Visiting Osoyoos in the springtime is like having paradise (almost) all to yourself.
Canada’s delightful desert town is known as a summer hot spot, but spring is a great time to beat the crowds of tourists as well as take advantage of off-season deals at a variety of accommodations.
Things to Do
The Osoyoos area is heating up with things to do.
Food and wine, of course, are at the top of the list. The area abounds with vineyards and restaurants. There are more than 50 wineries between the Oliver-Osoyoos and Similkameen wine regions. With many new wine releases out in the spring, it’s an excellent time to try new vintages and varietals that typically sell out before the end of summer.
Trails are greening up and the cooler spring weather makes hiking and biking a breeze. Some of the best desert trails in all of B.C. are in the Osoyoos and the South Okanagan region. Scenic standouts are the International Hike and Bike Trail, Golden Mile Trail, Irrigation Canal Walkway, Mount Kobau Trail, and the nʕaylintn (McIntyre Bluff) trail.
There are other ways to get around, including horseback. The Sun Hills Riding Centre offers a guided tour through the desert.
If a walk is no fun for you unless you’re hitting a ball along the way, there are several great golf options, including elite courses.
While visiting an agricultural paradise, it’s a travesty not to pick up fresh fruit and produce. The Osoyoos Farmers’ Market happens on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Town Hall Square on Main Street.
Upcoming Events
- Barrel racing returns to Osoyoos Desert Park on Tuesdays April 18-Sept. 19.
- The Half-Corked Marathon is May 26-28.
- The Cactus Jalopies car show is June 1-4.
- Osoyoos Cherry Fiesta is on July 1
For more information, visit destinationosoyoos.com.