Snowbirds Flock to Osoyoos, BC

Finding just the place to spend your winter is getting more complicated with border delays and expensive US Medical coverage – if you can get any at all. More and more Zoomers are discovering Canada’s desert on Lake Osoyoos in the Okanagan region of British Columbia as an economical, dynamic and hassle-free choice for extended winter vacations.

Once known for orchards and caravans, the Okanagan region has evolved into a year round hot spot with over 45 sophisticated wineries, brand new resorts offering designer suites, memorable restaurants, and of course year-round golf. It is one of the few places in the world where you can spend an adventurous morning on the ski hill and the afternoon on the golf course. Or, if your idea of adventure is more on the culinary side, spend warm days exploring the vineyards of the region.

Perhaps the best choice for an extended winter getaway is brand new Walnut Beach Resort, set on the picturesque shore of Lake Osoyoos – Canada’s warmest lake. The resort specifically caters to the snowbird audience through the late fall, winter and early spring seasons. The pool and hot tub overlook the lake, and best of all, remain open year-round for winter enjoyment. Designer suites include a kitchen right out of a magazine that will inspire the chef in you to create a feast paired with local wines. They also encourage activities and events throughout each month to promote a sense of community among senior and snowbird guests. Special snowbird rates are surprisingly affordable starting from $870 per month (that’s just $29* per day) for the Mountain View Chardonnay Studio Suite.

“Since we started welcoming snowbirds two years ago we have developed a wonderful community,” explains Don Brogan, General Manager, Walnut Beach Resort. “We’re quickly becoming known in the community as the place to get together to play cards, board games and catch up in the evenings. It’s all part of our Snowbird Social program open to all visitors of Osoyoos. It brings them together a few days a week over a light dinner and activities – many visitors have moved into the hotel after seeing the wonderful facilities and the benefits of the on-site social program”. When asked what resort guests have to say at the end of their stay, he smiled and replied “when it finally hits them that they must go home, they quickly reserve the same dates for next year, and then swap email addresses with the other snowbirds who have become friends during their stay”.

Walnut Beach Resort, opened just two years ago, is surrounded by waterfront and breath-taking mountain views. Its magnificent locale, private sandy beach and unique ability to offer seasonally inspired outdoor activities make this property a must-visit. I found the resort’s 112 designer suites exceeded even my expectations, complete with classic tile floor, top-thread-count linens and flat screen TVs. The three-story building is set on a meticulously landscaped property that wraps around a half acre courtyard featuring relaxing year-round hot tubs, a refreshing pool and the extensive Sun Arbour Pool Deck, ideal for soaking up rays year round in the destination that gets the most hours of sun in Canada.

Another reason the destination is such a hit with snowbirds is the ease of access. Direct flights from most major Canadian destinations will bring you to either Penticton or Kelowna without the hassle of US Customs. A short picturesque drive brings you to Lake Osoyoos.

If you go, be sure to ask about upgrading to a suite with a fireplace and pack comfortable shoes to explore the Okanagan region. Say goodbye to the snow and reserve your place in Canada’s warmest climate!

Visit www.walnutbeachresort.com or call 1-877-936-5400 for more information about Walnut Beach Resort and the advantages of choosing Canada for your next extended winter vacation.