Greater Penticton Rental Guide

Greater Penticton is a scenic and charming area comprised of Naramata, Okanagan Falls, Penticton, Kaleden and Summerland, located between the north end of Skaha Lake and the south end of Okanagan Lake, in the interior of British Columbia.

Located about 240 miles east of Vancouver in the Okanagan Valley, it is a top pick for tourists and is well known for its many world class accommodations and resorts. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in British Columbia, paving the way for an even more pleasurable stay for most vacationers.

Considered to have the mildest winter temperatures in Canada, Greater Penticton is renowned for its moderate climate and for its impressive 2,000 hours of annual sunshine. Add the scenic mountains and picturesque lakes, as well as the beautiful orchards and breathtaking vineyards, to the equation, and it is no wonder why this area has been a popular tourist destination.

It is easy enough to go in and around the Great Penticton area. Those coming from the nearby towns and areas can simply drive their cars and access Great Penticton through Highway 97 or ride one of the Greyhound buses that serviced the area, while those located elsewhere can fly to Penticton via air services provided by Air Canada Jazz and Southern Skies Aviation, as well as through flights provided by airports in Kelowna, Calgary, Spokane and Seattle. Once the guests arrive, they can easily hail taxi services to bring them to and from their various destinations.

What makes Greater Penticton most appealing to tourists is the multitude of activities that it offers to anyone from all walks of life. The wide assortment of exhilarating outdoor adventures, the numerous festivals it hosts throughout the year, the world-class vineyards and more, all contribute to the charm and the appeal that only Greater Penticton holds. For those who simply love the beach, the sun and sand, the best way to spend your days in Greater Penticton is to check out the numerous beaches located in this region. Some notable beaches to check out include the family friendly Okanagan Beach, Skaha Beach, which caters to the younger crowd, Airport Beach, Sudbury Beach or, when you want to lose the crowd, opt for the quieter Three Mile Beach down Three Mile Road.

Those who crave the great outdoors can always begin their Greater Penticton vacation by trying out rock climbing at the Shaka Climbing Bluffs or take their pick of cycling or hiking along the astonishing Kettle Valley Trail. They can follow the old Penticton railway down to the beach wineries in Namarata, to the tunnels and trestles leading into Myra Canyon, or explore the Trout Creek Railway Trestle. For a special vacation activity, you might also want to try floating down the River Channel, passing from Okanagan Lake to Shaha Lake. The Penticton Marina is also a good place to pay a visit.

For tourists who would like to commune with the locals and get the Greater Penticton vibe, it is best to visit the many festivals they host, starting with the Okanagan Fest Of Ale in April; marvel at the myriad of Elvis impersonators during the Penticton Elvis Festival in June; visit Peach City Beach Cruise in June; enjoy the firecrackers, the exhibits, the food and live entertainment of the Peachfest in August; and participate in the wine pairing activities during the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival held between September and October.

When you have explored the festivals and have had enough sun to last you a lifetime, it is probably time to check out some of the most interesting landmarks in the region. Some of the most popular attractions in Greater Penticton include the S.S. Sicamous Inland Marine Museum, having your photograph taken at the famous Peach, visiting the Penticton Museums and Archives, as well as the Art Gallery of the South Okanagan. While you are there, do not forget to visit one of the many fine wineries in this area of British Columbia, including Poplar Grove, Minstral Estate Winery and the Laughing Stock Vineyards.