Seniors Visit the Okanagan Valley

It is always nice for us senior oenophiles to discover a new and rarely visited group of fine vineyards. This one is in Canada and a region that does not get as cold as much of Canada does. The Okanagan, also known as the Okanagan Valley and sometimes as the Okanagan Country, is located in the southern interior of British Columbia, beautiful with scenic beauty in every direction.

The natural landscape of the Thompson Okanagan includes mountains, valleys, desert, and everything in between. Boasting nearly 82 per cent of the total vineyard acreage in the province, the Okanagan Valley is British Columbia’s premier grape growing region. In addition to the wineries and scenic wonders is Lake Okanagan, the largest body of water in the Okanagan Valley.

The highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, a waterfall twice the height of Niagara Falls, and Canada’s only true desert environment are all found in this region. Foodies flock to the area’s renowned orchards and vineyards; families can’t get enough of the many sandy, lakeside beaches; and outdoor enthusiasts come for the golfing, hiking, biking and skiing.

Senior Oenophiles Find Large Wine Region

The history and culture of the region, from its Aboriginal peoples to European fur traders to winemakers and food producers, is strongly tied to the land. This is reflected in many of the area’s museums, heritage sites, and much of its artwork, where the colorful past is brought to life for senior visitors.

The Okanagan Valley is the second largest wine region in Canada with approximately 4000 hectares (9884.2 acres) of vineyards. The Okanagan accounts for producing more than 90% of British Columbia Wine. Wine Spectator notes that British Columbia’s emerging Okanagan Valley has the makings of a serious wine region.

The largest city in the Valley is Kelowna highly praised for it wine festivals. Then head for Penticton for the sugary summer Peach Festival. Just off to the south is Osoyoos, home to an arid desert filled with rare plants and animals. Senior bikers enjoy riding along a well marked trail through Myra Canyon, rated #1 as a must see site.  Enjoy your visit to BC and the famed Valley. -jeb