I am SO glad I had the opportunity to visit the Okanagan this summer! I was very grateful to be able to make the trip, especially after the wildfires this year. I spent about four days enjoying the Okanagan, specifically in the South Okanagan, and I’m going to share a few highlights with you to create your very own itinerary! Read on for the perfect 3-day itinerary to enjoy summer in the South Okanagan.
Day 1: Local Fruit + Home Cooking
To be honest, initially I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to make the trip out: the fires were very dangerous and scary. Initially, some flights were being cancelled to ensure they had enough airspace to adequately fight the fires. Thankfully, it cleared up (mostly) in time for me to visit. I have the biggest gratitude for all of the firefighters in the Okanagan who worked so diligently this past month, and always, to keep our spaces safe! 💛 you can support BC firefighters here.
With all of that said, after a very long road trip making my way out, I was able to enjoy my short but sweet trip as much as I could. Enjoying fresh fruit off my grandparents trees, seeing gorgeous flowers, and cooking/baking with my mom was amazing. Walks along the river and charcuterie boards were also much needed! Plus, you can never go wrong with getting local produce and cooking homemade pizza. Soooo delicious. I highly suggest visiting the local fruit stands and farmers market to gather your own produce, and making some fantastic meals at home!
Day 2: Wine Tasting
Of course, I got the chance to sneak in some wine tasting too! I checked out a couple new spots including the Rose Wine Bar at Second Chapter, and Rainmaker Wines. My family and I also went to visit French Door, where my cousin is currently working, for a tasting! They had a great view and the CUTEST winery dog.
Our final stop was at VinAmite Cellars, where we did a tasting and had a charcuterie board. It was absolutely delicious. I spoke with their team and I’m very excited to share that their winery actually purchased 10 copies of my book, that they now have for sale! They have a few gorgeous bookshelves inside the winery, and I’m so proud that my book now sits up there. If you’re in the South Okanagan, make sure to stop by VinAmite for a tasting and to purchase my book!! ♥️
Day 3: Beach Day
After we had our fill of wine, we decided it was time for a beach day. We finally had a hot day on my last day there and enjoyed the beach at Osoyoos Lake. I was definitely craving some hot, summer, beach time and it didn’t disappoint! Later on, we grabbed some dinner and swung by Roberto’s Gelato for some homemade gelato – I had the Okanagan cherry sorbet and it was INCREDIBLE. Highly recommend checking them out!
Everything was truly amazing and it made me realize how much I deeply appreciate local – local food, local support, local community. It means SO much to me and I am so proud to be from the Okanagan. ♥️
Full itinerary
Here’s a condensed 3-day South Okanagan itinerary if you’re wanting to visit the area, and maximize your summer fun:
- Day 1: check out local fruit stands, purchase local produce, and do some home cooking – everything tastes better local!
- Day 2: wine tasting at various wineries located between Oliver and Osoyoos, such as Second Chapter, Rainmaker, French Door, and VinAmite.
- Day 3: beach day! Head to Osoyoos Lake and bring water, drinks, snacks, a towel, and lots of sunscreen to enjoy. Don’t forget grabbing some gelato after!
I hope you enjoy your visit exploring the South Okanagan! I had an incredible time and already can’t wait for the next trip back. Tag me in your photos so I can see what you’re up to @chiaragoesglobal 😊
