Banff, Canada Things To Do: Travel Tips From An Expert Expat
Kim Logan traded Melbourne for the Canadian province of Alberta in 2011, but it was the mountain lifestyle that drew her to Banff to work for Banff & Lake Louise Tourism, three years ago. "I love being able to walk out my door and head out on an adventure – like a trail run, bike ride, SUP, or cross-country ski," she says. "You could live here your entire life and still not have explored every trail or summited every mountain. It's a very special place." banfflakelouise.com
SEE
On a clear day, head up to the alpine in a gondola to soak in the sweeping mountain vistas. There are three unique ways to do this. The Banff sightseeing gondola is five minutes' drive from the town and in eight minutes you can be whisked to 2281 metres. There's also the Lake Louise Gondola from which you can see iconic Lake Louise in the distance and the Mount Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift, from which you can enjoy views of the town of Banff.
DO
A great place to enjoy the vistas and wildlife (fingers crossed) is on the windy and scenic roadway which connects Banff and Lake Louise called the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). In spring and fall, a portion of the roadway is closed to public vehicle traffic, which has created a fantastic cycling opportunity. You can rent a bike or e-bike, or hop on a bus that will take you part way. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; I've seen black bears, grizzly bears, deer, big horn sheep and elk here.
EAT
My favourite restaurant in Banff is Nourish Bistro. It's vegetarian and accommodates vegans as well. I'll admit I haven't tried too much of the menu because I usually order the same thing – the mushroom ravioli. That's the absolute must-eat. The "world-famous nachos" are my favourite for sharing – they are fully loaded with over 27 ingredients – everything from beans and quinoa to dill pickles and strawberries. They also have kombucha on tap, which I love as a refreshing beverage on a warm day. They're located on vibrant Bear Street, and you can dine outdoors during the warmer months. Book ahead, nourishbistro.com
DRINK
As a self-confessed tea addict, I can't recommend Jolene's Teahouse enough. On Bear Street in a historic cabin they stock different flavours of bagged tea or loose leaf. Creamy Early Grey is my favourite and is something you'll always find in my tea stash at home. You'll find their tea in cocktails at most Banff Hospitality Collective restaurants, like Lupo, Park Distillery and Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant, jolenesteahouse.com
AVOID
Don't try driving to nearby Lake Louise or Moraine Lake in summer. You are going to get stuck in traffic and will wish you took the bus from Banff or a Parks Canada shuttle from the Lake Louise Ski Resort or a guided tour from Banff. Do yourself a favour and plan ahead to see these places for a far more enjoyable experience (and you'll be a more sustainable traveller, too!). Downtown Banff is best explored on foot. Lace up your comfy walking shoes and leave your vehicle behind.
THRIVE
Mountain weather can be unpredictable so pack for all conditions. And, if you're heading out on an adventure, go with a guide. You'll have a far better experience and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the first and most visited national park in Canada and learn all the locals' secrets.
Know an expat in the know? Contact belinda.jackson@traveller.com.au
No comments for "Banff, Canada Things To Do: Travel Tips From An Expert Expat"
Post a Comment