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O K A N AG A N L I F E AT I T S F I N ES T

FALL 2026

harvest elegance

HOMES

LIFESTYLES

FOOD

ARTS

FASHION

TRAVEL

C U LT U R E

PEOPLE

CONTENTS 44

10 FEATURES

On the Cover

Photography: Michelle Proctor Model: Debs Howard Styling: Jen Evans Makeup & Hair: Jen Clark Ivory lace top by Saint Laurent ($195) from Turnabout, white knit sweater by Artpaodium ($125) from House of Savoy and the ‘Bring it’ skirt in tulle ($229) by Reclamation.

FASHION

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EAT, SIP, WANDER

RAISING KIDS IN WINE COUNTRY

An afternoon local flavour, connection and a celebration of the people behind our plate

Harvesting memories, one orchard at a time

By Miriam Halpenny

By Sam Hill

FASHION A changing season Photography by Michelle Proctor

SURROUNDED BY GEOTHERMAL ENERGY Explore the hidden gem that is São Miguel By Lauren Kramer

O K A N A G A N L I F E AT I T S F I N E S T FAL L 2 02 6

PUBLISHER Karen Hill

250-979-7301 karen.hill@blackpress.ca

DESIGN Crea Zhang Tammy Robinson ADVERTISING Roxanne Mackitosh Kristine Polley Luke Johnson Neil Rachynski Riley Neal CONTRIBUTING Lauren Kramer WRITERS Miriam Halpenny Sam Hill CONTRIBUTING Michelle Proctor PHOTOGRAPHERS

CIRCULATION & Marilou Pasion DISTRIBUTION 604.542.7411

DEPARTMENTS

LIFE.STYLE.ETC. Noel Anderson &

Fall style, reconsidered

Tanner Marshall

EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT

By Sam Hill

GOOD TASTE Set the table By Sam Hill

WEEKENDER Harvest in a glass

Inspiring hope By Sam Hill

STYLE

By Sam Hill

BUSINESS CLASS Downtown Kelowna’s hidden gem By Miriam Halpenny

Okanagan Boulevard® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519. Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca boulevardmagazines.com

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada

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life.style.etc. NOEL ANDERSON, GENERAL MANAGER, TANNER MARSHALL, ASSISTANT MANAGER, MACDERMOTT’S MENSWEAR

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? NA: Grew up in southern Alberta

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH?

NA: I went to school but found that my

chosen education did not coincide with my calling and what brought me joy, and sales, especially in the esthetically pleasing items, furniture, art, and fashion were my passion.

WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF YOUR WORK THAT REALLY GETS YOU FIRED UP?

NA: Setting a young man up for success

at a new job or for his wedding.

WHICH OF YOUR INNATE QUALITIES OR DAILY PRACTICES HAS LED TO YOUR SUCCESS? NA: To do lists, even if it is a completely

menial task, crossing it off is good for the soul.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK? NA: Jiu Jitsu, and mountain biking as I

have gotten older, I tend to bike more, a little easier on my body, and no young buck wants to tear my limbs off

WHAT IS THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU’RE LEARNED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS? NA: Simple be kinder, everyone is

managing personal challenges, just be kind.

WHAT IS GOOD STYLE TO YOU?

NA: Incredibly hard to answer, I would

suggest knowing your lane. Body type and age all play into this, but the most important thing is wearing the clothes don’t let the clothes wear you. The best example right now would be Jeremy Allan White.

PHOTO BY LUKE JOHNSON

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HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?

NA: Playful sophistication

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

TM: Kelowna BC, but I grew up in peachland!

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH?

TM: I grew up playing hockey all over Canada, and most recently fished NOEL’S

STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE Style icon: Giorgio Armani Favourite designer or brand: Tagliatore Film or TV Show with inspiring style: Sounds silly but loved the Untouchables, costume design on that was Giorgio Armani Favourite cocktail or wine: Negroni or Syrah Album in current rotation: Mumford and sons pick one..

playing hockey in Chicago while also getting my Business Degree

WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF YOUR WORK THAT REALLY GETS YOU FIRED UP?

TM: I love meeting people and being a part of their special occasions like

weddings or graduations! Developing relationships and helping men feel and look their best is what makes my job exciting.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

TM: I love to play golf all over the Okanagan!

WHAT IS THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU’RE LEARNED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS?

TM: To always treat people as you would like to be treated.

Favourite Flower: African daisies One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: Mountain biking, nature, and family

FASHION & BEAUTY Go to uniform: Sport coat and Trouser

WHAT IS GOOD STYLE TO YOU?

TM: Something that fits right and that you personally feel your best in.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?

TM: I’d say I like my clothing to look a bit more tailored, so I love to wear

suits and ties at work. When I’m not wearing that, I like wearing tailored chinos and knitted polos!

All-time favourite piece: A hoodie blazer I own from Tombolini, it feels like air on and it is just a unique piece

TANNER’S

Favourite pair of shoes: Fabiano Ricci Double monk Elevated sole dark chocolate

Favourite designer or brand: Patrick Assaraf

Favourite work tool: A measuring tape, there is nothing better; it never lets me down, and unfortunately, and fortunately it does not lie.

Favourite Flower: One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: Music or playing guitar

Favourite jewellery piece or designer: Tateosean, and watches I love all watches.

FASHION & BEAUTY

READING MATERIAL

All-time favourite piece: John Varvatos knitted cardigan

STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE Favourite cocktail or wine: Nota Bene is one of my favourites

Go to uniform: Suit and tie!

Last great read: Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton Currently reading: The Cabin by Jorn Lier Horst

Favourite pair of shoes: Magnanni Loafers Favourite work tool: Measuring tape and chalk! Favourite jewellery piece or designer: My watch, which was handed down to me after my grandpa passed away.

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Inspiring Hope SOWINS marks 45 Years with annual gala WORDS SAM HILL

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

ne in three women will experience abuse in her lifetime. For the last 45 years, South Okanagan Women in Need Society has been working to make sure fewer of them face it alone. South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) has been the first call for anyone in the region trying to get out of harm’s way. From Summerland to Osoyoos, Naramata to Keremeos, the organization runs a 24-hour crisis line, an emergency shelter, and a variety of helpful programs, including counselling and housing support for people who have experienced, or are at risk of, violence and abuse. A staff of more than 60, backed by a volunteer board, delivers everything from trauma-informed counselling to second-stage housing for families rebuilding after they’ve left. The work is rooted in a simple vision: a community without violence and abuse. It’s also work that runs almost entirely on the generosity of the community it serves which is why, each November, SOWINS throws open the doors of the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre for its biggest night of the year. The third annual Inspiring Hope Gala, presented by Penticton Foundry, will grace the community on November 14th at the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre, and mark 45 years of hope. In 2025, the gala raised over $225,000 to support South Okanagan women and children in creating brighter futures, and the SOWINS team endeavours to surpass that number again this year. “We’ve been in the community for 45 years and we continue to evolve,” shared SOWINS Fund Development Specialist, Richelle Leckey. “From 45 years ago to now, based on the needs of the women and families that we serve, we are really trying to ensure that we can support women and children who are at risk and experiencing gender violence and abuse. We aim to provide them with all of the support they need in order to rebuild their lives, to become courageous and strong, and know that this isn’t what they deserve.” When women or children in the South Okanagan are experiencing violence or abuse, they can call the SOWINS 24/7 crisis line (1-800-814-2033) for support. SOWINS will ask a few questions to understand if the caller is in immediate danger or crisis and connect the caller to the appropriate resources, which in some cases is to be welcomed into the transition house. Some of the programs and services offered by SOWINS include emergency shelter, counselling, safety planning, and sexual assault services. The team endeavours to help women and children in need by identifying their goals and

