Imagine the freedom and exhilaration of biking through flourishing vineyards and rugged mountain ranges overlooking crystal clear lakes and golden sandy beaches. With such breathtaking vistas and one of the best year-round climates in Canada, it’s easy to see why thousands of cyclists pedal their way through Penticton & Wine Country every year.
As winter gives way to spring, the valley grows lush and verdant and the open roadways start calling. It does not matter what age you are,what size you are or how fit you are, cycling is a sport for everyone. Come and join us in May to celebrate and enjoy cycling in all forms at Penticton’s very first ‘Chain of Events’. A fun-filled festival of cycling camaraderie that will bring together cycle enthusiasts from all over North America and give them the opportunity to experience one of the most wondrous ways to get to know our region.
Penticton has some of the best ‘low roads’ for touring and racing in the country and in July we will, once again, welcome the annual Prospera Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan (PGAMO). This mass cycling event ranks as one of the best in North America and is so much more than an epic ride through the heart of British Columbia’s wine country. It’s an entire weekend of cycling, family activities, Okanagan sunshine and regional delicacies.
Over the past few years Penticton has also become a premier Canadian mountain biking destination, especially with designated, protected, mapped and directed areas such as Three Blind Mice and Campbell Mountain, which offers a mellower ride experience for beginners and intermediates. Prepare to be challenged and impressed as you wind your way through the pine covered bluffs and open meadows that will reward you with glimpses of sparkling lakes, orchards and vineyards that create the gorgeous tapestry of the South Okanagan.
Penticton’s magical mixture of fertile land, pure lake water and golden sunlight, not only makes for a fantastic outdoor vacation, it is also the recipe for creating some of the best wine in the world. With over 60 wineries to choose from you are sure to find something to tempt your palate. The great thing is you don’t have to sacrifice your love of the outdoors, with the option of a kayak or cycle wine tour.
Good wine and good food goes hand in hand and the Okanagan Valley yields an abundance of fresh produce which will leave any gastronome spoilt for choice. Every Saturday from May until October you can join hundreds of foodies down at the Penticton Farmer’s Market on Main Street to gather and sample natures finest. You will find that many of the local eateries take advantage of the availability of fresh local produce and so, menus tend to evolve with the seasons.
Pack up a picnic basket and cycle out to a scenic spot on the Naramata Bench, where you can experience the intoxicating scent of pine and sage floating on a warm breeze as you spy the inhabiting wildlife. Before heading home stop off to quench your thirst with a tall cool craft beer from one of the local breweries. We encourage you to discover fresh produce at its finest.
In Penticton & Wine Country you can choose your own pace, race with the wind or leisurely meander the winding country roads. Just remember to take time to breathe!