On my first visit to Canada, I’ve already been completely spoiled. Living only a few hours south of Montréal, I’ve always planned to visit but have never actually committed and booked. Now that I am in Osoyoos, British Columbia, for work, I see what I’ve been missing.

Although British Columbia is across the country, the natural vibe and wild beauty is right up my alley. I’ve been lucky enough to stay at Spirit Ridge, an idyllic resort, heritage center and vineyard. As the first aboriginal-owned vineyard in Canada with the first grape plants seeded in 1966–1970s, depending on whom you ask, this region’s history goes well beyond the ’60s — more like thousands of years.

The property brims with personality and culture, as it’s set between Anarchist Mountain, lush vineyards and wild terrain perfect for horseback riding, boating on the lake, hiking and a slew of other activities.

As the first independent hotel to team up with Hyatt’s Unbound Collection in Canada, Spirit Ridge is all about firsts. The First Nations People of aboriginal citizens is made up of seven bands, including local Okanagans, and the resort is dedicated to preserving local heritage and traditions and educating visitors and residents alike.

With a focus on the importance of the Okanagan people and their history, Spirit Ridge opened the Nk’ Mip Cultural Center in 2002, since grown to a full-scale education center.

I’m excited to learn more about the rich history of the land and local activism it took to flourish into the region it is today — between wine tastings and vineyard hikes, of course.

— Angelique Platas, associate editor