Living in the Shuswap
Blind Bay, Sorrento, White Lake, Eagle Bay, Sunnybrae/Tappen, Notch Hill/Sorrento, Salmon Arm, Chase, North Shuswap
Community
Blind Bay
Blind Bay is a hidden gem that offers an idyllic blend of lakeside living and natural scenic beauty. With its serene surroundings and small-town charm, Blind Bay is a sought-after destination for both permanent residents and those seeking a seasonal retreat.
The centerpiece of Blind Bay is Shuswap Lake, known for its sparkling waters and breathtaking vistas. Water enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise here, with ample opportunities for boating, waterskiing, fishing, and swimming. There are several marinas and two have restaurants which provide outstanding waterfront dining experiences, especially at sunset.
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For those considering Blind Bay as their permanent home, you’ll find it to be a very friendly and peaceful community. There are several large settlements within Blind Bay including Shuswap Lake Estates, Alpen Paradis, Cedar Heights, and McArthur Heights. Each settlement area offers several housing options, the most common being single family residences and bare land strata. Being a rural area, lot sizes tend to be larger than those found in urban settings, and there are some vacant lots available for those wishing to build their dream home.
Blind Bay is a welcoming community that takes pride in its natural surroundings. There are some great hiking trails, with varying levels of difficulty close by and the viewscapes along the way can be spectacular. As you explore Blind Bay, you’ll notice the lush vegetation and forested areas providing a warm and pleasant feeling of being close to nature.
For potential buyers looking for a seasonal escape, Blind Bay also provides a range of vacation properties. Whether it’s a cozy waterfront cottage or a modern hillside home, you can find the perfect place to relax and recharge during your getaway.
Between the Blind Bay Village Grocer and the Marketplace Mall, there is sufficient shopping here for your necessities, but there’s also a wonderful collection of specialty stores and restaurants to explore and enjoy. If you need more, Salmon Arm is only a 20 minute drive away. During the summer, a major highlight is the Music in the Bay program which offers terrific live music, food trucks and dozens of vendors for a great night out by the lake on Centennial Field. For those who enjoy golf you have several great options in Blind Bey including the Shuswap Lake Golf Club, a championship 18-hole course, or the Cedar Heights par 3 course.
Sorrento / Notch Hill
Sorrento and Notch Hill are a captivating duo of communities that offer the best of both worlds: the tranquility of rural living and the allure of lakeside paradise. The natural beauty of the region is perfectly complemented by a thriving small-town community.
Sorrento is the designated village center for Area G of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District. You can find all of the amenities, services and shopping to satisfy your needs here. Sorrento Elementary School has had annual increases in the number of students going there, which reflects the influx of younger families moving to the Sorrento area to take advantage of its affordability. Every Saturday morning during the summer, there’s a great farmers market in the centre of town.
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Notch Hill is a rural settlement area, with a rich history embodied by its community hall, restored schoolhouse and church. The CP Rail Christmas train makes an annual stop in Notch Hill which is also a historic railway site. Notch Hill is largely agricultural and has a number of thriving farmgate operations providing fresh produce to the region.
While exploring Sorrento and Notch Hill, visitors and potential residents can revel in the stunning views of Shuswap Lake. Mt Baldy Trail rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Shuswap Lake and Copper Island. The shores offer splendid beaches, perfect for sunbathing and picnicking. Shuswap Lake is an aquatic playground, where you can enjoy water sports, fishing, and leisurely boat rides. Shuswap Marina and Little River Boatworld are two large marinas serving this community.
The Sorrento Centre is a hidden jewel within this small community. The Centre offers year-round accommodations, courses and retreats of all sorts, a fantastic waterfront park, a farm which provides great fresh produce at affordable prices and an annual bluegrass festival that attracts thousands of visitors.
