Banff National Park
Canada’s great outdoors is begging to be explored in this natural wonderland.
With its turquoise lakes, colossal pines and snow-capped mountains, Banff National Park’s natural beauty makes it a recognisable location. Canada’s first national park draws crowds from around the world, but its size and variety make it the ideal place to reflect on nature’s majesty in peace.
Situated high in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Banff town is where many journeys through the national park begin. The main thoroughfare is Banff Avenue, where hotels, restaurants, cafés and shops compete for business from the many tourists.
It’s easy to reach many of Banff’s best attractions from the town, including Bow Falls, a scenic hike less than half an hour away on foot. Also nearby is the famous Banff Springs Hotel. This grand structure was built by Canadian Pacific Railway in 1914, and resembles a giant castle in the mountains. Luxury is an understatement here there are 11 restaurants on site, a 27-hole golf course and a spa with its own waterfalls. That’s not to mention the 757 stylish rooms, many of which boast sensational views of the surrounding wilderness.
Don’t worry if you don’t have the holiday budget to stay in such opulent accommodation Banff is an unforgettable place whether you’re inhabiting a tent or a palace. Lake Louise personifies the beauty of the area like nowhere else, its shimmering emerald surface providing the muse for infinite Insta-worthy photographs. Louise is only the most famous of the many mesmerising lakes found throughout Banff National Park. 14 kilometres (nine miles) away, Moraine Lake’s glacially fed waters provide an alternative spot for reflective wandering. Canoeing on either lake is an unforgettable experience the quietest time to go is in the evening, when day-trippers disappear and leave you to enjoy the splendour uninterrupted.
For hiking, Johnston Canyon provides options for all abilities. A quick and easy walk can be had by making your way to the lower falls, while those who wish to be challenged can continue climbing to the upper falls and the canyon beyond.
Prefer to enjoy nature spotting without the exertion of trekking? Take a ride on Banff Gondola. This will take you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, where you can meander along the mountain boardwalk and 360-degree observation deck while marvelling at the spectacular views around you.
Another appealing option is skiing. Banff has some of the best slopes in Canada, and if you visit during winter you can enjoy gliding through perfect powder in one of three resorts: Lake Louise, Sunshine and Mt. Norquay. Ice skating is a more leisurely option, and can be enjoyed at Chateau Lake Louise. Complete with its own ice castle, a whizz around the rink here makes you feel like you’ve stepped into your own frozen fairy tale.