Canada's Rocky Mountains are the ideal destination for romantic and other weekend getaways. The scenery is spectacular and breathtaking in all seasons and there is something for everyone. For the sports enthusiast there is world class downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, heli-skiing, hiking, golfing, mountain climbing, whitewater rafting, canoing, snowshoeing, trail riding, and mountain biking. For the more laid back, the beautiful town of Banff offers leisurely trails, sensual spas, healing hot springs, museums, art galleries, fine dining, and bountiful boutiques.

Banff, in the heart of Banff National Park, offers a variety of lodgings from bed and breakfast accommodation to chalets, motels, hotels and lodges. The world-famous Banff Springs Hotel rises like a castle above the Bow River Valley and is a must to be visited. The amazing Rimrock Hotel, built into the side of a mountain, is another must to visit if only for the views.

Wildlife also abound in Banff National Park. You may glimpse black bears, grizzly bears, Rocky Mountain goats, elk, deer, moose, big horn sheep, cougars, wolves and coyotes. But remember, these animals are wild and are also protected. Don't feed them and only shoot them with your camera!

There are many opportunities for romantic weekend getaways. Imagine cozying up with your special someone in front of a log fireplace after a relaxing dip in the Banff Hot Springs, an amazing meal at one of the many gourmet restaurants, a horse and buggy ride along the main street, a relaxing massage at a world class spa. Or relax in the hot springs while the snow falls gently on your hair and eyelashes.

The town of Lake Louise, just 40 minutes west of Banff, is another spot for a perfect weekend getaway in the Rocky Mountains. It also has a world class ski resort, a beautiful turquoise lake where you can skate in the winter, and the magnificent Chateau Lake Louise. A gentle hike can be taken along the lake which then gradually takes you up to a cozy tea house in the mountains.

Just east of Banff National Park is the beautiful town of Canmore with its Olympic Nordic Ski Centre. Canmore is a more laid-back version of Banff and you won't find the bus-loads of mainly Japanese visitors that Banff experiences. It has more of an arty-crafty atmosphere with wonderful shops selling home-made soaps, paintings, rocks and crystals (including the locally mined gem, Ammolite). While in Canmore check out the Canadian musical/dinner-show, "Oh Canada, Eh!"

How to Get There: Calgary International Airport in Alberta is just one hour's drive from Canmore and 90 minute's drive from Banff. Just follow the Trans-Canada Highway westbound. Alternatively you can catch a Greyhound Bus. From Banff or Calgary you can also travel to Vancouver on the Rocky Mountaineer train with its panoramic viewing carriages and gourmet food.

These are just some examples of destinations in the Rocky Mountains which straddle the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. For more detailed information just google Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore, Rocky Mountains, or Banff National Park.

Have a great visit!

Learn more about this author, Jacqueline Price.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Great ideas for weekend vacations?
We want to hear your view. Write now!