Summerland (population 10,828) is an agricultural community with a location that makes it a natural tourist destination.
The town centre is situated in a flat area above Okanagan Lake with fertile valleys defined by forested ridges. Giant's Head Mountain, an extinct volcano, dominates the skyline.
People come to Summerland to buy fruit from local farms, taste the vintages of Bottleneck Drive wineries, ride the Kettle Valley Steam Railway, see the work of artists in galleries and studios, play golf and to make the most of the town's gardens and parks with hiking, cycling, water activities and wildlife viewing.
Summerland's Tudor-revival town centre is compact and easily walkable, without a single traffic light. People are friendly and welcoming. Drivers stop for pedestrians and shop owners put out bowls of water for thirsty pooches on hot summer days. Everything from hardware to antiques, locally designed fashions to international collectibles is available at downtown shops along with some uptown dining choices.
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Community in Bloom
Leafy trees shade the sidewalks and antique-style lampposts support hand-painted art banners and hanging baskets filled with cascading flowers. Summerland is a successful participant in the Communities in Bloom competitions. The town presents a comfortable blend of country charm and growing urban style.
New condo developments are joining traditional bungalows and ranch-style homes downtown, in residential areas and on the waterfront, but open farmland is never far away. A five-minute drive in any direction leads to country lanes that thread among pastures, orchards and vineyards.
Year-Round Recreation
Today tourism plays a growing role in the economy, although the farming and fruit growing that gave Summerland its start continues to be the driving force, adapting to appeal to visitors. Grape growing and winemaking are taking their place alongside more traditional agriculture. But nature is still the biggest draw.
Okanagan Lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, camping, kayaking, boating and water skiing. A multitude of hiking and cycling trails let visitors explore the town, discover bird habitat, see historic sites like the Trout Creek Bridge on the Kettle Valley Railway and take in the 360-degree views from the summit of Giant's Head Mountain. They also provide access to the highlands of the Thompson Plateau where small lakes are ideal for trout fishing and there are countless choices for rustic camping. Many of these same trails are great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
Where to Get Started
Staff at the Summerland Visitor Centre will help with questions about accommodations, attractions and dining, and provide maps and brochures. Then head for the village centre with its selection of unique shops, galleries, museum, restaurants and public art.
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