There’s no denying our love for the holidays. Especially in the Shuswap, it’s a magical time of year when even the snowfall seems to make the season feel warmer, if only in our hearts. But for all their joy, the holidays can be equally exhausting.

With the new year comes an ideal time to unwind and recharge; to unplug and restore; to connect with nature, or the arts, and yourself. And, if you ask us, the Shuswap offers a spectacular winter wonderland where you can take some much-needed time to rejuvenate and get a head start on your new-found resolutions, whatever they may be.

Here, you can catch a break from the crowds and have a bit of nature all to yourself, taking all the time you need to recharge your spirit in peace. When it’s time to cozy up indoors, the cafes, restaurants, and wineries that shine bright in Shuswap’s soft winter light will be waiting for you, right among the comfy lakeside cabins and stretches of Nordic trails.

Here are 5 ways to enjoy some #MeTime in the Shuswap:

1. Stroll through the snowy trails of the Larch Hills Nordic Society

Few things revive the soul the way fresh air does. And the Shuswap has all you need to explore the great outdoors and reconnect with nature. At the Larch Hills Nordic Society, you’ll find more than 150 km of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails.

With its first trails opened in 2005, all are mapped and maintained by volunteers who soften obstacles and post signs to keep you safe while you explore. The 16km of snowshoe trails can be connected to create unique loops that suit your preferred length, from short and easy to long and challenging.

2. Unwind with a glass of wine at an award-winning winery

Find a way to unwind among a snow-covered vineyard at one of seven wineries in the Shuswap region, which is considered one of the northernmost grape-growing areas in North America. Our unique microclimate above the 50th parallel brings sunny days and cool evenings that combine intense flavours with beautiful balance.

In the winter, you can make an appointment at tasting rooms throughout the Shuswap, where you can sample award-winning Gewürztraminers, Merlots, Ortegas, Rieslings, Siegerrebes made from locally sourced grapes. Visiting several of our family-run vineyards will set you out on a tasting tour that’s sure to delight all your senses. But be warned: picturesque views of snowy estates will make you want to stay and savour every moment in serenity.

3. Indulge all your senses at the Quaaout Lodge and Spa

If you’ve resolved to relax more this year, the Quaaout Lodge can help you hibernate while staying surrounded by wilderness. Owned and operated by the Little Shuswap First Nation, you’ll have a chance to experience cultural tours, local art, and events in and around the waterfront resort.

After surprising your tastebuds with a fresh, locally-inspired meal at Jack Sam’s lakefront restaurant, complete with breathtaking views of Shuswap Lake and snow-capped mountains, replenish your skin and your spirit at the Le7ke Spa. Set among First Nations-inspired design and décor, the luxurious beauty treatments, relaxation rituals, and infrared sauna will help you put your best foot forward when you head back outside.

You know what they say: new year, new you.

4. Stop for the pie and stay for the music at the Shuswap Pie Company

In order to recharge, you’ll need to refuel. And if #MeTime is about treating yourself, the Shuswap Pie Company is a foolproof place to start. They serve up small-batch, savoury and sweet pies, plus coffee and sandwiches, made from scratch using all-natural ingredients.

You can experiment with unique flavours like steak and stout or curried veggie, or stick with the classic chicken pot pie. And with a different lunch special every month, the menu is packed with the perfect comfort foods for warming up after your outdoor adventures.

And if you stay long enough to sample everything, you can dance it all off to live music.

5. Commune with your inner artist at a Salmon Arms Arts Centre exhibit

Keep your walking meditations going inside by getting in touch with your creative side. If you need a break from the cold, take some quiet time indoors to study the visual exhibits at the Salmon Arm Art Gallery, which houses works from local and touring artists in a heritage brick building in downtown Salmon Arm.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and its donation-based admission price means you can keep spreading the holiday cheer. At the main exhibit, In Dialogue with the Collection, you’ll discover a new perspective on historic works  from the Arts Council’s Community Art Collection, which will be paired with fifteen local artists.

Plus, intimate artist talks give you a unique opportunity to explore the arts up close.

However you choose to recharge this winter, one thing is certain: there is something in the Shuswap for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to play in the snow or somewhere to warm up afterward, you can always visit our activities and events calendar to find something that speaks to your longing for #MeTime.

Wednesday October 14 marks the beginning of @SalmonArmPridePoject inaugural Pride Arts & Awareness Festival.

In the planning for over a year, and vastly reconfigured to adhere to COVID health protocols, the organizing committee has been overwhelmed by the love, support and contribution of the LGBTQ2S+ community, their allies, and the community at large.

The festival is a combination of virtual and in person events beginning with an art exhibition at the @SalmonArmArtsCentre featuring the work of LGBTQ2S+ community members. The exhibition is on from from Wednesday until Saturday and gallery hours are 11 am to 4 pm. Admission is by donation.

There’s a fabulous Pride Pop Up Shop at 121 Shuswap Street (formerly the Blue Canoe) sponsored by Wild Craft Mercantile from 11 am to 5 pm daily (open until 7 pm on Friday) featuring the work of LGBTQS+ makers and allies. Be sure to stop in early so as not to miss your chance to own custom designed one of a kind pride swag.

Online, new content will be available daily including a special edition of Family Saturdays at Home with Drag Queen Freida Whales and a worship service on Sunday at 11 am with Reverend Jenny Carter of First United Salmon Arm and guests.

Judging by the outpouring of support from community organizations and local businesses, the festival is already a success. We’re delighted to share the offering of our partners at the @SalmarTheatre (daily films at the Salmar Classic), the Salmon Arm @RootsandBluesFestival (personal performance for the audience). Book your rainbow colour session at @IhvoryHair, get your pride tattoo from our friends at @PinzTattoo or check out the Pride SHU design from at @lakeandlifeapparel.

Be sure to take in the amazing window displays while enjoying a @Visit_Downtown_Salmon_Arm and stop in to browse, shop and dine. If you’re joining us from  out of town, the Salmon Arm Prestige Inn and Harbourfront Resort is in walking distance of all the events and features beautiful views of the Salmon Arm Bay and Shuswap Lake, which as it happens, is also known for incredible rainbow displays when Mother Nature permits.

Happy Pride from ShuswapTourism and congratulations to the organizing committee, participants, artists, sponsors and supporting business and organizations. We’re very proud of you indeed.

For more information, please visit the Pride Project page at salmonarmartscentre.ca or follow the festival on instagram @SalmonArmPrideProject.