The Tallus Ridge Nature Guide – Part 1
January 30, 2020
Leap Year! What Does it All Mean?
February 25, 2020
Valentine’s Day has been celebrated in one form or another since 496 AD when Pope Gelasius established the Feast of Saint Valentine to be held on February 14th each year, some two hundred or so years after the Saint Valentine of Rome had passed away. Initially purely a holiday for the church, it wasn’t until much later (a few centuries) when it became a more common-place, widely celebrated day centered around love and romance.
Now highly commercialized the world over, Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate with your significant other. That celebration can come in various forms including gift-giving, flowers, chocolates, dinner out, a concert, or, in the Philippines, you can take part in a traditional mass wedding!
Here in West Kelowna, however, there are a few different options if you’d prefer not to travel across the bridge (or got to the Philippines) to celebrate with the love of your life.
CLASS IT UP!
If you’re looking to up your restaurant game and don’t mind stretching your eating out budget, West Kelowna has some of the best culinary experiences in all the Okanagan:
Red Fox Club at Indigenous Winery carries a seasonal menu prepared by the head chef and utilizes high quality, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant itself has a very intimate setting and reservations are a must!
Old Vines at Quails Gate Winery provides a delicious farm-to-table menu with seasonal choices and wine available to purchase by the glass.
Blu Saffron Bistro at Volcanic Hills Winery offers large plates and a constantly refreshed menu so there’s always something new to try.
TAKE A COOKING CLASS
If you prefer to do something first, and then eat, how about preparing your own food under the watchful eye of professional chefs at Mission Hill Family Estate Winery? The culinary team at Mission Hill offers regularly scheduled cooking classes throughout the year, each with its own theme. Each session is around 3 hours and features a full 3-course meal with wine pairings.
AN OVERNIGHT STAYCATION
Local hotels, including the Best Western Plus and The Cove Lakeside Resort offer Valentine’s Day specials that include everything from food, to chocolates, and rose petals on your bed. If you’re looking to escape the children for a night or feel like sipping wine on your balcony overlooking the Okanagan lake, these options may appeal to you.
A ROMANTIC HIKE
Ever considered a hike up a 60-million-year-old dormant volcano? Now’s your chance! Mount Boucherie has some great hiking trails and provides stunning views of the Okanagan lake and valley! If, for example, you were considering asking an important question of your significant other, this could be just the romantic spot you’re looking for . . .
However you decide to celebrate, have a fantastic time with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day!