At a Glance
Population: 1500
Health Area Population: 8,000
Health Services: Local Clinic
Education: Sorrento Elementary School; students in grades 9 - 12 are bussed to Salmon Arm Secondary School in Salmon Arm.
Economy: Forestry, lumber, tourism, and farming.
Additional Information:
Sorrento, BC
Current Weather Conditions
Business Listing
School District No. 83
Known as the "Heart of the Shuswap", Sorrento is home for approximately 1500 year-round residents. As a home away from home for many Western-Canadian residents, snowbirds, and tourists; the population nearly triples in the spring, summer and fall (the average winter temp. falls between -5 and 5 degrees celcius; summer temp. ranges between 20 and 35 degrees). It is the official town-centre for the South Shuswap area which boasts a population in excess of 8,000 within 25 kms of the town. Sorrento is a favorite for retirement; upwards of 60 to 70 percent of residents are aged 50 or older.
The primary economic activities in the area are forestry, lumber, tourism and farming. Vineyards, winemaking, organic beer production, egg and poultry production and market gardening add to the economy. There is also a sizeable tree growing operation which supplies the local and regional reforestation needs. There are many local businesses offering a variety of services like accommodation, groceries, hardware supplies, legal, medical, financial and personal care.
As a destination centre; there are many activities and venues of great interest to a wide assortment of ages, interests and backgrounds. Seasonal recreational opportunities include: fishing, boating, surf-boarding, parasailing, paragliding, golfing, snowmobiling, snowshoing and downhill/cross-country skiing.
Sorrento hosts several major events throughout the year. The Shuswap Festival of the Arts, Woodworkers Show and Potters Show attract thousands of people from far and wide each year. Events for Burns Night, Valentines Day, Canada Day and many others are organized throughout the year to bring community members together for dancing, festivities and (sometimes) fireworks. In addition; players, crafters and hobbyists of all types have taken it upon themselves to organize social groups that embrace their craft; painters, sculptors and model plane and classic car enthusiasts serve as examples.
Sorrento is located on the Trans-Canada Highway, 19km east of Chase and 33km north-west of Salmon Arm. Driving distance to Vernon or Kelowna is less than 100km.
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