Travel Information
We recommend flying into the regional airports in Castlegar or Trail. Please be aware these hubs are small, and flights are frequently delayed by weather or low clouds. For a more dependable arrival, Stephen is organizing shuttle buses from Kelowna and back.
Nelson is a picturesque, pedestrian-friendly town that is easy to explore on foot. For getting around, carpooling or local taxis are your best options. If you plan to rent a vehicle, please book early as local supplies are quite limited. Residents should note the Kootenay landscape is significantly steeper than Ontario, providing beautiful but challenging mountain roads. We ask that you drive with extra care.
Marzano
In 2017, they traveled to Naples, Italy, to study under the legendary pizzaiolo Enzo Coccia. This immersive experience taught them the deep-rooted traditions of dough preparation and wood-fired oven mastery. This journey proved transformative as they acquired time-honored techniques for hand-stretching dough and mastering authentic, minimalist recipes. Beyond these secret methods, they recognized the importance of high-quality, non-GMO produce. The San Marzano tomato, grown in local volcanic soil, became their standard for excellence. Inspired by this dedication to purity, they named their venue Marzano as a tribute to culinary integrity and premium sourcing. Today, they are acclaimed for their handcrafted pizzas, fresh pastas, signature forno-pressed sandwiches, and inventive desserts, all served within a sophisticated urban atmosphere.
Empire Coffee
Empire is built on the belief that great coffee requires care at every stage. They source elite beans from top-tier global growers and roast them to perfection. Their expert baristas then craft each cup with technical precision and genuine warmth. For them, coffee is an artisanal experience rooted in honor and connection—a philosophy blended into every pour they serve.
Hume General Store Restaurant
Enjoy a signature cocktail at Mike’s Place Pub or the energetic vibe of Spiritbar. From candlelit dinners in The Library to family meals at The General Store Restaurant, their historic venue is ideal for celebration. Benefit from their upscale banquet services, premium Liquor Boutique, and rejuvenating treatments at Aura Spa & Salon. For those preferring to relax in their room, Hume 2 Go offers gourmet delivery from early morning until late at night. With everything from fine dining to top-tier entertainment on-site, the Hume Hotel ensures a seamless and memorable stay.
Yum Son
Experience Yum Son’s unique broth, where classical French techniques meet authentic Vietnamese tradition. Their savoury, nutrient-dense soup base is crafted by roasting premium, hormone-free beef bones for maximum depth. They enhance this foundation with a blend of charred ginger, lemongrass, and aromatic spices like star anise and green cardamom. Each batch simmers for 24 hours to ensure a rich extraction of natural collagen and essential minerals. They are dedicated to quality, using only ethically sourced meats in every bowl.
Places to Eat
Walking Baker Street
Baker Street serves as the spirited, historic core of downtown Nelson. Featuring numerous 1800s-era structures, this accessible stroll offers a lively mix of characteristic boutiques, regional creators, local microbreweries, and welcoming coffee houses.
Ainsworth
While Ainsworth often draws a crowd, it remains a wonderful spot for relaxation. It is a cherished location for Victoria, who visited frequently throughout her childhood.
Hiking Kokanee Creek Park
Kokanee Creek Park is a must-visit destination in the West Kootenays, featuring sandy beaches, four campgrounds, and a variety of recreational facilities including a boat launch and hiking trails. Explore the local canyon’s old-growth cedars or visit the spawning channel between mid-August and mid-September to see the redfish run. It is an essential stop for any traveler exploring south-central B.C.
Lakeside Rotary Park
Lakeside Rotary Park stands as Nelson’s top shorefront getaway along Kootenay Lake. This lively area boasts a beautiful sandy shore and a paved trail ideal for afternoon strolls or runs. Stretching from the famous Orange Bridge, the grounds feature manicured gardens, athletic courts, and peaceful areas for picnicking. Guests can partake in various activities such as rowing, tennis, and swimming, or discover the onsite adventure park. Offering useful facilities like restrooms, a boat pier, and seasonal snacks, it remains the local go-to spot for leisure and fun.