6 stops for an epic road trip between Vancouver and Kelowna
So you’re heading to Kelowna — a town praised for its wine culture, glorious range of mountains, orchards, and picturesque lakes. While it’s a bit of a drive out of Vancouver, the scenic views and fun adventures along the way make it an unforgettable road trip.
Here’s how you can break up your four-hour journey from Vancouver to Kelowna.
High tea in Fort Langley
Fort Langley is the best combination of the countryside and small-town vibes.
We suggest walking up and down Glover Road to find amazingly curated and aesthetic shops and boutiques here. Or, stay warm indoors sipping on tea at Little White House Co.
This Fort Langley spot is in a charming historical house with a retail shop right next door. Its afternoon teas, feature finger sandwiches and its signature Creme de la Earl Grey tea.
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It’s the perfect stop on a fall road trip.
Harrison Hot SpringsĀ
Harrison Hot Springs. (Shutterstock)
So you’ve been driving for about an hour and a half into your road trip. Why not rest and recover for the three hours left on your journey in Harrison Hot Springs?
You can grab a locally roasted coffee and a quick breakfast at the Muddy Waters Cafe in town or walk along Esplanade Avenue to check out the local stores along the lakefront.
Then, find somewhere to eat lunch. Milos Greek TavernaĀ and theĀ Black Forest Steak and Schnitzel HouseĀ are a couple of unique options with amazing views.
But, of course, the best option of all — the natural hot springs!
Chilliwack
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Just off the highway, you can stretch your legs with a short hike at Bridal Veil Falls Park east of Chilliwack, where youāll be misted by the beautiful waterfall in under 15 minutes. Be careful in the colder months, as the base of the falls could be hazardous and slippery when it freezes.
Lindeman Lake
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This trail in the Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is a great cardio workout and fun to go with friends. The lake is perfect for a polar plunge if you can handle it. Overall, this hike is perfect for beginners who want to get into back-country camping and in the summer months can even break up your trip into two fun-filled days.
Fruit stands in Keremeos
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While you could stick to driving along the Coquihalla Highway, detouring to Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3) will lead you into Keremeos, which is the second-largest town in the Similkameen — also known as āThe Fruit Stand Capital of Canada.ā
Depending on the time of year you are driving through the southern parts of the province, there are plenty of roadside fruit stands to choose from.
But if you do happen to go in the wintertime, the Similkameen Valley along Highway 3 boasts world-class snow activities like skiing at Manning Park Resort, ice fishing on one of the many lakes, and plenty of options to follow it up with some delicious food.
Stop at a world-class winery
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You’re almost there!
No matter which highway you drive, there are so many incredible attractions to check out.
Once you hit Kelowna, what better way to celebrate than pre-drinks at one (or two) of the amazing wineries?
Take in the amazing views, and if you’re not the DD, enjoy a well-deserved glass of wine before making your way to your hotel or short-term rental.
Some of our favourite wineries in the city are Mission Hill Family Estate Winery and Rollingdale Winery, but there are so many to choose from. We even rounded up the best views so you can sip and relax in style.
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Where do you like to stay in Kelowna? Let us know in the comments.