Unforgettable Summer: Top Ten Activities for Adventure-Seekers
Vernon, BC, is a hidden gem in the Okanagan Valley, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for adventurous spirits and those wanting to unwind with a touch of excitement, here are the top ten activities to make your summer in Vernon unforgettable. Stay tuned for our upcoming kid-friendly list, but for now, these experiences are exclusively for the grown-ups.
1. Paddle Vernon’s Lakes: A Day of SUP Adventure
Soak up the sunshine and experience Vernon’s natural beauty from a new perspective—on a stand up paddleboard! With three incredible lakes to explore—Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and Swan Lake—there’s no shortage of scenic paddling routes. Glide across the deep blue waters of Okanagan Lake, marvel at the vibrant turquoise tones of Kalamalka Lake, or enjoy the calm, reflective surface of Swan Lake. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or trying SUP for the first time, these lakes offer the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
2. Savour the Season at Cambium Cider Co.
Visit Cambium Cider Co., a 3rd-generation, organic apple orchard, for some of the finest ciders crafted from local apples. The family has grown apples here since 1946, producing a variety of modern and heritage apples. These fruits are hand-harvested and fermented into craft ciders, blended and bottled at the orchard ciderhouse.
Enjoy food from the wood-fired kitchen, relax on the patio, and savour a flight of crisp cider while enjoying live music every Wednesday and Thursday night in the summer! There's no denying that Cambium offers the perfect Okanagan evening.
3. Conquer the Trails on a Mountain Bike
Adventure enthusiasts will love the extensive network of mountain biking trails around Vernon. For an adrenaline-packed experience, head up to SilverStar Mountain Resort to explore their renowned bike park, offering trails for every level of rider and convenient bike rentals.
Discover the scenic and challenging trails at Predator Ridge, with bike rentals available on-site, and embark on an unforgettable journey through rolling hills and breathtaking vistas. For more adventure, visit the exciting paths of Ellison Provincial Park, where diverse trails wind through dense forests and along rocky cliffs. Finally, enjoy the picturesque routes at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, meandering alongside crystal-clear waters and vibrant wildflowers.
After an exhilarating day of biking, unwind with a burger and a pint at one of Vernon's top spots for après:
4. Golf at Predator Ridge Resort
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the renowned Predator Ridge Resort, featuring two 18-hole championship courses. Enjoy impeccably landscaped greens set against the backdrop of rolling hills and stunning lake views, perfect for a day of golf and relaxation. End your day with a delicious dinner at RANGE restaurant, bar + patio, where you can savour beautiful views with premium Okanagan wines and craft cocktails.
5. Unwind at Sparkling Hill Resort
Unwind with a stay at the luxurious Sparkling Hill Resort, an adults-only retreat offering unparalleled wellness and rejuvenation. At the heart of this resort is the world-class 40,000 sq. ft. KurSpa, the largest luxury spa in British Columbia. Immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation with seven uniquely themed steams and saunas, a heated year-round outdoor infinity pool, and stunning crystal architecture.
After a day of pampering, indulge in exquisite dining at PeakFine restaurant, where gourmet cuisine complements the breathtaking views.
6. Discover Gerni’s Farmhouse at Sparkling Hill Resort
Experience the charm of Austria right here in Vernon, at Gerni’s Farmhouse, located at the luxurious Sparkling Hill Resort. This adults-only (16+) restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake from the authentic 16th century Austrian farmhouse (yes, from Austria!) providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and indulgent meal. Savour traditional Austrian fare, including mouthwatering bratwursts and freshly baked pretzels, all while enjoying a refreshing beer.
7. Explore Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery
Drop in to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery for a tasting session—no booking required. Sample a variety of award-winning spirits, including gin, vodka, whiskey, and liqueurs. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the distillation process. You can also purchase their spirits on site and take home delicious recipes to recreate your own cocktails, from absinthe to whiskey.
8. Soar the Skies - Go Skydiving!
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, experience the thrill of Okanagan Skydive where you can skydive over the stunning landscapes of Vernon. Your skydive will take place between Okanagan Lake and the beautiful turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake! When the time comes to jump, you’ll experience 35 seconds of freefall followed by a peaceful parachute ride where you will soar over lush Okanagan orchards.
9. Visit Vernon's New Winery
Experience the charm of The Perch Winery, a small, family-run gem nestled in the heart of Vernon, BC. This 10-acre farm, including 5.5 acres of estate vineyards, offers a cozy tasting room, a winery manufacturing space, and two casual outdoor picnic areas with breathtaking lake views.
The Perch Winery is passionate about crafting premium quality wines from sustainably grown, modern, and predominantly disease-resistant grapevines. Guests can savor a selection of rare grape varieties and exceptional Pinot Noir 777.
10. Enjoy an Evening of Live Music
Vernon offers a vibrant live music scene perfect for every music lover. Enjoy energetic summer concerts at Cambium Cider Co or visit local venues like SilverStar Brewing Company or The Longhorn Pub for regular live bands and solo artists. Check out the free summer concert series, Downtown Sounds, every Thursday night in July & August. For jazz enthusiasts, Vernon Jazz Club hosts fantastic performances starting in September. Whether it's an outdoor concert or a cozy pub gig, Vernon’s live music scene promises an unforgettable experience.
Vernon is the ultimate destination for adults seeking an unforgettable summer filled with adventure and relaxation. Whether you're soaring through the skies, savoring local flavours, or tackling new challenges, Vernon promises an exciting and memorable experience.
