With August well underway, we know most young professionals are itching for a break from the office and are likely looking for a few unique ways to get outta town. We know there’s plenty of camping to be done closer to the city, Gulf Islands to explore by ferry, and Whistler, of course.
But why not tack a few extra hours onto your drive and arrive at a truly stunning and different destination in BC’s Okanagan region? Over the past decade, wineries have popped up all over the Valley – as have some of the best restaurants, bistros, markets and resorts that will make you want to stay longer.
Here are a few noteworthy resort picks on our list.
Sparkling Hill Resort (888 Sparkling Place, Vernon) has been open for a few years now, but still radiates a sense of newness. It is a unique place we doubt you’ll find anywhere else and the perfect escape for YPs looking for a bit of reclusive R&R (it takes about 30 minutes driving just to get there from town). It all starts with the several thousand Swarovski crystals strategically placed throughout the resort – from entrance, to garden pathways, to pool, meant to enhance the sense of relaxation.
Stunning luxury rooms await, with plush, oversized king beds and expansive valley views. The resort offers a complimentary breakfast buffet that will more than keep you satiated. Be sure to visit the KurSpa for a treatment and follow up with a steam or sauna, or head to the pool with that book you’ve been meaning to seriously get into.
Walnut Beach Resort (4200 Lakeshore Drive, Osoyoos) is another noteworthy waterfront boutique hotel on our must-stay list for the Okanagan. About a 4.5-hour drive from Vancouver, you’ll see it’s worthwhile upon arrival. The Resort offers a spectacular view of the lake and vineyard-strewn countryside. Guests can opt to snag a cabana along the private beach, or score a chaise-lounge pool side – regardless, the Margaritas will taste great anywhere.
There are plenty of on-site activities to keep you busy, be it a bit of boating, water sports or a few hours at the resort spa – you’ve got everything you need at your fingertips. A quick trip into town for some shopping, pub-hopping or winery venturing is easily done (check out the Black Hills Winery Experience Centre for some poolside tasting with an unforgettable view for starters).
The Cove Lakeside Resort (4205 Gellatly Road, West Kelowna) is another worthwhile consideration for YPs looking for a place to get away to this summer. This is a full-service, luxury spot located just outside all of the K-town action (with fully-loaded in-suite kitchens to help keep costs down). With easy access to Lake Okanagan, off-suite balcony views overlooking the stunning surroundings and beachfront BBQ-ing, it feels almost like it’s your own cabin…but with a few extra perks.
If you feel like chilling out and doing nothing, just lounge by one of several pools or find a spot by the water. Looking to work up a bit of a sweat? Try out some tubing or wakeboarding, borrow a kayak or SUP and enjoy the lake. The resort also boasts a top-notch gym and several tennis courts to meet the needs of all adrenalin junkies.