A Couple’s Guide To Winter In The North Okanagan
Amid the pace of daily life, taking a moment to cherish loved ones can feel like a rare gift. A shared laugh, a quiet meal, or a simple gesture can reignite the bonds that matter most. The North Okanagan offers an ideal setting to focus on these moments; a place where time seems to move just a little more slowly. Escape for a weekend and connect over outdoor adventures, mouth watering dining, and cozy experiences. Indulge in togetherness. This is the place for it.
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Couples who thrive on a thrill can choose their adventure at SilverStar Mountain Resort. Ski or snowboard down the slopes, enjoying snug gondola rides back to the summit. Stop in at Bugaboos Bakery to share a freshly baked croissant in a quiet corner, gazing out a steamy window at the world outside. As evening falls, lace up some skates and glide across the ice at Brewer’s Pond. Take in the crisp mountain air and the views of Silver Star under the stars, where the snow-laden trees and the quiet of the night invite a sense of wonder and peace. Alternatively, embark on a serene snowshoe journey beneath the forest canopy. Let the moonlight kiss your cheeks and remember a flask of something hot to sip on. Warm up beside a fire pit at Tube Town or one of the huts nestled in the lower trail network. For a change of pace, spend a day exploring Vernon and meander along the Okanagan Rail Trail by foot or e-bike, admiring the calm waters of Kalamalka Lake along the way. Pause to spot deer or bald eagles that frequent the shores and nearby parks.
Connect
Immerse yourselves in experiences unique to the North Okanagan. A spa day at Sparkling Hill Resort offers a luxurious retreat, the rejuvenating KurSpa features steam rooms, saunas, treatments, and a heated year-round infinity pool. Sink into the embrace of healing waters while your eyes rest on sweeping views of Okanagan Lake. For a dinner reservation that will leave a lasting impression, climb aboard the Paradise Camp Snow Cat at Silver Star. The starlit journey leads to an exclusive dining experience in the heart of the mountains. Bask in the glow of a lantern-lit table and savor every bite of the three expertly crafted gourmet courses. For a night out in Vernon, enjoy live music at the Vernon Jazz Club, where the intimate atmosphere enhances every performance, or take in a production at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre, known for showcasing both local and international talent.
Taste
The North Okanagan’s ample vineyards and fertile farmlands offer a selection of culinary delights, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine in farm-to-table dishes at Black Pine Social, including specialties like shrimp risotto or pan-seared chicken paired with kabocha gnocchi. Relish the harmony of local wines and expertly crafted plates at The Edge Restaurant and Bar. Nestled above The Rise Golf Course, the restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of Okanagan Lake, and a varied menu created from seasonal local produce. Alternatively, sample traditional European fare at Gerni’s Farmhouse, a 16th-century Austrian building with a menu inspired by its historical roots. The menu is packed with classic flavours such as Rindsgulasch (beef goulash) and Gebratene Forelle (seared trout). These venues provide calm and inviting settings, ideal for savoring flavors and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Rest
Accommodations in the North Okanagan are as varied as they are inviting. Rooms at Sparkling Hill Resort feature large, comfortable beds, two-person bathtubs, and the option of breathtaking mountain or lake views. Soothe tired muscles by indulging in a couples spa treatment. The “Empress Sissi” includes a milk and honey infused bath, champagne and chocolate within reach, followed by an hour long side-by-side massage. Retreat to one of the open plan, crystal-studded rooms to watch the sunset in comfort. For a more private getaway, Silver Star Stays offers entire houses or suites, providing a home away from home. Cozy cabins often include fireplaces and private hot tubs, perfect for intimate evenings. Alternatively, consider staying in Vernon at the Best Western Premier, known for its comfortable rooms, fitness facilities, and pool. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Let actions speak louder than words. Embrace the lifestyle of the North Okanagan, where the little things matter and quality time takes center stage. Perhaps this is where hearts find the connection they seek, through the gift of time well spent.
