The town name, translated from native Salish, means 'a place to live forever', and many heed that advice, at least partly, spending a large part of their holidays here each year. There's literally something here for everyone, from water skiing to quaint boutiques, golfing to exploring local hiking trails.
During the early days, Fur Brigades consisting of up to 200 head of packhorses traveled down from the north, through the Okanagan, and on south to the mouth of the Columbia River. At that time, it was possibly the easiest route to travel in order to be able to get the fur pelts to world markets. There were occasions when these brigades would set up camp several miles west of Penticton. Transportation was important in Penticton's history, when sternwheelers plied the lakes and the Kettle Valley Railway had its headquarters here.
Tour the S.S. Sicamous - the historic sternwheeler sits majestically on the south shores of Okanagan Lake. Launched in May 1914, the 200-foot long paddle steamer used approximately 17 tons of coal per trip, at a speed of 17 knots, before completing its last commercial run on October 11th, 1936. The Art Gallery of the South Okanagan exhibits, collects and preserves the finest visual artistic heritage of the region, the province and the nation. Considerable emphasis is placed on the work of the artists working in the region.
Discover the excitement of Penticton's colourful Front Street, with its unique shops and fabulous restaurants. Front Street was Penticton's first business corridor, and many of the original buildings can still be seen, some dating back to the early 1900s. The street has undergone extensive restoration, with street banners, painted wall murals, trees and flowers.
The small community of Naramata is located on the east shore of Okanagan Lake 10 miles (16 km) north of Penticton. As you follow Naramata Road toward the village, you will be lured by colourful signs to visit the many wineries including Nichol Vineyards, Spiller Estate Winery, Township 7, Kettle Valley Winery, Elephant Island Orchard Winery, Lang Vineyards, Lake Breeze Vineyards, Hillside Cellars, Poplar Grove Winery, La Frenz, Red Rooster Winery, Pentage Winery and Benchland Vineyards
A landmark within the Naramata townsite, the Naramata Heritage Hotel was originally built in 1908 by John Moore Robinson. Over the years this building has functioned as a hotel, a private girls' school, and as the home of the Robinson Family. Designated as a heritage site, the hotel has been restored as an elegant and luxurious 12-bedroom Heritage Inn & Spa offering a wine bar, both fine and casual dining, and regular live entertainment. The Naramata Museum offers a collection of local historical artifacts and photographs, presently displayed in a private home. No-charge visits in summer are by appointment - telephone (250) 496-5409.
With no road access from the north, Naramata is only visited by those who choose it as a destination. The town offers peace and serenity in all seasons, with spectacular gold Okanagan sunsets and the splendor of the moonlight glistening on Okanagan Lake.
Includes: The communities of Penticton, Naramata and Summerland. Boutique Shopping, Hotels, Heritage Features, Agritourism Attractions, Wineries, Museums, Art Galleries and Performance Venues, Art Studios.