assisting them in achieving those goals. Leckey added, “45 years is a long time to keep doing what we’re doing and I hope that there’s another 45 years and more that comes along with it - if it’s still a need. Eventually, one day, wouldn’t it be great to be in a community or a world where this wouldn’t be something that we’d ever have to even acknowledge?” The Inspiring Hope Gala will be a glamorous evening for attendees, featuring both a silent and live auction, and the opportunity to help Fund-A-Need.The gala kicks off with a Champagne Reception followed by an elegant multi-course dinner. Throughout the evening, guests will hear powerful stories of hope, learn about the milestones that SOWINS has achieved and the immense impact on the community. The gala melds celebration with compassion and helps guests to understand how SOWINS is committed to supporting women and children in the South Okanagan. The generosity of gala attendees will make incredible impacts on the lives of women and children in need. The Fund-A-Need portion of the evening will give attendees the opportunity to donate $500 to $10,000 to directly support these families. A $500 donation helps provide household essentials like bedding, towels, kitchen supplies, small appliances, and other everyday necessities to SOWINS clients, while a $10,000 donation can truly change the course of a family’s future. SOWINS is grateful to have the support of matching donors at the gala, prepared to match the generosity of attendees. Tickets for the Inspiring Hope Gala, presented by Penticton Foundry, are $200 for individuals or $1,400 for a table of eight. This night to remember will kick off at 5:30pm on November 14th and raise both funds and awareness for women and children in the South Okanagan that suffer violence or abuse and need support to change their lives for the better. “If we could work ourselves out of a job because nobody needed this type of support, that would be the ideal,” said Leckey. “Until then, we will help individuals recognize, understand, and overcome the impacts of abuse while giving them the tools and guidance to build a safer future. We will continue to provide the programs and services based on the needs of the people we serve, and we’ll be here for another 45 years and more - as long as we are needed.” For more information about the SOWINS Inspiring Hope Gala, presented by Penticton Foundry, tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, visit sowins.com. boulevardmagazines.com

Eat, sip, wander

Feast of Fields returns for an afternoon of local flavour, connection and a celebration of the people behind our plate. WORDS MIRIAM HALPENNY PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEAST OF FIELDS

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ould it be the perfect September afternoon? Picture this: wandering through one of Kelowna’s most recognizable organic wineries, wine glass in hand, sampling dishes from some of the Okanagan’s top chefs and discovering local producers along the way. That’s the idea behind Feast of Fields. Returning to the Okanagan for its 16th year on September 13, the wandering gourmet harvest festival will take over Summerhill Pyramid Winery for an afternoon celebrating the people and the land behind the region’s food and beverage scene. “Feast of Fields is really a celebration of the Okanagan food system,” says Julia Zado, engagement manager with FarmFolk CityFolk.

“It’s a unique experience because it gives guests the opportunity to not only taste and experience new things, but you get to meet the people behind it.” Rather than sitting down for a traditional multi-course meal, guests are encouraged to explore. Upon arrival, each person receives a wine glass, linen napkin and cedar plank before setting off across the grounds. From there, the afternoon is theirs to experience at their own pace, moving from tent to tent and tasting creations from chefs, bakers, food artisans, vintners, brewers, distillers and other producers from across the region. One stop might introduce you to a chef and a dish you’ve never

tried before. Next, you could discover a new favourite winery, cidery or local producer. And because all food and beverage tastings are included in the ticket, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore. For Zado, that sense of discovery is one of the best parts. “This is a way to sample a little bit of everything,” she says. “You can take your map and circle your favourites, and then following the event, book your reservation or your tasting to have more.” But Feast of Fields has always been about more than discovering your next favourite restaurant or bottle of wine. The concept dates back more than three decades, with its roots in an Ontario food initiative. FarmFolk CityFolk hosted its first Feast of Fields in the Lower Mainland 31 years ago, with the goal of creating stronger relationships between farmers, restaurants and the people enjoying what they produce. Today, the organization hosts three Feast of Fields events each year: one in Metro Vancouver, one on Vancouver Island and one in the Okanagan. The festivals move to different locations, but keeping them connected to agriculture remains an important part of the experience. For the 2026 Okanagan event, that means bringing the festival to Summerhill Pyramid Winery, a celebrated organic winery known for its vineyards, gardens and commitment to sustainable and biodynamic farming. boulevardmagazines.com

“It’s really important for us to host Feast of Fields in an agricultural setting,” Zado says. “Summerhill is such a beautiful setting for bringing the Okanagan food and beverage community together, and just by being there, it helps connect the experience back to the land and where food comes from.” It’s a connection that feels particularly fitting in the Okanagan, where agriculture, restaurants, wineries, breweries and other producers have become such a large part of the region’s identity. Feast of Fields puts those different pieces of the food system in the same place, giving guests the opportunity to meet the people responsible for what ends up on their plates and in their glasses. And while the afternoon is designed to be fun, there is a larger purpose behind it. Feast of Fields is an annual fundraiser for FarmFolk CityFolk, a charitable non-profit working to strengthen sustainable food systems throughout British Columbia. Proceeds from the events help the organization develop and operate programs that connect and support farmers and eaters across the province. The organization’s current work touches on some of the biggest issues facing B.C.’s food systems, including food security, farmer education, climate-focused initiatives and food sovereignty. “We see Feast of Fields as part of our local food and agriculture education program,” Zado says. “There’s a fundraising element, and those funds then go back into the organization.”

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In many ways, the event itself is an example of what FarmFolk CityFolk is working toward. Farmers and chefs connect. Local producers get the opportunity to introduce themselves to new customers. Guests learn a little more about where their food comes from, and perhaps discover a few new Okanagan favourites along the way. For Zado, who has been with FarmFolk CityFolk for about seven years, seeing all of those connections come together is still her favourite part. Months of conversations with individual presenters and behind-the-scenes planning go into creating an event that lasts just four hours. Then the gates open. “There’s live music, and you see people are so happy, laughing and talking, and connecting,” she says. “This is what you want the event to look like.” For guests, it’s an opportunity to spend an afternoon eating, sipping and exploring some of what the Okanagan does best. But somewhere between the first bite and the last pour, they might also leave knowing a little more about the people that make it all possible. The 16th annual Okanagan Feast of Fields takes place Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Kelowna.

