It’s like Nice to Paris. Like Kauai to Maui. And like Napa Valley to San Francisco. In each case, the latter is an iconic vacation destination, yet the former is just as special in its own way. The same can be said for Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia.
While Vancouver and Victoria tend to get all the attention, an entire region in southeastern BC—stretching from the town of Cranbrook to the US border—offers uncrowded, spectacular experiences and emerges as a remarkable holiday spot.
Here, golfers will discover dozens of stunning mountain courses in the Kootenay Rockies, where winding rivers, thick forests, pristine lakes, and rugged, elevated terrain create breathtaking backdrops. The many Indigenous-owned businesses, including restaurants, heritage centers, and luxury resorts further enrich these experiences.
One standout destination is the first-class Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, which combines the healing waters of natural hot springs and is proudly owned by the Yaqan Nukiy, the Lower Kootenay Band of Creston, BC. Another retreat that beautifully captures the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty is the St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino.
Courtesy St Eugene
Courtesy St Eugene
Set amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains and located on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, just outside Cranbrook, St. Eugene Resort showcases a unique history in an extraordinary setting.
However, the resort’s history includes a dark chapter. The St. Eugene Mission once operated as a Catholic-run residential school for Indigenous children, a period that left deep scars on the Ktunaxa people. Despite this painful past, the Ktunaxa Nation has reclaimed its land and culture, creating a new path forward.
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Visiting St. Eugene is more than just a getaway—it’s a chance to explore Indigenous history in a setting unlike any other in Canada. Now proudly owned by the Ktunaxa Nation, the resort offers guests a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s beauty and gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture and heritage.
Golf is a key attraction here. St. Eugene’s championship course spans over 300 acres of picturesque grasslands with stunning views of the mountains and the St. Mary’s River. Fun fact: This area enjoys more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in British Columbia!
Take in the alpine glow from Fisher Peak, or catch a glimpse of the morning elk, and play the course twice—once to soak in the scenery and once to improve your score. Share your photos with friends back home, who are sure to be mesmerized by the beauty of the course.
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Just steps from the first tee, you’ll find spacious, quiet accommodations in the historic Mission Building. After a day on the course, dine on locally sourced dishes like bison burgers, handmade bannock (pan-fried bread), and charcuterie boards. And if you’re feeling lucky, head to the Casino of the Rockies for a night of slots and table games.
But the main event in this southern BC journey is golf. As you drive through the spectacular alpine terrain, stop for lunch at Christina Lake, home to Canada’s warmest tree-lined lake, thanks to the natural hot springs beneath it.
For wine lovers, the Okanagan region—from Vernon to Osoyoos near the US border—is one of Canada’s premier vineyard areas.
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Speaking of Osoyoos, welcome to Canada’s only desert—a sacred place to the Osoyoos Indian Band. The perfect place to stay here is Spirit Ridge, an all-suite resort on traditional Syilx land. Perched atop vineyards overlooking Osoyoos Lake and the dramatic Okanagan Range, Spirit Ridge offers a true taste of the area.
Start your day with a round of golf on the stunning 9-hole Sonora Dunes course, where mountain and lake views provide a breathtaking backdrop. Afterward, pamper yourself at the resort’s Solterra Desert Spa—try the Desert Sacred Mud Wrap for something unique.
You can also learn about local Indigenous culture and history at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, a state-of-the-art interpretive center. Then, head over to Nk’Mip Cellars, North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery, for a tour and meal featuring premium wines.
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Be sure to tee off at the nearby Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course, a championship-level course where every hole offers a perfect photo op. The greens roll true but fast, so stay focused while putting.
After your round, return to Spirit Ridge and dine at the resort’s signature restaurant, The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry. The region’s Indigenous roots inspire the modern vineyard menu and showcase the Four Food Chiefs: Black Bear, Chinook Salmon, Bitterroot, and Saskatoon Berry—the cornerstones of Indigenous cuisine.
While Vancouver and Victoria may be the stars of British Columbia, the region’s Indigenous culture, stunning golf courses, and unique landscapes will keep you coming back for more.
