In the morning, we depart from Vancouver and journey through the picturesque Fraser Valley Highway, entering the beautiful town nestled in a semi-desert region.
After lunch, we head to visit the renowned VQA Brewery. Then, we pass by Okanagan Lake and proceed to Kelowna, the fruit capital of British Columbia, where you can also enjoy the stunning changing lake views upon arrival in Vernon.
【VQA Brewery】
We specially arranged a visit to the VQA wineries to taste and purchase various reds, whites, and ice wines, experiencing the unique aroma and charm of Canadian wines. Vintners Quality Alliance, or VQA, is a regulatory and appellation system which guarantees the high quality and authenticity of origin for Canadian wines made under that system in British Columbia and Ontario. It is similar to regulatory systems in France (AOC), Spain (DO), Italy (DOC), and Germany (QmP).
【Okanagan Lake】
Later, we pass by the picturesque Okanagan Lake, which is said to be unfathomable. Legend has it that there is a lake monster called "OGOPOGO" in the lake, according to ancient indigenous legends. The legend tells of an evil spirit that possessed a man, who then killed the revered chief of the tribe. As punishment, the gods turned it into a giant serpent in the lake, known as Ogopogo. The Kelowna city government offers a reward of two million Canadian dollars for anyone who finds the legendary lake monster Ogopogo.
【Revelstoke】
Revelstoke has its roots as a railway town. Rail, forestry and natural resources are the industries that built and sustained the town for more than 100 years. Revelstoke was once one of the largest and most prominent communities in the interior of the province, mostly due to its importance as a railway centre. Steamboat traffic from the south connected with the Canadian Pacific Railway making this an important transportation center. While we no longer see steamboat traffic up the Columbia, those industries are still a big part in the economy and personality of the area. Revelstoke is home to the Revelstoke Dam, one of the largest generators of power in BC. Revelstoke area is home to lots of other large mammals including grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, cougars, wolverines, moose, martens, coyotes, lynx, deer and mountain goats.