Start You Wining in Naramata
Founded in 1907 as an agricultural area, Naramata, in its early years, was known as a cultural centre. People from across the Okanagan would arrive by boat for concerts, plays, operas and regattas. Paddlewheelers regularly stopped at the local wharf carrying freight and passengers up and down Okanagan Lake. In 1914, the Kettle Valley Railway was completed on the hillside above the village and due to the intense volume of rock work Naramata gained the reputation as one of the most difficult stretches of KVR construction.
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Today, remnants of the KVR such as the train tunnels, rock ovens, and the railway right-of-way which clings to the hillside high above Okanagan Lake are great for exploring. If you are looking for a great place to stay and relax, check out the California-inspired Hotel Naramata built by village founder John Moore Robinson more than 95 years ago. The property has been refurbished and offers dining, accommodation and spa services.
With the rolling hills, meandering country roads, and shimmering lake there is little doubt that Naramata has the prettiest vineyard landscape in North America. But not to worry, after you’ve visited all 30 wineries and decided it is time to stop your wining, there are many other attractions to see in the area. The McCulloch Trestle – Built in 2002, the trestle along the KVR Trail is reminiscent of the railway’s famous timber bridges. The trestle makes a wonderful vantage point to view the valley and its vineyards. The trestle is about a 40 minute walk from downtown Penticton. The Little Tunnel – This is one of the only tunnels on the historic Kettle Valley Railway that can be reached by car. The breathtaking southern view as you enter the tunnel is matched by the beautiful view to the north as you exit the tunnel. Kettle Valley Railway – This section of the railway trail starts in Penticton, on Vancouver Hill, and crosses over Naramata Road just before Hillside Estate Winery. The incredibly scenic trail meanders through vineyards, orchards, across the McCullough Trestle and takes you north to Naramata. The trail follows along above Naramata Road all the way past Naramata Village to the Little Tunnel, on to the larger tunnels, all the way to Kelowna- across the sidehills, through forests-high above the valley floor. Hike, bike or cross-country ski this trail seasonally. Vehicles, horses and ATVs are permitted, but please respect on -foot traffic. Creek Park – On your way back to Penticton, be sure to stop at Creek Park and go for a leisurely walk or picnic along the nicely manicured trails. Wooden bridges cross the trickling stream with massive rock formations spark the imagination. |
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To learn about other interesting off the beaten path places to visit in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, buy my book Teresa the Traveler Tells You WHERE TO GO AND HOW TO GET THERE. Available online in print and e-book!
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HOW TO GET THERE...
Naramata is a short 15-minute drive North from Penticton on the East side of Okanagan Lake. For more information visit www.discovernaramata.com www.naramatabench.com |
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