We invite you to experience 'the Kootenays', it's pristine environment of trees and mountains and sparkling lakes. Visitors that come and see the spectacular scenery and enjoy the warm hospitality of the people never want to leave.

In this untouched area of British Columbia, nestled in the mountains on the edge of the west arm of Kootenay lake, is a Victorian town - Nelson. Many years ago it was coined 'The Queen City" by a travelling salesman, who was comparing Nelson to other cities in the Kootenays.

Nelson's heritage character is a fine example of a Victorian mining boomtown. The Court House and old City Hall downtown are examples of that period, as well as the houses that climb up the mountainside. Everywhere you walk there are reminders of the past; the silver boat houses on Kootenay Lake have been there since 1901.

Let's take a stroll along the tree-lined streets, then head downtown to historic Baker Street. The first thing you will notice is that most of the buildings have been restored to their original architecture. Nelson became a city in 1897; often you feel like you are stepping back into the past. In the amenity areas, musical entertainers of all sorts display their talents. More live music can be heard every Saturday at 'The Tree of Life' outdoor market. And in July, come for Street Fest to see world famous street entertainment.

Beautifully restored heritage buildings are just part of the attraction of Nelson. The many shops will satisfy the most discriminating: find original arts and crafts; locally made hemp clothing; wilderness wear; fine woodworking; trendy home decor; and baubles and beads. Even window shopping is a pleasure.

All summer you can enjoy the outdoors in the sidewalk cafes. Have coffee while you watch a local artist make a mural come to life. Nelson was selected 'Best Small Arts Town in Canada' by John Villani in his book "One Hundred Best Small Art Towns in North America. Speaking of excellence - the restaurants - can't count how many, but they will satisfy any epicurean's taste. Crave garlic or sushi? Love Mexican food? You will need a week to try all the different cafes. European Chefs serve meals you won't forget. Come as you are and relax.

Night life -every night! Enjoy live bands almost any night of the week at the local pubs. You can attend concerts, plays and musicals at the restored Capitol Theatre. In August is a production of the musical 'Annie'. Dance, live poetry readings, art displays - you are getting the picture. Nelson has the ambience of a small town with all the sophistication of a city .

Call it eclectic. Look around at the community where amazing talents and gifts abound. Nelson is a place that cultivates so many aspects of individual growth and at the same time allows for community interaction. So why not consider a longer stay; sign up for one of the courses at the Kootenay School of the Arts, The Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences, Selkirk Music Programme; the list goes on. Nelson is also renowned as a centre of the Healing Arts.

The Kootenays make each season seem magic. Ski at Whitewater or cross-country on the old Grand Trunk railway bed, where you can walk or bike in the summer. Spring is garden time. Just stroll through the heritage neighbourhoods, view the Italian vegetable gardens, enjoy golfing and the most spectacular view from the greens of the Granite Point Golf Club. In the fall, the Kokanee spawn in the streams, and the land displays it's autumn splendour of reds and golds.

Love the water? Ride Streetcar #23 along the water to Lakeside Park. Have a picnic and enjoy the sandy beach. All along Kootenay lake the beaches are clean and uncrowded - Sandspit, Taghum, and if you're daring- the nude beach.

Cross the orange bridge and take the scenic drive along the lake. When you reach Kokanee Creek Park there are more beaches. Hike into Kokanee Glacier. Take a free ferry ride on the Osprey 2000. Visit the local hotsprings any time of the year.

The best time to visit the Kootenays? Now.

Nelson and district has a variety of B&B's that will suit any taste; our home is your home while you visit the Kootenays.