The Ultimate Guide to Lake Country in North Okanagan

I love living in Lake Country! I commute each day along with my husband to Kelowna for work. Some locals think it is a lot of driving but if you consider how far people in the Fraser Valley and Vancouver area commute for work…it’s a short drive. Each morning we drive about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, back home. I love it because it is calmer than Kelowna. Before I get home I pass three lakes, numerous wineries, farm land and orchards. It is a beautiful drive. What I especially love about Lake Country is the food and wine scene! There is so much to explore and uncover, so let’s get to it!

What to do in Lake Country?

Kalamalka Lake is the jewel of the North Okanagan, famous for its shifting turquoise colour and warm, sheltered bays. If you’re searching for the best hikes in Lake Country, unforgettable Kalamalka Lake activities, or fun things to do in Lake Country, this area has it all. It’s one of the most versatile lake days you can have in BC.

• SUP & kayaking — For those looking for Kalamalka Lake activities, the water is calm in the mornings—perfect for gliding along the shoreline from Kaloya Regional Park or Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. Both offer easy access and protected bays ideal for beginners.
• Cliff jumping — Rattlesnake Point is a local favourite for its dramatic cliffs and deep water. It’s one of the most thrilling Kalamalka Lake activities for confident swimmers. Always check conditions before jumping.
• Beach time — Kaloya’s sandy spit and Kal Beach’s long shoreline are classic Kalamalka Lake activities, offering warm water, picnic spots, and plenty of room to relax.

The Best Hikes in Lake Country: Panoramic Views of Both Lakes

Lake Country sits on a ridge between Kalamalka and Okanagan Lake, so some of the best hikes in Lake Country offer dual‑lake vistas—rare even in the Okanagan. If you’re looking for things to do in Lake Country, these scenic trails are a must.

Two standout trails:

• Kalamalka Lake Lookout Trail — A short but rewarding climb to sweeping views over Kalamalka’s turquoise bays and the surrounding grasslands. It’s one of the best hikes in Lake Country, especially beautiful at sunrise or early evening when the colours shift.
• Kekuli Bay / High Ridge Trail — Rolling terrain above Okanagan Lake with wide‑open views, wildflowers in spring, and a sense of space that feels almost prairie‑meets‑mountain. This is another of the best hikes in Lake Country, with the trail network connecting to Kekuli Bay Provincial Park.

Biking the Okanagan Rail Trail: Things to Do in Lake Country

The Okanagan Rail Trail is one of the most scenic rides in the province: a flat, lakeside path that follows the old CN rail line from Lake Country toward Vernon and Kelowna. If you’re searching for things to do in Lake Country, this trail is a top pick.

• Lakefront riding : Much of the trail hugs the shoreline, offering uninterrupted views of Kalamalka Lake’s blue‑green water. It’s one of the most memorable Kalamalka Lake activities for cyclists and nature lovers alike.
• Accessible for all levels : The gravel path is wide, smooth, and nearly flat, making it ideal for families, casual riders, and long‑distance cyclists alike.

Best Wineries

Arrowleaf Cellars: Quintessential Lake Country Winery

Arrowleaf Cellars stands out among Lake Country Wineries for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where locals love to unwind. This family‑run, Swiss‑heritage winery perched above Wood Lake is celebrated for its crisp whites, elegant Pinot Noir, and a picnic lawn that feels like a secret you only share with friends. Ranked among the Best Okanagan Wineries, Arrowleaf’s house‑made cream puffs are a summer weekend must‑try—just one example of the handcrafted charm that makes this North Okanagan Winery unique.

50th Parallel Estate: Modern Icon of North Okanagan Wineries

A bold, architectural landmark rising from the granite and glacial soils of Carr’s Landing, 50th Parallel is equal parts glamour and grit. Their Pinot Noir and aromatic whites are polished yet expressive, and the on‑site restaurant is one of the region’s most refined. 50th Parallel Estate is widely recognized as one of the Best Okanagan Wineries, perfectly blending Lake Country sophistication with the authentic soul of North Okanagan Wineries.

O’Rourke Family Estate: Future Icon of Lake Country Wineries

Still emerging but already mythic, O’Rourke Family Estate is a mountainside labyrinth of barrel caves, limestone tunnels, and ambitious cool‑climate winemaking. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the stars—textural, mineral, and shaped by the dramatic terroir. As one of the most promising Lake Country Wineries, O’Rourke Family Estate is set to become one of the Best Okanagan Wineries and a defining name among North Okanagan Wineries.

