Banff, Canada

Banff, Canada

Grab your passport, because we’re heading to Canada’s stunning Banff National Park.

Banff blends the beautiful scenery of the Rocky Mountains with the luxury of a resort ski town. It’s a winter wonderland of snow and scenic routes, perfect for skiers, snowboarders and explorers. In fact, the 1988 Winter Olympics were hosted in Calgary, with sites through Alberta used for events. Several events in the Nakiska Ski area brought spectators to Banff as well.

 

Where to Stay

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is as picturesque as it gets. This five-star hotel is only a 10-minute drive from Lake Louise Ski Resort. The first hotel at this location dates back to 1890, though it was a one-story log cabin. Through the years, Swiss mountaineers taught hotel guests to climb the mountain and ski, and the Fairmont Chateau gained additional capacity in several phases for generations to enjoy.

Closer to Banff’s town center, Elk + Avenue Hotel offers guests more modern trimmings. With a sizable renovation in 2016, the hotel is fresh and new, with updated rooms and a quaint fireside lounge. Next to the lobby you’ll find the Pursuit Adventure Center, where an experienced team is ready to provide advice for any excursion.

What to Do

Depending on the time of year, Banff has a host of activities to fill out your trip. In winter, ice skating on Lake Louise is an unforgettable experience. Hotel residents at any of the three resorts within Banff are also eligible to rent skis. 

For a break from skiing or snowboarding, dog sledding offers a new option for shredding in the snow. Dog sled tours at Lake Louise are offered by Kingmik Dog Sled Tours with several choices for duration and scenery. 

If your trip falls in the summer, head to Columbia Icefield, where gorgeous views of the Sunwapta Valley are available from 918 feet in the air on the glass-floored skywalk. During your stay, try a day hike around Lake Louise, and make time for a round of golf at the challenging Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course.

What to Eat 

In a location like Banff, even dining is an opportunity to take in the scenery. Visit Sky Bistro for dinner on the mountaintop, starting with an eight-minute gondola ride up to the restaurant. An expert menu is crafted with ingredients sourced in Western Canada, complete with a menu of artisan cocktails and mocktails.

Another scenic restaurant is only available after a hike around Lake Agnes. This moderate hike takes between one and two hours each way, bringing travelers to Lake Agnes Tea House. The family-run tea house offers baked goods, lunch items and refreshments seasonally.

A fresh perspective of the Canadian Rockies is offered at Lupo Ristorante Italiano, a restaurant known for its indulgent and authentic menu. Offerings include happy hour house-made pastas and pizza, as well as cocktails every day of the week.

Outfit Your Trip

Layering your clothing on your trip to Banff will ensure you're ready for any adventure. Start with the Awbrey Performance Sport Shirt and the Billings Five-Pocket Pant for day adventures and nights out to dinner,  and add on the Cotton/Modal Quarter-Zip when it gets chilly.

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