Cawston Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Cawston, British Columbia with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, natural wonders, hiking routes, food scene, and more in this quaint village.


Introduction to Cawston

Nestled in the heart of Similkameen valley, Cawston is a quaint and charming village located in Thompson-Okanagan, British Columbia. Cawston is known for its scenic beauty, warm hospitality, and exquisite wineries. The village is a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts, foodies, and wine lovers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Cawston

Cawston offers numerous attractions and activities for travelers. Here is the list of top places to visit in Cawston:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cawston Pioneer Cemetery: A historical site that serves as a reminder of the pioneers who settled here in the late 1800s.
  • The Country Squire Gift Shop: A popular shop that sells handmade local crafts, gifts, and souvenirs.

Natural Attractions of Cawston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Similkameen River: A picturesque river that offers various activities like kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
  • Keremeos Columns Provincial Park: A must-visit geological park that features unique rock formations formed millions of years ago.
  • Cathedral Provincial Park and Protected Area: A vast wilderness area with towering peaks, sparkling lakes, and pristine alpine meadows.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cawston

Cawston offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. The following are some of the popular routes:

  • The Kettle Valley Rail Trail: A cycling trail that offers stunning views of the valley and Similkameen River.
  • The Similkameen Trail: A hiking trail that leads to the top of a hill with panoramic views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Cawston: Activities and Tours

Cawston offers a plethora of activities and tours for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Cawston:

  • Wine Tasting: Cawston is known for its wineries and vineyards that offer wine tasting sessions and tours.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the stunning landscapes of Cawston on horseback.
  • Fruit Picking: In the summer season, visitors can enjoy the fruit-picking experience in local orchards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cawston

Day 1: Arrive in Cawston and spend the day exploring the village.

Day 2: Take a wine tour of the local wineries.

Day 3: Go horseback riding in the morning and hiking in the afternoon.

Day 4: Spend the day relaxing by Similkameen River.

Day 5: Explore Keremeos Columns Provincial Park and hike to its unique rock formations.

Day 6: Visit the historic Cawston Pioneer Cemetery and The Country Squire Gift Shop.

Day 7: Take a day trip to Cathedral Provincial Park and Protected Area.

Food and Drink Scene of Cawston

Cawston offers an extraordinary culinary experience that showcases the local produce and wines. Here are some of the best dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fruit pies: Cawston is known for its delicious fruit pies that are made with fresh, locally-grown fruits.
  • Barbecue: Try the local barbecue that features locally-raised meats and homemade sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Cawston’s unique climate and soil produce some of the best wines in Canada.
  • Cider: Enjoy the local cider made from the apples grown in the orchards.

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

Cawston offers a variety of accommodations for travelers, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best options to consider:

  • Crowsnest Vineyards Guesthouse & Suite: A luxurious bed & breakfast that offers stunning views of the valley.
  • Casa Colina Bed and Breakfast: A cozy guesthouse that provides a comfortable stay with warm hospitality.
  • Weeping Willow Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms in a picturesque location.

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

Cawston offers a range of local products and souvenirs that reflect the region’s unique culture and flavors. Here are some of the best products to bring home:

  • Fruit jams and jellies: Shop for locally-made fruit jams and jellies that are made with fresh fruits.
  • Handmade crafts and souvenirs: The Country Squire Gift Shop sells unique handmade crafts and souvenirs that make perfect gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Cawston

Cawston has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its history and traditions. The locals are warm and welcoming and take pride in their community. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions and behave accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Cawston

The best time to visit Cawston is during the summer season (June to September), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the fruit orchards are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cawston

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the local wineries and vineyards.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Be disrespectful towards the locals and their culture.
  • Ignore the safety precautions while hiking or biking on the trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cawston

Cawston is a relatively safe place to visit. Visitors should take the usual precautions while traveling, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Cawston

Medical facilities are available in nearby towns, but visitors are advised to carry their medications and travel insurance.

Getting to Cawston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cawston is easily accessible by road. Visitors can use the following transportation options to reach Cawston:

Airports Near Cawston

  • Penticton Regional Airport: Located 60 km away from Cawston.
  • Kelowna International Airport: Located 170 km away from Cawston.

Bus Stations Near Cawston

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Penticton: Located 55 km away from Cawston.
  • Greyhound Bus Station, Kelowna: Located 165 km away from Cawston.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Visitors can rent a car from the nearest town or airport.

How to Get Around in Cawston

Cawston is a small village that can be explored on foot, but visitors may need to use a car or bike to explore the nearby hiking and biking trails.

Where to Go Next from Cawston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the following nearby destinations or take a day trip from Cawston:

  • Osoyoos: A charming town that is known for its wineries, vineyards, and desert landscapes.
  • Princeton: A historic town that offers various outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Conclusion

Cawston is a hidden gem in British Columbia that offers breathtaking landscapes, exquisite wines, and warm hospitality. Travelers can explore the local culture, savor the local cuisine, and indulge in the outdoor adventures that the village has to offer. Plan your trip to Cawston and experience the charm of this picturesque village.

Cawston, British Columbia Cawston, British Columbia link= link=