SKI > Banff

They have been skiing in the Canadian Rockies around Banff since 1926, which is when the first ski runs were we established at Mount Norquay, (the first rope tow lift at Norquay was built in 1941), a lift at Sunshine Village was built a few years later in 1945 and the first lift was installed at Lake Louise in 1954. Today all of these three resorts are marketed and operated under the one brand “Ski the Big 3” and you can ski all three mountains on the same ticket. You can also use the Mountain Collective and Ikon passes to ski at all three mountains.

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a natural wonderland of adventure and beauty, located within Banff National Park a UNESCO world heritage site that runs 400 kilometres long and 100 kilometres wide. The town is a picturesque mountain resort town that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, Banff offers an endless array of outdoor activities and experiences.

“We like to joke that, in Banff the people are fenced in and the animals roam free. Elk and deer are as common around town as dogs and cats, this in part because the ungulates feel protected here from wolf packs at either end of the valley. Sometimes you’ll see wolves along the road; your fairly certain to see mountain goats approaching Mount Norway and in the early and late season its not unheard of to see black and grizzly bears on the slopes.”

Dan Markham – Fifty Places to Ski and Snowboard Before You Die by Chris Santella (copyright Abrams 2013)

GETTING THERE >

Banff, located in Alberta, Canada, is a world-renowned destination known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant town. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque location, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get to Banff.

The nearest major airport to Banff is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) east of Banff. YYC is well-connected with numerous international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors from around the world.

Getting from Calgary International Airport to Banff:

1. Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular option for those who want the flexibility to explore Banff and the surrounding areas at their own pace. Several car rental agencies operate out of YYC.
2. Shuttle Services: Several shuttle companies provide regular service between Calgary International Airport and Banff. Some of the well-known services include Banff Airporter and Brewster Express.
3. Private Transfers: For a more personalized experience, private transfer services are available. These can be booked in advance and offer direct, comfortable rides to Banff.

WHERE TO STAY >

1. Fairmont Banff Springs

Review: Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” Fairmont Banff Springs offers a luxurious stay with stunning views, world-class amenities, and top-notch service. The hotel features multiple dining options, a golf course, a spa, and a heated outdoor pool.
Phone: +1 403-762-2211
Google Maps

2. Rimrock Resort Hotel

Review: Nestled on the side of Sulphur Mountain, the Rimrock Resort Hotel offers breathtaking views of the Bow Valley. It features luxurious rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a full-service spa. It’s also conveniently located near the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola.
Phone: +1 403-762-3356
Google Maps

3. Moose Hotel and Suites

Review: This modern, alpine-style hotel is located just a short walk from downtown Banff. It features spacious suites, a rooftop hot tub with mountain views, an indoor pool, and an on-site Italian restaurant, Pacini.
Phone: +1 403-762-6632
Google Maps

4. Banff Park Lodge

Review: Situated in the heart of downtown Banff, Banff Park Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, and on-site dining at La Terrazza.
Phone: +1 403-762-4433
Google Maps

5. Buffalo Mountain Lodge

Review: Located on Tunnel Mountain, Buffalo Mountain Lodge offers a cozy and rustic atmosphere with wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies. The on-site restaurant, The Sleeping Buffalo, serves local and sustainable cuisine.
Phone: +1 403-762-2400
Google Maps

6. Banff Aspen Lodge

Review: This welcoming lodge offers modern amenities, including outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s just a short walk from downtown Banff and provides easy access to local attractions.
Phone: +1 403-762-4401
Google Maps

7. YWCA Banff Hotel

Review: Offering budget-friendly accommodations, the YWCA Banff Hotel is centrally located and provides basic, comfortable rooms. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore Banff.
Phone: +1 403-762-3560
Google Maps

8. Samesun Banff

Review: This lively hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private suites, making it a great choice for solo travelers and groups. Samesun Banff features a communal kitchen, a bar, and organized social activities.
Phone: +1 403-762-4499
Google Maps

9. HI Banff Alpine Centre

Review: Located on the edge of town, HI Banff Alpine Centre offers affordable accommodations with stunning views. The hostel features both private rooms and dormitories, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy common area with a fireplace.
Phone: +1 403-762-4123
Google Maps

10. Baker Creek Mountain Resort

Review: Located just outside Banff National Park, Baker Creek Mountain Resort offers charming log cabins and lodge suites. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities nearby.

Phone: +1 403-522-3761

Google Maps

WHERE TO EAT >

Banff, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is not just known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures but also for its vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a casual meal, Banff has something to offer. Here’s a list of top 10 places to eat in Banff, complete with reviews, phone numbers, and Google Maps links.