Sorrento and Notch Hill offer an array of properties, from cozy cottages and mobile home parks to grand lakefront estates and rural acreages. For those considering a permanent residence, these communities provide a serene and scenic backdrop for daily living. If it’s a seasonal escape you’re after, vacation properties with waterfront access and views are also available.
With its lakeside serenity, and welcoming community, Sorrento and Notch Hill are places where memories are made and traditions are born.
White Lake
White Lake, a hidden treasure in the interior of British Columbia, lives up to its name with its clear, pristine waters. Tucked away, White Lake offers a unique opportunity for those who seek a quieter, more remote setting, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
The most distinctive feature of White Lake is its mesmerizing body of water. This small yet stunning lake boasts turquoise waters which beckon swimmers and kayakers to its shores. White Lake is renowned as one of the best fishing spots in British Columbia, attracting anglers from around the world.
As a destination for those in search of a peaceful escape, White Lake is a favorite spot for lakeside cottages and year-round homes. These cozy retreats offer an escape from the hectic pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Exploration around White Lake can lead you to various hiking trails, and the area is renowned for its nature-watching opportunities. The people in this friendly community have a natural connection to their area and are highly conscious of their environment. The centrepiece of the community is the community hall which has a very active membership and a number of community events.
For those seeking a quieter, more reflective experience of British Columbia’s interior, White Lake provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sunnybrae / Tappen
Sunnybrae and Tappen are picturesque communities nestled along the shores of Shuswap Lake. These tranquil areas are the embodiment of lakeside living at its finest, with a perfect blend of rural charm and breathtaking scenery.
The true heart of Sunnybrae and Tappen is Shuswap Lake, which beckons with its clear waters and awe-inspiring panoramas. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with countless opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, and swimming.
This region is home to the award-winning Sunnybrae Vineyards & Winery and Recline Ridge Vineyards and Winery where you can savor locally produced wines in scenic vineyard settings.
Sunnybrae and Tappen are places where a variety of properties can be found. From charming lakeside cottages to hobby farms to spacious family homes, each dwelling offers the opportunity to wake up to breathtaking lake and mountain views. While Tappen is more of a rural agricultural community, Sunnybrae attracts many seasonal residents as it stretches for many miles along the shore of Shuswap Lake. Recently, new settlement areas have been developed in the Sunnybrae area offering spacious building lots with spectacular hillside views of Salmon Arm Bay.
Two community halls serve as the centers of the Sunnybrae area. One offers a wide variety of seniors programs, while the other has coffee houses with live music performances.
Herald Provincial Park offers a fantastic campground with a terrific beach. Margaret’s Falls is located within the park and has a beautiful trail through towering cedars and fir, ending at a spectacular waterfall. It’s a natural highlight not to be missed.
If you are considering Sunnybrae or Tappen as a potential seasonal retreat, you will find a range of vacation properties, from cozy cabins to modern lakefront villas.
Given the excellent fibre optic service available through much of this area, Sunnybrae and Tappen have attracted a number if younger professionals who work from a home with terrific mountain and lake views, providing a lifestyle that many dream of.
Salmon Arm
Salmon Arm is a vibrant and rapidly-growing city with a population of 20,000+ situated in the heart of the Shuswap region. Located midway between Calgary and Vancouver, and strategically placed at the junction of Highways 1 and 97-B, it serves as a hub for those who desire the perfect mix of urban amenities and a welcoming community. As a “A Small City with Big Ideas” Salmon Arm is known for its stunning landscapes, cultural events, and recreational activities. It’s been rated as one of the best places to live in BC.
When exploring Salmon Arm, you’ll be captivated by its beautiful lakeside promenade. The Salmon Arm Wharf is believed to be the longest curved, wooden wharf located inland in North America. Picturesque views of Shuswap Lake, the city’s centerpiece, provide a stunning backdrop for the city. The waterfront, with Marine Peace Park surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with benches, offers a serene space for leisurely strolls, picnics, and simply taking in the natural beauty.
