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West Kelowna, the second largest municipality in the Kelowna region of the Central Okanagan, is situated on the west side of Okanagan Lake, opposite the City of Kelowna. Commonly referred by the locals as the Westside, the municipality of West Kelowna is comprised of a number of different communities that include Westbank, Shannon Lake, Casa Loma, Smith Creek, Rose Valley, Glenrosa, Lakeview Heights and West Kelowna Estates. The municipality was incorporated in 2007 and has an estimated population of 30,892. Located along Highway 97, the municipality is a top notch tourist destination and is home to some of the most well known attractions this side of British Columbia, including scenic landscapes, world class wineries and breathtaking orchards.
Those who are located nearby can simply drive and access West Kelowna via Highway 97, while those situated elsewhere can always access it through YLW, the Kelowna Airport. Various flights are also offered by Air BC, Horizon Air and Canadian Regional through the Penticton Airport. The West Kelowna municipality is an instant travel destination choice as it has four distinct seasons. Visitors and guests get to enjoy everything that this area has to offer whether they decide to visit during the summertime, when people flock this part of Canada for the warm, sunny weather, the abundant fresh seasonal fruits, and the picturesque scenery, or to vacation during winter holidays, when people vacation here to enjoy the ski resorts (downhill and xc) and the assortment of exhilarating winter outdoor activities.
If you are in search of beautiful beaches, where you can stay out in the sun for long periods of time, one of the best destinations to check out is the exceptional recreation facility in Westside’s Gellatly Bay area. For famous winter destinations, do not forget to include Crystal Mountain Ski Resort in Westbank for a family friendly, European styled ski facility. If you are interested in cross country skiing or snowshoeing, the best place to be is Telemark Cross Country Ski Club. Those who want to commune with nature will always have a once in a lifetime outdoor adventure hopping from one park and activity to the next. Some of the most notable places to visit include the excellent hiking trails offered by Bear Creek Provincial Park and Powers Creek. World class golf courses, like the ones found in Shannon Lake and Two Eagles Golf Courses are also worthy of your time and attention.
For a historical tour of West Kelowna, do not forget to visit the Westbank Museum on Lower Glenrose Road, marvel at the wonderful view of the rock bluff overlooking the Okanagan Lake at Gellatly Heritage Regional Park on Gellatly Road, or pick nuts at the Heritage site of Gellatly Nut Farm. Another great way to get acquainted with West Kelowna culture and heritage is to partake in one of the many festivals that they host all throughout the year. One of the most celebrated of all is the Westside Daze festival, where locals and foreign tourists can get a chance to celebrate Canada Day and Okanagan Day West Kelowna style. While there, guests can also dabble in the arts by visiting one of the numerous art galleries situated in this part of British Columbia. Some of the most notable galleries to include in your travel itinerary are AD LIB Gallery on Bridlehill Drive, Brazen Design Studio on East Boundary Road, and Rasa Gallery on Scharf Road.
Of course, a vacation is not complete unless you have tasted the local cuisine. Some popular restaurants to go for the gastronomic experience in West Kelowna are Dragon’s Lair Specialty Teas on Carrington Road for a cup of relaxing tea, Mission Hill Family Estate Outdoor Dining Terrace, as well as Barrel Top Grill, for a delicious wine and dining experience. Drop by Whiski Jack’s Pub on Drought Road and M. T. Muggs Bar and Grill on Main Street for a quick drink.
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