Oliver Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Oliver, a town located in the heart of the Thompson-Okanagan region in British Columbia, Canada.


Introduction to Oliver

Oliver is a small town located in the heart of the Thompson-Okanagan region in British Columbia, Canada. Known for its picturesque views of vineyards and orchards, Oliver is often referred to as the “Wine Capital of Canada”. The town is also known for its rich history, outdoor adventures, and vibrant local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Oliver

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oliver Heritage Museum: This museum features exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Oliver and the surrounding area. Visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the town’s past and present.
  • McIntyre Bluff: McIntyre Bluff is a natural landmark located just outside Oliver. It’s a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, and it’s also an important cultural site for the Syilx people.
  • Osoyoos Indian Band Cultural Centre: This cultural centre offers visitors a glimpse into the history and traditions of the Syilx people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

Natural Attractions of Oliver: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tinhorn Creek Vineyards: Tinhorn Creek Vineyards is one of the largest and most popular wineries in the area. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and taste some of their award-winning wines.
  • Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course: This golf course is located in a breathtaking desert canyon and offers a challenging course for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Bike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail: The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a scenic cycling route that runs through the countryside around Oliver. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the areas picturesque vineyards, orchards, and hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oliver

  • Kilpoola Lake: This trail is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy a hike through the tranquil forest and take a dip in the pristine waters of Kilpoola Lake.
  • Mount Baldy Ski Area: Mount Baldy Ski Area is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. During the summer months, visitors can take advantage of the area’s beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Vaseux Lake Provincial Park: Vaseux Lake Provincial Park is another popular destination for hiking and cycling. The area features scenic mountain views, creeks, and canyons, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Oliver: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tours: Oliver is known for its many vineyards and wineries, and visitors can enjoy guided tours of the area’s best wine producers.
  • Horseback Riding: Oliver is home to several ranches that offer horseback riding tours through the scenic countryside.
  • Fishing: Visitors can enjoy a day of fishing on the nearby Okanagan River, which is known for its rainbow trout and salmon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oliver

Day Activity
1 Visit the Oliver Heritage Museum and McIntyre Bluff
2 Go for a hike on the Kilpoola Lake trail and enjoy a picnic lunch
3 Take a tour of local vineyards and wineries, such as Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
4 Explore the area’s natural wonders at Vaseux Lake Provincial Park
5 Go horseback riding and enjoy the local scenery
6 Try your hand at fishing on the Okanagan River
7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area surrounding Oliver

Food and Drink Scene of Oliver

Must-Try Dishes

  • Okanagan Cherries: The region is famous for its cherries, and visitors can find them fresh and in a variety of delicious dishes, such as cherry pie and cherry jam.
  • Okanagan Apples: The region is also known for its many apple orchards and visitors can enjoy fresh apples and apple-based dishes.
  • Local Cheese: Oliver is home to a number of cheese makers that produce flavorful and unique cheeses, such as goat cheese and cheddar.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Oliver is known for its many vineyards and wineries, and visitors can enjoy a variety of award-winning wines.
  • Craft Beer: Several local breweries produce an array of craft beers that can be enjoyed in local pubs and restaurants.
  • Fruit Juices: The area produces a variety of fresh fruit juices, including apple juice and cherry juice.

Where to Stay in Oliver: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Coast Oliver Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to Oliver’s main attractions.
  • Maple Leaf Motel: This family-run motel offers a cozy and comfortable stay at an affordable price.
  • Oliver House Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast is located in a beautifully restored heritage home and serves a delicious homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Oliver: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine: Visitors can bring home a bottle (or several) of their favorite wine from one of Oliver’s many local vineyards.
  • Local Arts and Crafts: The Oliver Art Gallery showcases the work of many local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery.
  • Fruit and Cheese: Tourists can take home locally-produced cheeses and fresh fruit from orchards in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Oliver

Oliver boasts a rich cultural heritage that goes back thousands of years. The Syilx people, who have lived in the area for millennia, have a strong presence in the town, and their culture is celebrated through events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including the area’s connection to the Syilx people and their traditions.

Best Time to Visit Oliver

The best time to visit Oliver is in the summer, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the vineyards and orchards are in full bloom. The fall is also a great time to visit, as the leaves turn golden and red, and the harvest season begins.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oliver

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area by hiking, cycling, or sightseeing.
  • Sample local food and drinks, such as wine and fresh fruit.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, including those of the Syilx people.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats.
  • Disrespect the culture and traditions of the Syilx people.
  • Ignore safety regulations when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or swimming.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oliver

Oliver is generally a safe town, and visitors can feel secure walking around during the day. However, like any town, visitors should take precautions, such as locking doors and windows, especially at night.

Health in Oliver

Oliver has a number of medical facilities and hospitals, including the South Okanagan General Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the entire region.

Getting to Oliver: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oliver

  • Penticton Regional Airport: This airport is located about 30 minutes from Oliver and offers daily flights to and from Vancouver.
  • Kelowna International Airport: This airport is located about an hour and a half from Oliver and offers regular flights to and from major cities in Canada and the US.

Bus Stations Near Oliver

  • Penticton Greyhound Station: The station is approximately 30 minutes from Oliver and provides daily bus service to and from cities throughout the region.

Other Options

  • Driving: Oliver is accessible by car via Highway 97, which runs north-south through the Thompson-Okanagan region.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available for hire in Oliver and can provide transportation throughout the town and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Oliver

The best way to get around Oliver is by car, although visitors can also use bikes to explore the area’s scenic vineyards and orchards. Taxi services are also available, and there is a local bus service that runs throughout the town.

Where to Go Next from Oliver: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Penticton: A charming lakeside city with plenty of beaches and parks.
  • Kelowna: A bustling city famous for its restaurants, arts scene, and wineries.
  • Osoyoos: A desert destination known for its outdoor adventures and warm climate.

Conclusion

Oliver is a beautiful town located in the heart of Canada’s wine country. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Thompson-Okanagan region of British Columbia.

Town of Oliver Town of Oliver