How to make the most of your South Okanagan getaway
(This story is sponsored by Travel Penticton.)
Summer might be almost over, but that doesn’t mean that the adventures have to come to an end. That’s because off-season, between September and November, can actually be the perfect time to get away. Apart from the opportunity to score some great deals, you can also avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience with the chance to meet the locals.
And living in Vancouver, you don’t have to go very far to find some of the very best that B.C. has to offer. In fact, within a four-hour car journey along Highway 97, you can be in the beautiful South Okanagan, which makes it the ideal destination for a shorter stay or even just a weekend. The region is home to more than 70 local wineries, five craft breweries, three distilleries, and more than 30 annual festivals— all surrounded by pristine lakes, stunning beaches, an extensive trail network, and rugged mountain terrain. So all that’s left for you to do is figure out what you want to do first!
And now, Travel Penticton, Tourism Summerland, and Discover Naramata, with funding and support from Destination British Columbia, have collaborated to launch the new Chain of Events campaign— making it easier than ever to plan your next city escape.
As Jo Charnock, project coordinator, explains, “We have developed a series of itineraries and signature experiences for each community, geared toward four specific traveller types: The Adventurer, The Athlete, The Foodie, and The Family.”
The idea was born out of a program to promote cycling, until organizers realized that the area had a lot more to offer and a far broader appeal.
“We soon learned that the cycling enthusiasts visiting were also interested in other activities, such as culinary, arts and culture, or wine touring, so we decided to expand the concept,” said Thom Tischik, executive director of Travel Penticton.
The Chain of Events program has been created so that you can plan a vacation schedule based on your interests. For those who like to sample fresh local produce, or indulge in new and extraordinary gastronomy, the Foodie Experience could be the one for you. Or perhaps you get more of a thrill from high-adrenaline, physical challenges. In these cases, you might consider the Athlete or the Adventurer Experiences, which can include taking part in one of the region’s many sporting events or getting wet in some of the lake-based activities like kite surfing or wakeboarding.
And even if you have the kids in tow, the Chain of Events program also has a Family Experience itinerary, featuring mini-golf, go-karting, trampolining, and a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway. So you’re sure to keep the little ones entertained, too.
The beauty of the program is that you can tailor it to your interests and how much time you have. And as Charnock adds, “Many of the visitors to our region only have a few days to spend here and this is a great way to help them get the absolute most out of their stay.”