Vernon

Nestled between the beautiful Swan, Kalamalka, and Okanagan lakes in the North Okanagan Valley, lies the city of Vernon, the oldest community in British Columbia’s interior. Vernon is a major vacation destination for those flocking to the Okanagan Valley, and is one of those rare cities where beauty and an abundance of recreational and cultural activities combine to create an exceptional quality of life. Take a self-guided tour of downtown Vernon’s Outdoor Historic Murals, to explore its rich history. Or visit nearby historic O’Keefe Ranch, established in 1867, from May to October. Explore Silver Star Provincial Park during winter for great skiing, or during summer for hiking, and don’t miss Vernon’s most popular ride for mountainbikes at Spanky’s. Okanagan golf is available at a full range of courses in the area. Besides fruit growing, winemaking is the hot ticket in the Okanagan, and British Columbians have long taken inordinate pride in their wines. Ever since the province authorized estate and smaller farmgate wineries, many excellent small wineries have popped up. Take the Okanagan Valley Wine Train as a different way to explore the Okanagan wine region. Nearly three dozen quaint wineries set in lush vineyards operate in the Okanagan Valley, welcoming visitors to sample world class wines while enjoying the scenery of nearby lakes and mountains. Ask your Vernon Bed and Breakfast innkeepers about their favorite vintage!