Summer Information For Penticton In British Columbia






May 16, 08

Penticton
British Columbia

Wine Country

Penticton, located in the Okanagan Valley, is known as "British Columbia's Wine Country." Its position in the valley, with one lake to the north and another to the south, makes Penticton a recreational paradise.

Fun in the Sun

Bordered by Okanagan and Skaha lakes, Penticton offers many water sports. Windsurfing, boating, jet skiing, sailboating and swimming can all be found at the two lakes. And the Penticton River Channel that connects the them is a perfect place for a trip afloat.

Numerous trails wind through the landscape on the outskirts of the city. Mountain bikers can find anything ranging from gentle grades to rugged terrain. The many trails are great for hiking as well. The Kettle Valley Railway bed is a favorite of hikers and mountain bikers alike.

Rock climbers will find a challenge here as well. Skaha Bluffs, a naturally occurring escarpment, is rated world-class within the industry for climbers. Top-line the bluffs for an amazing view of the entire valley, or if heights aren't your thing, traverse a boulder face an equally thrilling experience. Explore the more than 600 climbing routes on your own or with a guide.

Penticton has been called a golfing Mecca. It has one of the longest playing seasons in the country, stretching from mid-March to November. The Okanagan Valley is British Columbia's premier golfing destination for golfers of all abilities. The valley boasts more than 12 courses from Summerland, just north of Penticton, to the United States border. Courses range from world-class championship 18-hole courses to 9-hole courses nestled between vineyards and lakes.

Picturesque Wineries

Besides being perfect for outdoor activities, the weather here is just right for growing grapes. The long hot summers and mild winters, coupled with more than 2,000 hours of sunshine each year, make for very lush vineyards. The area boasts 30 picturesque wineries. Many offer vineyard tours and wine tastings.

The Okanagan Wine Festival is just one of the summer's events. Grapes are not the only agriculture that thrives here. Tour the jam and jelly manufacturer, the dried fruit factory or the microbrewery.

Unique shops, galleries showing artists from around the globe,and restaurants serving anything from gourmet to pub fare line the streets.

The Leir House Cultural Centre, a stone house built in the 1920s, now houses music, drama, literary arts and theater.

Mammoth Mountain