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good taste

Set the table Fall hosting, Okanagan style WORDS SAM HILL PHOTOS COURTESY OF NURTURED HOME SHOPPE

s the leaves turn, fall in the Okanagan asks to be hosted. Patio season gives way to something slower, cooler, more peaceful. This is the Okanagan’s best-kept secret: fall isn’t just for touring wineries and visiting the pumpkin patch. It’s a time to gather with friends, family, and visitors who waited for the summer heat to pass. Whether you’re hosting a harvest dinner for twelve or a quiet Sunday supper for four, bring harvest season to the table in style. A charming harvest table begins with a visit to Nurtured Home Shoppe on Ellis St. in Downtown Kelowna. Owned and curated by Kate Simpson, the shop holds a collection of beautiful and high-quality home goods, including sophisticated dinnerware, luxurious linens, and hand-poured candles. If anyone knows how to craft a harvest table fit for a feast, it’s Kate.

HOW DOES FALL CHANGE WHAT PEOPLE ARE SHOPPING FOR COMPARED TO SUMMER ENTERTAINING? KS: Moving into autumn, it becomes cooler in the evenings, less sunlight, and just that ability to bring coziness in. You’re thinking of lighting candles, you’re bringing in your winter-styled blankets, you might be using blankets outside, and there’s just this overwhelming sense of bringing the outdoors in because we’re starting to have those shorter days.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’D TELL SOMEONE WHO’S OVERWHELMED AND DOESN’T KNOW WHERE TO START WITH THEIR TABLE FOR FALL?

KS: Again, bringing in that outdoor element, branches and bits of nature. I would tell people to open their cupboards and bring in glass, get candles going, layer their dishes so there’s some interest, and not to overdo it. Just to be genuine and natural, use what they have already in their home and then add new pieces where they feel they might have those gaps. Overdoing it just doesn’t ever look finished. It looks like you didn’t know when to stop.

WHAT’S THE ONE PIECE OR ELEMENT THAT INSTANTLY MAKES A FALL TABLE FEEL FINISHED?

KS: The harvest, the food. To go into the autumn season, for me, it would be all the root vegetables. It would be butternut squash. I would have the squash and vegetables on display, and beautiful dishes hosting the soup, the potatoes.

WHAT COLOURS, MATERIALS, OR TEXTURES ARE YOU SEEING TRENDING FOR THE FALL SEASON? KS: For me, it’s the skyline. I like to think of burnt oranges, yellows, pinks, moody colours going into autumn. I really think you should love what you have in your home and not be so worried about the Instagram trend.

WHAT’S A COMMON MISTAKE THAT PEOPLE MAKE WHEN THEY’RE SETTING A SEASONAL TABLE?

KS: I would say a mistake would be making it look perfect, maybe trying too hard, feeling that things don’t match, when in nature, everything does match. Everything does complement one another.

DO YOU HAVE A GO-TO FORMULA FOR LAYERING A TABLE?

KS: Linens are best. I think starting with either a runner or a tablecloth and even playing with the direction of it, not necessarily always running it the length of the table. I also like to take my placemats and turn them so the edge hangs down off the table, rather than them sitting in line with the length of the table, and also adding in just those little elements of something that comes from nature, whether it’s acorn branches, leaves, a couple of pinecones, just bringing that into the tablescape is really quite beautiful.

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IF SOMEONE CAN ONLY BUY THREE TO FIVE NEW PIECES THIS FALL, WHAT SHOULD THEY BE?

KS: Invest in linens, quality placemats and napkins. I’m not a big fan of paper napkins unless you have very small children. Invest in beautiful glassware and source quality ceramics.

OUTSIDE OF THE TABLE, DO YOU HAVE ANY FALL FAVOURITES FOR HOSTING? KS: I think having a welcome wreath or dried flowers and arrangements at your front door is really beautiful. Again, using natural elements from outside. Having a great playlist is also really wonderful. It sets the mood. Having some bottles of local wine and other non-alcoholic offerings is really important, but it’s really just about starting to share stories from the summer, which is why you’re coming together in the first place. Overall, just don’t overthink it. Try to be as natural as one can, adding only things that you feel you need. Having something really bright on the table can be a great statement, but adding more than one bright thing can become really cluttered and hard for the eye to balance. There is beauty in simplicity. A well-curated harvest table leans on quality linens, glassware, and candles to set the tone and let the food make the impression. And how could it not? The Okanagan’s harvest season brings delicious apples, pears, squash, carrots, and potatoes to the table, sourced from farmers in the neighbourhood, along with a staple in the valley: wine. Local Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays pair well with meals that bring root vegetables to the forefront.

Fall in the Okanagan was made for hosting: bringing together the people you love, food grown at the neighbourhood farm, wine from the vineyard down the road, decor from your backyard, and pieces from Kelowna’s Nurtured Home Shoppe to tie your harvest table together. This is where stories are shared and memories are made.

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Fall style, reconsidered.

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WORDS SAM HILL PHOTOS COURTESY TO FOUND. OH BABY!

Cozy knitwear, dark wash denim, and timeless layering pieces for fall? Groundbreaking. That’s what I imagine Miranda Priestly would say. Crisp mornings and evenings have arrived, families have settled into school routines, and it’s time to rearrange our closets to store summer staples at the back and pull forward our cashmere cardigans and sleek trousers. We love our tried and true favourites and neutral tones for the season, but 2026 feels like the year to make a statement. The pendulum has swung towards maximalism, vibrant colours and prints, textures and fringe, juxtaposition, and bold silhouettes, bringing something unique and playful to our closets. Fall style, reconsidered, if you will. This is the season when you lean on the basics you’ve been collecting over the years, and invest in statement pieces from local boutiques and thrift stores. It doesn’t matter where you’re going, a chartreuse pant or a shearling jacket is just what you need to complete an outfit that feels fresh, bold, and optimistic. “We love to build a look around a statement piece,” explained ad hoc Penticton owner Levi Gogolinski. “This look brings together enduring favourites and new arrivals: Cawley’s vintage-inspired shearling jacket lends timeless character, while Cordera’s sculptural barrel jeans and hand-beaded purse add modern structure and artisanal detail. Studio Nicholson’s perfect white tee provides a clean foundation, complemented by Rokosz Jewelry’s understated sterling silver lucky horseshoe necklace. Grounding it all is Rachel Comey’s Barla boot, a substantial, wear-everywhere silhouette designed to carry you through the season, whatever the weather.” It’s not about buying one thing and calling it a day, either. The magic is in how you build around it. “This fall, we’re seeing a renewed focus on craftsmanship across many brands, from hand-stitched details on sweaters and saddle-stitched seams on bags, to jewelry cast from shells and found objects,” added Gogolinski. “Layering contrasting textures is an easy way to add depth to an outfit without making it feel overstyled. Pair a fluid silk top with structured denim, or balance a boxy tee against the ease of a flowing trouser for an effortless mix of proportions.” Brielle Fahlgren of Found. By Oh Baby! takes that philosophy one step further. “The best outfits aren’t perfectly matched,” said Fahlgren. “Pair a bold, oversized knit sweater, whether it features contrast stitching, vintage-inspired graphics, or a playful print, with a satin or tiered ruffle skirt. The contrast is what makes the outfit interesting and gives it personality.”