Salmon Arm’s vibrant arts scene and cultural events make it a standout destination. From art galleries to theater productions, the city provides a rich cultural experience for residents and visitors alike. The annual Roots n’ Blues music festival each August attracts thousands of visitors and locals as it offers a world-class lineup of performers.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in city life, Salmon Arm offers a range of urban amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Real estate in Salmon Arm offers a wide variety of properties that cater to various preferences. You can find everything from mobile home parks to retirement communities to historic properties to modern new subdivisions to luxurious country estates to vacant building lots overlooking Shuswap Lake.
Nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in the surrounding areas. The city is close to several provincial parks and hiking trails, and wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and exploring nearby natural wonders.
Salmon Arm is a welcoming community that combines the best of small-town charm and urban convenience, making it a place where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. The city provides an inviting backdrop for families, retirees, and those looking to embrace the beauty of the Shuswap region.
Canoe
Canoe is a tranquil residential area nestled along the shores of Shuswap Lake. Known for its pristine, sandy beaches and calm, reflective waters, it’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate a quieter pace of life without sacrificing the beauty and recreation that Shuswap Lake offers.
The jewel of Canoe is undoubtedly its inviting beachfront. The sandy shores of Shuswap Lake beckon residents and visitors to bask in the sun, swim, and relax.
For those who prefer a life away from the hustle and bustle of busier cities, Canoe offers the ideal blend of serenity and accessibility. It’s just a short drive from the conveniences of Salmon Arm, providing a peaceful retreat while keeping urban amenities within reach.
Canoe offers a variety of housing options, from charming lakeside cottages to modern family homes. A new development there offers strata condos and townhouses with scenic lake and mountain views.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hiking trails that meander through the area, providing opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Shuswap region.
Whether it’s a permanent home or a seasonal retreat, Canoe is an area where residents can embrace the simple joys of lakeside living.
Chase
Chase is a charming village that exudes a strong sense of community and offers the serene beauty of the interior of British Columbia. Nestled on the shores of the Little Shuswap Lake, it’s a picturesque spot ideal for those who enjoy fishing, water-based activities, and the peace that comes with small-town living.
The heart of Chase lies in its connection to nature and community. Little Shuswap Lake is known for its opportunities for fishing and water sports.
The village of Chase offers a friendly and close-knit community, making it a wonderful place to call home.
Chase, despite its intimate setting, offers urban conveniences within a short drive. It’s a place where you can find all the essentials you need, from schools to healthcare facilities. Kamloops is about a 45-minute drive from Chase.
Real estate in Chase includes a range of properties, from cozy cottages to modular homes to townhouses to spacious single-family homes.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of reasons to fall in love with Chase. The area is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, offering numerous hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and chances to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Chase, with its strong sense of community, connection to nature, and access to both small-town and city amenities, is an ideal place for residents who appreciate a tranquil, yet enriching lifestyle.
Lee Creek / Scotch Creek
Lee Creek and Scotch Creek, located within the North Shuswap region, offer a delightful blend of lakeside living, outdoor recreation, and a close-knit community. These areas are popular vacation destinations, known for their crystal-clear waters, beautiful lake and mountain scenery and a wide range of amenities.
The star attraction of Lee Creek and Scotch Creek is undoubtedly Shuswap Lake. Whether it’s a day of sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking a refreshing swim in Shuswap Lake, it’s a great place to be.
The North Shuswap region is well-equipped to cater to vacationers, offering grocery stores, recreational facilities, RV parks and campgrounds.
Real estate options in Lee Creek and Scotch Creek range from cozy cabins to spacious lakeside properties.
With its beautiful landscapes, Lee Creek and Scotch Creek are not just about lakeside living; they are also surrounded by outdoor adventures. The area is rich in hiking trails and natural wonders, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The world-famous Adams River Salmon run attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, with every fourth year being a dominant run with up to 4,000,000 sockeye salmon making the enormous journey upstream from the Pacific Ocean. Tsutswecw Provincial Park is the home of the Adams River Salmon Society and is a great place for a stroll along its many trails.
