Founded on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake to take advantage of the rich clay soil of the stepped benchlands for fruit farming, Naramata was also a tourist destination from the start.
Wine tourism is the latest evolution in the Naramata story. The Naramata Bench region has quickly developed a distinct style featuring more than 20 boutique wineries, all quickly and easily accessible along the 16km/10mi stretch of Naramata Road between the village and the city of Penticton.
Farms & Orchards
Despite the recent shift from soft fruit to grape cultivation, Naramata's original agricultural tradition continues to thrive at area farms and orchards. In spring, a country drive is like touring a massive garden as the fruit trees blossom in turn.
Later in the season, stop at roadside stands and markets for farm fresh fruits and vegetables or visit the berry patch and pick fat blueberries. Savour fragrant bouquets of lavender and sample the distinctive flavours of locally made artisan cheeses.
Artists & Galleries
Many artists and artisans find inspiration in Naramata's natural surroundings. Shop for local creations, from clothing and pottery to jewelry and paintings. Some artists welcome visitors to their studios, others exhibit at galleries located in area wineries and B&Bs as well as the Naramata Community Market, held Wednesday afternoons from June through September.
Historic Naramata
Explore area history at the Naramata Heritage Museum where displays highlight the early days of the orchard industry, construction of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) and signature events like the long tradition of the Maypole Dance.
Follow the village walking tour on Naramata's quiet, shady streets and take in the museum and packinghouse murals as well as the restored Naramata Heritage Inn and Spa.
Trans Canada Trail
For a more rigorous look at historic sites, hike or mountain bike the Trans Canada Trail along the KVR rail line. Stop for a look at rock ovens used by workers during construction of the KVR (1912-1914) across the difficult terrain above Naramata. Cross intricately built trestles and dive into the cool darkness of 48m/157ft Little Tunnel. Emerge into the light on a section of trail 340m/1115ft above Okanagan Lake with one of the best views on the entire line.
Three Blind Mice Trails
When it's time for a pure adrenaline rush, mountain bikers tackle 11 named tracks in the 121ha/300ac Three Blind Mice Trails area.
Natural Sights, Parks and Wildlife
Take a look in any direction; Naramata enjoys one of the most beautiful natural settings in the Okanagan. Soaring clay cliffs, rocky outcrops, fanciful hoodoos, quiet creeks running red in autumn with spawning kokanee salmon; thickets hiding yet another species for bird watchers to add to their life lists.
Climb to the summit in Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park 10km/6mi north of the village. This wilderness area provides fishing lakes, rustic campsites and opportunities for viewing wildlife from bald eagles and turkey vultures to mountain goats, white tailed deer and black bears.
Water Activities
Naramata once hosted annual regattas that drew water sports enthusiasts from communities all over the Okanagan. The sandy beaches remain and Manitou Park is a particularly popular spot for swimming and kayaking. Anglers cast a line in Okanagan Lake or head to the high country to temp trout from Chute Lake in Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park.
Rest and Relaxation
The renowned Naramata Centre, a retreat and conference venue in the heart of town, draws visitors for a wide variety of programs from spiritual renewal to music, from arts and crafts to yoga, from canoeing to massage. Seek inner peace through quiet meditation in the sacred garden and walking the paths of the intricate labyrinth near the architecturally stunning Chalmer's Chapel.
Book lovers browse the eclectic and esoteric titles at the Mustard Seed Bookstore.
Enjoy more hedonistic pleasures with full-on pampering at the Naramata Heritage Inn and Spa. Treatments include facials, body wraps and Reiki.
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