Highlights of Alberta

Alberta, a province nestled in the heart of Canada, is a captivating blend of astounding landscapes and hidden gems. With the majestic Canadian Rockies gracing its western horizon, Alberta boasts awe-inspiring national parks like Banff and Jasper, offering pristine lakes, dramatic peaks, and abundant wildlife. Its cities and towns exude modernity while embracing rich cultural experiences and traditions. Whether you're seeking tranquillity in nature's embrace or a taste of Alberta's cultural heritage, this province will not disappoint.

Natural Beauty

Canada boasts 37 national parks located in every province and territory and cover everything from mountains and plains to lakes and tundra. But the natural beauty in Alberta might be the best of them all. Home to the Canadian Rockies which provide magnificent views of majestic peaks, shimmering turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the oldest National Park in Canada, founded in 1885, justifiably ranked as number one by many people, it’s not hard to see why it’s so popular. Catering for all with its epic scenery, abundance of wildlife and wealth of activities, Banff will simply take your breath away. The crown jewel within this beautiful destination is undoubtedly, Lake Louise - gorgeous, spectacular, majestic, divine; it will leave you struggling for superlatives. The lake’s sparkling turquoise water reflects the chiselled mountains which surround it, the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise stands proudly at one end while the imposing Victoria Glacier sits at the other, it’s no wonder this is the most photographed lake in the world!

In winter, Lake Louise transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The shimmering blue waters turn to a powder-white ice as the lake freezes over, and visitors swap the lakeshore trail around the perimeter for ice-skating and snowshoeing across the lake.

Jasper National Park

The largest National Park in the Rockies is Jasper, and categorised by the World Heritage Committee to be among the most significant sights on earth. It’s the world's second largest Dark Sky Preserve and is home to a variety of wildlife, shimmering glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, thundering waterfalls and evergreen forests. And all this is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks.

Just like Banff, in winter Jasper’s national park can be described as a Christmas card come to life, with its snow-dusted evergreens and frozen landscapes. The ice caves, incredible ice formations and frozen waterfalls at Maligne Canyon are a must-see for anyone visiting Jasper in winter.

Our Holiday Director Caroline Godfrey led our Rockies Winter Wonderland tour and said...

“Even if you think you know what Canada is like, visit in the winter because it’s a totally different experience. Canada in the winter is amazing - Jasper’s frozen canyons and waterfalls are just fabulous!”

The Icefields Parkway

Linking Lake Louise to Jasper is the remarkable Icefields Parkway. Prepare to be wowed by one of most beautiful journeys in the world, every bend shows a new magnificent view. The winding 232km road cuts through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, emerald lakes and vast sweeping valleys with lush forests. The wildlife is equally impressive, so look out for black and grizzly bears, wolves, elk and deer on land, then keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks and ospreys in the sky. This really is a great way to see Banff & Jasper.

Vibrant Towns & Cities

Alberta's charm isn't confined to its wilderness alone; immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences and explore its towns and cities. Banff town sits within the National Park and is surrounded by spectacular peaks, at its heart you’ll find Banff Avenue, with its wealth of cafes, restaurants, museums and shops. Spend your time picking up souvenirs or watching the world go by in a quant coffee shop.

Don’t miss Calgary, this city will surprise you. Sitting on the Bow river and surrounded by the Rockies, just like everywhere else in Alberta, Calgary is simply breath-taking. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find a cosmopolitan city brimming with things to see and do. The iconic Calgary Stampede, the world’s largest rodeo, turns the city into one giant party, while its culinary scene is becoming livelier and livelier with locally focused menus. Located 191 metres above downtown, Calgary Tower provides 360° views of the city and surrounding Rockies, and while it may not be at the top of everyone’s list – the new Calgary Central Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and is definitely worth a visit.

Incredible Experiences

We know that it’s the many incredible experiences which make the holiday of a lifetime and in Alberta you’ll be spoilt for choice. Just like other mountainous destinations there are endless walks and trails which provide the opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the outstanding scenery, but there is so much more on offer in this incredible region.

Head out onto the water for some kayaking or perhaps you’d prefer a river rafting experience. Take a scenic float trip down the Athabasca River and travel the same route used by the “fur traders” over 2 centuries ago. Take in the scenery and look out for various wildlife including elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves and bears.

For unbeatable views of the Rockies take an incredible ride on the Banff Gondola. Glide up high over the town of Banff to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. From the observation decks you’ll experience superb sights of the Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls and six different mountain ranges. The more adventurous travellers can take a helicopter ride over the 3 Sisters Peaks – Hope, Charity and Faith. The ride offers views of the magnificent Goat Ranges where you can observe the radiant aqua-turquoise colours of the Spray Lakes and rugged peaks of the Rockies.

Sticking with the adventurous theme, the Columbia Icefield provides the adventure of a lifetime with a ride across the Athabasca Glacier in one of the specially built Ice Explorer vehicles. With expert driver/guides, experience the thrill of going on to the 10,000-year-old sheet of ice in one of these giant vehicles. Don’t worry about walking on the ice; it’s as deep as the Eiffel Tower is high!

Each season in Alberta opens the door for new adventures and winter is no different. Take in the sights and travel through the snowy landscape on a horse-drawn sleigh or try your hand at snowshoeing across Lake Louise. This ancient and efficient mode of transport simply involves wearing specially designed snowshoes which allow you to walk on the snow without sinking into it. What’s more, it’s super easy - If you can walk, you can snowshoe!

To warm up visit Banff’s hot springs. Located in an historic spa and bathhouse with lovely modern amenities, relax in the soothing hot waters of a mountain spring, while admiring the snow-covered peaks in every direction.

Amazing Stays

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Hotel’s don’t get much better than this – sat on the shores of Lake Louise for over 100 years, surrounded by rugged mountains and the mighty Victoria Glacier, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is like no other. Originally a one-story log cabin the hotel has evolved over the years to become an iconic luxurious mountain resort.

Completely surrounded by majestic nature, each window offers stunning panoramas of Banff’s sublime landscapes. The hotel is elegant and lavish yet charming, comfortable and cosy. Visit the spa or health club, grab a bite to eat in one of the restaurants or just watch the mountains reflect off Lake Louise’s crystal waters from the comfort of the lobby lounge.

Mount Royal

In Banff, there’s no better place to be than in the heart of town on the iconic Banff Avenue, and that’s where the historic Mount Royal proudly sits. Surrounded by the amazing amenities and stunning landscapes, the Mount Royal has been situated here since 1908. Following recent renovations the hotel has been reimagined into a property which seamlessly blends modern chic style with its heritage mountain influence and a relaxing ambience.

Head up onto the rooftop for a soak in one of the outdoor hot tubs, grab a drink in the Cascade Lounge, discover a distinctly Banff dining experience in the restaurant or learn about the history of the hotel in the lobby museum – there is so much on offer at the wonderful Mount Royal.