Courier December Courier | Page 52

COMPASS THE ROCKIES Peak experiences at Sun Peaks The magic of the rugged Canadian Rockies can be discovered at Sun Peaks Resort. This mountain com- munity, located just north of Kamloops in British Columbia’s Thompson Okanagan region, offers a com- prehensive set of nature-based activities year-round. Sun Peaks, which is Canada’s second-largest ski hub, is modeled after the traditional European ski-in, ski-out villages. From November to April, thousands of downhill enthusiasts and snowboarders head out on 135 trails—ranging from beginner hills to double-black diamond runs—that are spread across 4,270 acres. Thanks to more than 25 miles of cross-country trails, the area is becoming popular with Nordic skiers, too. During the warmer months, visitors can stay active by going mountain biking, enjoying a hike on one of the alpine trails or playing 18 holes at the Graham Cooke- designed championship golf course. At the center of Sun Peaks is a quaint, walkable down- town featuring a variety of locally owned shops, res- taurants and lodging options. The village’s calling-card property is the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre. An NTA member, the resort provides guests with an upscale experience that keeps the focus on the area’s natural beauty. A variety of room types is available, including suites and ones with kitchenettes. Travelers seeking a more luxurious stay can book the one- and two-bedroom condos that are part of the Residences at Sun Peaks. Guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine at the resort’s three on-site restaurants. Mantles is a full-service restaurant offering traditional dishes made with regionally sourced ingredients. A more casual lunch or dinner experience is available in the adjacent Mantles Lounge, which also features local wines and craft cocktails. Morrisey’s Public House provides classic pub fare in a more intimate setting. To learn more, contact Tourism Sun Peaks’ Colin Brost at [email protected] or reach out to Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre’s Valerie Hunter at [email protected]. 48 December 2017