Words by Steve Fennell
In addition to experiencing the many natural wonders on the water in the Shuswap, there are numerous attractions just outside or in between many of the scenic communities. The Shu’s meandering highways and bi-ways lead past postcard-perfect landscapes with stops all along the way to discover and enjoy.
Here are just a few choices that can bring more enjoyment to your next visit in the Shuswap:
Salmon Arm Wharf
Salmon Arm is the largest community with a population of approximately 17,000 and is certainly worth a visit for an all-encompassing run to stock up on food, supplies, gear and more. After the errands are complete, however, it’s worth taking a stroll on the Salmon Arm Wharf.
Plans have been announced to start phase one of an upgrading project to the main pier and floats for 2020. This is great news for visiting boaters and provides the chance to further enjoy one of the longest, inland wooden wharfs in North America. It overlooks the estuary in the bay, which is one of only two protected estuaries in the province, and the concession stand at the end of the pier is where you can enjoy some ice cream. Or, if hunger really strikes, many dining and take-out options are found just walking-distance away in downtown Salmon Arm.
Kyle Pearce
The expansive Salmon Arm Wharf.
Self-Guided Wine Tours
An active wine producing region since 1997, Shuswap wineries are unique in BC as each vineyard has its own microclimate, resulting in special, distinctive characteristics and flavours.
With many throughout the southern end of Shuswap Lake and beyond, the vineyards offer tasting rooms, advice from expert staff and the chance to simply relax as many have designated picnic areas to enjoy lunch and “a splash or two.” To plan a tailor-made wine tour visit https://explore.winebc.com/
Destination BC Kari Medig
Sip and savour the local grapes during a self-guided wine tour.
A group of tourists walk through the vineyards at Painted Rock Estate Winery Ltd outside of Penticton, BC.
Crannog Ales in Sorrento
Craft breweries have a made a huge impact among selective consumers who take their bitters and flavours almost religiously. So, if you’re “one of them,” you’ll want to visit Crannog Ales in Sorrento. Just west of Salmon Arm – about 28 km (17 mi) – Crannog Ales’ brew masters take their craft seriously, all for the benefit of excellent flavour and fulfilment. Certified organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized, each batch of its five exclusive brands is made by hand in its ten-hectolitre brew house. While only available to purchase in draught (in 18 L and 58 L kegs) to ensure freshness and quality, they do fill beer growlers for added convenience – come thirsty.
Paul Joseph
Come thirsty to Crannog Ales n Sorrento.
The Beach at Anstey Hunakwa Provincial Park
Whether or not there is an official list of the total number of beaches in the Shuswap – both large and small – it’s a pretty good guesstimate that there’s a lot. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention at least one that’s worth visiting and exploring on land. One of the benefits of the sand beach at Anstey Hunakwa Provincial Park, located at the north end of Anstey Arm, is it’s only accessible by boat and chances are high it may be less busy than those beaches to the south. The perfect setting to moor in the shallow, warm water or beach right up on shore, the area has a 3 km (1.9 mi) hiking trail leading from the north end of Anstey Arm to the south end of Hunakwa Lake (conditions may be rough or wet). Camping is also available.
Shuswap Markets
Farmer’s markets are nothing new to the area and have been open for many seasons, which is a testament to their fresh produce, meats, breads, dairy, and of course, popularity among locals and visitors alike. For convenience, all are held on various days and operating hours throughout the week and provide the chance to browse an array of fresh foods from local food producers as well as artisan crafts, jewelry, and gifts. To find one close to your destination visit www.shuswaptourism.com
Destination BC Graeme