Why You Should “Fly South” this Winter
Let’s face it, Canada is known for snow. Some people actually think we’re buried under the white stuff year-round! While that is a great explanation for our magnificent skiing, ice hockey, and warming culinary scene, we at Watermark want to spread the word that it is categorically untrue!
As Canada’s four-season playground, the South Okanagan is the best place to spend the cooler months.
Make the most of the mildest winter weather in the country! Here’s how long-term Watermark guests experience Osoyoos during the snowbird season:
Home Away from Home
Exceptional Accommodations – Watermark’s fully equipped suites and beachfront townhomes make the perfect vacation homes for our Snowbird guests. Enjoy tasteful, comfortable furnishings and gourmet kitchens; expansive lake and mountain views; ensuite laundry, weekly housekeeping; complimentary internet and cable TV; and secure underground parking. Within the resort, guests can take full advantage of the award-winning 15 Park Bistro, the Levia Spa and the Breathe Studio. Meet and mingle with other winter guests in our media and games room, the outdoor hot tub, or the regular Morning Coffee social gatherings. We’re ideally located right on Lake Osoyoos, and walking distance to everything downtown Osoyoos has to offer.
Stay Active
Golf – The South Okanagan boasts the longest golfing season in Canada, and our varied, challenging courses are open from early March through late November. With inspiring views, sunshine, and brisk weather, a day on the links here is refreshing for the body and the soul.
Skiing – Trade your clubs for ski poles, and head out to Baldy Mountain for some of the finest champagne powder in the country. Take advantage of the Seniors’ Season’s Pass rate, and you can make the most of every day on the slopes.
Pickleball – What do you get when you combine tennis, racquetball and ping pong? A fun and healthy sport that can be played throughout Osoyoos on indoor and outdoor courts! Grab a paddle and a friend (or three), and get started on this game that is great for all ages and ability levels.
The Great Outdoors – There are so many opportunities to explore our beautiful region! Biking tours along the country lanes that wind throughout Oliver and Osoyoos. Hiking or horseback riding through frosty trails. Snowmobiling or snowshoeing across the snowy hillsides. Head to Ripley Lake for a day of ice fishing. Ready to make getting outside a habit? Join the Oliver Osoyoos Naturalists’ Club. Our energetic winter guests have plenty of excuses to enjoy the outdoors, here!
The Great Indoors – Prefer to get your heart rate up without a coat? Watermark Beach Resort and the town of Osoyoos have plenty to offer. Head to the resort’s Breathe Studio for fitness training, spinning, cardio and strength classes, yoga, and pilates. Take a dance class at one of the local studios. Get your muscles moving gently at a water aerobics class. Take part in a curling bonspiel, or join the bowling league at Kobau Lanes. Or enjoy the recreation programs at the Sonora Community Centre and the Sun Bowl Arena, which hosts regular public drop-ins for ice skating, hockey, basketball, swimming, and more!
Take it Easy:
Relaxing Opportunities – You’re on vacation! It’s time to unwind. Explore the many low-key groups, events and lessons on offer throughout the South Okanagan. Want to pick up a creative new skill? How about a painting class or a cooking class? Hone your wine knowledge at a wine appreciation class. Indulge in a little rejuvenation with a treatment at the Levia Spa. Join a quilting circle, take in a dog show, or simply discover the treasures on the shelves of the Osoyoos library. Around here, you’re sure to find leisure activities to suit any interest.
Unique Options – Despite it’s quiet, agricultural feel, the South Okanagan has its fair share of special-interest organizations. Car enthusiasts can join the Luxury Motorsports Club at Area 27, aircraft lovers will enjoy the RC model aircraft group, and everybody loves a visit to the quirky and amazing Desert Model Railroad.
Join the Community
Become a Local – Get into the local spirit by visiting the wonderful and inviting Seniors’ Centres in Osoyoos and Oliver. Socializing and making friends is part of the territory, here. Join a club or a regular card game, play some pool, or kick up your legs with some line dancing! Other active and engaging community groups in Osoyoos include The Rotary Club of Osoyoos and the Royal Canadian Legion.
Support the Arts
Festivals – Winter in Wine Country celebrates the holiday season with delightful festive decor, including the BCCH Festival of Trees, Christmas carolling, winery open houses, and civic “Light Up” events in both Oliver and Osoyoos.
Visual Arts – Osoyoos is home to numerous accomplished artists and artisans. There are numerous crafts fairs throughout the season, highlighting the work of local painters, potters, textile artists and designers. The Osoyoos Art Gallery has regular professional exhibits that range from folk art to contemporary photography. Visit the Osoyoos & District Museum, and the Oliver & District Heritage Society to experience the colourful history of our region.
Performing Arts – The Osoyoos & District Arts Council, the Osoyoos Community Theatre, and the Frank Venables Theatre offer regular theatrical, dance, and musical performances from visiting artists and talented locals. The Osoyoos Concert Series presents shows throughout the year. Additionally, excellent small-venue events happen throughout the valley all winter long.
Tempt Your Tastebuds
You’ll Never Go Hungry – The farm-to-table culinary scene in the South Okanagan is something we’re especially proud of, around here! Award-winning chefs, world-class wineries, and dedicated farmers and producers make a unique and exceptional combination, centered right here in our humble valley. 15 Park Bistro, offers inspired local fare, exuding a passion for culinary excellence. Local restaurants like The Sonora Room at Burrowing Owl Estate, Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek, or Masala Bistro at Kismet Winery offer fine dining with influences from around the world. Numerous choices ranging from cafès to private, catered events mean that our snowbirds are never at a loss for dining options.
Get Around
Mobility Is Not an Issue – The concierge team at Watermark wants to make your visit as easy as possible. We are happy to help coordinate shuttles to get you around the area, whether it’s a trip to the Kelowna airport, a dinner at one of our local restaurants, or a world-class winery tour.