“Shop for pieces that speak to you, pieces you’ll wear a hundred different ways,” she added. “The most interesting looks often come from styling unexpected pieces together rather than buying everything new. Mixing textures, prints, and silhouettes is what makes an outfit feel personal.” Consider that your fall syllabus. Now, the homework: here’s how to actually wear it, wherever your week takes you.

where & wear: SCHOOL DROP-OFF

If you’re heading to school drop-off, you likely don’t want to have to put too much thought into your outfit. The air is cool and your coffee is hot, your outfit should feel cozy but not like you just rolled out of bed. A barrel leg pant paired with a bandana print fringe cardigan is cool without being too polished. Absolutely do not forget a pair of sophisticated sunglasses - we’re still recovering from summer, after all.

where & wear: WINE TOURING

It is harvest season, which means it’s the perfect time to gather with friends on an Okanagan wine tour. An easy summer dress simply won’t do at this time of year, but a great pair of dark wash denim and quality knitwear in a bold red, ballet pink, or icy blue will do just the trick. This outfit can take you just about anywhere, but for a fall wine tour, you can complete the look and stay warm with a sturdy hat, chic boots, and a gorgeous knit or silk scarf.

where & wear: AROUND THE OFFICE

Life is a fashion show, even if your runway is the office. This is the place to play with silhouettes and layers. A pair of sleek, silky trousers balances out a layered stack of basics, bold knits, and a blouson jacket. Now that you have the recipe for fall, where to shop? A few local favourites for new and consigned clothing include ad hoc and Something Pretty in Penticton, Assembly, Boheme Collective, Found. By Oh Baby!, Frock & Fellow, Lost Together, MAN+WOMAN HOME, Morgane, and Indulge Boutique in Kelowna, as well as Kaleco and Thirty One & Main in Vernon. At the end of the day, dressing well in the Okanagan Valley this fall isn’t about keeping up with what’s trending elsewhere. It’s about walking into a wine tour, a school drop-off, or a Friday at the office in something that feels unmistakably yours; statement piece and all. Raid that thrift rack, say yes to the shearling or bright red, and let this season be the one where your closet gets a little more interesting. boulevardmagazines.com

weekender

Harvest in a Glass

Touring the Valley with uncorkBC WORDS SAM HILL PHOTOS COURTESY OF OKANAGAN WINE ARTS

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s the tasting rooms grow quieter after Okanagan tourists head home, fall calls wine lovers to trade patio season for a more peaceful and arguably more interesting season: harvest. Crush is happening on the pads, sunset is dancing across our dinner tables, and Kayla Bordignon of uncorkBC is taking us all on a glorious tour of the valley to taste harvest in a glass. Kayla Bordignon is the founder and driving force behind uncorkBC, bringing a deep passion for British Columbia wine and a commitment to sharing the stories behind the province’s incredible wine regions. With a strong understanding of BC’s vineyards, wineries, and winemaking community, Kayla has built her platform around helping wine lovers discover the people, places, and experiences that make BC wine unique. She is the founder and owner of British Columbia’s first Wine Passport, the BC Wine Passport. According to Bordignon, “Fall in BC wine country feels like the culmination of an entire year’s worth of care, patience, and anticipation. It’s the season I look forward to most, not just because of the wines that will eventually fill our glasses, but because of the energy that fills the vineyards. There’s something magical about the season changing and watching the vineyards transform into shades of gold, crimson, and amber. The air is crisp and the pace is purposeful. It’s the perfect time to go wine tasting!” Fall is a unique season for wine touring in the Okanagan. As always, visitors can sip exquisite wines from a wide variety of wineries across the region, but fall also delivers the opportunity to experience the winemaking process. “During this special time of year, guests can experience the behind-the-scenes moments that bring each bottle to life,” explained Bordignon. “From grapes arriving from the vineyard and being carefully hand-sorted by winemaking teams and harvest volunteers, to the excitement of seeing fruit processed right on the crush pad.” Bordignon recommends exploring the Naramata Bench this fall, one of British Columbia’s most celebrated wine regions and home to more than 40 wineries. Here’s a glimpse into Bordignon’s curated fall itinerary: Experience a tasting at Four Shadows Winery or Roche Wines, both of which are family-owned vineyards. Enjoy a delicious seasonal lunch paired with incredible wines at Poplar Grove Winery. Travel Naramata Road and stop in for tastings at Terravista Vineyards, Deep Roots Winery, Modesta Winery, or Tightrope Winery. End the day at the Naramata Inn Bistro Lapin Perdu for an incredible dinner inspired by classic French dishes with a touch of Quebecoise flair. You simply cannot skip the incredible winery restaurants in the region. Fall is such a beautiful season to revel in the vineyard scenery while enjoying dishes crafted by award-winning chefs using homegrown, seasonal ingredients. “I always encourage people to book a reservation at a winery restaurant along the way,” added Bordignon. “Winery chefs create seasonal menus designed to pair beautifully with the wines produced just steps away, showcasing fresh, local ingredients that reflect the region’s farms, orchards, and vineyards. Stopping for lunch or dinner also lets you slow down and savour the experience. After a few tastings, it’s the perfect chance to relax on a vineyard patio, enjoy the scenery, and discover how food and wine can enhance one another.”

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SOME OF BORDIGNON’S FAVOURITE WINERY RESTAURANTS INCLUDE:

• Block One at 50th Parallel Estate Winery (Lake Country) • Old Vines Restaurant at Quails Gate Winery (West Kelowna) • The Restaurant at Poplar Grove Winery (Penticton) • The Restaurant at Liquidity Winery (Okanagan Falls) • Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards (Oliver) • Sweetgrass at Nk’Mip Cellars (Osoyoos) The route is only half of the story. Bordignon shared the bottles worth seeking out this season and what to pair them with to truly capture the moment in the valley’s harvest. “I look forward to slowing down, and taking in cooler evenings with an elegant Pinot Noir, a vibrant Gamay, expressive Syrah, crisp Chardonnay or mouthwatering Riesling,” explained Bordignon.

HERE ARE A FEW TO ADD TO YOUR LIST THIS FALL:

• Pinot Noir: try 1 Mill Road Winery, 50th Parallel Estate Winery or Solvero Wines • Riesling: try Synchromesh Wines, Four Shadows Winery, or Tantalus Vineyards • Chardonnay: try Roche Wine, Stags Hollow Winery or Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery • Gamay: try Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars, Hillside Winery or Deep Roots Winery • Syrah: try Clos du Soleil Winery, Phantom Creek Estates, Moon Curser Vineyards or Painted Rock Estate Winery • BC wines pair wonderfully with seasonal ingredients this time of year. Bordignon’s recommendations include: • Mushroom Risotto Pasta with Pinot Noir • A turkey feast with Gamay or Riesling • Local goat cheese with Sauvignon Blanc • A squash dish with Chardonnay She also suggests that you take your harvest season wine tour a step further by asking in tasting rooms: “What makes this wine uniquely BC?” Bordignon said, “This question opens the door to so much more than just tasting notes. It’s an invitation to discover the vineyard and its unique terroir, the winemaker’s approach, and the story behind what’s in your glass. Every bottle has a sense of place, and tasting rooms are the perfect place to learn how BC’s unique character shapes each wine.” The season offers more than a beautiful pour. It’s a chance to witness the making of your favourite wines up close. “Harvest offers a rare opportunity to connect with the people behind the wine and witness the passion, dedication, and teamwork that go into every bottle,” added Bordignon. “Over

Not Just a Place to Escape

a Fe e l i n g t o R e t u r n t o

BEGIN YOUR WELLNESS JOURNEY

S P A R K L I N G H I L L . C O M

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the years, some of my most meaningful BC wine experiences have come from exploring the Valley during harvest and being welcomed into unexpected moments like punchdowns with master winemaker Howard Soon at Vanessa Vineyards, harvesting in the vineyard with Sheri-Lee Turner-Krouzel and Curtis Krouzel at 50th Parallel Estate Winery, or sorting grapes with Don Trigg, previous owner of Culmina. These authentic connections and behind-the-scenes discoveries are what make harvest in BC wine country truly unforgettable.” This fall, the valley isn’t just pouring wine - it’s pouring itself into every glass. Pack a light sweater, book that winery restaurant, and go find your own unexpected moment on the crush pad. Harvest in a glass is waiting for you.

