cactus Club Cafe Central Pizzeria and watch the dough fly. Put a little dough down and come enjoy 2 Montana’s 1 Gorgeous George’s what our readers say is the Best Pizza in the Central Okanagan. 3 Twisted Tomato 2 Five Guys (West Kelowna) 3 Old Train Station Pub 3 Fat Burger Best Late Night 2 Salty’s Beach House North 3 Burger Baron Bite (After 9PM) 3 Peacock’s Perch 1 Brown Derby Cafe (Armstrong) North Central 2 The Italian Kitchen 1 Kal Sports Bar & Grill 1 Boston Pizza Best Soup South 2 Anchor Inn Pub (Armstrong) 2 Joey Kelowna Central 1 Amante Bistro 3 Earls 3 Kelly O’Bryan’s 1 Wood Fire Bakery South North 2 McCulloch Station Best Steak 1 Burger 55 1 Original Joe’s 3 The Bike Shop Café Central 2 Peacock’s Perch 1 Boston Pizza North 1 The Keg 3 White Spot 2 Sir Winston’s Pub 1 The Sprouted Fig 2 Chop Steakhouse Bar 3 Kelly O’Bryan’s 2 Brown Derby Cafe 3 Ricardo’s Mediterranean Best French Fries South (Armstrong) Kitchen Central 1 Peacock’s Perch 3 Sunshine Corner Cafe 3 RauDZ Regional Table 1 Bouchons Bistro 2 Earls South North 2 McDonald’s 3 Breeze Bar & Grill (Osoyoos) 1 Sage & Vines Bistro 1 The Pheonix Steakhouse 3 Gorgeous George’s 2 Opus Café Bistro 2 Intermezzo Restaurant 3 Burger Baron BEST CRAVINGS 3 Valentini’s Café 3 Cattlemen’s Club Restaurant North South 1 Kal Sports Bar Best Tapas / Appies Best Salad 1 Sage & Vines Bistro 2 McDonald’s Central Central 2 Black Iron Grill & Steakhouse 3 Squires Four Pub 1 Cactus Club Cafe 1 Joey Kelowna 3 Theo’s Restaurant South 1 Waterfront Restaurant 2 Cactus Club Cafe 1 Jeffers Fryzz & Wine Bar 3 The Chopped Leaf Best Vegetarian 2 Spud Brothers (Summerland) 2 Joey Kelowna 3 Twisted Tomato Central 2 Burger 55 3 The Yellow House North 1 Dawett 3 Cozy Bay Seafood Cafe North 1 Earls 2 Pho Soc 1 Italian Kitchen 2 The Phoenix 3 Poppadoms Best Fish & Chips 2 Sir Winston’s Pub Steakhouse North Central 3 Crush Bistro 3 Wendy’s 1 The Sprouted Fig 1 Shady Rest British Fish & Chips 3 Allora (Silver Star) South 2 Monashee’s Bar & Grill 2 Lord Chumley’s Fish & Chips South 1 Earls 3 Crush Bistro 3 Codfathers Seafood Market 1 Bufflehead Pasta 2 Local Lounge • Grille South North & Tapas Room (Summerland) 1 Fresh Healthy Café 1 C-Lovers 2 Local Lounge • Grille 3 Zias Stonehouse 2 Isshin 2 Joey’s (Summerland) (Summerland) 3 Iyara Thai Restaurant 3 Junction Cafe (Armstrong)

60 ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 okanaganlife.com readers' choice

South 2 Ozeki 1 Tickleberry’s (Okanagan Falls) 2 Tripke Bakery 1 Buy the Sea 3 Aomi Sushi 2 Summerland Sweets 3 Okanagan Grocery 1 Cozy Bay Seafood Cafe 3 Genji (Summerland) North 2 Salty’s Beach House North 2 Ogos Ice Cream 1 Sweet Caroline’s Bakery 3 Sinbads Seafood Café 1 Wasabi 3 Medici’s Gelateria (Oliver) 2 COBS Bread (Oliver) 2 Mahoroba 3 Okanagan Bake House 2 Bento & Sushi Best Dessert South Best Pizza 3 Vernon Tokyo Sushi Central 1 Wouda’s Bakery Central South 1 Moxie’s Grill & Bar 2 Cake Box Bakery 1 Bordello’s Italian Pizzeria 1 Isshin 2 Bonfire Grill at The Cove (Summerland) 2 Boston Pizza 2 Ginza Sushi (West Kelowna) 3 Blue Icing Dessert Bakery 3 DunnEnzies Pizza 3 Just Delicious Bistro 3 RauDZ Regional Table 3 Mr. Mozzarella (Summerland) North Best Place To Buy North 1 Crush Bistro Fruit & Veggies 1 Boston Pizza Best Ice Cream 2 Eclectic Med Central 2 Jim’s Place Central 3 Bean to Cup 1 Kelowna Farmers’ & 3 JJ’s Pizza Plus 1 Marble Slab Creamery South Crafters’ Market South 1 Moo-Lix Ice Cream Shop 1 Bogner’s of Penticton 2 Old Town Farm Market 1 Mykono’s Pizza & 2 Foothills Creamery 1 Zias Stonehouse (Summerland) 2 Quality Greens Spaghetti House 2 Annegret’s 2 La Casa Ouzeria 3 Paul’s Produce 1 Papa Murphy’s 3 Okanagan Fudge 3 Accent Chocolate North 2 Murrray’s Pizza & Sundae 1 Quality Greens 3 Prima Pizza North BEST OF THE REST 2 Swan Lake Nurseryland 1 Marble Slab Creamery 3 Nature’s Fare Best Sushi 2 Garden Ice Cream Parlour Best Bakery South Central 3 Dairy Queen Central 1 Quality Greens 1 Momo Sushi South 1 Specialty Bakery 2 Old Town Farm Market

Perfectly placed European Fine Dining ...in a remarkable dining room housed in a log to make cabin creating an atmosphere that you will only fi nd in Bavaria. The pub offers a casual, yet classy fine wine and ambiance and spotlights Oktoberfest, medieval feasts and holiday celebrations. good friends.