Whether you’re considering a vacation home or permanent residence, Lee Creek and Scotch Creek offer a blend of natural beauty and community spirit that is sure to charm anyone looking for a lakeside lifestyle.
Celista
Celista is a serene community that promises a life immersed in natural beauty. The area is known for its pristine lakefronts, lush forests, and recreational opportunities, offering a perfect blend of seclusion and outdoor adventure.
Celista’s landscape provides endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in the crystal waters of Shuswap Lake. The lakeside is a tranquil place for residents and vacationers to soak in the picturesque surroundings.
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Celista is abundant with hiking trails that wind through the forests, providing opportunities for exploration and outdoor recreation.
Celista’s charming homes and cottages are often nestled within the forested landscapes, offering a peaceful and secluded living environment.
Living in Celista is an opportunity to embrace the simple joys of lakeside living while being immersed in the beauty of British Columbia’s interior. The serene lakes, pristine forests, and close-knit community make Celista a place to call home for those who value tranquility and the great outdoors.
Magna Bay
Magna Bay, another jewel along the shores of Shuswap Lake, is a place where natural beauty reigns supreme. Nestled in a serene corner of the North Shuswap region, this area offers stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed way of life.
Magna Bay is celebrated for its stunning sandy beaches, clear waters, and abundant sunshine. Whether you’re enjoying a swim, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the lake, this area promises endless summer fun.
Exploration in Magna Bay leads to countless hiking trails that meander through the picturesque forests, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. Capture the magic of these trails, the wildlife that calls the area home, and the breathtaking forested landscapes in photographs to showcase the recreational opportunities.
Real estate options in Magna Bay vary from cozy cottages to modern lakefront homes.
Magna Bay is a place where you can retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the simple pleasures of lakeside living amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Anglemont
Anglemont is a hidden gem located in the North Shuswap region, where the serene surroundings and close-knit community make it a tranquil retreat. The area is nestled amidst a lush forest, providing a perfect backdrop for those who appreciate a quieter, more remote setting.
Anglemont is also an inviting spot for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re taking a leisurely swim, casting a fishing line, or enjoying a boat ride, the clear waters of the lake offer endless enjoyment. Anglemont Marina is a popular destination for vacationers and boaters.
For those who value the tranquility of a rural lifestyle, Anglemont provides the ideal mix of seclusion and accessibility.
Real estate in Anglemont includes a variety of properties, from cozy cottages to spacious family homes. Anglemont Estates features a large selection of scenic building lots with terrific lake and mountain views.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find a wealth of opportunities in the surrounding wilderness, with hiking trails, birdwatching, and exploration of natural wonders. Capturing the beauty of these trails, the vibrant wildlife, and the tranquil forested landscapes will help convey the allure of Anglemont.
Whether it’s a permanent residence or a seasonal escape, Anglemont is a place where residents can savor the joys of lakeside living while being surrounded by the beauty of British Columbia’s interior.
Eagle Bay
Eagle Bay is a picturesque waterfront community nestled along the shores of Shuswap Lake. With its peaceful surroundings and access to a range of outdoor activities, it’s a desirable location for those seeking a tranquil lakeside retreat.
Eagle Bay’s captivating feature is, undoubtedly, its access to the clear waters of Shuswap Lake. It’s a haven for swimmers, boaters, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts.
While Eagle Bay offers a serene and secluded setting, it’s also a short drive from the amenities of nearby towns, providing a balance between seclusion and accessibility.
Real estate in Eagle Bay includes a variety of properties, from charming lakeside cottages to spacious family homes. At time of writing there are large parcels of land available for future development or hobby farming.
Nature enthusiasts will find an abundance of opportunities to explore the outdoors, with hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.
