Here and There Blog

Canada Day saw everyone off work and that provided a perfect opportunity to try a local winery. Ancient Hill is located near the Kelowna airport and away from the normal clustered wine trail. This makes for a relaxing setting. Tasters are $3.00 for the flight and this is waived if you buy a bottle or even stay for a full glass of wine of your choice.  The Pinot Noir was the best of the bunch and the one that was settled on for the full glass. http://ancienthillwinery.com/

This sign wasn't here a few months ago!s I guess the bears are wandering down for good eating before winter hibernation. Note to self...don't become dinner.  The creek trail is as inviting as ever and fun to see the change from the summer.

The air has the crisp feel of winds rustling the leaves off the trees. Homes are displaying pumpkins on the porch in anticipation of Halloween. Along Mission Creek, the trees are slowly turning yellow. Only a few glimpses of red peek out from the yellow. The seasons change in their own time here.

The viewing area at Knox Mountain are only a 15 minute drive from downtown Kelowna. The area is perfect for walking, biking, and even dogs.  Looking north at the Okanagan Valley    For peak boating season the lake area is almost empty. Everyone seems to be staying near the docks.

Sunday morning, a few hours off, a sunny day, a peaceful hike. This is what life should be every day!          

The best part about Mission Creek is the ability to find parking and avoid crowds, even on busy weekends when everyone else is at the lake. You can wander the trails for fun to see what you'll find.  A pond, a waterfall, a distant view.

The trails of Mission Creek are going to save me from stress.  Only a 5 minute drive from my hotel and probably no more than 10-15 from anywhere in Kelowna, the recreational area puts you in the wilderness right next to the city. This sure beats the hotel gym and treadmill!  Mostly obscured by the trees, it is possible to glimpse the mountains if you are willing to scramble up the steeper trails and the creek has several off-shots and ponds. One of the main creeks.  Most of the wildlife I saw were birds. No fish today.  Some color still lingers before summer begins. For more information, click here

Kelowna has dozens of wineries but only one local craft beer company. Easily located downtown, Tree Brewing has a tasting room with a nice variety of the current brews. The first question asked when you arrive for a tasting is "Driver or Non-Driver?"  Non-drivers get a moderate pour (good since nothing is low alcohol) and the Nons' get a fill-up sampler. My favorites of the day were the Amber Ale and the Hop Head IPA. For more information on Tree Brewing click here

Wine Country Kelowna has vineyards next to the lake and views that are made for a glass of wine and plate of cheese. After being in town for 5 days, I had to admit that I hadn't bothered to drive the extra 5 minutes to look at the natural beauty of Kelowna. You don't see this view from the main road, that's blocked by building and billboard. The snow has started leaving us with the recent heat. Thunderstorms are starting now in the hills and may or may not reach the town. Friday at 6:00 pm. I think the wine is ready.

There's been worse views.  We had sun today and some warmth. Today's adventures - finding an ATM and getting cash. Learning that all parking is metered and you need coins all the time.  Shopping at Safeway for cheap food that can be hotel room friendly and was shocked to see the local version of Cup-A-Noodles, the budget staple, was priced at $4.19 per cup! No noodles for me! I still have to remember to find out what side of the rental car the gas tank is located on. Tonight I'm enjoying a local wine from Quail's Gate - quite nice! Must check out the winery since it's only down the road.  Work progresses along.