Banff tends to get a lion’s share of the glory when it comes to the Canadian Rockies, but you’d be remiss to overlook Canmore. About an hour’s drive from Calgary, this town is straight out of a picture-perfect postcard, with shops and homes set against mountains so stunningly close, it feels like you could reach out and touch them (and, in some cases, you can!). While it most certainly buzzes with visitors aplenty in summer, Canmore retains a true mountain-town feel, making it a great place to kick back just outside of Banff National Park—while still being close enough to visit those turquoise glacial lakes. —Karen Kwan
stay. The only problem with staying at brand-new Basecamp Resorts—mixing modern conveniences and chic design with a to-die-for mountain setting—is you’ll never want to leave. Condo-like suites offer incredible vistas, a rooftop hot tub for all guests to share and, for nights you’re too tuckered out from all-day outdoor play (golf, hiking, mountain biking, horseack riding, whitewater rafting—you name it), full kitchens so you can enjoy a cosy night in. And, if the CP trains chugging by aren’t enough Canadiana for you, each Basecamp Resorts suite features charming art by local indigenous visual artist Jason Carter. 1102 Bow Valley Tr., Canmore, Alberta, 1-855-219-4707, basecampresorts.com
shop. Leave room in your return luggage for some all-natural bath and body products from Canmore’s own (and, now, Canada famous) Rocky Mountain Soap Company—especially after using the lemongrass body wash in your Basecamp Resorts suite. Also snag-worthy: a trinket for your home from The Tin Box to commemorate your getaway to the Rockies and some hard-to-find sugar-y treats from the Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe. In summer, don’t miss the Canmore Mountain Market, Thursdays in the heart of downtown—it’s your chance to snag locally and regionally produced swag like fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, jams, coffee and baked goods, plus crafts, clothing, jewelry and other artisanal goodies.
savour. For a fine meal out, head to Canmore’s Crazyweed Kitchen for rustic-chic fare. Never mind that it was featured on Food Network’s You Gotta Eat Here!, the menu showcases international flavours (think Korean bibimbap and Thai grilled chicken) alongside grass-fed local beef (when in Alberta, after all). Insider tip: no matter the weather, the made-from-scratch soups will see you licking your bowl clean. 1600 Railway Ave., Canmore, Alberta, 403-609-2530, crazyweed.ca
sip. If Canmore’s own Wild Life Distillery doesn’t "get" you with its beautiful bottles, the liquid inside is sure to seal the deal (take a tour, and we guarantee you’ll be making room in your personal bar for this local gem). Made with 100 per cent Alberta grain, Wild Life’s supremely smooth vodka is our new go-to for cocktails (the distillery’s gin is no slouch, either; it includes notes of lemon and blood orange, coriander and juniper, and will take your G&T game to new mountain heights). 160-105 Bow Meadows Cres., Canmore, Alberta, 403-678-2800, wildlifedistillery.ca
spa. Soak away your day at the new Kananaskis Nordic Spa. Begin with an essential-oil salt scrub and quick rinse with cold water for baby-soft skin before embarking on the water circuit, starting in a hot pool where you can witness a breathtaking mountain view and simultaneously inhale the naturally pine tree and campfire-infused air before moving onto a warm pool and cold plunge. A rest in a heated hammock and you’ll be set to start the round anew—not to mention, another day summer fun in heart-catching Canmore. 1 Centennial Dr., Kananaskis, Alberta, 403-591-6800, knordicspa.com
share:
Be the first to comment