Tucked into a sweet corner of the Okanagan and surrounded by golf and ski resorts, little Vernon is big on the good life.

Work

Major employers include forest product manufacturer Tolko, Kal Tire, a regional hospital and a school board. Those with a penchant for indie mountain hip are encouraged to give the Chamber of Commerce a ring.

Play

Nearby Silver Star Resort has the best glade and backcountry skiing this side of the Kootenays, and a killer mountain bike park fuels summer’s adrenalin rush. For the life aquatic, the turquoise-green waters of Kalamalka Lake have a beauty that rivals the Dalmatian Coast. Award-winning Predator Ridge's outstanding three nines can be played in differing combinations to put together an 18-hole round.

Stay

Just west of town, The Rise is a Tuscan-inspired development that combines two Okanagan passion's; great wine and a superb golf course. For fast-fading bargains, check out the Easthill neighbourhood for fixer-uppers.

Hang

People drive 40 minutes from Kelowna to feast on Moroccan lamb at the Eclectic Med; decidedly non-Mediterranean buffalo and venison are also seasonal favourites.

Neighbourly Advice

"Whether on foot or by bike, the best views in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park are on the Coldstream Trail to Cousens Bay," says Peter Dorey, owner of Olympia Cycle in town.  On the way back to town, stop at Alexander's Pub on Kal Lake Road for an Okanagan Spring Pale Ale and take in the beach volleyball action.

Raw Data

Population: 36,000

Median Household Income: $44,798

Median Home Price: $236,000

Climate: The surrounding hills and lakes cool off the fierce sun

Median Age: 39

This story was originally published in the July 2006 issue of up! magazine as part of Canada’s Best Hometowns, a package of stories profiling the country’s most amazing places to put down roots and enjoy the great outdoors. Check out more of Canada's Best Hometowns.

Photo: Ernest Hawkes