On the eastern shore of Lake Windermere sits the charming small town of Windermere, with scenic vistas and a friendly community. Rich in heritage, arts and outdoor recreation, the town is named after Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. Located eight kilometres south of Invermere on Highway 93/95, Windermere enjoys great access to the wide range of indoor and outdoor activities in the Columbia Valley.
This growing community is popular with seasonal home owners with its range of new home subdivisions and renovation properties. The town is well stocked with facilities including a community hall, dining establishments, pub, elementary school, grocery store, highway gas stations, bowling alley, locally-grown produce sellers and amusement park.
A trip to the Windermere Art Corner uncovers valley-made wood carvings, paintings, hand-built furniture and more. Those looking for a place to rest their head will find a selection of bed and breakfasts, motels and campgrounds.
The first commercial buildings constructed in the valley were built in Windermere as early as 1883, with a number surviving to this day. Still to be seen are the Whitehouse Hotel and the old RCMP barracks. Many of Windermere's other original buildings have been converted to beautiful homes.
If you love a good story, stop by the pretty St. Peter's Church (below) — also known as The Stolen Church. The building was taken from the town of Donald, near Golden, by Rufus Kimpton for his wife Celina. Dismantled and transported to the valley via rail, wagon and riverboat, the church was reassembled in Windermere in 1900. History buffs should also visit the cemetery on the beautiful Windermere Point. The tombstones tell the story of early settlers, miners and soldiers who lived in the Columbia Valley.
The beach in Windermere is the perfect place to while away the day with its pleasant green spaces, picnic tables, public washroom facilities, children's playground and swimming area. Easy access to Lake Windermere makes this a great spot for fishing, water-skiing, windsurfing, walking, swimming and sailing.
With 10 golf courses on the doorstep, and another six within 45 minutes, Windermere is a popular stop for golfers. In the winter there is excellent downhill skiing at nearby Fairmont and Panorama and a 15-kilometre groomed ice skating and cross-country ski track, connecting Windermere and Invermere.
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