Twelve Days of Travel: Explore Banff, Canada by Foot & by Views
I have been fortunate enough to travel to many beautiful places in the world, but I have to say that one location that literally took my breath away, day after day, was Banff, Canada. Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. My husband and I spent each and every day picking a new trail to hike, and with each new adventure, we kept pinching ourselves and widening our eyes, thinking, “is this real?” The bluest glacier water we’d ever seen, epic views that stretched for eternity, stunning waterfalls and canyons that made you feel so tiny in comparison… the list goes on. It’s truly remarkable, and something I also love about Banff is how its natural beauty is juxtaposed by its gorgeous, luxury accommodations with Fairmont’s iconic Banff Springs Hotel (known as the “Castle in the Rockies”) and Fairmont’s Chateau Lake Louise Hotel. Spend the day hiking, and come back to a roaring fire, dinner by the lake, have a glass of wine, and soak in the hot tub before heading back out for the day. You also will not want to miss having afternoon tea, which is a highlight of both of these Fairmont properties.
While summer is my favorite time to visit Banff, those who are interested in winter sport activities can find plenty of things to do if you visit in the off season as well.
Can’t Miss Hiking Spots
1) Lake Agnes Hike and Teahouse (easily accessed from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel) and Big Beehive
2) Moraine Lake Shoreline and Rockpile
3) Parker Ridge
4) Johnston Canyon and the Inkpots
5) Two Jack Lake
6) Plain of Six Glaciers
Where to Stay
1) Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
According to their website, The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is “a year-round luxury mountain resort that offers a championship golf course during the summer, unparalleled skiing in the winter, the award winning Fairmont Spa, and authentically local dining experiences. Enjoy a short stroll from the hotel and explore the charming town of Banff. Discover local galleries and museums, upscale shopping and restaurants, year-round Banff Lake Louise events, and popular local attractions including the Banff Gondola and more.” With sweeping views throughout the properties, and a variety of room types, there is something for everyone at this stunning property.
Prices start at $931/night for summer stays beginning June 4th, 2023 and are subject to change based on dates and availability. An additional $30/night resort fee is added to all hotel reservations at the time of check-in.
Prices start at $923/night for summer stays beginning June 4th, 2023 and are subject to change based on dates and availability. An additional $45CAD/night resort fee is added to all hotel reservations at the time of check-in.
2) Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel
This hotel features breathtaking views of Lake Louise and direct hiking access to one of Banff’s most popular hikes. According to their website, “Originally built as a base for outdoor enthusiasts and alpinists over 100 years ago, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a year-round luxury mountain resort offering guided mountain tours, world-class skiing in the winter, scenic hiking and canoe activities in the summer, kid's camp, a luxury spa, and exceptional dining experiences. The resort offers 36,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise features breathtaking views of Lake Louise and the surrounding Canadian Rocky Mountains. Elegant and polished, yet relaxed and inviting, this 539 room luxury resort in Banff National Park lives up to the natural wonder with which we share our name. Unwind and enjoy the views from one of our well-appointed guestrooms, indulge in luxurious suites and specialty rooms or experience the exclusivity of Fairmont Gold.”
Prices start at $931/night for summer stays beginning June 4th, 2023 and are subject to change based on dates and availability. An additional $30/night resort fee is added to all hotel reservations at the time of check-in.
Having a hard time deciding which resort is best for you? Consider a split stay and stay at both! Each property has ample dining options, luxury accommodations, elegant decor, and stunning views. It can be difficult to choose when you have two wonderful options.
You could easily spend a week in Banff and feel as though you’ve barely scratched the surface. Additional Banff activities in addition to hiking and dining, include gondola rides, private tours, visits to the Icefields Parkway, horseback riding, and more.
Getting there
You’ll fly into Calgary International Airport, which is about a 1.5 hour drive away. Renting a car will be your best option to give you the most flexibility for your visit to Banff. Banff National Park and its vicinity is also very family-friendly, so it’s truly a multi-generational destination for your next vacation.
