The week came and went and with even more wet weather than we’d hoped. We managed however, to explore a fair bit of the Vernon area by bike. What we discovered were some really nice country roads through an incredibly lush agricultural area. Between crops and cows – we were pleasantly surprised with what we found.

I’m told on a regular basis that my estimation of distances could use a little work, and now it’s clear that my ability to estimate the amount of vertical on a ride needs a little attention, too. Thankfully my trusty assistant and I drove the route to Lumby (Day 3) on Day 2 and found some packed dirt roads, plenty of vertical and flooded roads – so were able to adjust and keep everyone moving forward on a more reasonable ride. Unfortunately, Mapmyride doesn’t cover all of those particular details…

We discovered a few more cafes and eateries that were absolutely outstanding including in Lumby, Jitter Beans https://www.facebook.com/jitterbeanslumby/ and in Enderby, Hungry Jack’s https://hungry-jacks.foodpages.ca/. For a terrific dinner out on the last night, Intermezzo at the Castle Hotel Home – Intermezzo Restaurant and Wine Cellar (intermezzowinecellar.com). Unexpected surprises everywhere.

There is a new bike shop in Armstrong that deserves a look as well – Okanagan Bike Co. https://okanaganbike.ca/ and an established one in Vernon where we got almost instant service on the blow-out day – Skyride https://www.skyride.ca/contact/contact-pg141.htm . Thanks to both shops for their help.

To anyone who has just blown through Vernon on their way to somewhere else – I think all of the Princesses would encourage a few days in this region. Whether you’re a pathway, gravel or road rider – you’ll find many delights in this area of our magnificent country.

For the Princesses – we rode plenty of kms, had many laughs, fixed a tire blow-out, drank coffee (and some wine too), breathed the ‘essence’ of farm country and had fun exploring a new region. I think I can speak for everyone when I say that we all had a relaxing week with good friends and left feeling like we got away from life’s pressures – for a little while. Thank you Princesses.

LiveSplendidly!