Vancouver stylist Heather Cameron had four days, a minivan, a road map and a mission – to find, then transform roadside flea market finds into shabby chic delights for her cottage style home. Looking for charming nostalgic pieces, Heather's journey took her to the quaint flea markets and antiques shops along British Columbia's scenic Okanagan Valley, from Vancouver to Hedley. In the end she came away with these great finds.
Antique road trip in B.C. - where to go
Starting in Clinton, Heather stopped in at recently sold antiques shop The Attic, 1311 Cariboo Highway, where she spotted her first find. Heather also recommends the Clinton Emporium, 1303 Cariboo Highway (250-459-0025). Continuing into Cache Creek, Heather took Highway 97 to Westwold, going through Falkland and stopping at the vintage vendor, 5661 Highway 97 (250-379-2156). Heather then headed to Summerland, stopping in at the Tourist information bureau for a list of antiques stores, including The Four Winds Trading Post, 7705 Prairie Valley Road (250-494-4344). Heather continued up to Shady Maples in Summerland at 12409 Victoria Road South (250-494-8384). Back on Highway 97 Heather stopped in Penticton at wild rose cottage, 218 Main St. (250-493-6776), then continued to Okanagan Falls to see Jardin Antiques, 5221 9th Avenue (250-497-6733). In Osoyoos, she made a stop at Korner Street Antiques and uniquities, 8131 Main Street (250-495-4526) and travelled to Keremeos, where she took a break for coffee and antiques at Pasta Trading Post, 629 7th Avenue, (250-499-2933). The last stop was in Hedley, at The Incurable Collector, 564 Highway #3 (250-292-8070), which offers myriad items for treasure-seekers.
TIPS FOR ANTIQUING ON THE ROAD
- Bring wet wipes. Eating on the go and exploring secondhand shops can make your hands feel like they're harbouring germy hitchhikers.
- Stock up on packing supplies. Take along garbage bags to store things, old blankets for wrapping delicate items and packing tape.
- Visit tourist bureaus. They're great sources, says Heather. “One supplied me with a list of local shops and a map; very helpful!”
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