Eagle Bay is a place where residents can enjoy a tranquil lakeside lifestyle, surrounded by the beauty of the Shuswap region. The welcoming community and serene landscapes make it an ideal place for permanent residents and seasonal visitors alike.
Activities - More information about the shuswap
Here are some links to things to do and see in and around the Shuswap
Activities / Events
| Category | Website |
|---|---|
| Parks | csrd.bc.ca/293/Parks-Trails-Map-Directory salmonarm.ca/170/City-Parks |
| Trails | shuswaptrails.com |
| Movies | salmartheatre.com |
| Theatre | shuswaptheatre.com |
| Tourism Info & Events | shuswaptourism.ca |
| DoTheShu Info & Events | dotheshu.com |
| Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival | rootsandblues.ca |
| Salmon Arm Recreation | salmonarmrecreation.ca |
| Salmon Arm Fair | salmonarmfair.ca |
| Salmon Arm Arts Centre | salmonarmartscentre.ca/about |
| Arts Council for the South Shuswap | shuswaparts.com |
Golf
| Golf Course | Website |
|---|---|
| Shuswap Lake Golf Course | golfnorth.ca/shuswaplake/ |
| Salmon Arm Golf Club | golfnorth.ca/salmonarm/ |
| Talking Rock Golf Course | quaaoutlodge.com/golf/ |
| Shuswap National Golf Course | shuswapnational.com/ |
| Club Shuswap | clubshuswap.com/ |
| North Shuswap Golf Club | northshuswapgolf.ca/ |
| Sunshore Golf Club | sunshoregolf.com/ |
| Mara Hills Golf Resort | golfnorth.ca/marahills/ |
| Cedar Heights-Par 3 Course | cedarheightscommunity.ca/golf-course |
Community Groups
| Organization | Website |
|---|---|
| Cedar Hts. Community Asso. | cedarheightscommunity.ca/ |
| Sunnybrae Community Association | sunnybraecommunityassociation.com/ |
| Eagle Bay Community Association | eaglebaybc.ca/ |
| North Shuswap Community Asso | northshuswapcommunityhall.ca/ |
| Rotary | ourrotary.com |
| Lions | lionsclubs.org |
| Shuswap Community Foundation | shuswapfoundation.ca |
| Shuswap Family Center | familyresource.bc.ca/community/ |
| Community Directory - North Shuswap | kicker.ca/directory |
| Community Directory - South Shuswap | shuswapscoop.ca/directory |
| Shuswap Asso. For Community Living | shuswapacl.com/ |
Businesses & Economy
| Organization | Website |
|---|---|
| Chambers of Commerce - South Shuswap | southshuswapchamber.com |
| Chambers of Commerce - North Shuswap | northshuswapbc.com |
| Chambers of Commerce - Salmon Arm | sachamber.bc.ca |
| Chambers of Commerce - Chase | chasechamber.com |
| Shuswap Connects | shuswapconnects.directory.workfolio.com |
| Community Futures Shuswap | beyourfuture.ca |
| Salmon Arm Economic Development - Business Directory | saeds.ca/business_directory |
| Salmon Arm Economic Development - Relocation Guide | saeds.ca/flipbooks/RelocationGuide |
| Salmon Arm Economic Development - Industrial Park Map | www.saeds.ca/industrial_park/map |
| Employment | shuswap.workforcebc.ca |
| Shuswap Economic Development | shuswapecdev.ca |
Health Care
| Health Center | Website |
|---|---|
| Shuswap General Hospital | interiorhealth.ca/locations/shuswap-lake-general-hospital |
| Blind Bay | sshss.ca |
| Sorrento | sorrentohealthcentre.com |
| North Shuswap | nshealthcentre.ca |
| Chase | interiorhealth.ca/locations/chase-health-centre |
Education
| Institution | Website |
|---|---|
| North Okanagan-Shuswap School District #83 | sd83.bc.ca |
| Okanagan College | okanagan.bc.ca |
| Okanagan Regional Library | orl.bc.ca |