Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is located in Osoyoos on the lands of the Osoyoos Indian Band. Mere minutes from Osoyoos Lake and the US border, the Centre shares sacred space with Nk’Mip winery and vineyards and Spirit Ridge Resort, offering one of the most authentic cultural experiences in the BC interior. An Indigenous treasure, the Centre and outdoor exhibits provide visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Regions first people, the Okanagan Syilx, and the thriving culture of the Osoyoos Indian Band - owner/operators of the Centre and Nk’Mip Cellars.

We have had the good fortune of visiting in all four seasons, each beautiful in its own right, but there was something special about our Fall vagabond that touched us deeply. We participated in an intimate guided tour of the Centre and outdoor exhibits with discussions on the sensitive landscapes, impact of climate change, and protected animals that call this place home. We learned about Coyote Spirit, the Four Food Chiefs, and plants still harvested for food and medicine. The day was surreal and enlightening, with Mother Nature providing the perfect backdrop for our cultural exchange.

Over 1.5kms of desert walking trails invite visitors to explore the pristine 50 acre resort. The trails lead to a traditional village where you can peek inside a traditional pit house and sweat lodge before moving on through the majestic desert landscape and breathtaking valley vistas beyond. Sculptures by Smoker Marchand grace the Resort, connecting visitors to the Indigenous values and sacredness of the property.

We spent the night in a lovely one bedroom condominium which allowed us to partake in a wine tasting, sample local cuisine at Mica Restaurant and soak in the hot tub before retiring to our suite for more wine by the fireplace. In the morning we wandered through the vineyards to the lake at the base of the property sampling a plump grape full of promise and ripe with memories of one of our favourite Valley experiences. COVID 19 restrictions are in place.

Valley Vagabonds Inside Tip

The resort and local wineries are calmer in the Fall offering visitors the opportunity to immerse in the culture and savour the authenticity of the experience. Bonus, prices are deeply discounted at both Spirit Ridge and on the golf course making this choice a top Vagabond Pick.