The ultimate Kelowna itinerary for your active summer road trip

Jun 24 2017, 3:17 am

Getting to Kelowna is easy.

When summer hits BC in full throttle, you only need to pack a few of your warm weather essentials. When you’ve done that, all that’s left to do is gather your best friends, jump in your car, pump up the music, and hit the road.

Just a four hour drive out of Vancouver, Kelowna is a quintessential summer experience that’s only complete with other adventure seekers. Alternatively, you can hop on a plane for a quick 45-minute flight that leaves from Vancouver International Airport.

It’s here that you’ll find the answer to all your summer vacation dreams – gourmet cuisine, a variety of accommodations, hot patios for sipping beer, lush golf courses, paddle boarding, biking, fine wines, and the list goes on.

And on. And on. And on.

Once you’ve hit Kelowna you can’t help but eagerly spring out of the car.

That’s exactly what Daily Hive did when our team visited with the sole intent of experiencing a weekend packed with adventure – here’s what happened.

Hotel

Hotel Zed/Facebook

It was easy enough to snag a last-minute deal for Hotel Zed, a funky hotel that’s perfect for one of those weekends you spend away on a spur of the moment whim. Walk in and you’ll be amazed by everything from the bright exterior that’s juxtaposed by the vibrant colour-filled rooms that almost make you want to dance.

What’s also cool about this hotel is that it’s based in a central downtown location – and that means you can easily walk to the lake, beaches, and restaurants. You’ll want to take advantage of the free roller skates and bikes that let you see Kelowna from a unique perspective – perfect for taking colourful Instagram photos with your friends.

But that’s not to mention the ping pong lounge and of course – the selfie disco. And don’t forget that there’s a chic outdoor patio where you can take in a view of the beach right after you’ve checked in.

Location: 1627 Abbott Street, Kelowna

Golfing

Kelowna is surrounded by mountains, parks, lakes, and vineyards. So naturally, you could say it’s a beautiful place to play a round of golf. Whether you’re a novice, or picture yourself an amateur Rory Mcllroy, you’ll have a monumental time at Kelowna’s awesome golf courses. Take in incredible views with each swing at the Two Eagles golf course, known for its friendly staff, fun track, and stunning lake views.

Location: 3509 Carrington Road, West Kelowna

Dinner

Tourism Kelowna article

19okanagan/Instagram

You don’t need to go far to enjoy delicious food after you work up an appetite on the golf course. The club features 19 Okanagan Grill + Bar, an amazing onsite restaurant that offers up fresh local fare. Here you can choose from scrumptious main courses like pan-roasted duck breast, flat iron steak, or a mouthwatering mushroom burger. You can savour each bite while marveling at the stunning views that include the fairways, the lake, and the mountainous vistas. Of course, you can’t dine here without trying one of the restaurant’s made-from-scratch desserts like the cold set cheesecake or the chocolate peanut butter torte. Simply divine.

Instagram: @19okanagan

Drinks 

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Finish off the first day of your trip with drinks and live music at Doc Willoughby’s Public House. Located right in the heart of downtown Kelowna, it’s a great setting for finishing off your day with tasty drink on their patio or an item from their new $5 menu. Later on, step inside and watch DJs and local bands perform live on stage and if you’re feeling energetic, there’s a dance floor area in the western-style bar where you can show off your best moves.

Location: 353 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna  

Breakfast 

Start your second day off with some breakfast at the historical Train Station Pub. It’s located downtown where you can enjoy some seriously delicious  food. Brunch kicks off at 10 am and you can order things like forno baked eggs with chorizo, French toast stuffed with whipped cream mousse and raspberries, or pakora benedict, to name a few. Our fave was the curried vegetable fritter, eggs, and hollandaise.

Location: 1177 Ellis Street, Kelowna

Standup paddle boarding  

Image: Tourism Kelowna and Matt Ferguson Photography

Get on the water to enjoy some standup paddle boarding. Okanagan Beach Rentals has locations at Gyro Beach Park and Bear Creek Provincial Park or get them at the Downtown Marina at the base of Kelowna’s main street.

Location: 3726 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna

Craft beer ale trail tour 

Enjoy a tour of downtown Kelowna’s breweries to taste some of the crispest beer that you can get in the Okanagan. Start off at Tree Beer Institute and take it from there.

  • Tree Brewing: This brewery has been around since 1996 so you have to try the iconic amber lager. Located at 1346 Water Street.
  • BNA Brewing: The earl pale ale or the don’t lose your dinosaur IPA are must-try beers while you’re at this hip brewery. It’s located at 1250 Ellis Street.
  • Kettle River Brewing: This small batch brewer has a loose canoe IPA that you need to try because, well, it’s summer. Located at 731 Baillie Avenue. 

Dinner 

tacos

Tacos/Facebook

Head to El Taquero, a casual authentic Mexican restaurant that has a loyal following. Enjoy yummy street tacos made with family recipes, inspired by taco stands in Mexico City. Chef and owners Marnie and Izzy are super-friendly and love to tell visitors the story behind their delicious food. Make sure you take advantage of the homemade hot sauces that range from mild to extra spicy. Polish your meal off with a killer lime margarita and you’ve found yourself the perfect finishing touch for your incredible weekend in Kelowna.

Disclaimer: Travel, accommodation, and meals were made possible by Tourism Kelowna. All thoughts and opinions expressed are those of the author.

Daily Hive StaffDaily Hive Staff

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