Along with its natural beauty, the Osoyoos area is a great spot to enjoy eco-friendly experiences. Located in the South Okanagan near the U.S. border, Osoyoos is home to sustainable restaurants, wineries, farms, and fun. Here are five ways to enjoy the Osoyoos area.
Sip sustainable wines
There’s a reason that 60 per cent of the wine grapes in B.C. are grown in the South Okanagan. The terroir is unique and complex, from basalt rock to alluvial dry creeks. Try these wineries leading the way in sustainable practices: Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, Checkmate Winery, Covert Farms Family Estate, Phantom Creek Estates, Ursa Major Winery, and Tinhorn Creek Vineyards.
Farm to fork cuisine
If you enjoy mouthwatering dishes made from local seasonal vegetables and top-quality proteins, the Osoyoos area has excellent options. Visit Terrafina Restaurant at Hester Creek Winery, Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, Park 15 Bistro at the Watermark Beach Resort, The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry at Spirit Ridge, and Backyard Farm Chef’s Table (a private dinner experience).
Eco-experiences
The region is home to a unique desert environment. Learn about local Indigenous culture and history and play at stunning Osoyoos Lake and its surrounding mountains. Check out Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre as well as the Osoyoos Desert Centre for educational experiences. Birders will enjoy the Osoyoos Bird Trail Outpost, which is a new addition to the BC Bird Trail. Osoyoos is a great place for stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking (check out Wakepilot and Above the Board).
E-biking and E-foiling are also fuel-free fun.
Valley in bloom
The South Okanagan is a perfect place to find some of the tastiest fresh fruit and vegetables. Roadside fruit stands are common throughout the region. Spring in Osoyoos is lovely with blooming blossoms from fruit trees. Shop locally made and grown items at the Osoyoos Farmers’ Market on Saturdays, from May 6 to Oct. 7.
Upcoming events in 2023
- The Osoyoos Spring Music Festival is from May 4-13
- Barrel racing returns to Osoyoos Desert Park on Tuesdays April 18-September 19
- The Half-Corked Marathon is May 26-28
- The Cactus Jalopies car show is June 1-4
For more information, visit destinationosoyoos.com.