Central Okanagan

Signs of the wine industry’s efforts to rebuild are evident in the rows of tender young plants in the vineyards of the Central Okanagan. The winters of 2023 and 2024 struck this area particularly hard as many vineyards occupy higher elevations. But the landscape now is bursting with new life, hope and inspiration.

The Central Okanagan remains the go-to area of BC Wine Country as it offers a desirable combination of city activities, long stretches of sandy beaches, countless marine activities, easy access to golf, skiing and other outdoor adventures, plus all the wine you could possibly drink.

The region is home to Kelowna, BC’s sixth largest city and once the fastest growing in Canada. And although you’ll now find 40-plus storey buildings here, this community is rooted in a rich agricultural history. And it’s where BC’s wine industry got its start.

Father Charles Pandosy is credited with setting up the first vineyards at the Obelate Mission near Kelowna back in 1859. The purpose was to make sacramental wines for his parish. The first commercial winery opened here in 1932 and nobody expected it would lead the industry to where it is today, with more than 340 licensed grape wineries province-wide, and many more breweries, cideries and distilleries. 

As far as destinations go, the Central Okanagan has it all. The region has three distinct communities – Kelowna and West Kelowna, separated by William Bennett Bridge at the narrowest point of Okanagan Lake; and Lake Country, located north of Kelowna on the way to Vernon. The area offers the scenic wonders of the great outdoors that will appeal to adventurers, with the convenience of an urban setting for those who crave modern conveniences. 

It is here you will find miles of sandy beaches hugging the shores of Okanagan, Kalamaka and Wood lakes that attract families and sun worshipers, as well as hiking and biking trails within minutes of a central core. There are plenty of options for accommodations, shopping, fine dining, entertainment, arts and cultural activities, historical attractions and much more. You’re also just a stone’s throw away from dozens of golf courses, trails and nature preserves. 

If you’re here for the winter, less than an hour’s drive from downtown Kelowna, you’ll find a winter destination resort renowned for its champagne powder snow and family-friendly vibe. 

Wine enthusiasts have their pick of wineries to choose from. There are key pockets of producers in West Kelowna off Boucherie Road offering sweeping lake views. There’s another concentration in the south east area of Kelowna. And many more can be found scattered along the scenic winding roads of Lake Country, west of Highway 97. Consult the maps provided in this guide to find a tour that is right for you.