Thompson Okanagan
By Darcy Nybo
TOURISM BC PHOTO
Yours to Enjoy!
Locals joke about it, visitors don’t believe it, and diehard outdoor enthusiasts swear by it. It’s the four seasons playground; one of the few places on earth where you can go spring skiing on the mountains in the morning, play a round of golf in the afternoon, and finish up your day with a boat cruise on the lake. Not bad if you have the energy.
The most popular of all the Okanagan lakes is Lake Okanagan. Home to the legendary Ogopogo or N’ha-a-tik; this legendary creature tends to stay close to his home at Squally Point across from Peachland. He has been spotted in several locations up and down the lake.
From Penticton to Vernon, there are literally hundreds of things to do, on and off shore. The climate here in unique; perfect for growing fruits and wine grapes, and of course, for creating vacation memories. The Okanagan is well known for its wines and we highly recommend that you do your wine tours on dry land, and preferably with a designated driver. There are tour operators that will take you out for the day to several wineries and get you home safe and sound.
For those who like a little more outdoor activity, this area abounds with Provincial parks, private
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campsites and resorts on both sides of Lake Okanagan.
On the southern shores of Lake Okanagan lies the city of Penticton. Well known for its festivals, Penticton is a great place to relax and enjoy. In late June they host the Penticton Pacific Northwest Elvis Festival. Elvis fans from around the world gather here to be entertained by amateurs and professionals during this three day, hip shaking tribute to the King. In August, there is Peachfest, a must attend event since 1947. The festival comes complete with a parade, live entertainment, a wide variety of food and merchandise vendors, arts and crafts exhibits, authentic aboriginal arts and crafts, and competitions.
If you have a boat, bring it, as you can travel almost anywhere in the Okanagan simply by cruising the 111 km (69 mi) lake. Don’t have a boat? Not to worry there are several marinas in the area that can rent you one by the hour, half day or day.
The south end of Lake Okanagan is virtually one long beach. On it you will find the Penticton Lakeside Resort, the famous ‘Peach on the Beach’ and numerous other accommodations, restaurants and stores. Other beaches in the area include Kickininee, Pyramid, and Soorimpt, which has a boat launch. Travel 14 km north on Hwy 97 to Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park for one of the best beaches in the valley with two public boat launches
www.suncruiser.ca I 2010 SunCruiser OKANAGAN
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