Making memories and celebrating milestones is easy when you’re in the Thompson Okanagan.
From a semi-arid shrub steppe desert to a temperate rainforest, it’s a diverse destination full of lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys. Whether you’re a beach lounger, a thrill seeker, or a wine lover, it’s the perfect place to pick your own adventure.
Before you start exploring, take some time to learn about the land and its people at the Sncewips Heritage Museum, where visitors can learn about the ancestral and unceded territory of the Syilx people.
“First Nations have been represented like we’re dead and gone and in the past. But we’re very much still here and a thriving culture and community,” says Michelle Ryder, operations and cultural administrator at Sncewips.
The museum began in 2005 when the Westbank First Nation achieved self-government. Sncewips means ‘a conversation with an ancestor’ or ‘how our tangible objects tell our story.’
“It feels good to know that there are people out there who are curious and just want to learn,” says Michelle Joe, manager of language and culture/heritage.
“Sometimes learning about another culture is uncomfortable so to see people grow past that’s amazing and that’s a true form of reconciliation.”
Filled with tangible and intangible objects, it’s an important stop to learn and appreciate the Indigenous history of the Okanagan.
“I love being surrounded by all of our historical artifacts. It’s like I’m stepping into where I am with my ancestors and it’s like they’re speaking to me through these walls,” Joe adds.
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If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of British Columbia, head over to Hoodoo Adventures in the South Okanagan. Founded in 2007, they specialize in outdoor kayak, bike and climb tours.
“It’s really important that people feel connected to nature,” says Hoodoo Adventure Guide Davide Civico.
“There’s so much that we can get from nature if we are only able to allow nature to help us.”
“Originally, it was built for the train to pass through. In about the year 2000, it turned into a bike trail. People come here with their bikes and their dogs to enjoy the breeze and the views,” says Civico.
“I would say this is one of the best views you can get a view of the Okanagan Lake.”
If you’re feeling a bit nervous, Hoodoo Adventures has a roster of super friendly instructors and guides to help you along.
Full disclosure: I am not the most outdoorsy person. I only learned how to ride a bike at the age of 22 and the idea of riding a trail was extremely intimidating.
But my guide, Davide, helped me through the nerves.
Whether it was politely correcting my form, teaching me the importance of shifting gears or sharing interesting facts about the scenery, it was both an emotional and physical milestone that I’ll never forget.
After a day of pedaling and sightseeing, I was ready to explore a different kind of view—a fine wine or two.
Head over to the Naramata Bench and find your joy at JoieFarm Winery. The red farmhouse is home to their beautiful tasting room that includes an outdoor backyard with scenic views of the vineyards, mountains and lake.
“JoieFarm has been open for 20 years now. Our first vintage came out in 2004. We’re best known for our Noble blend, our rose, sparkling wine, and our Burgundian varietals—Chardonnay and Pinot Noir,” shares General Manager BJ Tumanut.
For those eager to explore more, JoieFarm sits in the heart of the Naramata Bench and is part of the Aikins Loop Winery Cooperative. This 700-metre stretch is home to four unique wineries, including Van Westen Vineyards, Elephant Island Winery, and Deep Roots Winery.
“In the 10km of the Naramata Bench, there are over 50 wineries, cideries and distilleries. These are mainly small, family-run businesses so if you really like that grassroots and getting to know families and community, this is really nice place to come and visit,” Tumanut adds.
Whether you’re sightseeing, sipping or just soaking in the lake, the Thompson Okanagan offers an authentic experience like no other.
With over 120 distinct communities, each brimming with its unique charm, the Okanagan Valley is a must-visit destination for your next getaway to the region.