The first time I heard about South Okanagan, a friend could not stop raving about it. They talked about how nature, adventure, and culture came together perfectly. Their stories painted a picture of vineyards, sparkling lakes, and endless trails that stayed with me until I decided to see it for myself.
But what I found was more than a trip—it was a connection to nature, history, and adventure. A customized tour plan made all the difference, helping me explore at my own pace while discovering all the must-see spots. South Okanagan was not just a destination; it felt like it was made for me!
Starting the Adventure: The South Okanagan Call
I could feel the warmth—not just from the sun but from the energy of the place when I first arrived. South Okanagan is known for its desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. It is a landscape that feels alive with vineyards and golden grasslands stretching out endlessly.
But the best part? It is a destination where you can create your own adventure. With Canadahustle’s custom itinerary – it became my favorite place to travel exactly the way I wanted. And I have to admit this—the custom itinerary helped me explore more than I imagined.
First Stop: Summerland—A Toast of Beauty
I started my journey in Summerland. You can call it a town straight from a storybook. The Bottle Neck Drive with its winding roads and vineyards is simply perfect for wine lovers. I toured several wineries and savored the local red and whites. Each sip told a story of the region.
But it is not just about the wine. Next, you can visit Powell Beach. It is a peaceful place where you can go with your family for adventurous hiking while also enjoying the stunning valley views. And with a personalized plan, you could even find a trail with panoramic views and fewer crowds.
Penticton: Where Two Lakes Meet
Penticton can be your next stop. Nestled between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake—it felt like the heart of south Okanagan. You can start your day by Kayaking on Skaha Lake and enjoying the cool breeze. Later you can switch to hiking to experience the unforgettable view of this place.
What I loved most about Penticton was its cultural vibe. Local festivals and art galleries keep things lively. You can simply stumble upon a music event in a park to get a feeling that the whole town is right there. This place will surely give you a homely vibe even if you are just a tourist.
Osoyoos: The Desert Jewel
Think Canada is all snow and forests? Osoyoos will surprise you. It is home to Canada’s only desert and the landscape is stunning. Spotted Lake with its colorful mineral-rich waters looks like a piece of art.
Osoyoos Lake is another gem. Warm and welcoming, it is perfect for paddleboarding. I found it easy to pick up even as a beginner. My personalized tour plan helped me find a nearby rental spot. Later I also explored the town’s culture—learning about Indigenous traditions and enjoying fresh peaches and cherries from local orchards.
Oliver & Keremeos: Wine & Fresh Harvests
Next on your list can be Oliver, Canada’s wine capital. The Golden Mile and a stretch of top wineries—you can enjoy everything here. A guided tour can teach you about winemaking. Every vineyard has its own story and every glass of wine carries the essence of the land.
Keremeos is all about fresh produce—known as the fruit stand capital. It is the perfect spot to grab juicy apples and fragment peaches. You can even try fishing in the nearby Similkameen River. It feels peaceful and meditative surrounded by natural beauty.
Exploring the natural wonders
South Okanagan is not just about its towns. The landscapes between them are just as special. One highlight is biking the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The views are stunning and the gentle incline makes it easy for everyone.
Here is a post shared by Michael Audet of the beautiful view of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.
Then there are dry grasslands. These unique ecosystems, full of biodiversity—simply feel like another world. I heard stories about the indigenous practices that helped preserve the area.
A Vision for the Future: The National Park Reserve
One inspiring part of my trip was learning about the proposed national park reserve in South Okanagan-Similkameen. This project aims to protect the region’s ecosystem while honoring Indigenous knowledge. It is a reminder that we visitors here must preserve this beauty for the future.
I learned how to support conservation efforts and explore responsibly. Knowing my trip contributed to something meaningful really felt great.
Why South Okanagan should be on your list
Whether you love wine, the outdoors, or culture—South Okanagan has something for you. Every corner offers a new story and every moment feels like an adventure.
With the Canadahustle app, exploring becomes even easier. The app’s self-guided tours, custom itineraries, and insights make planning simple. And it is not just for South Okanagan. From Toronto’s vibrant streets to British Columbia’s natural wonders—the app connects you to the best.
So why wait? Start your adventure today. South Okanagan is ready to welcome you. And with the right guide, it will be a journey you will never forget.