Osoyoos BC
Desert Wine Country

Osoyoos BC is located at the southern most point in the South Okanagan, minutes away from the Canada/USA border.

It is also regarded as the Capital City of this region.

The city is actually the only hot desert in Canada, sitting at the northern most point in the Sonara Desert that extends all the way down to Mexico.

Believe it or not, there are cactus and tumbleweeds all around the area. It is quite a sight to see when you visit this beautiful city!

Another incredible fact that not too many people are aware of (including me) is that the area is home to the only banana plantation in Canada!

I haven't visited here yet, so maybe I'll see you there one day.

It is definitely near the top of my must see and things to do list.

The city has much history to it, originally named O-sue-use by the native people who have lived here, and still do, for several thousand years. The name translates into "the narrows", which refers to the cinched waistline of Osoyoos Lake.

The summer is hot with daily temperatures regularly topping 38°C(100°F). You will find Osoyoos BC listed on weather statistics as having Canada's high temperature many times during the season.

The winter is cold with temperatures usually around the freezing mark of 0°C(32°F). Not very cold by most of Canada's climate standards but still quite chilly. It is still nice enough to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.

Osoyoos weather is something anyone to this area enjoys year-round!

Top Ten Things To Do and See

There are many activities and events happening year round in this popular tourist location. I'll list some of my favourite spots that I have enjoyed.

• Visit the Osoyoos Museum and wander through the "best small town museum" in British Columbia.
• Take a stroll down to the Pioneer Walkway in the hotel and motel district of town. Here there is a waterfront park where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
• You can't visit Osoyoos BC without a stop at Rattlesnake Canyon. This is a family entertainment park. There is miniature golf, bumper boats, and so much more family fun and excitement!
• You have to see the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad. The theme here is of European towns and villages.
• There are a couple of provincial parks in the area, Haynes Point Provincial Park and Vaseux Lake Provincial Park. You can enjoy the outdoor surroundings with a picnic, hiking, or whatever you fancy.
• Another great place to visit in Osoyoos BC is The Windmill. Here they have a totally authentic replica of a fully operational stone grinding flour mill, just like you would find in Holland.
• Relax after taking a tour at The Windmill Tea House. You won't be disappointed!
  
• Spotted Lake and its colourful spots are something to see. Take Hwy 3 just west of the city. You can't miss it!

• In the summer, Osoyoos Lake is the place to hang out. This is one of the warmest lakes in Canada. It is 19Km(11.5miles) long and extends into Washington State in the United States. Sun tan by the beach, swim in the lake, or go boating on the water. This really is a top notch lake!
  
• Drive up to the Anarchist Mountain Lookout and take in the spectacular view. Here you can scan much of the Okanagan Valley and even part of Washington State!
  
• Are you into a little more adult activity. Enjoy a little heritage of this city and taste testing at the Nk'Mip Cellars Winery. This is the first native owned winery in North America and only the second in the world!

There are several accommodation options in this South Okanagan community. From Bed and Breakfasts to hotels and motels, there is a place to suit everyone's budget.

In the warmer months there is camping and RV locations for your outdoor pleasure.

There is nothing like a night out on a warm summer evening relaxing by a campsite. Roasting marshmallows by the roaring campfire and sipping on your favourite beverage... now this is the life!

It is certainly one of my favourite activities to do in the South Okanagan.

From the B.C wine tours to the Okanagan campers there is something for everyone to experience in this paradise city. Stop on by Osoyoos BC and enjoy what tourists and locals both agree is a great place to visit.

See you there!

Okanagan Valley Guide will be updated regularly. Please return often or bookmark this site. I will be adding more pages of exciting information for you.

Thanks for visiting.

See you soon!