Day 1
Morning: There’s nothing like that first glimpse of the mountains especially when you start your winter break in Banff and Lake Louise, the heart of Alberta, with a guided 4×4 Safari Tour. Travelling into remote mountain terrain, you enjoy views across snow-covered peaks while keeping an eye out for wildlife including elk, deer and bighorn sheep.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to Pizzeria Sophia, a popular local spot in Banff known for its wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas. Continue the adventure with a guided e-fat bike tour; with wide tyres, these bikes making it easy to explore Banff’s winter trails.
Follow your guide along forest paths and snow-packed tracks, taking in the stunning mountain scenery as you ride around Banff and its surroundings.
Gentle climbs and rewarding descents make it an easy, enjoyable ride. Or opt for a snowshoeing excursion through the surrounding forests.
Evening: Take the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views across the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in time for sunset and watch the mountains transform colours from white to pink at dusk.
Later, make your way across to Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in naturally heated mineral waters.
Surrounded by the towering summits and crisp alpine air, it is one of Banff’s most iconic experiences and the ideal way to unwind after a day outdoors.
Day 2
Morning: After a light breakfast at Farm & Fire, travel to Lake Louise on the ROAM bus to experience one of the Rockies’ classic winter activities: dog sledding. Settle into a sled before gliding through glacial valleys and mountain ridgelines. Take time to stroll along the frozen shores of Lake Louise with its ice skating rink around the ice castle before grabbing a hot chocolate (or something stronger) at the ice bar.
Afternoon: Return to Banff for a relaxed lunch in town before spending the late afternoon exploring Banff Avenue and Bear Street. Independent galleries such as Banff Trading Post sit alongside outdoor outfitters like Monod Sports Ltd and souvenir shops including Cool As A Moose. The town’s spas offer a welcome reset between adventures, with the surrounding mountains never far from view.
Evening: Round off the trip with an intimate, casual dinner at The Fat Ox, known for its modern Italian menu. where local ingredients take centre stage here, with elk meatballs and bison carpaccio among the popular dishes.
Then walk off dinner in Banff’s compact town centre, where bars, lounges and late-night venues are within easy reach. Head to The Dusty Boot Saloon, where live music, cocktails and a lively crowd create a classic après-adventure feel, with the atmosphere of an old western saloon and a hint of speakeasy.
