Osoyoos, British Columbia, a.k.a. Canada’s only desert, is saturated with simple pleasures. Stunning landscapes, huge blue skies, warm lakes—did we mention it is really, really hot? It’s also a great place for a family vacay. Discover our very own “pocket desert,” where small-town charm meets wine-country elegance.
stay: Set on Lake Osoyoos, the family-focused Walnut Beach Resort is the very definition of summertime bliss. From the private beach to the huge outdoor pool, the lake views are nothing short of spectacular. With our tiny travellers in tow for this holiday, a fully equipped kitchen was mandatory—and Walnut Beach delivered. Early evenings are prime barbecue time, as staying families gather to dine, dip and enjoy the long summer twilight. Walnut Beach Resort, 4200 Lakeshore Dr., Osoyoos, 250-495-5400, www.walnutbeachresort.com
sup: Removing kids from the pool can be tricky—that’s why dining poolside at the resort’s Promenade Wine Bar makes so much sense. If you’re looking for breakfast options to fuel your early risers, pay an a.m. visit to Good Karma Kitchen on Main Street, serving up stellar pancakes for young palettes and plenty of good vibes. In the evening, switch gears from swimsuits to summer dresses and head up the ridge to Talon’s Restaurant. With stunning vineyard views, even our little diners knew they were in for a treat. The potato-wrapped halibut is exceptional, as is the wine list. Talon’s Restaurant, Spirit Ridge Resort, 1200 Rancher Creek Rd., Osoyoos, 250-495-5445, www.spiritridge.ca
play: Driving through Osoyoos (with wee ones), it’s impossible not to notice Rattlesnake Canyon amusement park. In fact, it took our four-year-old all of one minute to identify it as a must-see attraction. A morning spent go-karting, mini golfing and bumper-boat riding left us grown-ups feeling somewhat young(ish) again and our kids riding high for hours. Rattlesnake Canyon, 5502 Main St. RR 6, Osoyoos, 250-495-3544, www.rattlesnakecanyon.ca
discover: Don’t head home before exploring the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (pronounced in-ka-meep), contructed into a hillside and containing a payload of indoor/outdoor interactive opportunities to discover the area and the rich culture of the Okanagan people. Kids will love learning about desert critters, peeking inside a traditional sweat lodge and hearing the legends of Sen’klip (Coyote) in two multi-sensory theatres. Feeling fearless? Try the centre’s newest attraction: rappeling down a 65-foot mountain! Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, 1000 Rancher Creek Rd., Osoyoos, 250-495-7901, www.nkmipdesert.com
You’re guaranteed to leave Osoyoos feeling sun-kissed, blissed-out … and longing to return. —Elizabeth Hewitt
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