Winter Wonderland

If spending a holiday vacation in a frosty winter wonderland is your idea of a fantastic getaway- here are ten reasons why you will love visiting Banff National Park, Canada

No. 1 Sleigh Ride- I can’t think of a better way to channel my inner snow princess than snuggled in a blanket on a horse drawn sleigh ride. Sleigh Rides

No. 2   If horses pulling your sled sounds a bit ho- hum, what about mushing through the snow behind a team of dogs?

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No. 3  If your lucky enough to book a room at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, you will experience first hand why this hotel is a Banff icon, built in 1898 by the Canadian Railway the hotel is steeped in history. Book a tour here if you’re staying at any of the other fantastic lodging available in Banff

No. 4  The Sulphur Springs Gondola – Take in the stunning vistas from the top of the world in a gondola. After your ride head across the street to warm up in the hot springs. ( The gondola closes mid- December)

No. 5  The Banff Upper Hot Springs- because… cold. Can you think of a more pleasurable way to warm up? Me either.

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No. 6  Surprise Corner. Surprise! You have just stumbled upon the most breathtaking views of the Fairmont Hotel, Bow Falls and Sulphur Mountain. There is a viewing platform however, it closes when conditions too snowy or slippery.

No. 7  In the shadow of the Fairmont Hotel lies Lake Louise and Queen Victoria Glacier, fasten on your cross country skis and ski around the lake. In January, the lake turns into a magical display of glimmering ice sculptures, for the annual Banff Snow Days and Ice Magic Festivalbanff-photo

No. 8  Après-Ski,  Après -Snow Board or Après -SnowTube. I’m all about the Après- a cozy fireplace, a good book and warm beverage.  Obviously, I don’t need to tell the snow lovers about the myriad of options for all the above mentioned outdoor activities. For an exhilarating experience, arrange for a helicopter to take you on a guided ski or snow boarding excursion.

No. 9  Snow Shoe hike – Hike Johnston Canyon and marvel at the sparkly frozen beauty of the waterfalls.

No. 10  Shop. Eat. Drink. Repeat. Banff Shopping GuideBanff Dining Guide

Bonus! The Columbia Ice Fields are nearby and worth the drive. Take a tour on an ice explorer and fill your water bottle with pure glacier water.