There is certainly no shortage of beautiful places in Canada to visit by automobile. And among the top destinations — for a number of reasons detailed below — is Kelowna, in the south central region of B.C. Named after the people of Syilx Nation who were its first inhabitants, the area has a unique desert-like climate and is home to the stunning 135-kilometre long Okanagan Lake. Mountains, vineyards, orchards and other natural wonders surround vibrant urban centres perfect for a quick family getaway.

We filled up a 2023 three-row Mazda CX-9 crossover with four adults and three kids, and embarked on a 4.5-kilometre road trip from Vancouver to the Interior’s largest city and here are some of the highlights.

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Combining practicality, performance, affordable luxury and above average fuel economy is no easy feat in the automotive world, and yet Mazda has done quite well with the second-generation CX-5. Seating up to seven people depending on configuration, the former flagship mid-size SUV (replaced by the new CX-90 as of model year 2024) shares the same sharp -handling DNA found across the lineup and is as much fun as one can have piloting a vehicle full of people and gear up the winding Coquihalla Highway.

The the top-of-the-line Signature trim boasts an interior usually seen in high-end German machinery. For example, the ultra-supple quilted Nappa leather upholstery in a Deep Chestnut colour, complemented by tastefully-applied Santos Rosewood and patterned aluminum trim. Two captain’s chairs replace the standard middle bench really giving the cabin the feel of a lounge.

As in all contemporary Mazdas, the large infotainment display is intuitive and controlled via the rotary commander knob that is simple and safe to operate using only touch. The 12-speaker Bose stereo sounds amazing and occupants are able to stream music from a mobile device through the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto app. An additional neat tech function is the current speed limit is digitally marked in red directly on the speedometer.

All grades utilize a Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Due to some smart engineering, the motor generates 227 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque while consuming 87 octane gas, or a maximum 250 and 320, respectively, if 93 octane is filled instead. There was lots of oomph even tackling steep mountain inclines, and the all-wheel drive system ensured an optimum amount of traction at all times.

A single caveat is storage capacity, a common pain point in this segment. When the back bench is folded the 1,082 litres of space is ample — however upright, the number shrinks to 407, enough for a couple of carry-on suitcases and a duffel bag or two. 

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Located right in the heart of Kelowna is Coast Capri Hotel (1171 Harvey Ave.), just minutes away from the lake and downtown core. The six-floor, 185-room establishment was built in 1960, renovated in 2006 and features clean, comfortable accommodations. Pet and family friendly, many rooms offer a private balcony or easy access to the seasonal heated outdoor pool and adjacent fitness centre. Suites are also available and overnight parking is free.

During your stay, grab breakfast, lunch or dinner at Vitner’s Grill in the lobby, and pamper yourself at the on-site Beyond Wrapture Day Spa providing multiple forms of massage, esthetics and even children’s services. Or journey next door to the Capri Centre Mall housing over 32 brand name stores, an Independent Grocer, restaurants, bowling alley and liquor store. For more information or to book a room visit www.coasthotels.com/coast-capri-hotel.

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Originally launching in Calgary over a decade ago, CRAFT Beer Market has opened eateries across the country including in Kelowna in 2018. Facing the waterfront in a beautiful multi-level former theatre, the generous rooftop patio affords a view to die for. Specializing in excess of 100 different beers on tap, as well as cocktails, two standouts are the juicy Wildeye Brewing Mango Pale Ale and Hoyne Dark Matter with hints of chocolate and roasted malt.

But it would be a shame to only imbibe and not try the eclectic menu going far beyond standard pub fare. The Kung Pao Lettuce ($23.50) Wraps make an excellent starter — the flavours of slightly spicy chicken, seared vegetables, cashews and crispy noodles play wonderfully together. Moving on to mains, the AC Burger ($23.25)  is a local favourite where a pair of beef patties, white cheddar, pickles, lettuce, tomato, red onion and bacon aioli meet between two buns.

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Among the 40 wineries that exist within a 20 minute drive, one would imagine a fair share are kid friendly. But in fact the opposite is true, though the Tuscany-inspired, 60,000 square-foot Grizzli in West Kelowna (2550 Boucherie Rd.) is an exception welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy their in-house art gallery, wine tour, or any of the special events held throughout the year like farmer’s and Christmas markets, Fall Fest, Halloweenie and outdoor movie nights.

Known for its award-winning icewines, visitors may partake in wine tastings (youngsters get sparking juice!) to sample various varietals of the sweet drink alongside delicious whites and reds. The 2015 Muscat is easy-drinking filling the nose with melon and citrus aromas, and the 2014 Merlot, which is more earthy than fruity, possesses notes of dried blackberry and cedar. Both go great next to a charcuterie plate available upon request.

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Energyplex (948 McCurdy Rd.) is the largest indoor entertainment centre in the city and is truly fun for the whole family. Attractions include a ball-shooting arena, four-level cube playground, 30-foot rock climbing wall, high rope challenge course, laser tag, toddler area and an arcade where players can win tickets and prizes. Admission to the first two above is $10 for those 15 and under, and adults receive complimentary entry. The others are charged ala carte. 

A recent update is the addition of a “Lazy Lounge” bar next to the arcade serving up local craft beer, cider, wine. mixed drinks and pizza. And thanks to free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating, it also makes a great place to get a little work done while keeping an eye on the little ones. Throwing a birthday party? Choose from four different packages bundling activities and refreshments. During the summer, day camps are offered as well.