Winter Fun in Oliver, British Columbia
Located in the South Okanagan, Oliver is known as the “Wine Capital of Canada.” The desert climate and rich soil make it ideal for growing grapes which has translated into over 40 vineyards all within 30 minutes of each other! Due to its desert climate, Oliver is home to warmer than average winters, making it the perfect place to escape the cold! Take in a show at the Venables Theatre or enrich yourself with Oliver’s history at the Oliver and District Museum & Archives. For the outdoor enthusiast, walk or bike along the Oliver Hike and Bike Path – an 18 km trail located right behind the Coast Oliver Hotel. For those who love snow, take a quick drive to Baldy Mountain Resort where you’ll find an abundance of snow activities.
Baldy Mountain Resort
If your winter getaway isn't complete without a ride down the slopes, then Baldy Mountain Resort will be an essential stop during your trip.
The resort is just a quick 45-minute drive east of Oliver and is one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Okanagan Valley. Ranked as one of the ten highest elevation ski resorts in Canada, you can ski or snowboard throughout the facility, which has 80% beginner to intermediate terrain. Baldy Mountain Resort has 35 alpine runs and 360 acres of trails, and there’s something for everyone. You can glide through their cross-country trails, walk the woods in snowshoes, or go tobogganing. There is also sledding, disc golf, and many more activities for the whole family. With 25 feet of natural snow falling at Baldy Mountain each year, this is a great place to experience the magic of winter. The resort is open Thursday to Monday from early December until March 31, 2019. Baldy Mountain will be open all week from December 20 to January 7 (except Christmas Day) and March 14 to 25.
Oliver Hike and Bike Path
The Oliver Hike and Bike Path is an 18.4 km trail located along the Okanagan River. The path begins just behind the Coast Oliver Hotel and goes all the way to Osoyoos! The trail is partially paved, partially gravel and flat making it an easy walk, run or bike. Even though the path is located in the heart of Oliver, there is lots of seclusion and nature to be enjoyed. You’ll come across ducks, herons, eagles, and painted turtles in their natural habitats.
No matter what time of year you visit this trail has absolutely stunning beauty – so don’t forget your camera!
When You're Ready to Take It Easy
Take a step back in time at the Oliver Theatre, which is a real throwback. Built in 1946 and located at the top of Main Street, it’s renowned for showing vintage movies, ranging from Jaws to The Exorcist, and even highly anticipated new releases. Curl up in your seat, snack on popcorn with real butter (you read that right) and be a part of Oliver’s theatre history! The Frank Venables Theatre is a mid-sized community theatre featuring a variety of performing arts throughout the winter season. This state-of-the-art theatre was built where the historic, art-deco style Venables Theatre laid before it burnt to the ground in 2011. There are family-themed concerts, ballets, musicals, and more for your enjoyment.
Learn about the history of Oliver and District by visiting the Oliver and District Museum. The building, a heritage location, was built in the 1920’s and is the old B.C. Provincial Police building. The museum features artifacts, archival items and other heritage resources that showcase the human and natural history of the area. You can even step into the Fairview Jail which is one of the last remaining original buildings from the gold mine days. Complete your visit by stopping in the gift shop to pick up a souvenir on your way out.
After a day of activities unwind by visiting one of the many wineries in Oliver. A number of wineries offer restaurant services making it easy to enjoy some local food paired with local wine! For beer lovers, visit the Firehall Brewery for local brews, delicious food and good vibes.
Where to Stay
At Coast Oliver Hotel, you get to enjoy a host of amenities such as:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Complimentary hot breakfast buffet
- Designated pet-friendly rooms
- Indoor pools and hot tubs to warm up after a long day outside
Plus, the hotel is offering a Stay & Ski promotion for those escaping to Oliver this winter. The package includes a low flat rate of single or double occupancy and lift tickets to Baldy Mountain Resort. If you’re not skiing, take advantage of the Holiday Stay & Shop package, where you can get a $50 VISAⓇ Prepaid Card during your stay to use towards your holiday shopping! Book your stay now with Coast Oliver Hotel!