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Perfection robe in ivory tulle ($359) from Reclamation (available online at wearereclam-ation.com).

changing season

Capture those last golden rays of late summer sunshine as fall blooms with its warm tones. This is a season of transition, a chance to reflect while finding a cosy spot to cuddle up with a good book. PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE PROCTOR MODEL: DEBS HOWARD STYLING: JEN EVANS MAKEUP & HAIR: JEN CLARK

Ivory lace top by Saint Laurent ($195) from Turnabout, cream eyelet cotton tiered skirt ($116) also from Turnabout and vintage brown leather boots ($60) from White Rabbit.

Perfection robe in ivory tulle ($359) from Reclamation.

Cream silk dress by Zara ($98) from House of Savoy.

White check dress by Bardot ($45) from Turnabout, cream cable knit sweater vest by Free People ($65) and a cream leather purse by Danse Lente ($174) – all from Turnabout – with vintage brown leather boots ($60) from White Rabbit.

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The kindest heart dress in embroidered ivory fabric ($450) by Reclamation and cream leather and perforated plastic brogue shoes ($145) from Turnabout.

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weekender

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Music That

Shimmers Music director Julian Pellicano’s second season builds toward the B.C. premiere of a lost symphony PHOTOS COURTESY OF OKANAGAN SYMPHONY

our small chocolates in a paper box: caramel, dark, mint and coffee. Each is meant to be eaten while its matching movement plays. That is the premise behind Maxime Goulet’s Chocolats Symphoniques, a four-movement suite by the Montreal composer written to accompany a chocolate tasting and it opens the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra’s 2026/27 season this fall. Music director Julian Pellicano built the October program ‘Music That Shimmers’ around contrast rather than a single narrative thread. “Each piece in this program is like a gem, a little piece of shimmering beauty in its own right,” Pellicano says. The concert also brings Vancouver harpist Joy Yeh to the stage for Reinhold Glière’s Harp Concerto, a work Pellicano believes the orchestra has not performed in recent memory. Yeh chairs the harp division at the Vancouver Academy of Music and has appeared at Carnegie Hall and the Konzerthaus Berlin. “It’s a rare opportunity to hear the harp as a concerto instrument,” Pellicano says. Also on the program is Prayer for Elizabeth by Jean Coulthard, the Vancouver-born composer who taught at the UBC for 26 years. The CBC commissioned the work in 1953 to mark the coronation of Elizabeth II.

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Handel’s Royal Fireworks Music closes the opener, and it carries a quiet link to Coulthard. The work was commissioned by King George II, Elizabeth II’s seven-times great-grandfather. “It’s a celebratory piece. That’s the nature of the music,” Pellicano says. “I thought it was an appropriate piece of music to open the season, being that it’s kind of a celebration for us as well.” Pellicano adds that Coulthard’s place in the season opener is deliberate. “Part of why we’re programming it here is in order to introduce our audience to Jean Coulthard and to the project that’s going to transpire later in the year,” Pellicano says. “It’s an opportunity for us to talk about her and her music, introduce the project and give the audience a little taste of what’s to come.” Okanagan Symphony Orchestra is welcoming a number of guest conductors, including Ivars Taurins who will be leading a Baroque grand tour. That project arrives in May, when the OSO presents the B.C. premiere of Coulthard’s Symphony No. 1 in partnership with the National Arts Centre Orchestra. The symphony was performed once in Toronto in 1951, then set aside for 75 years. Pellicano conducts four of the season’s seven concerts this year, his second with the orchestra and the lineup between October and May runs wide: a Baroque grand tour under guest conductor Ivars Taurins, a tuba concerto by Wynton Marsalis and Max Richter’s reworking of Vivaldi played on a violin built the year Vivaldi died. “I am incredibly excited to begin my second season,” Pellicano shares. “We have put together an exceptional lineup featuring stellar guest artists from both Canada and around the globe.” Explore the full 2026/27 Okanagan Symphony Orchestra season, along with upcoming performance dates at okanagansymphony.com.

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Photography by Trevor Cooper

Photography by Trevor Cooper Photography by Trevor Cooper

Photography by Trevor Cooper

Raising kids in wine country

Harvesting memories, one orchard at a time WORDS SAM HILL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY DAVISON ORCHARDS

T Kids can see from an early age exactly where that delicious fruit in their lunch kit is grown, how it’s harvested, and the importance of local farmers.

here’s a particular kind of fall that only exists in wine country. It smells like crushed grapes and woodsmoke. It sounds like school bells and the hum of machinery working in the orchards and vineyards. And if you’re raising kids here, you learn quickly that harvest season isn’t background scenery, it’s a character in your family’s year, showing up with its own rituals: the first pumpkin patch trip, the last warm afternoon at a winery patio, and that particular hush that settles over the valley once the crush is done. As the bell rings and the kids shuffle into school hallways for another year that will see them grow in leaps and bounds, many Okanagan crops have completed their growing season and are ready to harvest. Of course, the region is primed and ready for crush season with wineries across the valley harvesting for this year’s vintage. Farmers are also preparing to harvest apples, pears, plums, sweet corn, root vegetables, and squash and pumpkins are well on their way. There’s a feeling of freshness as the summer heat dies down. Raising kids in the Okanagan comes with many perks, one of which is that kids can see from an early age exactly where that delicious fruit in their lunch kit is grown, how it’s harvested, and the importance of local farmers. In many cases, they can also learn to harvest for themselves at local U-pick farms.

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HARVESTING MEMORIES, ONE ORCHARD AT A TIME Memory making as a family doesn’t end when the school year begins. There are ample opportunities to spend time as a family filling baskets with delicious fruits and vegetables at orchards across the valley throughout September and October.

DAVISON ORCHARDS Fall is the ideal season to visit a North Okanagan gem, Davison Orchards. This is truly one of the most wonderful family experiences in the valley, complete with orchard tours, the Crazy Cow Kids Corral, farm animals, U-pick apples throughout September and U-pick pumpkins in October (Wednesdays to Sundays). Admission is free and the memories keep going once you’re home, turning those hand-picked apples into a crumble together.