Peak Cellars: Heart of Lake Country Wineries

Peak Cellars is the friendly, food‑loving heart of Lake Country Wineries. With estate‑grown wines, a lively bistro, and a vineyard setting that feels both polished and approachable, it’s a favourite for long lunches and golden‑hour tastings. Their Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris are local staples—bright, aromatic, and made for summer. This North Okanagan Winery is a celebrated stop for anyone seeking the Best Okanagan Wineries experience.

Intrigue Wines: Playful North Okanagan Winery

Intrigue Wines is playful, welcoming, and quietly serious about quality. This North Okanagan Winery is known for its sparkling wines and easy‑drinking whites, making it a favorite among locals and visitors exploring Lake Country Wineries. With a relaxed tasting room, cheeky branding, and crowd‑pleasing wines, it’s always a contender among the Best Okanagan Wineries for a fun and approachable visit.

Gray Monk Estate Winery: Pioneer of Lake Country Wineries

A Lake Country original, Gray Monk is the elder statesman of the region—founded in 1972 and still family‑rooted in spirit. Their Pinot Gris helped define the Okanagan’s cool‑climate identity, and the estate’s sweeping views over Okanagan Lake remain some of the most iconic. As a pioneer among Lake Country Wineries and a staple in the list of Best Okanagan Wineries, Gray Monk represents the heart of North Okanagan Wineries with its history, hospitality, and classic varietals.

Blind Tiger Vineyards: Laid-Back Lake Country Winery

Blind Tiger is the bohemian outlier among Lake Country Wineries: organic vineyards, wood‑fired pizza, live music, and a laid‑back vibe that feels like a summer backyard party. Their small‑lot wines lean fresh and unfussy, and the atmosphere is pure North Okanagan Winery charm—sun‑drenched, a little rebellious, and always fun. For those seeking the Best Okanagan Wineries with something unique, Blind Tiger should not be missed.

Best Craft Breweries and Cider in Lake Country

Folktale Cider: Standout Among Lake Country Cideries (New)

Folktale is Lake Country’s newest addition to the growing list of Lake Country cideries and already one of its most atmospheric. Set on a hillside orchard with views of Wood and Kalamalka Lakes, it blends small‑batch cider making with a creative, community‑driven space. Their tasting lounge and café opened recently and features premium ciders made from 100% Okanagan apples, seasonal food, and a warm, story‑driven aesthetic. The orchard hosts workshops, markets, and family‑friendly events, making it a cultural hub as much as a cidery—perfect for anyone searching for North Okanagan things to do.Cutwater Brewery & Lounge (Opening Soon)

Cutwater Brewery & Lounge: New Lake Country Brewery on the BC Ale Trail (Opening Soon)

Cutwater is the newest addition to the Lake Country breweries lineup, located on Robinson Road and featured along the BC Ale Trail. While still in its early days, it’s already generating buzz as a modern, community‑oriented brewery and lounge. With a focus on craft beer and a welcoming space, it’s poised to become a go‑to stop for locals and visitors—especially anyone looking for North Okanagan things to do—once fully open.

Britannia Brewing Co.: BC Ale Trail Stop (Nearby, Kelowna North)

Just minutes south of Lake Country, Britannia Brewing is a popular stop on the BC Ale Trail, known for its balanced, coastal‑inspired beers and polished tasting room. It’s technically in Kelowna, but close enough that many Lake Country breweries fans include it in their regular rotation. Visiting Britannia is one of the top North Okanagan things to do for beer lovers.

Three Lakes Brewing: Part of the Lake Country Breweries Experience (Nearby, Kelowna North)

A small, high‑quality craft brewery known for clean, well‑executed beers and a friendly, intimate tasting room, Three Lakes Brewing is a great addition to the Lake Country breweries scene. It’s a must-visit for those following the BC Ale Trail and seeking unique North Okanagan things to do.

Scenic Road Cider Co.: Highlight of Lake Country Cideries (Nearby, Kelowna North)

A beloved cidery just south of Lake Country, Scenic Road is a standout on the BC Ale Trail and a favourite among Lake Country cideries fans. Their tasting room is rustic and welcoming, and the ciders lean crisp, dry, and fruit‑forward, offering another excellent option for North Okanagan things to do.

