Visiting The Town of Peachland, British Columbia

Peachland is a small town about 26 km from Kelowna, named after its historic peach orchards. Though tiny, it is incredibly peaceful and absolutely worth visiting. I took a bus from West Kelowna and enjoyed the scenic drive along Okanagan Lake. The day was bright and sunny, with perfect weather, making the journey even more enjoyable. Originally, the area was inhabited by the Syilx (Okanagan) Indigenous people, who lived off the land and water for thousands of years. European settlement began in the late 1800s, and the town was officially founded in 1899 by John Moore Robinson, a British settler who recognized the region’s potential for fruit farming.

My first stop was the Peachland Museum, which is housed in a charming old church. Inside, I explored the rich history of Peachland, the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, and Canada. The museum featured collections of international currencies, railway photographs, and ship models. I was especially fascinated by the old photographs showing how peach orchards were first established in the town. There was also a section dedicated to World War I, displaying artifacts such as maps, uniforms, medals, diaries, and compasses belonging to fallen soldiers.

Upstairs, I found an impressive collection of vintage cameras and a detailed working model of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the Okanagan region. The model included trains, buses, and industrial setups, all with sound effects it was clear how much effort had gone into creating it. There were also scientific instruments and Canadian sports equipments display. The museum operates on a donation basis rather than a fixed ticket fee, which added to its welcoming atmosphere. Outside, there was an old cart once used by locals and a small cherry blossom tree just beginning to bloom.

Continuing my walk, I reached the Ray Kandola Heritage Pier, a beautiful wooden pathway built over the lake with seating areas. I spent some time there, simply admiring the peaceful water and surrounding mountains. The Ray Kandola Heritage Pier was officially opened in May 2019.

As I walked further, I noticed the lake shimmering in different shades of blue and arrived at the Peachland Cenotaph, which honors local soldiers who never returned from World War I. The cenotaph serves as a place of reflection, especially during remembrance ceremonies like Remembrance Day, where people gather to pay their respects.

After reading their stories and paying my respects, I continued on to see the large green clock installed by the Rotary Club. Behind it, the flag of British Columbia waved gracefully in the breeze. It was installed in 2009 to celebrate Peachland’s 100th year of incorporation. The clock is a four-faced town clock, placed near the cenotaph in the town center, and in working condition showing accurate time.

By then, the wind had picked up and I was getting hungry, so I headed to Gasthaus on the Lake, a German restaurant and one of the most scenic restaurants I have visited. I ordered blue cod fish and chips made with fish from New Zealand and enjoyed it with malt vinegar and a refreshing coleslaw salad and tartar sauce.Sitting on the outdoor patio with the lake view was a perfect experience.

The place also hosts a Christmas ornamental market during the holiday season. Nearby, I noticed another cherry blossom tree in full bloom, adding to the charm of the setting.

The atmosphere in Peachland was wonderful. I even saw groups of older bikers both men and women riding together, which added a unique character to the town. There is also a church behind the restaurant and a small beach area nearby where you can sit and relax. In the early 20th century, transportation and trade improved with the arrival of routes connected to the Canadian Pacific Railway to Kelowna and Penticton further connecting Peachland through ships, helping farmers export fruit to other parts of Canada.

I ended my trip by taking the bus back home, once again enjoying the serene views of the lake. It was a simple yet beautiful day, filled with peaceful moments and scenic charm.