This article is brought to you by Adventure World/Destination Canada.
The view stops me in my tracks. I stand stock still on Banff Avenue and just take it all in, totally mesmerised by the jagged dinosaur spine of white-topped mountain peaks around this postcard-pretty town. In Banff, the words ‘winter wonderland’ are often overused, but here, they suit perfectly.
Accessed through Calgary International Airport, the gateway to the Rockies, Banff National Park is often named as one of the most beautiful in the world and there is no argument here. This UNESCO World Heritage site is magical at all times of year but is particularly spectacular when wearing its winter coat. There is so much to love about this place in the colder months, when temperatures are low but the thrill level is high. The crunch as you explore on a winter walk, on a snowshoe tour or in your après ski boots. The shower of magical flakes as you brush by a towering snow-covered tree, raining flakes down like confetti. And the child-like joy of walking on an icy lake in front of the truly majestic Fairmont Château Lake Louise, one of the grandest vistas imaginable. Being there is a definite ‘pinch me’ moment.
Ice-capades in Banff
There are many ways to wander in nature’s winter gallery, with a vast array of adventures and tours, including on Adventure World’s ‘Canadian Winter Wonderland’ itinerary.
Ride the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain to grasp the enormity of the landscape. Even better, do it at night to experience Nightrise, when the summit is transformed through the Four Wonders, using four digital art installations that bring this sacred peak to life in delightful, unexpected ways.
Don’t miss a tour to Johnston Canyon, with its guided Icewalk an unforgettable experience. This hike will thrill as you walk along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls. When you get to the frozen Upper Falls, you’ll be reaching for the camera to take shots of the gorge below … well worth the icy fingers. The Upper Falls consist of huge pillars of ice that rise 30 metres above the walkway. These pillars attract ice climbers from all over and are staggeringly beautiful. Later, add to the ethereal experience by bundling up for a horsedrawn sleigh ride through idyllic snowy meadows, watching out for wildlife and marvelling at the panoramic views.
Adventure World’s seven-day ‘Winter Delights’ itinerary lives up to its name exploring the Icefield Parkway on a round trip from Calgary, spending time in Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. One of the outdoor experiences that will live long in your memory is a snowshoeing tour on a gorgeous snowy trail. You’ll stroll through a pristine forest in fluffy snow to culture treasure, Paint Pots. This site’s mineral deposits were used by First Nations people for rock painting.
Lakeside bliss
Lake Louise is one of those places that exceeds expectations, the castle-like Fairmont Château Lake Louise so elegant and grand on the icy shores of the lake and giving jaw dropping views to the mountains beyond. It feels like you are living in your own fairy tale. Originally built as a rail chalet in 1890, it was constructed to house tourists who would ride in on the groundbreaking Canadian Pacific Railway which opened in 1885.
The property is undoubtedly a bucket-list destination, with 539 rooms and suites, a world-class spa, fine dining, and the incredible views through the arched windows of the Fairview Restaurant and Bar. A cocktail here goes down a treat, or perhaps you will prefer a hot chocolate.
Just 45 minutes west of Banff, the property is the perfect winter base, and with Lake Louise Ski Resort being only 10 minutes from the hotel, it is easy to hit the slopes. Non-skiers can also visit and ride up on the Lake Louise gondola for incredible views over the resort, surrounding peaks and Victoria Glacier. Back at the hotel, try snowshoeing, ice skating, or stroll along the lake shore etching the view in your memory bank.
All aboard to Jasper
Adventure World’s ‘Canadian Winter Wonderland’ itinerary is a 15-day, 14-night journey from Vancouver to Whitehorse, and includes travelling by VIA Rail from Vancouver to Jasper. Jasper National Park is part of UNESCO’s Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, known for its outstanding beauty and abundant wildlife, such as elk, wolves and moose. In winter, some of the main attractions are the Maligne Canyon Icewalk, guided ice climbing and snowshoeing. For a taste of Jasper, consider the Downtown Foodie tour, showcasing local seasonal flavours. This guided tour will include four handpicked dishes at local restaurants paired with local beverages.
This article is brought to you by Adventure World/Destination Canada.