Where to eat in Lake Country

Row 188 at O’Rourke Peak Cellars – One of the Best Restaurants in Lake Country

Row 188 is Lake Country’s most elevated dining experience—literally and figuratively. Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Lake Country, it’s set above the vineyards with sweeping views and reflects the estate’s cool‑climate ambition. The kitchen leans hyper‑seasonal, drawing from the on‑site gardens and local producers.

What to order: dishes featuring estate‑grown produce, seasonal fish, and anything paired with their Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. Their charcuterie and garden‑driven starters are local favourites.

Peak Cellars – Garden Bistro

Peak Cellars is the heart of Lake Country’s farm‑to‑table scene, surrounded by a ½‑acre organic garden and two greenhouses that supply the kitchen with herbs, greens, and vegetables harvested steps from the door. The vineyard‑side patio offers some of the best casual dining views in the valley.

What to order: The menu changes seasonally but typically I enjoy the BC cheese & charcuterie board, the Peak Burger with truffle aioli and Pinot Noir mustard, and their wood‑fired pizzas like the Fun‑Gi or Prosciutto & Fig.

50th Parallel Estate – BLOCK ONE Restaurant: Among the Best Restaurants in Lake Country

One of the most polished winery restaurants in the valley, BLOCK ONE is regularly recognized as one of the best restaurants in Lake Country, with dramatic architecture and a menu that balances refinement with bold flavours. The food is designed to pair with their Pinot‑driven portfolio.

What to order: the seasonal tasting menu, fresh seafood dishes, and anything paired with their Pinot Noir or aromatic whites. Their brunch is also highly praised.

Beat. Patisserie – Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Pastries

A tiny patisserie with serious French technique and a cult following, Beat. Patisserie is often included in lists of the best restaurants in Lake Country for pastries and sweet treats. Expect glossy pastries, perfect lamination, and items that sell out early.

What to order: croissants (especially almond), seasonal tarts, and their rotating specialty pastries.

Ex Nihilo Winery – Chaos Bistro: Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Wood-Fired Pizza

A relaxed winery bistro known for wood‑fired pizzas, share plates, and a sunny patio overlooking the vines, Chaos Bistro is a standout among the best restaurants in Lake Country for its casual, warm atmosphere—ideal for long lunches.

What to order: the wood‑fired pizzas, charcuterie, and seasonal salads. Their Pinot Gris is a classic pairing.

Salty Caramel Kitchen – Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Healthy Eats

A bright, wholesome café with a loyal local following, Salty Caramel Kitchen is often recognized as one of the best restaurants in Lake Country for healthy, plant-forward meals. The menu leans fresh and nourishing without feeling like health food.

What to order: their bowls, fresh baking, and seasonal lemonades, especially on hot summer days.

Pane Vino Pizzeria – Among the Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Italian

Often called the best Italian food in the valley, Pane Vino is regularly named among the best restaurants in Lake Country for Italian cuisine. They deliver rustic, soulful dishes with wood‑fired pizzas and handmade pastas. The atmosphere is warm and unfussy—like a neighbourhood trattoria. I like to sit outside under their massive pergola covered in grape vines. Pair this with an Aperol Spritz and it feels like you’re in Italy.

What to order: margherita or prosciutto pizza, handmade pasta specials, and tiramisu.

Lake Country Radio Café – Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Breakfast & Coffee

A quirky, community‑minded café with great coffee, hearty breakfasts, and a relaxed vibe, Lake Country Radio Café is a favourite among the best restaurants in Lake Country for breakfast and specialty coffees. It’s the perfect stop between wineries or before a Rail Trail ride.

What to order: breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, and their specialty coffees.

Gatzke’s Farm Market – Best Restaurants in Lake Country for Orchard Eats

A Lake Country classic that feels like summer in market form, Gatzke’s Farm Market is a unique entry among the best restaurants in Lake Country for its orchard-fresh fruit, pies, ice cream, and rustic seasonal eats.

What to order: peach pies in late summer, fresh cherries, and their house‑made baked goods.

Lake Country is one of those true hidden gems where you can escape the crowds and blend in with the locals. It’s been a true joy living here in Lake Country. As long as we avoid peak traffic times, the commute has been a gorgeous part of our day. When we have visitors, they are always blown away by the number of things to do in the North Okanagan. Not to mention the fact that some of the best restaurants are in Lake Country! So tell me, do you make it a priority to spend time in Lake Country?