ROSE HILL ORCHARD This family-run orchard in Lake Country is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon picking apples and plums, sipping on a Rose Hill Cider, shopping the market, and watching the kids explore and

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interact with animals. You may even be able to catch live music on a Saturday evening as fall kicks off at Rose Hill Orchard.

PAYNTER’S FRUIT MARKET The roots run deep at Paynter’s Fruit Market in West Kelowna, as this family-run orchard and market has been a cornerstone of the community since 1919. Bring the family along for a farm tour to learn how the delightful fruit and veggies at the market are grown and harvested, stop in for an ice cream cone after your tour, and be sure to take the opportunity to U-pick apples and pears before the season ends in mid-October.

A TASTING ROOM FOR EVERY AGE Those who have been blessed to grow up in the Okanagan Valley can appreciate what has truly put the region on the map: the diverse and exceptional variety of wines and wineries from North to South. It’s easy to see the impact that these wineries have had for decades on the economy, tourism, and overall Okanagan experience. And many learned this from a young age.

Raising kids in wine country, amidst vast orchards, sweet fruit, reds, white, and rosés, is a privilege that we can build family traditions around. You don’t need to sip a glass of red or white to understand what wine means to the Okanagan. Raising children in the valley means raising children upon land that has given so much for many generations, and it’s important that local kids grow up understanding that. Luckily, many Okanagan wineries have thought beyond their primary customer and sought to offer family-friendly experiences. Frind Estate Winery on the shores of Okanagan Lake has beachfront access for kids to dip their toes in the water while parents enjoy a bold red on the patio. Summerhill Pyramid Winery has a slide for kids to play on, a pond to watch the fish swim in, as well as gardens and historical sites to explore. And then there is Three Sisters Winery in Penticton that has a playhouse, lawn games, sidewalk chalk, and a dedicated colouring table for the littles. Many wineries also offer non-alcoholic beverages and treats for kids to enjoy. Fall can feel a touch bittersweet as a parent in the Okanagan, as summer fun fades and routine sets in for another school year, but family fun doesn’t stop when the bell rings and harvest season begins. Instead, the fresh start can offer the perfect opportunity to incorporate new lessons and unique experiences that our glorious home provides, between math and social studies. Raising kids in wine country, amidst vast orchards, sweet fruit, reds, white, and rosés, is a privilege that we can build family traditions around. A first day of school photo in the orchard, an annual visit to the pumpkin patch, a wine and juice tasting on a patio as the crisp fall breeze sets in. Our kids are lucky to grow up here, and we’re equally as lucky to parent here.

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business class

Downtown Kelowna’s

DO YOU PHOTOGRAPHY

hidden gem 38

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Inside one of Kelowna’s early Edwardian homes and the unexpected life Linda and Don McDonald have created within it

WORDS MIRIAM HALPENNY

ucked along Ethel Street in downtown Kelowna sits a property that is surprisingly easy to miss. From the street, Lindon House offers a glimpse of what awaits: a stately heritage home, built in 1905 and restored more than a century later. But walk through the house and out the other side, and the property seems to just keep going. More than half an acre of colourful gardens stretches behind the 4,000-square-foot home, creating a little pocket of green serenity in the middle of the city. “We hear it all the time,” says Don. “People say, ‘We never knew this was here.’” It’s perhaps fitting that Lindon House itself comes as a bit of a surprise, because very little about Linda and Don’s life here happened according to plan. The couple met in a bar in 1979 and married just 11 weeks later. Linda, originally from Manchester, England, and Don, from Ottawa, eventually made their way west, first moving to Vancouver in the 80’s, before settling in Kelowna in 1990. Their professional lives took some unexpected turns, too. Don trained as an optician and Linda as a dental assistant, but after Don lost his job, a suggestion from his brother-in-law led him to try window cleaning. What began as a way to make ends meet turned into a business the couple still operates more than three decades later. The pair also spent years providing emergency foster care before transitioning into supporting people with disabilities in the community, work they continue today. “Everything just happened,” Linda says. “The only things we planned was that he went to school to be an optician, I went to school to be a dental assistant. From there, everything else just kind of evolved and evolved.” Lindon House was no different. When Linda and Don purchased the historic property in 2009, becoming event hosts wasn’t part of the plan. They simply wanted a home, and more than 15 years later, that’s exactly what Lindon House still is. The couple continues to live in the house, opening portions of their home and sprawling gardens to guests for weddings and other special events. The house, one of Kelowna’s early Edwardian residences, needed work. Following extensive interior renovations from Sid Molenar at

Integrity Services Inc., overseen by award-winning designer Suzanne Petti, its early-1900s character began to emerge again. Shortly after Molenar poured his heart and soul into the home and the renovations were completed, Molenar’s daughter asked if she could get married at the house. Linda and Don agreed, and the wedding took place that October. Before it was even over, guests were already asking if they could hold their own weddings there the following year. Suddenly, their home needed a name. Their designer offered one simple suggestion: Lindon – Linda and Don combined. “It sounded like an old English home anyway,” Don laughs. And just like that, Lindon House had a name and an entirely new chapter ahead of it. In the early years, Linda and Don were figuring things out as they went, from buying tables and chairs to deciding what the venue should provide. They quickly discovered, for example, that keeping up with ever-changing décor trends wasn’t for them. But in many ways, the two were well suited to figuring it out together. “My strengths are maybe her weaknesses, and then vice versa,” Don says. “My weaknesses actually are her strengths, so it just works.” It’s a balance they have carried through much of their lives. The couple works together across their different businesses and ventures, including Lindon House. For Linda, that eventually meant naturally taking on another role: event planner. “I love people. Love making people happy,” she says. Over time, couples began turning to her for advice throughout the planning process, and she discovered just how much she enjoyed being involved in bringing their ideas to life. “Girls, from being little, have a dream to get married, and to see that come together and to be a part of that is just fabulous,” Linda says. And she’s equally happy to start with nothing more than an idea. “I’d like people to know that we enjoy crafting events,” she says. “If they come with a blank page, we’re happy to help them fill that in and make it whatever they want it to be.” While weddings remain a large part of Lindon House, they are only part of its story. Over the years, the property has hosted milestone birthdays, an-

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PHOTO BY MIRIAM HALPENNY

niversaries, bridal teas, Christmas parties, corporate gatherings and celebrations of life. It’s one of those celebrations of life that Linda and Don both remember most. After guests gathered inside to watch a video honouring a man who had passed away, the group moved into the gardens for food and conversation. With the chairs cleared away inside, Don put on some jazz standards that seemed fitting for the occasion. Then an older woman approached him. “She says, ‘There’s people in the ballroom and they’re dancing,’” Don recalls. When she told him she wished she could dance too, Don, who had taken ballroom dancing lessons with Linda, offered to show her. As they walked inside, the right song happened to come on. Don showed her a few simple steps and they began moving back and forth across the floor. Before long, the room had turned into a lively celebration. Later, the woman whose husband they had gathered to remember told Linda and Don it was exactly the kind of party she had hoped to give him. “Who would have thought that this thing could have turned into a dance?” Don recalls her saying. It’s a memory that has stayed with both of them, and one that captures what Lindon House has become particularly well. For all its architectural details and carefully restored character, it remains a home first. “Many people comment on feeling at home,” says Linda. “There’s that sense of comfort, and then there’s this surprise that, ‘Oh, it’s much bigger.’” It’s a surprise that unfolds as guests make their way through the property. “You come down, and then the dance room is the first hint that

