When you think summer getaway, a ski resort may not be top of mind, but as someone who is always looking for a new, fun adventure, I thought I would leave the Okanagan bubble and check out Sun Peaks Resort.

Located north of Kamloops, I had no idea what to expect when I decided to venture somewhere new. I was truly surprised. As someone who enjoys the villages at Whistler and SilverStar, I was taken aback by the village at Sun Peaks. It reminded me of Whistler, but less ostentatious and much friendlier.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comThe resort has a true village filled with shops and restaurants.

When I arrived at the resort, I was greeted with the beauty of a true village as stores, coffee shops and accommodations lined the street. I headed towards the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel with my foster dog. Yes, Sun Peaks is dog-friendly. This alone made my visit much more enjoyable. Not only was the hotel dog-friendly, but the entire village and community is, too.

Sherman and I entered the hotel only to be greeted by an employee with doggy treats and a large smile. Anyone who has a dog understands the importance of being able to bring your furry friend along and have them actually welcomed. With water dishes located throughout the hotel, it was clear that the Grand truly embraced dogs and didn’t just put up with them.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comThe Sun Peaks Grand was not only affordable but dog friendly as well.

Once we settled into our suite, we headed out to enjoy some activities. For the first time, I tried cross-country mountain biking — actually on a mountain. Sun Peaks has nearly two dozen trails for every level of mountain biker. I decided to try something simple and took the dog for a 10-kilometre ride to the beautiful McGillivary Lake. With the dog by my side, I took off on what can be described as a true mountain biking trail. Not graded, not too smooth, but just challenging enough, the trail was perfect for an afternoon ride. Once I got to the lake I was in awe of its majestic beauty. Completely serene and quiet, the dog jumped in for a quick dip while I explored the warming hut, camping spots, and canoe rentals.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comGuided canoe tours are available at McGillivary Lake

When I think of mountain biking, my mind immediately goes to downhill and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that cross-country mountain biking is available at the resort. It's great. I'm more interested in taking it slow than plummeting down a hill (though I ended up it doing, anyway).

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comThere are nearly two dozen cross-country trails to take advantage of.

After a moderate bike ride, and dog run, I returned to the hotel for a shower and something to eat. The hotel restaurant Mantles boasts an affordable menu with items that can be described as comfort food. Fresh and locally sourced items were found on the menu, and I was surprised that I wasn’t paying the exorbitant prices usually found at a resort.

The following day I decided to suck it up and try downhill mountain biking. With an equipment rental and a quick lesson, I found myself headed up the chairlift to the top of the mountain both with excitement and fear. Taking the easiest way down I was thankful that the run was not difficult as I found it intimidating. I cried. I had two small panic attacks, but continued on anyways. I quickly learned that I liked cross-country much better, but continued along the downhill bike park, stopping as a black bear crossed the path.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comThe downhill park was exciting and easy to do as a novice.

Downhill biking isn’t as extreme or as scary as it can seem in videos or photos; it's a sport that can be done at any level. I took a simple green run and while it wasn’t my cup of tea, it was easy to manoeuvre and I imagine, fun to go fast. I don’t like to go fast. While I only rode the one day, I was really happy to give it a try and felt completely secure thanks to the advice from the bike shop guys and the instructor that rode by my side as I quietly freaked out in my head, and sometimes vocally.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comVisitors can take a bike or go for a hike thanks to the chairlift.

The bike park wasn’t overwhelmingly busy and it was a great place to learn. I wasn’t constantly worried about other riders behind me. This was the beauty of Sun Peaks in the summertime, it really is a hidden gem. There was a steady stream of visitors arriving for opening weekend, but not overcrowded as Big White or Whistler can be. And that was refreshing.

Everyone I spoke to seemed to really enjoy their job and knew a tremendous amount about the resort and surrounding municipality. During my stay, I felt a real sense of community. Something lacking at the large resorts. From the Sunday Farmers’ Market to the locals that live there year round, there was definitely something different about the place.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow.comEvery Sunday during the summer, the farmers' market gathers in the village.

But it wasn’t all puppies and sunshine. The mosquitos were horrendous. I’m told that near the beginning of the season they are at their worst, and they sure were. I was covered in bites, which may be because the pests like the taste of my blood. It also isn’t the type of place to go to if you are looking for a party. Sun Peaks definitely lacks the nightlife, but that was okay with me as by the end of the day all I wanted to do was sit in the hot tub and enjoy some wine.

Overall, I think Sun Peaks will be my new go-to place. I liked that it was dog-friendly, affordable, less touristy, and much friendlier than other resorts.