Boating on Windermere Lake 1

Once small, rural communities, Invermere and Windermere are now known as lakeside resort towns that are quickly becoming top, year-round destinations. While still small towns, the Invermere-Windermere area offers all the amenities found in many big cities without compromising that unique community feel. Friendly and welcoming, visitors to the area will discover an abundance of activities to do and sights to see. From outdoor recreation along the beaches of Windermere Lake to shopping and dining in Invermere's downtown, visitors will find these towns to be great summer and winter destinations.

WorldWeb.com Travel Guide can help vacationers make informed decisions when finding suitable lodging in the Invermere-Windermere area with these useful accommodation links:

1. Accommodation Directory - This is a complete Invermere-Windermere accommodation directory containing detailed information about hotels, B&Bs, luxury resorts, campgrounds and more. With links to accommodation websites and interactive maps, this directory is designed to help visitors find the right place to stay based on their personal preferences.
2. Secure Room Reservations - Check for Invermere-Windermere room availability and then make secure online room reservations for participating properties with this convenient link.
3. Maps - The Invermere-Windermere map can assist visitors in choosing where to stay by not only indicating where accommodations are located, but also where they are in relation to attractions, restaurants, shops, tours and transportation.

	The Slopes at Panorama 2

ORIENTATION

The Invermere-Windermere area is tucked away in the Columbia Valley within the BC Rockies. The communities are lakeside resort towns that rest along the shores of Windermere Lake. Surrounded by mountains, Invermere is on the northwestern side of the lake while Windermere is about 8 km (5 mi) south, on the eastern shore.

The area is easily accessible via commercial coach or through Highways 93 and 95. Invermere is about 30 km (19 mi) north of Fairmont Hot Springs and 110 km (68 mi) south of Golden. The nearest commercial airports are located in Vancouver to the west and Calgary to the east.

CLIMATE

Invermere and Windermere are characterized by a temperate, semi-arid climate. With the protection of the Rocky Mountains to the east, this area rarely sees extreme weather conditions. Summers are generally warm, with temperatures usually around 20 ºC (68 ºF), while winters may average between -5 ºC (23 ºF) and -10 ºC (14 ºF). Sunny days are abundant throughout the year.

INVERMERE

	Pools at Panorama Mountain Village 3

Invermere is the centre of the Columbia Valley, with many visitors making this their base for activities such as world-class golfing, exploring nearby Kootenay National Park and taking part in fine dining, shopping and outdoor fun. Visitors will find attractions such as the Windermere Valley Pioneer Museum, a six-building museum featuring pioneer artifacts, and the Invermere Pynelogs Cultural Centre, which offers an array of exhibits and plays host to festivals, concerts and other special events.

Those whose main reason for making the trek to the area is to check out Panorama Mountain Village also often stay in Invermere. This mountain ski resort is just outside the town is great to visit in both summer and winter. Home to Canada's second highest vertical run, the village offers full amenities, including slope side lodging. Accommodation options here include vacation home rentals, condos and a more economical inn. The Pine Inn is directly on the mountain and includes amenities such as ski lockers and easy access to chair lifts.

Those opting for an Invermere stay will find that numerous lodging options are available. Bed and breakfast are common with choices such as Whistling Swan Manor, a luxurious property complete with fireplaces, hand-carved furniture and views of the lake. Also try Deere Ridge B&B, with its rustic yet luxurious cabins boasting views of the Rocky Mountains and Purcell Range.

Other accommodation options include hotels and motels such as the Best Western Invermere Inn, located in downtown Invermere, and the Super 8 Invermere, just off Highway 95 and near numerous golf courses. Private vacation home rentals and cabins are also available within the town.

	The Comforts of Whistling Swan Manor 4

WINDERMERE

The quiet community of Windermere is ideal for those looking to relax and take in the area's natural beauty while being less than 10 minutes away from the commercial centre that is Invermere. With Windermere Lake as the leading attraction, this area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors will often partake in rafting or kayaking, fishing, hiking, or just visiting the beach.

A few accommodation options are available on this side of the lake. Bed and breakfasts, such as the Windermere Creek B&B, set on 107 acres (43 ha), or the Windermere Lakeside B&B, complete with a view of the lake, are available. Visitors can rent an economical motel room or splurge on a private vacation home, all of which come fully furnished and fully equipped with all of the comforts of home. Lakeside homes are also an ideal option for those travelling in large groups because many houses are able to accommodate up to 10 people.