Nicknamed the “Wine Capital of Canada”, Oliver boasts an array of picturesque wineries and wine festivals where you can sample its regional delicacies. Enjoy the outdoors at sandy beaches and local farms, admire foliage at a tranquil garden and learn about the region’s past at a cultural center.

Things to do

With easy access to Okanagan Valley, you’d be remiss not visiting Olivier’s wineries. Tour the unique rock cellar at Pentage Winery, sip wine under the vine-covered patio at Dirty Laundry Winery or try fruity Riesling at House of Rose Winery. Time your visit for the annual Festival of the Grape festival to participate in the Grape Stomp and enjoy wine tasting.

Spend a day under the shade of an umbrella at Rotary Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. To sample a variety of organic produce from the surrounding orchards in Oliver, go on a guided tour of Covert Farms to explore its 263-hectare property and enjoy small bites in the rustic wine lounge.

Take a break from sightseeing with a peaceful stroll through Linden Gardens, where a colorful display of flora and winding paths change with the seasons. In Vaseux Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary, you can walk along the marsh boardwalks and read informational boards as you marvel at the diverse birdlife.

For a dose of culture, visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos to learn about the lands and legends of the area’s First Nations people. You can explore the indoor and outdoor exhibit galleries and discover hands-on displays and multimedia theatre experiences.

Getting around

You can access Oliver by flying into Kelowna International Airport, about two hours away, or by making the five-hour drive from Vancouver. The city center of Oliver is compact and pedestrian-friendly, while a car is needed to travel further afield.