Discover one of the most beautiful places in Canada
Sharon Hunter - 8 March 2016
Colossal mountains, far-stretching prairies, topaz lakes, and thick, towering forests – it’s no wonder Alberta beckons so many to its beautiful scenes. Those travelling to this remarkable province for the first time have an abundance of stunning landscapes, inviting cities and landmarks to discover, but where should they begin? We’ve collated the best places and attractions to see to get a true taste of Alberta; and with impressive National Parks, picturesque towns and even a fantastic way to travel in style, we’re sure first-time travellers will want to come back for more.
Calgary
First saddle up; don your cowboy boots and journey to the western town of Calgary. Fusing its rich cowboy heritage with modern influences, Calgary is a charming town with activities aplenty, and a great way to see Alberta’s urban side. Visit Calgary in July and you’ll be immersed in the rowdy, bucking bronco lifestyle of the Calgary Stampede – a high energy rodeo event with plenty of traditional Western shows, including bareback riding, chuck wagon racing, and a fun musical variety display to celebrate the end of this lively annual occasion. This characterful city has streets full of independent boutiques and delicious eateries to while away the afternoon, too.
Jasper National Park and Whistler Mountain
Boasting spectacular views of crystal blue lakes, ginormous glaciers, luxuriant forests and immense mountain peaks; Jasper National Park is a wilderness full of wonder. To experience this scenery from a unique perspective, travel up to the top of Whistlers Mountain on a Sky Tram, soaring up 7,470 feet to find a landscape full of wonderful vistas and easy hiking trails to the mountain’s peak – reaching the summit will be a remarkable moment to remember. The sparkling waters of Maligne Lake will beckon you to explore its winding path – take a calm boat ride through its beautiful scenes, or venture to Athabasca Falls for a picture-perfect view of cascading waterfalls.
For a unique meander through Jasper National Park’s jagged peaks and turquoise lakes, retrace the steps of former Canadian fur traders, who embarked on journeys through the glimmering glaciers and thick forests that surround the astonishing Mount Edith Cavell. Gaze in awe at staggering views and discover the rich history of the region as you take this ‘Path of the Glacier’ tour, spotting birds, bears, elk and cougars along the way.
Banff National Park
It’s not just Jasper National Park you’ll eagerly want to visit. Elegant elk, giant moose, black bears and wolves live in the depths of the striking Banff National Park, and you may spot these elusive animals as you make your way through the park’s sensational, alpine terrain. Deep within Banff National Park’s lush plains lies Lake Louise, a marvellous wonder to behold. Becoming luminous in the twinkling sunlight, it’s no wonder this expansive lake is known as the Jewel of the Canadian Rockies. This lovely oasis is the world’s most photographed lake in the world, and for very good reason, so be sure to take some snaps of the glistening water as you leisurely stroll through the hiking trails that coil around the edge and up into the hills.
The Athabasca Glacier and Glacier Skywalk
You’ll also want to witness Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s finest scenic highways, and be wowed by its spectacular views. Connecting glistening Lake Louise with the mountainous plains of Jasper National Park, this drive is an incredible way to experience Alberta’s natural beauty - the road boasts a backdrop of expansive ice fields and frosty glaciers as it winds along the Continental Divide. Step on to a gigantic Ice Explorer and speed along icy paths to the exhaustive landscapes of Columbia Icefield, home to the towering snow-capped peaks of the Athabasca Glacier, or dare to peer over the edge of the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk. Jutting out 35 metres from a cliff edge and rising 918 feet over frosted valleys and alpine forests, the Glacier Skywalk is a magnificent walkway with unforgettable sights, plus interpretive stories of the ice field’s geology and history.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Of course a trip to Alberta isn’t only for wild adventures and intriguing attractions. Get back to nature and venture to a soothing, luxury spa, located in the stimulating landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a perfect choice - a wonderful hotel with one of the best spas in the region, this lodge is nestled between alluring forests, rolling plains and gorgeous views of ice-capped mountains. Look out onto the splendid scenes from the peaceful Spa Reflections Lounge, and treat yourself to rejuvenating treatments inspired by Jasper National Park’s gentle ambience. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge will provide you with luxurious comfort, with an array of appealing lodges and a variation of slow-impact activities, including horse riding trips, rounds of golf, or kayak cruises along the calm, winding rivers.
The Rocky Mountaineer
To view Alberta easily, quickly, and in total luxury, board the Rocky Mountaineer to journey through the vast region in style. An iconic train stopping at various points in the province, including Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise, this is a truly royal way to see everything the Canadian Rockies have to offer. Once on board you have a minimum of two eight hour days, so sit back and relax as the varying scenes of mountains, lakes and fields drift past your window. For added indulgence opt for the GoldLeaf Service – the domed glass ceilings and panoramic views from its private coach could be enough to convince you, but there are lookout vistas and a classy dining area upstairs, too.
