Set directly on the shores of Okanagan Lake, The Royal Kelowna delivers a refined yet relaxed stay that feels perfectly suited to its stunning surroundings. This all-suite luxury resort is located in downtown Kelowna, offering the rare combination of waterfront serenity and walkable access to the city’s best dining, wine experiences, and outdoor activities. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this is a place designed for slowing down, breathing deeply, and truly settling in.
Spacious, Condo-Style Suites with Lake Views
One of the standout features of The Royal Kelowna is its generously sized, condo-style suites—among the largest luxury accommodations in the region. Each suite is thoughtfully designed with contemporary finishes, warm tones, and expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of either the lagoon or Okanagan Lake.
The layout feels more like a private residence than a traditional hotel room. Separate bedrooms provide privacy and comfort, while the living areas are ideal for lounging after a day of exploring wine country. The full gourmet kitchen is a major highlight, especially for travelers who enjoy the flexibility of dining in. A favorite morning ritual during my stay was visiting Nature’s Fare Markets to pick up fresh, organic groceries, then returning to the suite to prepare a slow, unrushed breakfast while watching the lake come to life outside the window. It’s these small, home-like moments that elevate the overall experience.
Rooftop Amenities Made for Relaxation
The Royal Kelowna’s rooftop is an oasis all its own. The heated outdoor infinity pool overlooks the water with stunning views, creating a seamless connection between the resort and the lake beyond. Nearby, the rooftop hot tub offers the perfect place to unwind, especially in the cooler months when the steam rises into the crisp Okanagan air.
Guests also have access to steam showers, a well-equipped fitness center, rooftop BBQs, and an intimate lounge area complete with a gas firepit and cozy blue lounge chairs. Whether you’re starting the day with a workout or ending it fireside with a glass of local wine, the rooftop amenities are designed to help you fully disconnect and recharge.
Things to Do Near The Royal Kelowna
Wellness Experiences
Kelowna is an ideal destination for slowing down and reconnecting, and The Royal Kelowna makes it easy to build wellness into your stay.
In-Suite Spa Services at The Royal Kelowna
One of the most luxurious offerings at the resort is its in-suite spa services through Luxury Living Well Spa. Treatments are brought directly to your suite, allowing you to fully relax without ever leaving your room. During our stay, we had a facial with Sally that was truly one of the best I’ve ever experienced, using Eminence products. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring or to plan an entire self-care morning around.
Himalayan Salt Cave at Room and Pillar Spa
For a deeply calming experience, visit the Himalayan Salt Cave at Room and Pillar Spa. Thousands of pounds of Himalayan salt line the space while a halogenerator releases fine, pharmaceutical-grade salt particles into the air. The dry salt therapy supports respiratory health, reduces inflammation, and encourages deep relaxation. Soft meditative music and the warm glow of salt walls make this a peaceful reset for both body and mind.
What to wear: The cave is dry and cool, so warm, comfortable layers are recommended.
Löyly Floating Sauna
Located within a short walking distance from the hotel, the Löyly Floating Sauna offers a traditional Finnish-style sauna experience right on the water. Begin with 5–15 minutes in the sauna to boost circulation and promote detoxification, followed by a 30-second to two-minute cold plunge to reduce inflammation and awaken the senses. Rest briefly between cycles and repeat two to three times, ending with a cold plunge for an invigorated finish.
What to bring: Two towels (hotel towels may be borrowed), a swimsuit, and a water bottle.
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Surrounded by mountains, vineyards, and lake views, Kelowna invites you to get outside—and many of the best adventures are just minutes from the resort.
Guided E-Bike Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch
A favorite experience is the Guided E-Bike Tour with Wine Tastings and Lunch through Lakeside Eco-Sports. Electric bikes make the ride enjoyable for all fitness levels, allowing you to cruise through scenic vineyard routes while learning about the region. The tour combines movement, wine tastings, and a relaxed lunch, making it a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.
What to wear: Layered clothing, thin gloves, a neck gaiter or scarf, and a thin beanie that fits under the provided helmet for cooler days.
Hike Knox Mountain with TOTA
Just north of downtown, Knox Mountain Park spans 385 hectares and is Kelowna’s largest natural area park. With 15 marked trails totaling approximately 20 kilometers, it offers options for every pace.
- Apex Trail (2.0 km, moderate, 260 m gain) rewards hikers with sweeping views of Okanagan Lake and the city.
- Paul’s Tomb Trail (1.5 km, easy, 85 m gain) follows the shoreline to a quiet cove ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Seasonal wildflowers, grassland birds, and cooling lake breezes make Knox Mountain a must-visit for nature lovers in any season.
Food & Drink
Kelowna’s culinary scene shines, especially when it comes to wine and thoughtfully crafted local experiences. Kelowna’s food scene has gained international recognition, recently earning the prestigious title of a UNESCO City of Gastronomy—a designation that celebrates communities with a deep commitment to local ingredients, culinary creativity, and sustainable food culture.
Rooted in the fertile Okanagan Valley, Kelowna’s cuisine is shaped by nearby orchards, vineyards, farms, and lakes, resulting in menus that are seasonal, thoughtful, and deeply connected to place. From innovative coffee roasters and award-winning wineries to farm-driven restaurants overlooking the vines, this UNESCO honor highlights why Kelowna has become one of Canada’s most exciting destinations for food and drink lovers.
Coffee Tasting at Craft 42 Roasters
For coffee enthusiasts, a Coffee Tasting at Craft 42 Roasters is a standout experience. Enjoy a guided tasting of three coffees prepared in the format of your choice—pourover, espresso, or the same coffee brewed using three different methods. Along the way, you’ll learn about tasting notes, the farmers behind the beans, the roasting process, and tips for brewing better coffee at home. Priced per person, with a minimum of two guests per booking, it’s both educational and delicious.
Dinner & Wine Tasting at Quails’ Gate Winery
A visit to Quails’ Gate Winery is essential while in Kelowna. Begin with a wine tasting showcasing estate-grown varietals, then settle in for dinner at the renowned Old Vines Restaurant. The seasonal menu highlights local ingredients and is beautifully paired with wines from the vineyard, all set against panoramic lake and vineyard views. It’s an unforgettable dining experience and a highlight of any Okanagan getaway.
The Royal Kelowna effortlessly blends luxury, comfort, and location. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a wellness-focused retreat, or a leisurely lakeside getaway, this resort offers an experience that feels both elevated and deeply calming. Between the spacious suites, rooftop amenities, and access to some of Kelowna’s most memorable activities, it’s easy to see why The Royal Kelowna stands out as one of the best places to stay in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.
Take a breath, let the lake views work their magic, and enjoy a stay that invites you to truly slow down—you’ve arrived at one of Kelowna’s finest waterfront resorts.