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this is bigger than I thought,” says Don. “Then you go outside and everyone goes, ‘Never knew this was here.’” The landscaped gardens were completed in 2012 and today create a setting that feels remarkably removed from the downtown hustle and bustle surrounding it. “A lot of people call it a hidden gem in the city,” says Don. The home has its share of unexpected details inside as well, including a service bell that appeared in the television series Downton Abbey, now repurposed as Lindon House’s front doorbell. Additionally, a guest suite was added to their offerings this year, while events continue year-round. Linda and Don have deliberately scaled back from their busiest years, when nearly every available event date was filled, but slowing down is relative for a couple who still juggle several different kinds of work. They’re both turning 70 this year with no plans to retire. “I never really felt old,” says Don. “I think maybe that’s part of it. When you keep yourself that busy, your body is just used to doing it, and your body and your mind are sort of staying young.” Maybe staying busy has something to do with it. Or perhaps it’s simply that Linda and Don have found such a strong enjoyment in their work that it feels less like a job and more like a passion. “We feel really blessed,” says Linda. “Every job that we do, the variety, we love it. Everything that we do brings us joy.” More than 120 years after it was built, Lindon House is still evolving too. It has been a private residence, a restoration project, an unexpected event venue and a gathering place for some of life’s biggest moments. And if Linda and Don’s story is any indication, whatever comes next probably won’t be planned.

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Redefining retirement living Based in B.C., the family-owned PARC Retirement Living operates seven retirement communities across the province.

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hirty-two years ago, when PARC Retirement Living founder Rainer Müller helped his mother move into a seniors residence in Switzerland, he expected it to be a practical decision.

Instead, he watched something remarkable happen: surrounded by new friends, activities and a vibrant community, his mother’s life became richer and more fulfilling. That experience changed the course of Müller’s career and inspired the launch of PARC Retirement Living, a B.C.-based, family-owned company that now operates seven retirement communities across the province. From its first residence in North Vancouver to its newest community in Kelowna, PARC has spent 25 years creating thoughtfully designed, vibrant communities where active seniors maintain their independence, stay engaged and build meaningful connections.

A B.C. family business built on a vision PARC began with a simple belief: that retirement living can enhance life, not limit it. Müller set out to create communities designed around the way older, independent adults want to live, with healthy food choices, wellness support and opportunities to be active and engaged. Over the years, PARC has developed six purpose-built residences and acquired one additional community, continually refining its approach. While each PARC residence reflects the character of its neighbourhood, they all share the same commitment: creating welcoming environments that make it easier for residents to enjoy each day.

A unique model of active living At the heart of every PARC community is the PARC Active Living program, built around four core pillars: physical fitness, social pursuits, emotional health and nutritious meals.

Cristalina PARC preparing a meal at JoeAnna’s House

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Further, each residence is thoughtfully designed to make everyday life more enjoyable – from premium locations close to local amenities to sustainable spaces prioritizing energy efficiency, resource conservation and healthy indoor environments. The result is a lifestyle built around staying active, building relationships and social connections – whether that means joining a fitness class, enjoying a meal with friends or participating in community events.

Cristalina PARC brings a proven legacy to Kelowna Cristalina PARC represents the newest chapter in PARC’s story, bringing together the thoughtful design, sustainability and community-focused approach that have shaped PARC residences for 25 years. Designed with the active Kelowna lifestyle in mind, sustainability is a central focus, and the residence has achieved LEED Gold certification, reflecting a commitment to thoughtful building practices that prioritize energy efficiency, resource conservation and a healthier indoor environment.

A new community partner in the Okanagan Across B.C., PARC works alongside local organizations, businesses and community partners to support initiatives that bring people together, to be an active member of surrounding neighbourhoods. Cristalina PARC continues this deep commitment in Kelowna, creating opportunities for residents and local seniors to stay connected and engaged, contributing to the vibrancy of the region. Cristalina has cultivated meaningful lasting relationships through financial support and active engagement, such as fundraising for JoeAnna’s House through Kelowna General Hospital Foundation and supporting seniors’ paddling classes at the Kelowna Paddle Centre. PARC’s commitment to arts and culture has also fostered relationships

PARC strongly believes that being part of a connected, vibrant community is critical to the health and well-being of all who live and work there. with the Rotary Centre for the Arts, supporting performing arts and 55+ programming, as well as Kelowna Opera’s Opera Under the Stars and Okanagan Symphony Orchestra. PARC strongly believes that being part of a connected, vibrant community is critical to the health and well-being of all who live and work there. Beyond organizational partnerships, Cristalina residents and employees are active contributors to the broader community, generously volunteering their time, sharing their talents, and supporting charitable causes that make Kelowna a more connected and vibrant place to live.

Looking forward to the next 25 years As PARC celebrates its 25th anniversary, Cristalina PARC represents both a milestone and a new beginning, bringing a trusted B.C. legacy and decades of experience to Kelowna. Looking ahead, PARC remains committed to evolving with the needs of future generations of seniors while staying true to the values that have guided the company from the very beginning. Curious to learn more about life at Cristalina PARC? Book a tour today and explore the lifestyle opportunities waiting for you. Call 236-763-7272 or visit parcliving.ca/25years Rainer & Viviane Müller in front of Cristalina PARC.

Living Well for 25 Years

For a quarter century, PARC has been redefining what senior living looks like in communities across BC. From chef-prepared meals that are both nutritious and delicious, to uniquely engaging activities and wellness programs custom designed for older adults, to modern, elegant amenities and welcoming spaces designed with sustainability in mind – every detail is shaped with intention. We’re proud of the independent living residences we’ve built, and the way they support a lifestyle that is active, connected and genuinely fulfilling.

Redefine your next chapter. Book a tour at Cristalina PARC to come see for yourself why so many seniors have chosen to call PARC home. parcliving.ca/25years Cristalina PARC: 236.763.7272 boulevardmagazines.com

travel

Surrounded by geothermal energy Explore the hidden gem that is São Miguel WORDS LAUREN KRAMER

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Pedro drives us to Sete Cidades, where a collapsed volcano created a massive crater, now filled with two side-by-side lakes, one green and one blue.