1. The Bison Restaurant

Review: Known for its farm-to-table cuisine, The Bison offers a menu featuring locally sourced meats and produce in a rustic yet modern setting. Their bison short ribs and wild boar are must-tries, providing a true taste of the Canadian wilderness.
Phone: +1 403-762-5550
Google Maps

2. Grizzly House

Review: A Banff institution, Grizzly House is famous for its fondue and offers a unique dining experience with a variety of meats, including exotic options like bison, elk, and even alligator. The quirky decor and lively atmosphere make it a fun spot for dinner.
Phone: +1 403-762-4055
Google Maps

3. Park Distillery Restaurant and Bar

Review: This restaurant features campfire-inspired cuisine and offers a range of dishes cooked over an open flame. They also distill their own spirits on-site, making it a great place for both food and drinks.
Phone: +1 403-762-5114
Google Maps

4. Saltlik

Review: A popular steakhouse in Banff, Saltlik offers a range of high-quality steaks and other dishes in a contemporary setting. Their ribeye and garlic mashed potatoes are particularly popular.
Phone: +1 403-762-2467
Google Maps

5. Eden

Review: Located in The Rimrock Resort Hotel, Eden is known for its fine dining experience with a French-inspired menu and an extensive wine list. It’s perfect for special occasions and offers breathtaking views of the mountains.
Phone: +1 403-762-1865
Google Maps

6. Nourish Bistro

Review: A great option for vegetarians and vegans, Nourish Bistro offers creative and flavourful plant-based dishes. Their Mediterranean nachos and Buddha bowls are packed with fresh, vibrant flavours.
Phone: +1 403-760-3933
Google Maps

7. Wild Flour Bakery

Review: Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch, Wild Flour Bakery offers fresh-baked bread, pastries, and a variety of coffee and tea options. Their scones and artisan sandwiches are particularly delightful.
Phone: +1 403-760-5074
Google Maps

8. The Maple Leaf

Review: This restaurant focuses on Canadian cuisine and offers a variety of dishes featuring local ingredients, including seafood and game meats. The cedar-planked salmon and Alberta beef are crowd favorites.
Phone: +1 403-760-7680
Google Maps

9. Tooloulou’s

Review: Known for its hearty breakfasts and Cajun-inspired cuisine, Tooloulou’s is a great spot for a casual meal. Their breakfast menu is extensive, and their jambalaya is a spicy treat.
Phone: +1 403-762-2633
Google Maps

10. The Juniper Bistro

Review: Located at The Juniper Hotel, this bistro offers stunning views of the mountains and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Their brunch menu, particularly the eggs benedict, is highly recommended.
Phone: +1 403-763-6219
Google Maps

WHERE TO DRINK >

After a day on the slopes, Banff’s nightlife offers the perfect way to unwind and socialize. Here are some of the best bars in Banff where you can enjoy a great drink, lively atmosphere, and perhaps some live music:

1. High Rollers
High Rollers is not just a bar but a unique blend of a bowling alley and a beer hall. With a wide selection of craft beers on tap, delicious pizzas, and five-pin bowling lanes, it’s the perfect spot for a fun and casual night out.
Specialty: Extensive craft beer selection, bowling lanes.
Atmosphere: Casual, fun, and lively.
Phone: +1 403-760-5300
Google Maps: High Rollers

2. Park Distillery Restaurant and Bar
Located on Banff Avenue, Park Distillery is known for its house-distilled spirits and delicious campfire-inspired cuisine. The rustic decor and cozy fireplace make it a great place to warm up and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail.
Specialty: House-distilled spirits, signature cocktails.
Atmosphere: Rustic, cozy, and inviting.
Phone: +1 403-762-5114
Google Maps: Park Distillery

3. The Rose & Crown
As Banff’s oldest pub, The Rose & Crown offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with live music every night. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying hearty pub fare and a wide selection of beers and spirits.
Specialty: Live music, pub classics.
Atmosphere: Traditional, lively, and friendly.
Phone: +1 403-762-2121
Google Maps: The Rose & Crown

4. Dancing Sasquatch
For those looking to dance the night away, Dancing Sasquatch is the go-to nightclub in Banff. With a vibrant dance floor, top DJs, and a lively crowd, it’s the perfect place to let loose and enjoy a night out.
Specialty: Dance floor, top DJs.
Atmosphere: Energetic, youthful, and fun.
Phone: +1 403-762-4002
Google Maps: Dancing Sasquatch

5. Bear Street Tavern
Known for its cozy atmosphere and famous “pizza and a pint” combo, Bear Street Tavern is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The laid-back vibe, craft beers, and mouth-watering pizzas make it an excellent spot for a relaxed evening.
Specialty: Craft beers, gourmet pizzas.
Atmosphere: Cozy, relaxed, and friendly.
Phone: +1 403-762-2021
Google Maps: Bear Street Tavern

