Tourist Regions in the Kootenays
|
 Kootenay Lake / East
At the southern end of the lake, the thriving
agricultural town of Creston is noted both for
its
fruit, and for its internationally famous
wetlands.
These are a major stopping point for many
species of
migratory birds. The Creston Wildlife Center
has a
wonderful facility, with trained naturalists
guiding
wetlands tours both by canoe and on the
boardwalk.
Coming north on the east side of the lake,
Highway 3A
is one of North America's top motorcycling
roads. The
numerous curves open up to reveal glorious views
of
the lake and mountains. In fine weather, stop
at one
of the many beaches and marinas.
There are several great stops along the way: the
Sirdar Store still feels as it was when it first
opened in 1913; and the Sirdar Pub next door is
a
weekend hot spot in the area.
Further up the lake, the Glass House (open May
to mid-October) is a genuine roadside attraction.
In a
spectacular lakeside setting, this house and its
associated outbuildings are all built of
embalming
fluid bottles!
The store on Chainsaw Avenue in the "metric-free
zone" of Gray Creek carries everything from
Chinese hoisin sauce to rubber boots and
woodstoves. It also rents boats at its marina.
Stop in - you'll find something you need!
Crawford Bay is home to a busy community of
artisans. Their workplaces and shops are all
along Highway 3A, and they invite you to stop in
and see glass blowing, handweaving, pottery and
broom making, and blacksmithing. The Toltec
Gallery exhibits the work of other artists
(which you can browse while enjoying something
from their coffee and juice bar), and the Purple
Door is quite a unique gift shop. If shopping
isn't your bag, try a round of golf at the
challenging Kokanee Springs Golf Course.
If you prefer to fly in for a quick round, there
is a 2700' grass air strip directly across from
the golf
course (no lights or radar, however).
The former mining town of Riondel has a
wonderful 9 hole, par 3 golf course for people
who still think
golf is a game. Afterwards, stop in at Blue
Collars Pub. And on the way to Riondel is
Yasodhara Ashram, a lovely retreat for
meditation and yoga. Be sure to visit their very
interesting shop.
If you're hungry, try the superb European
cuisine (dinner only) at Boccalino, quite near
the ferry
landing. On a beautiful beach right at the
landing is the great little Fairy Treats cafe.
The Kootenay Lake Ferry is between Riondel and
Crawford Bay, and takes you across to Balfour on
the North Shore. This is the longest free ferry
ride in North America, and probably the most
beautiful.
Member B&Bs in this region
2 B&Bs found.
A Guide to our Icons
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King Size
beds |
Queen Size
Beds |
Double
Beds |
Twin
Beds |
Private /
Ensuite
Bathroom |
Shared
Bathroom |
Children
Welcome |
Pets
Welcome |
Wheelchair
Accessible |
Fireplace
available |
Hot Tub |
Swimming Pool |
Beachfront
Property |
Sauna |
Jacuzzi /
Whirlpool |
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