A Kelowna winter getaway, with a hot tub waiting at home
Kelowna in winter is two big mountains, a quiet lake and a town that stays open. CastleRock is the basecamp: ski all day, then come home to your own private hot tub.
Big White and Silver Star, both within reach
Big White Ski Resort is about 55 minutes (56 km) from the front door, famous for its champagne powder and village. Silver Star Mountain Resort is about 70 minutes (74 km) and adds one of the largest Nordic trail networks in Canada, so cross-country skiers are covered too.
Staying in Kelowna instead of on the mountain means real restaurants, groceries and a full house for less than most slopeside condos. Drive up for first chair, ski all day, and be back in the hot tub by dinner.
- ▹ Big White Ski Resort: about 55 minutes
- ▹ Silver Star Mountain Resort: about 70 minutes
- ▹ Kelowna International Airport: about 18 minutes
Winter in Kelowna, off the slopes
Not everyone in the group skis, and Kelowna does winter well without it. Many wineries keep their tasting rooms open through the cold months, downtown has hockey and concerts, and the lakefront is quiet and beautiful in the snow. The homepage has a full, linked guide to what is on from October through December, plus winter activities around the valley.
Back at the house, the covered balcony looks out over the valley and Knox Mountain, the outdoor kitchen sits under cover beside the hot tub, and the living room is built for a long night in after a long day out.
Built for ski weeks
Three bedrooms and two bathrooms sleep six without anyone on a sofa bed. A private garage and parking for two keep vehicles off the street, and an EV charger means an electric car is ready for the drive up the mountain. In-suite laundry dries gear overnight.
BC requires winter tires or chains on most mountain highways from October 1 to April 30, including the roads to Big White and Silver Star, so check your rental car before you book it.
Friday to Sunday, the CastleRock way
Arrive Friday from 4:00 PM, stock the fridge downtown five minutes away, and ease in with a soak. Saturday is a mountain day: leave early for Big White, ski until the lifts close, and be back in the valley for dinner at home or downtown. Sunday is slower: coffee on the covered balcony, a winery tasting or a walk along the lakefront, then one last soak before the drive home. Check-out is 11:00 AM on your final day.
Longer stays work too. From November 1 to March 1 CastleRock also takes stays of one week to three months, which suits a season of weekend skiing or remote work from the valley.
Planning a ski week?
Send your dates and group size. For longer winter stays we will tailor a rate. Every enquiry reaches the host directly.
No obligation. We usually reply within the hour. Your details are never shared.
Questions guests ask
How far is CastleRock from Big White?+
About 55 minutes (56 km) by car. Silver Star Mountain Resort is about 70 minutes (74 km).
Is the hot tub open in winter?+
Yes. The private hot tub runs year round and is the best part of a winter stay.
Do I need winter tires to drive to the ski hills?+
BC requires winter tires or chains on most mountain highways from October 1 to April 30, including the routes to Big White and Silver Star.
Can I book a longer winter stay?+
Yes. From November 1 to March 1 CastleRock also takes stays of one week to three months. Ask the host for a rate.