Travel

10 reasons to visit Penticton this winter

posted on November 21st, 2018 at 12:30 PM
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      Whether you’re searching for a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a weekend package deal, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for in Penticton. With cozy accommodations and plenty of entertainment, it’s easy to see why Penticton is a favourite destination for B.C. winter getaways.

      Located in the heart of Okanagan wine country, Penticton offers a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities year-round, making it perfect for a Christmastime vacation—and beyond. Just a four-hour drive or 45-minute flight from Vancouver, Penticton is easily accessible for a mini break that’s sure to become your annual retreat.

      Here are 10 reasons to take a trip to Penticton this holiday season.

      A short 30-minute drive from Penticton, the resort offers downhill skiing and snowboarding plus a handful of other activities for all age groups. Be sure to check out the online events calendar, which kicks off with the opening day of the winter season on December 8. Lace up your skates and try the one-kilometre adventure skating loop or challenge some friends to a game on the NHL-sized outdoor hockey rink. The resort also has a tube park that’s ideal for younger children or nonskiers.

      Only seven kilometres from Apex Mountain Resort, Nickel Plate Nordic Centre boasts 50 kilometres of cross-country ski trails groomed for both classic and skate skiing. Day passes, lessons, and equipment rentals are all available. The centre also offers a range of lessons and formats to suit every ability, from the beginner to the more experienced skier hoping to hone their skills. All instructors are certified with the Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (CANSI), and the ski school is managed by one of CANSI’s top certified instructors.

      With over 2,000-square-feet of climbing, Hoodoo Adventures offers options for climbers at every level. If you’re not quite sure how to get involved, introductory indoor courses are available.

      Fat bikes have wider tires with a much lower pressure that provide incredible traction and a smooth, comfortable ride. They'll take on snow, gravel, and regular terrain making them the best set of wheels for exploring the places that you couldn't go otherwise on a standard bike. Spend a day exploring the famous Kettle Valley Rail Trail or head up to Apex Mountain Resort for a spectacular alpine experience.

      The Penticton Art Gallery has been open since 1967 and offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in some culture on your next South Okanagan vacation. The gallery’s exhibits change monthly with the goal of interpreting, preserving, and promoting the visual artistic heritage of the region and the province in relation to national and international art. There are also several galleries located in the downtown core featuring talented local artists for your touring pleasure.

      Whether you want to savour a multicourse, wine-paired dinner or enjoy some hearty gastropub fare, Penticton can deliver. With more than 140 eateries, offering internationally inspired dishes with a bit of local flair, you’re sure to find something to satisfy the most discerning palate.

      With over 80 wineries less than 20 minutes away, Penticton is a wine-lover’s paradise. A number of wineries remain open year-round including during the quieter winter months, so you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a more personal tasting. You may even meet a winemaker or two.

      In Penticton there’s a saying that it takes a lot of great beer to make fine wine. It is a natural fit then, that in the middle of wine country, you’ll also find a dynamic craft beer scene with five local breweries. In fact, craft beer has become so popular in the area that expedia.ca recognized Penticton as one of .

      Nothing is quite as invigorating as a winter hike, with the sound of the crisp white snow crunching beneath your feet.  Rent a pair of snowshoes and discover some hidden trails or take a guided tour and learn about the history, flora, and fauna of Penticton’s winter wonderland. 

      If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs, gifts, or just want to get into the holiday spirit, Penticton’s Farmer’s Winter Market takes place every second Saturday until December 22, and offers plenty of inspiration. Don't miss the Santa Claus Parade in Downtown Penticton on December 1.

      But if you are still looking for some guidance on how to make the most of your next trip, make the Penticton Visitor Centre (888 Westminster Avenue West) your first stop when you arrive. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will help with suggestions on things to do, where to dine, places to taste local beverages, and even provide a list of local events. Visit the  for more information.

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