Colossal mountains, far-stretching prairies, topaz lakes, and thick, towering forests – it’s no wonder Alberta beckons so many to its beautiful scenes. Those travelling to this remarkable province for the first time have an abundance of stunning landscapes, inviting cities and landmarks to discover, but where should they begin? We’ve collated the best places and attractions to see to get a true taste of Alberta; and with impressive National Parks, picturesque towns and even a fantastic way to travel in style, we’re sure first-time travellers will want to come back for more.
Calgary
First saddle up; don your cowboy boots and journey to the western town of Calgary. Fusing its rich cowboy heritage with modern influences, Calgary is a charming town with activities aplenty, and a great way to see Alberta’s urban side. Visit Calgary in July and you’ll be immersed in the rowdy, bucking bronco lifestyle of the Calgary Stampede – a high energy rodeo event with plenty of traditional Western shows, including bareback riding, chuck wagon racing, and a fun musical variety display to celebrate the end of this lively annual occasion. This characterful city has streets full of independent boutiques and delicious eateries to while away the afternoon, too.
Jasper National Park and Whistler Mountain
Boasting spectacular views of crystal blue lakes, ginormous glaciers, luxuriant forests and immense mountain peaks; Jasper National Park is a wilderness full of wonder. To experience this scenery from a unique perspective, travel up to the top of Whistlers Mountain on a Sky Tram, soaring up 7,470 feet to find a landscape full of wonderful vistas and easy hiking trails to the mountain’s peak – reaching the summit will be a remarkable moment to remember. The sparkling waters of Maligne Lake will beckon you to explore its winding path – take a calm boat ride through its beautiful scenes, or venture to Athabasca Falls for a picture-perfect view of cascading waterfalls.
For a unique meander through Jasper National Park’s jagged peaks and turquoise lakes, retrace the steps of former Canadian fur traders, who embarked on journeys through the glimmering glaciers and thick forests that surround the astonishing Mount Edith Cavell. Gaze in awe at staggering views and discover the rich history of the region as you take this ‘Path of the Glacier’ tour, spotting birds, bears, elk and cougars along the way.
Banff National Park
It’s not just Jasper National Park you’ll eagerly want to visit. Elegant elk, giant moose, black bears and wolves live in the depths of the striking Banff National Park, and you may spot these elusive animals as you make your way through the park’s sensational, alpine terrain. Deep within Banff National Park’s lush plains lies Lake Louise, a marvellous wonder to behold. Becoming luminous in the twinkling sunlight, it’s no wonder this expansive lake is known as the Jewel of the Canadian Rockies. This lovely oasis is the world’s most photographed lake in the world, and for very good reason, so be sure to take some snaps of the glistening water as you leisurely stroll through the hiking trails that coil around the edge and up into the hills.
The Athabasca Glacier and Glacier Skywalk
You’ll also want to witness Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s finest scenic highways, and be wowed by its spectacular views. Connecting glistening Lake Louise with the mountainous plains of Jasper National Park, this drive is an incredible way to experience Alberta’s natural beauty - the road boasts a backdrop of expansive ice fields and frosty glaciers as it winds along the Continental Divide. Step on to a gigantic Ice Explorer and speed along icy paths to the exhaustive landscapes of Columbia Icefield, home to the towering snow-capped peaks of the Athabasca Glacier, or dare to peer over the edge of the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk. Jutting out 35 metres from a cliff edge and rising 918 feet over frosted valleys and alpine forests, the Glacier Skywalk is a magnificent walkway with unforgettable sights, plus interpretive stories of the ice field’s geology and history.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Of course a trip to Alberta isn’t only for wild adventures and intriguing attractions. Get back to nature and venture to a soothing, luxury spa, located in the stimulating landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a perfect choice - a wonderful hotel with one of the best spas in the region, this lodge is nestled between alluring forests, rolling plains and gorgeous views of ice-capped mountains. Look out onto the splendid scenes from the peaceful Spa Reflections Lounge, and treat yourself to rejuvenating treatments inspired by Jasper National Park’s gentle ambience. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge will provide you with luxurious comfort, with an array of appealing lodges and a variation of slow-impact activities, including horse riding trips, rounds of golf, or kayak cruises along the calm, winding rivers.
The Rocky Mountaineer
To view Alberta easily, quickly, and in total luxury, board the Rocky Mountaineer to journey through the vast region in style. An iconic train stopping at various points in the province, including Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise, this is a truly royal way to see everything the Canadian Rockies have to offer. Once on board you have a minimum of two eight hour days, so sit back and relax as the varying scenes of mountains, lakes and fields drift past your window. For added indulgence opt for the GoldLeaf Service – the domed glass ceilings and panoramic views from its private coach could be enough to convince you, but there are lookout vistas and a classy dining area upstairs, too.
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