Osoyoos in Bloom, National Post by Joanne McGowan, March 25, 2025
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From rare wildflowers to mouthwatering farm-to-table dishes, Osoyoos offers more than its beloved wineries
While its world-class wineries are an undeniable draw, springtime in Osoyoos offers much more for the curious traveller — it’s an invitation to explore beyond the familiar, to uncover hidden gems that make this South Okanagan town a must-visit destination.
And with mild temperatures and the landscape’s rugged beauty, spring is perfect for hiking trails around the Osoyoos Desert Centre and becoming immersed in the region’s unique desert-like ecology.
“Osoyoos is called Canada’s desert, but it’s actually a semi-arid shrub-steppe ecosystem,” explains Jayme Friedt, executive director at the Osoyoos Desert Centre, adding that spring in Osoyoos brings with it an explosion of wildlife and a renewal of activity.
“You’ll see thousands of sandhill cranes overhead, making calls that sound like velociraptor dinosaurs,” she says. “And our nesting boxes are a cacophony of activity at the Centre each spring, with bluebirds whirling about, preparing for hatchlings.”
On warmer days, visitors may spot snakes emerging from hibernation or even bears drinking at the Centre’s spadefoot toad breeding ponds.
Wildflowers also transform the landscape, from bright yellow arrowleaf balsamroot blanketing the hillsides to delicate phlox, sagebrush buttercups and larkspur. But the true star, says Friedt, is antelope-brush, a rare and threatened species.
“It only exists in Canada in the south Okanagan, and less than 30 per cent of it remains,” Friedt notes. “And in spring, its tiny yellow flowers bloom with a cinnamon bun-like scent — it’s absolutely amazing.”
And though wine may be king in the Okanagan, Osoyoos’ culinary scene is just as rich and rewarding after a day outdoors. The town’s farmers’ markets come alive, offering everything from artisanal cheeses to honey, creating a true farm-to-table experience.
“Spring also means the first of the Chinook salmon, which pairs well with a wild rice pilaf, grilled and then baked in a corn husk,” says Murray McDonald, executive chef at The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry, known for its Indigenous-inspired local menu.
“We respect traditional Indigenous cooking, but we’re also a melting pot, so we like to highlight what the Okanagan has to offer,” McDonald explains. “Our Three Sister Empanada — corn, beans and squash — is inspired by Indigenous cuisine but also pays homage to our Colombian kitchen team.”
Another spring favourite is Dirt Candy: All Treasures Buried, a nod to the Tragically Hip. “We use last season’s root vegetables — yams, squash, beets, leeks and sunflower seeds — sweetened with maple syrup instead of sugar.”
And for a light patio snack, McDonald recommends bannock and spreads, a traditional Indigenous bread served with five delicious dips. “We know people come to enjoy the beautiful weather and lake views, and this is a great appetizer for sharing in the perfect experience.”
Springtime in Osoyoos also brings food-inspired events, like the Osoyoos Oyster Festival, plus local art shows and live music performances — a taste of the community’s creative and culinary pulse.
Whether it’s hiking dramatic landscapes, tasting local delights or immersing in the town’s cultural roots, Osoyoos is a destination that rewards repeat visits. This spring, step beyond the vines and uncover the unexpected.