The Twin Lakes of Sete Cidades

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Caldeiras das Furnas

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A cozido cooking class PHOTO BY LAUREN KRAMER

n my early 20s I shouldered a heavy backpack and trekked around Greece and Turkey with two high school friends. On a tight budget, we survived on yogurt and fruit, hitchhiked and slept in campsites to save money. Thirty years went by and we all moved away, our careers and lives leading us in vastly different directions. However, we decided to meet up again in 2026 and as we poured over world maps searching for a midway point between our homes, the only place that made sense was smack dab in the middle of nowhere. São Miguel, the largest island in the Portuguese Azores archipelago, became the tectonic venue for our long-awaited reunion. A dot of land roughly 1,500 km from Portugal’s mainland, São Miguel is one of the Azores’ nine volcanic islands and has three active volcanoes. On São Miguel, you’re surrounded by geothermal energy. We joined locals for blissful dips in steaming thermal pools throughout the island, emerging relaxed and sleepy. We donned aprons and met a chef in the parish of Furnas to learn about cozido, a traditional meaty stew which is lowered into holes in the ground and cooked by geothermal steam. We tried it for dinner, tasting the unique, smoky flavour infused by sulphuric gases deep inside the earth. We watched waves crash onto black volcanic sand beaches and peered over steep cliffs where jumbles of black basalt lava rocks recall long ago eruptions. And we drove the winding roads of São Miguel, amazed to spot columns of smoke emanating from the ground as geothermal heat found new escape routes. On a tour with 4x4 Azores, our guide Pedro Vieira describes his love for the island. “Life here is so much simpler than in a big city,” he notes. “People are always friendly and relaxed, and the quality of life is fantastic.”

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His ancestors arrived more than 500 years ago and he’s never considered leaving. As we drive along the picturesque, narrow country roads, past small parishes that date back centuries, it isn’t hard to see why. The island is a stunning mass of greenery with soaring mountains, spectacular views around every turn, and lush grassy slopes where cows graze peacefully. We pull over at vistas, gazing at the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly into the distance. Around us, tree-size ferns unfurled tendrils into the sky and hydrangea bushes proliferate like weeds, filling the island with colour. The scenery is so primeval and Jurassic, you half expect to see a dinosaur lumbering across the land. No one comes to São Miguel for shopping, nightlife or souvenirs. While tourism is a major source of revenue for the Azores, there’s nothing touristy about this island, and for three 54-year-old women who have already travelled the world, that was a big part of its appeal. We hoped to avoid crowds, noise and traffic, and we found the answer here, where peacefulness prevails no matter where you find yourself. As we travel around the island, all we hear are birdsongs, the rustle of trees in the wind and the thundering crash of waves on the beaches. Pedro drives us to Sete Cidades, where a collapsed volcano created a massive crater, now filled with two side-by-side lakes, one green and one blue. From the viewpoint, 700 metres above sea level, the day went from T-shirt sunny to raincoat chilly, highlighting the island’s vastly different microclimates. During our week-long visit we learn quickly that while São Miguel is easily traversed in three-and-a-half hours, you have to pack for summer and winter every day. The weather changes quickly and unpredictably from sunshine to rolling fog, with mist often so dense you can’t see more than 10 feet ahead. As a result, we keep our schedule flexible. But while we’d planned to swim at Ponta da Ferraria, one of the few places in the world where geothermal water bubbles directly into the ocean, it was not meant to be. We timed our visit carefully to coincide with low tide and were primed to feel the hot, natural spring water mix with the cold Atlantic. We

Parque Terra Nostra

PHOTO BY LAUREN KRAMER

hadn’t accounted for wind or rough water though, and with waves smashing forcefully against the rocks, entry was impossible. Instead, we head to Caldeira Velha, where three thermal pools are ensconced in a forest. The hot water is courtesy of the Fogo Volcano, which last erupted in 1563 and is expected to erupt again in the next 60 to 80 years. For now, bathers sit in the thermal water, absorbing the quiet serenity as their muscles are soothed. Later, we explore the island’s agriculture, walking the slopes of an organic tea farm and touring a pineapple plantation. “São Miguel would be self-sustaining if not for tourism,” Pedro notes. The volcanic soil is fertile ground for growing fruit and vegetables, and with more cows than people on the island, there’s an ample supply of beef and enough milk to support a full dairy. The most fascinating parish, we found, on São Miguel is Furnas, a centuries-old, picturesque town located in a valley inside a massive volcanic crater. Here, jaw-dropping geothermal activity is everywhere. We walk through Caldeiras das Furnas, a park in the village centre where scalding hot water bubbles and splashes furiously. Steam emanates from manholes, gutters and grates and the smell of sulphur hangs heavy in the air. Lava is just 100 to 200 metres below the surface, a constant reminder this volcano is extremely active. Mesmerized, we watch the bubbling water erupt from the ground and flow through streams that run through the town. The parish is also home to Parque Terra Nostra, a magnificent botanical garden with a large, mustard-coloured geothermal pool as its centrepiece. We join other visitors, sinking into the iron-rich water, and later, with tingling skin, we walk the garden trails, dotted with trees from all over the world. The more than 30-acre garden began in 1775, and its giant sequoias, ancient ginkgo biloba and English oaks are still flourishing.

Find Your Place to Call Home Discover welcoming senior living communities with options designed for different lifestyles and changing needs. The Hamlets at Vernon

The Hamlets at Penticton

Westsyde Landing

Comfortable living with support available when you need it.

Changing needs don’t have to mean leaving the community you call home.

From independent living to long-term care, enjoy quality care and support in one welcoming community.

236-426-1488

250-490-8503

250-579-9061

Independent Living, Assisted Living, Private Long-Term Care

Independent Living, Assisted Living, Long-Term Care

thehamletsatvernon.ca 3050 29 Ave, Vernon

thehamletsatpenticton.ca 103 Duncan Ave W, Penticton

westsydelanding.ca 3255 Overlander Drive, Kamloops

The island pulsates with activity – above and below the surface – the volcanos raising their heads at unexpected intervals as if to say ‘never forget I am here.'

On our way back to Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city, we stop at Vila Franca do Campo. The coastal town on the south shore was the island’s capital until 1522, when a landslide triggered by an earthquake wiped out the entire parish overnight. Here, we board a boat with a guide from Vila Watersports, and head out to the Vila Franca Islet. The islet, with steep rock walls that soar 200 feet above the water, was formed by a submerged volcanic crater 4,000 years ago. Once privately owned, it’s now a well-protected marine sanctuary with a pristine, circular lagoon where locals picnic and swim on hot summer days. As we skirt the perimeter, nesting seagulls and terns watched us from the cliffs and bright red crabs scuttled over the rocks. “The tectonic plates that formed the island are shifting to this day,” our guide notes, pointing at dramatic fissures in the basalt lava rock. Two cliffs separated by tectonic movement are connected by a tenuous natural bridge that looks ready to plunge into the waves at any moment. Below us, a labyrinth of submerged caves are filled with blue pompano fish, constantly flushed by strong ocean currents. It just proves that as you travel across São Miguel, you get a riveting glimpse at active geology in motion. The island pulsates with activity – above and below the surface – the volcanos raising their heads at unexpected intervals as if to say “never forget I am here.” For three friends on a long-awaited reunion, this tectonic island was unforgettable. A place where human and natural history coalesce in an unforgettable, awe-inspiring destination.

Vila Franca Islet

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okanagansymphony.com DON’T MISS A BEAT — SEASON PASSES & SINGLE TICKETS AVAILABLE KELOWNA / PENTICTON TICKETS: TheBoxOffice.ca or 250.469.8940 VERNON TICKETS: TicketSeller.ca or 250.549.7469 Friday concerts @ Kelowna Community Theatre | Saturday concerts @ Penticton’s Cleland Theatre Sunday concerts @ Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre

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#10 565 Bernard Ave, Kelowna BC In the District Mall on Bernard