6. Balkan Restaurant and Bar
Offering a unique mix of Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Balkan transforms from a family-friendly restaurant to a lively bar with DJ nights and dancing. Their creative cocktails and upbeat atmosphere make it a popular evening destination.
Specialty: Mediterranean cocktails, DJ nights.
Atmosphere: Eclectic, lively, and energetic.
Phone: +1 403-762-3454
Google Maps: Balkan Restaurant and Bar

Banff Township

The township of Banff where the majority of accomodation options are range from the simple and functional to exclusive luxury hotels, the shopping strip has smart fashion brands and plenty of outdoor, activewear and ski gear suppliers.

With over a hundred restaurants you will be spoiled for choice from family favourites to fine dining all of the options are covered from Italian to Greek, Japanese, Indian, Vietnamese and more. There are also two brewery restaurants and a distillery to visit and enjoy the local hooch.

One place you will want to visit either to stay or to eat at one of its famous restaurants is the Fairmont Banff Springs, Luxury Hotel and Spa. The hotel which was opened in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, it was one of the earliest of Canada’s grand railway hotels and it looks like a fairytale castle set in the woods on the edge of town. The hotel has a spa and four restaurants including the 1888 Chop Shop which is a premium steak restaurant.

Recharge in the Hot Springs after a day full of adventure

Slow down and enjoy a moment of relaxation in the hot springs after a busy day of exploring the mountains or retail therapy in the shops . There are few things better than a slow soak in healing hot springs to finish a day off and prepare to do it all over again. It is particularly magical to be in the outside pools at sunset on a winter evening and watch the snow fall around you and on the surrounding peaks as the mountain air cools.

The water in the Banff Upper Hot Springs is heated geothermally, bubbling up to the surface from three kilometres into the earth’s crust. The natural temperature of the water that emerges varies depending on the season. During the winter, the temperature can be as hot as 47°C and in the spring, the flow increases and so the temperature cools off though only to a minimum of 27°C.

If you visit Banff in warmer months you can visit the Moraine Lake, a pristine glacial lake that boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Canada. Visitors can take a canoe or kayak out on the lake to explore the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the views of surrounding mountains and valleys.

WHERE TO SKI >

Banff is not one resort it is three World-Class Ski Areas: Banff Ski Resort boasts three exceptional ski areas: Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. Each area provides a unique skiing experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.

• Mount Norquay: Is best known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Mount Norquay offering gentle runs for beginners and more challenging trails for those a little more adventurous. Night skiing is a highlight here, where you can carve down floodlit slopes under a canopy of stars. It is also closest to Banff township.
• Lake Louise Ski Resort: One of North America’s largest ski areas, Lake Louise offers over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain. Explore long cruisers, steep chutes, and open bowls with panoramic views of Victoria Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
• Sunshine Village: High-altitude snow and sunny days define Sunshine Village. Spanning three mountains, this area offers a mix of gentle slopes, wide-open bowls, and thrilling runs. The high elevation ensures excellent snow quality, making it a paradise for powder hounds.

In addition to its natural beauty, Banff also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of art galleries, museums, and cultural events. The town is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival, which celebrates the art of mountain culture.

Banff is a natural wonderland that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, this stunning mountain town is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and head to Banff for an unforgettable Canadian adventure and don’t forget Banff is just the beginning of a Canadian ski road trip, why not head on to the Powder Highway and visit Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, Fernie, Red Mountain and more….

MOUNT NORQUAY >

Mount Norquay is perfect for those who crave a quick escape to the slopes. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this ski area offers gentle runs for beginners and challenging trails for the more adventurous. Night skiing is a highlight here, where you can carve down floodlit slopes under a canopy of stars.

The distance from Banff to Mount Norquay is approximately 6 kilometers (4 miles). The drive typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

LAKE LOUISE >

Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest ski areas in North America, renowned for its stunning scenery and varied terrain. With over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, you can explore long cruisers, steep chutes, and open bowls. The panoramic views of Victoria Glacier and the surrounding peaks are simply awe-inspiring.

The distance from Banff Village to Lake Louise is approximately 58 kilometers (36 miles) when traveling via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). The drive typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

SUNSHINE VILLAGE >

Sunshine Village lives up to its name with an abundance of sunny days and high-altitude snow. Spanning three mountains, this area offers a mix of gentle slopes, wide-open bowls, and thrilling runs. The high elevation ensures excellent snow quality, making it a paradise for powder hounds.

The distance from Banff to Sunshine Village is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles). The drive typically takes around 20 minutes.