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Discover the finest vineyards in Canada and journey along the most scenic lake country of the Okanagan region with this unique road trip. Learn about the Indigenous peoples of this area, the NLaka’pamux, Syilx, and Secwepemc Nations, each with distinct cultures and traditions.
Responsible tourism means that the experience creates a positive impact for all involved–not just the traveller. Responsible Indigenous tourism in BC means that travel includes consideration of all which is of value to Indigenous Peoples–their communities, languages, and cultures; water, animals, and lands.
How to Travel ResponsiblyRelax and unwind aat Nk’Mip with dining and wine; seek opportunities to learn about Secwepemc culture at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. Experience Quaaout Lodge, located in what is now called the Shuswap Region of BC – beautiful Secwepemculecw.
Upon arrival at Penticton Airport, you will pick up your rental car and head south to Osoyoos, situated in Canada’s only desert. Osoyoos is home to a small group of high-quality wineries, featuring stunning views of orchards, vineyards, and Lake Osoyoos.
Learn MoreEnjoy a guided tour of Nk’Mip Cellars, a winery and vineyard owned by Osoyoos Indian Band. This award-winning, world-class vineyard features premium wines and locally inspired cuisine in a dramatic setting overlooking Lake Osoyoos. Learn about the history of the Osoyoos people and the exciting ecology of the surrounding Syilx lands at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre.
Learn MoreEnjoy a tour of Black Sage Bench on the eastern side of the Oliver Valley, which includes the famous wineries of Burrowing Owl, Church and State, Desert Hills, Sandhill, and Quint Ferreira Estate Winery.
You will journey through some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in western BC – from the arid, semi-desert of the Osoyoos region, into the high plains grasslands and cattle country of the Princeton region, and through Nicola Valley in Syilx lands to Chase in Secwepemc Territory.
The Nicola Valley’s landscape varies dramatically, with wind-blasted cliffs at Windy Canyon near Merritt, glacial shorelines of ancient lakes and rolling grasslands that line the highway. Stop at Kekuli Café in Merritt for Indigenous-inspired cuisine including fresh bannock and delicious organic fair-trade coffee.
From Merritt continue north to Quaaout Lodge & Talking Rock Golf Course, overlooking 1,800 feet of sandy beachfront on Little Shuswap Lake in Chase, BC. Located on Skwlax lands in Secwepemulecw, home of the Secwepemc people, the resort is hosted by the Little Shuswap Indian Band. Secwepemc cultural ambassadors at Quaaout Lodge share traditional practices like smudging, Secwepemc stories, and knowledge of the local land, plants, and animals.
Today, choose between a day of golf at the Talking Rock Golf Course, a mature and a world-renowned course, or try a hot stone massage or signature facial at Le7Ke (pronounced La’ka) Spa. The treatments are inspired by the healing plants of the local people and use organic products infused with herbs such as sage to create deep relaxation with heated river stones.
Quaaout Lodge cultural ambassadors are happy to host your Secwepemc cultural experience. Glide across Shuswap Lake in a canoe as Secwepemc storytellers share legends. Learn about traditional berry picking as you pick and taste summer fruit in Secwepemulecw. See a traditional Secwepemc winter home or participate in a smudging ceremony, with the guidance of an Elder.
Enjoy a delectable dinner at Jack Sam’s Restaurant overlooking beautiful views of Little Shuswap Lake. The menu honours the Indigenous traditions of the region, and most of the food is sourced from producers within a 100-mile radius.
Enjoy a spectacular two-hour drive from Chase to Kelowna. Stop for lunch in Westbank at Kekuli Café. Try their Indigenous inspired foods such as buffalo bannock burger, buffalo stew or wild smoked salmon bannock. Explore some other wineries before catching your flight home. More than 100 wineries and vineyards surround the Okanagan Valley, with 25 located right in Kelowna.