250-767-6625 Canadian Concert Series 5790 Beach Ave. Peachland, BC May 26th - The Boom Booms Located in the heart of the Okanagan, 20 minutes from Kelowna June 23rd - Acres of Lions and 25 minutes from Penticton, the Gasthaus on the Lake pub and th restaurant provides a year-round dining destination. July 28 - Redeye Empire You are sure to have an unforgettable experience August 25th - Said the Whale at the Gasthaus. Sept 8th - Grand Finale - SLOAN Presented by the Georgia Straight RESTAURANT tinhorn.com

okanaganlife.com ANNUAL VALLEY GUIDE 2012/2013 61 readers' choice Best Health / Natural Foods Store North Central 1 Wendy’s ad directory 1 Nature’s Fare 2 Extreme Pita 2 Choices Market 3 Bento & Sushi North South Bohemian Café 31 1 Nature’s Fare 1 Burger 55 Bounty Cellars 18 2 Simply Delicious 2 Taco Time 3 The Sprouted Fig 3 Subway Bridges at Glenview Pond 20 3 Choice’s Market Byrne Publishing 4, 61 South Best Local White Wine Country RV 1 Whole Foods Market Central 39 2 Food Emporium 1 Quails’ Gate Chasselas Cowboys Choice, The 18 1 Gray Monk Latitude 50 Creations by Mom & Me 39 Best Coffee / Tea House / 2 Summerhill Gewurztraminer Herbs & Spices 3 The View Gewurztraminer Dilworth Homes 13 Central 3 Mission Hill Chardonnay Dockside Marine 43 1 Second Cup North 2 Bean Scene 1 Recline Ridge Siegerrebe Gallagher's Canyon Golf & Country Club 21 2 Blenz Coffee 2 Sunnybrae Turner Road Garage Sale Auction Events 18 2 Lake Country 3 Larch Hills Mad Angie H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre 21 Coffee House South 3 Abby’s Spice & Tea Store 1 La Frenz Sauvignon Blanc Harmony Acura 48 3 The Jammery 2 Haywire Pinot Gris Hummingbird Beach Resort 29 North 3 8th Generation Pinot Gris 1 Bean Scene 3 Therapy Vineyards Larch Hills Winery 31 2 Blenz Coffee Freudian Sip La Roca Watch and Jewellery 22 3 Bean to Cup 3 Wild Goose Vineyards Monashee Adventure Tours 15 South Pinot Blanc 1 The Beanery Coffee Okanagan Spirits 4 Company (Summerland) Best Local Red Wine Original Joe's 43 2 The Bellevue Café Central 3 Fibonaccci 1 Mission Hill Merlot Owner Direct Vacation Rentals 31 Roastery & Cafe 2 CedarCreek Pinot Noir Pandora 2 3 Medici’s Gelateria (Oliver) 2 Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir Ponderosa 64 3 The Bench Market 3 House of Rose Hot Flash North Premier Jewellery and Loans Inc. 43 Best Caterer 1 Recline Ridge Grande Pinot RauDZ Regional Table 59 Central 2 Granite Creek Meritage 1 Bohemian Café 3 Celista Maréchal Foch Roots and Blues Festival (Salmon Arm) 31 2 Jimmy Ho’s South Shuswap Lake Estates 33 2 Deli City 1 Red Rooster Meritage SkyTrek Adventure Park 30 3 The Bread Company 2 Burrowing Owl Cabernet Franc North 3 Black Hills Nota Bene Spincaster Productions Inc. 39 1 Gumtree Catering 3 Laughing Stock Portfolio Ten Thousand Villages 22 2 Bento & Sushi 3 Ora Best Local Beer The Club at Tower Ranch 13 South Central Tinhorn Creek Vineyards 61 1 Joy Road Catering 1 Tree Brewing Thirsty Beaver Tree Brewing 59 2 Valentini’s Café 2 Mill Creek Lord Nelson’s Pale Ale 3 Murray’s Pizza 3 Big Surf Beer Laid Back Lager Turtle Island Gallery 38 North Twin Anchors 32 Best Fast Food 1 Okanagan Spring Pale Ale Central 2 Crannog Ales Back Hand of God Stout Village of Kettle Valley 15 1 Jimmy Ho’s South Wilden 63 2 Wendy’s 1 Barley Mill Mustang Pale Ale Wild Play Element Parks 2 Subcity Donair 2 Cannery Brewing Squire Scotch Ale 4 3 Five Guys (West Kelowna) 3 Tin Whistle Peaches and Cream Yellowhouse Restaurant 59

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