As we begin to shake off the winter blues and look forward to warmer days ahead, many of us think about upcoming travel. This year especially, more and more Canadians are looking for domestic travel alternatives, choosing to explore more of what makes our country great.
British Columbia is a gem for Canadians with endless beauty to explore, season after season. Here’s everything you need to know about travelling to BC, the Okanagan and our home of Osoyoos.
Travelling To British Columbia
photo credit: Lionel Trudel
It’s no secret that the province of British Columbia is one of the most beautiful places on earth, home to sprawling mountain ranges, stunning coastlines and unique destinations around every bend. Taking time to explore the hidden gems within the province provides travellers with a peaceful escape, supports local communities and helps preserve BC’s stunning landscapes for future generations.
BC is home to a vast diversity of regions, including Vancouver Island, Fraser Valley, Okanagan Valley, Kootenays, Cariboo Chilcoltan as well as Northern inland and coast. Each of these vast regions differ in climate, offer varying attractions and unique experiences, from lush coastal rainforests and world-class vineyards to rugged mountain landscapes and remote wilderness adventures.
Supporting Local Tourism
Tourism is a huge part of BC’s culture, identity and economy. As such, many, if not all communities in British Columbia are welcoming of travellers. And while bigger cities often play host to many larger events, festivals or attractions, the true charm of British Columbia lies in the smaller destinations scattered throughout the province.
Places such as Osoyoos, Fernie, Pemberton, Valemount, Bella Coola and Powell River offer a much more grounded and authentic look at their region’s amenities. With fewer crowds than the bigger cities, these destinations offer a plethora of accommodations, activities and experiences catered to their landscape.
How To Plan A Trip To BC
If BC has been on your bucket list but you’re not sure where to begin, the province has an expansive network of Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) that specialize in regional tourism, such as HelloBC. They offer a wealthy source of regional info, guides and recommendations to make planning a trip to BC a breeze.
photo credit: Destination Osoyoos
Why You Should Choose Osoyoos, BC
photo credit: Destination Osoyoos
If you’re searching for a truly distinctive destination for your travels, consider visiting Osoyoos, BC. Located in the southern tip of the Okanagan Valley. Osoyoos is home to Canada’s warmest freshwater lake, over 40 nearby wineries, one of the country’s longest golf seasons and so much more.
With a more relaxed pace than bigger Okanagan cities such as Kelowna or Penticton, Osoyoos is a quintessential BC small town. Its downtown core consists of many locally-owned shops, restaurants and coffee houses, while the greater surroundings play host to wineries, fine-dining and farmer’s markets.
Every year, Osoyoos is host to many annual events, including the Osoyoos Oyster Festival, Taste Around BC and the Canada Day Cherry Fiesta. Everything is open to locals and travellers alike, including families with children.
Experience The Okanagan Lifestyle
The Okanagan Lifestyle is largely influenced by the Valley’s bountiful natural offerings, from vast bodies of water to rolling hills teeming with vineyards and wineries. Exploration, relaxation and play are all synonymous here, creating opportunities to energize yourself in the lake and relax at the spa all in the same day.
A Unique Ecological Destination
It’s a surprise to many that Osoyoos exists within Canada’s only desert. Thriving with sagebrush, antelope brush and prickly pear cacti, the semi-arid climate of the South Okanagan region is home to several ecological characteristics that make this desert a unique destination in Canada.
One of the greatest advantages of this climate is the weather. Osoyoos sees some of the warmest days in the country year-round, making it a signature destination for those who appreciate quality time under the sun.
photo credit: Destination Osoyoos
Your Home Away From Home
In the heart of Osoyoos’s charming atmosphere is Watermark Beach Resort. Aptly named, resting on the shore of Osoyoos Lake, Watermark is a relaxing retreat with quiet, comfortable accommodations, spa services, bountiful dining and a convenient location.
