creativecommons.org/David Wise
Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos, British Columbia, has partnered up with Covert Farms and been selected to be part of the Canadian Tourism Commission’s Canadian Signature Experiences Collection.
‘A Culinary Journey through Canada’s Desert’ takes visitors on an eco-tour that explores ancient desert geology, First Nations cultural heritage and modern environmental stewardship of the land – and blends it together with the distinctive fine wines, cuisine and hospitality of the southern Okanagan Valley.
The Canadian Signature Experiences Collection is made up of outstanding Canadian tourism enterprises that deliver the authentic experiences.
This remarkable culinary journey begins at Watermark Beach Resort on sun-warmed Osoyoos Lake and continues through Canada’s only pocket desert to the organic fields and vineyards, country market and wine shop at Covert Farms in the south Okanagan Valley.
Guests travel through a rare antelope-brush ecosystem, past steep bluffs that are home to 18 species of bats, and onto a sandy plateau where a glacial ice dam burst 10,000 years ago. There, First Nations fishing grounds on the Okanagan River nudge up against the lush biodynamic fields of Covert Farms. Travellers are then taken in a vintage 1952 Mercury truck on guided farm tour, stopping along the way to pick and taste peaches, muskmelons and tomatoes fresh from the vine.
Back at the Watermark Wine & Tapas Bar, local wines are paired with farm-fresh produce from Covert Farms and other producers in the region. Chef Jonas Stadtlander prepares fresh creations in rhythm with the seasons to create a truly regional culinary experience.