In Fernie, drive up into the alpine just outside of town to Island Lake Lodge, a cat-ski lodge and spa that reopens in the summer months for hiking, biking, and canoeing in the Lizard Range of the Rockies. Their Bear Lodge Bistro provides casual fare on what’s arguably the most scenic deck in the region. For elegant dining, reserve ahead for dinner at their second restaurant, Tamarack Dining Room. Whenever possible, both restaurants serve local produce, organic and traditionally grown foods, and sustainable Ocean Wise seafood.
In Nelson, the diversity of foodie-approved restaurants is just one of the town’s many appeals. In the mood for Southeast Asian cuisine? Yum Son will delight vegans and omnivores alike with their noodle bowls, bao buns, pho, and modern takes on Vietnamese delicacies. Looking for street tacos and Mezcal cocktails? Get yourself to Cantina Del Centro, a contemporary Mexican restaurant on historic Baker Street.
In Kimberley, take in the authentic Bavarian ambiance of Old Bauernhaus, whose 350-year-old building was originally constructed in Germany, then transported to the Kootenays in 1989. Enjoy Wienerschnitzel and Pilsner on the patio, or feast inside on one of their famous Eastern European specialties, like the Schweine Haxen braised pork hock with sauerkraut spätzle, which requires a 24-hour pre-order. You won’t walk away hungry.
