The furthest point south of the Shuswap region on Hwy 97B half way between Vernon and Salmon Arm, Armstrong and Spallumcheen are well worth the detour and a simple Saturday can be spent enjoying the sights, sounds, shops and savours in the Heart of Country.
Start at The Brown Derby, home of the famous breakfast. The eclectic and iconic cafe on the main street is a must stop for locals and visitors alike. Walk off all the goodness of a home-cooked breakfast or piece of cherry pie by visiting BC’s oldest Farmer’s Market on the IPE Fairgrounds. After meeting the many producers and artisans, head to Memorial Park next door for some R&R or a refreshing dip in the lovely outdoor pool.
Get your afternoon boost at The Wild Oak Cafe home of great coffee and delightful baked goods and you’ll be all fuelled up to for the treasure hunt that is the fantastic selection of thrift and consignment shops such as The Bargain Bin operated by the Hospital Auxiliary, Frugal Frocks, The Guy Next Door, Sea Stars Boutique, Canadian Royal Antiques Post, Allen’s Antiques and Armstrong Antiques Home & Garden Decor.
A trip to Armstrong is not complete without a stop at The Village Cheese Co. for an impressive selection of artisan cheese and gourmet goodies. What goes better with cheese than bread? Really, really good bread is found right next door in Askews Foods at The Country Bakery. If you have more of a sweet tooth, you’ll be delighted with their selection of pastries and chocolates.
Take a drive around the local farms and enjoy the Barn Quilt Tour. The map can be found on the Armstrong Spallucheen Chamber of Commerce website (aschamber.com).
Cap the day with a wine tasting at Edge of the Earth Vineyards or a farm to table meal at the Farmstrong Cider Company and show your support for this small community with a big heart by sharing your experience on your favourite social media platforms.
For more information on tourism in Armstrong and Spallumcheen, visit ShuswapTourism.com and aschamber.com.
