Naramata (population: 2,000) is a quiet community with no traffic lights. Ramble along tree-shaded streets and absorb lake and mountain vistas and extravagant sunsets. Unplug and rejuvenate by swimming from sandy beaches, fishing mountain lakes, sipping acclaimed vintages at the wineries and vineyards of the Naramata Bench, shopping for fresh produce at farms and orchards, browsing galleries for the works of local artists or hiking and mountain biking the forest trails. Okanagan Lake>> The call of the outdoors is irresistible in Naramata. With Okanagan Lake framing the village to the west, sandy beaches beckon swimmers and sun-soakers. The rugged highland terrain to the north and east, with its secluded mountain lakes and forested trails, invites anglers, hikers and mountain bikers. The Trans Canada Trail passes above Naramata on the former Kettle Valley Railway line. Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park>> Nearby Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park is a wilderness area that hosts an array of wildlife from bald eagles to black bears, where hikers can trek historic trails, campers can pitch a tent in the backcountry and anglers can cast a line for trout. Fruit Orchards in Naramata Naramata Farmland, Laurie Carter Naramata was founded on agriculture. Savvy developer JM Robinson recognized the potential for cultivating soft fruit orchards on the sun-drenched clay bank terraces rising from Okanagan Lake and beginning in 1907, sold his idea to gentlemen farmers from Eastern Canada and Britain. Naramata Bench and Vineyards>> The tradition continues with the latest evolution to grape growing. The Naramata Bench is now recognized as a distinct wine region within the Okanagan Valley appellation.