Nestled in the iconic Nature’s Heartland area of BC’s central interior, the Thompson Valley wine region, is a place of rugged beauty and refined taste. These lands are home to the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, which translates to “the people of the confluence,” a tribute to North and South Thompson Rivers that converge.

Kamloops, the valley’s largest urban centre, is a hub for adventure, culture, and cuisine all year round. Here, the ancient landscapes and distinct terroir nurture a bounty of fertile soils, paving the way for ranchlands, farms, and vineyards. With local roots and industrious spirit, farmers and vintners alike harvest the best ingredients from the land and bring them to your plate and glass. Tour the area’s trio of wineries along the Kamloops Wine Trail, where gardens and terraces invite casual tastings, local food and incredible views.

Alongside wine tastings, the Thompson Valley and Kamloops area beckon to nature-lovers in all seasons. Take to the biking and hiking trails, dip into a cool lake or soak in mountain views. Winters are perfect for Nordic Skiing, fat biking on bikes designed for snowy terrain, and downhill skiing at Sun Peaks and Harper Mountain. The area’s vibrant food scene is a welcome way to get a taste of the Thompson, especially when paired with local wines.

Photo: Monte Creek Winery

Day 1: Hoodoos, Views, then Wine

Kick off your visit with an adventure to unique natural wonders in the Thompson Valley, forged by massive glaciers and volcanic activity. You’ll have your pick of several trails and viewpoints to explore the geological history of the area. The Cinnamon Ridge Trail, lined with clay and cacti, brings you to an impressive slot canyon and deep gorge. Meanwhile, the volcano-formed silt bluffs and dramatic hoodoo formations that line East Shuswap Road near Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park are the remains of an impressive glacial lake from the last Ice Age.

Even better, the latter hike is located very close to Monte Creek Winery, where you can reward your efforts with an afternoon spent on the peaceful patio on The Terrace Restaurant, which overlooks a layered landscape. Enjoy a locally-inspired menu of small plates, handhelds and pizzas. Uncork a bottle of their finest as you take in the serene setting. Their eclectic Living Land series includes bright whites, full-bodied reds and rosé. Take a tour of the winery to learn about how they take it from vine to glass. Check the Monte Creek events calendar for music nights, movement classes, night markets and a wine-inspired running race.

Photo: Sagewood Winery

Day 2: Cultural Connections, Lakes & Libations
Mornings in Kamloops are even better with fresh-made YeYe Bannock in your belly, a signature treat at First Nations-owned Kekuli Cafe. Continue the cultural connection at Secwépemc Museum & Heritage Park, which offers a garden, nature park and interpretive exhibits to learn stories and traditions of the First Nations in the area. 

If the weather is hot, there are plenty of ways to cool off. Wander around downtown Kamloops, taking in the colourful building murals and making your way to the picturesque riverfront walking trail, which links numerous parks and beaches throughout the city. With 100+ shimmering lakes within a one-hour drive of Kamloops, there are plenty of opportunities for paddling, swimming and boating, including Paul Lake, McConnell Lake Park and Kamloops Lake, where rentals are available at Bruker Marina. 

After a morning of activities, it’s time to “wine” your way to a tasting. Head to charming, family-run Sagewood Winery, perched on the benchlands above the South Thompson River. Their wine portfolio includes cool-climate whites, bright reds and unique varietals like intriguing Foch. The rustic setting is a haven for intimate tastings inside, or al fresco in the picnic area with a backdrop of nature and a soothing pond nearby. You’ll feel like part of the family as you learn and sip the stories of the terroir in a glass (or two).

Photo: Privato Vineyard & Winery

Day 3: Mountain, Gardens & Tastings
The year-round mountain resort, Sun Peaks, is just a 45-minute drive from Kamloops and well-worth a visit in any season. Summers are prime for mountain biking in the lift-accessed downhill bike park. With 22 kilometres of scenic hiking trails, there are ample opportunities to take in vibrant wildflowers, spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Okanagan Highland and the Monashee Mountains. Once snow arrives skiers can search for powder stashes and glide through the glades.

As you make your way back to Kamloops, carve out the full afternoon to experience the tranquil gardens of Privato Vineyard & Winery. Wander through the vines and Wine Gardens with a glass of their signature Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Beyond traditional tastings, you can also book an enhanced wine experience in the Barrel Room to gain a deeper understanding of the winemaking process. The Privato events calendar is brimming with live music, activities, markets and special tastings. Stay a while and take in the ambiance. During the cooler months, Privato’s grounds come alive with seasonal activities like pumpkin patches in autumn and holiday pop ups during the winter.

Where to Dine:
Kamloops is the heart of the Thompson Valley’s burgeoning foodie scene, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from nearby farmers, ranchers and food producers. Brownstone Restaurant, set in a historic 1904 Canadian Bank of Commerce building, partners with local producers to share the flavours of the land and boasts a drinks menu with wine, beer and cider from Kamloops and around BC. Meanwhile, the edgy Underbelly by the Pig, pairs its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with BC wines and craft cocktails.

For an in-depth tour of local ingredients, book a guided foodie tour for an inside guide to local wines and delicious bites at eateries and bars throughout Kamloops.

Where to Stay:
Stay in the heart of downtown Kamloops at the Delta Marriott, with contemporary rooms, a swimming pool and a fitness area. The central location is steps from the bustle of downtown shops, restaurants and bars and the hotel is also home to Cordo Resto & Bar, which serves a curated menu filled with local wine, beer and ingredients sourced from Thompson Valley ranches and fields. 

A little further out of town, conveniently near Sagewood Winery, South Thompson Inn and Conference Centre is a sprawling Kentucky-inspired estate with wrap-around porches and charming southern touches. Its 55 acres include a golf course, walking trails, a restaurant, plus a library-turned-Bourbon lounge.

Getting Here:
There are several ways to get to the Thompson Valley. The fastest and most direct route to Kamloops is to drive the Trans Canada Highway 1, an iconic Rainforest to Rockies route. Be sure to carve out some time to visit McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site, an impressive display of bird, plant and insect fossils from 53 million years ago.