Travel Guide: Banff, Canada
When people talk about bucket lists – I usually don’t say “Oh that’s on my bucket list.” But guess what – Banff, Canada was and I got to go there. My husband had a conference there and I got to come with! Pack your bags and get out your bucket because Banff will fill it up!
If you’re craving a trip that combines breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm, Banff, Alberta, should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this mountain town offers a perfect blend of rugged wilderness, cozy luxury, and welcoming locals — all perfect inspiration for a cowgirl’s spirit.
I recommend matching your boots to the color of all the Alpine water you are fixin’ to see. Pack your turquoise SA rose tall or short, people will stop you on the street to compliment you.
Staying in Style: The Fairmont Banff Springs
Our journey began with a stay at the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs, a majestic hotel that feels like a castle from a fairytale. Its historic architecture and stunning mountain views set the stage for unforgettable adventures. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, originally developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway, is a historic grand railway hotel in Banff National Park, Canada. Opened in 1888, it was envisioned as a luxury destination to attract tourists to the Canadian Rockies. The hotel, a blend of architectural styles including Châteauesque, has expanded and evolved over time, with significant additions like the iconic eleven-story tower designed by Walter S. Painter. Designated a National Historic Site in 1988, it remains a prominent symbol of the Canadian Rockies' tourism and has hosted notable guests like royalty and celebrities andddddd Margaret Walker in her cowboy boots.
So, Margaret is a tea totaler and guess what? The Fairmont does an amazing tea service. The experience includes stunning views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies and is known for its luxurious atmosphere and attentive service. It ain’t cheap ($85) so we didn’t do it, but our friends did and loved it. The Rundle Bar is a great place to soak up some great vibes and beautiful views – we had some great snakes and played gin while we watched the sunset on the mountains. Speakin of gin…
And for the booze jockey out there - The Fairmont Banff Springs has a signature cocktail, the Wildflower, which incorporates the Rundle Bar Gin. The Wildflower is a modern twist on a Negroni, combining the gin with elderflower liqueur, Lillet Blanc, and plum bitters. The gin itself, made with butterfly pea flower, exhibits a natural, vivid blue hue that transforms when mixed into cocktails. When citrus or tonic is added, the blue shifts to a pink or fuchsia color, according to Wild Life Distillery. The Rundle Bar Gin is available for purchase at the hotel's STOCK Food & Drink. [insert photo fo this drink] see here https://photojourneys.ca/2023/08/fairmont-banff-springs-hotel/
Pro tip – ask any server anywhere you go in Banff and they are like your own personal guidebook – they all have favorite hikes and insider tips. The people knocked us off with their enthusiasm for where they get to live.
Lakeside Lunch & Hikes: Lake Louise & Lake Agnes Tea House
No trip to Banff is complete without a visit to Lake Louise. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Fairmont Lake Louise, where the mountain scenery provides a breathtaking backdrop for your meal. – they do a tableside Caesar salad and delicious roast chicken – perfect to fuel your hike. Afterward, we set out on a hike to the iconic Lake Agnes Tea House — a charming spot nestled beside a crystal-clear mountain lake, accessible via a moderate trail that rewards hikers with stunning views and a cozy mountain tea house serving homemade treats. And the people who work here have to do the hike to get there – they work 3 day shifts and stay in little cabins on the mountain. They also have a little sign? not asking patrons if they would mind carting some trash down on their return hike. We did it and felt so green and helpful. We I say “we” – it was the royal “we” – my husband did it and it was a tiny little very sanitary looking bag.
The Grassi Lakes Hike: A Hidden Gem
One of our favorite adventures was the Grassi Lakes hike. This less-traveled trail took us through lush alpine meadows and offered panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. It’s the perfect escape for those seeking serenity and spectacular scenery—trust us, this one’s a must-do for outdoor lovers. AND my favorite – there is a reward at the end - a series of stunning alpine lakes with crystal-clear waters. The lakes are framed by towering mountain peaks, providing picture-perfect vistas at every turn. Talk about runner’s high!! This is a -do not miss moment!! Choose the easy route, which takes you up a gentle incline – go the easy route!! Another insider tip – all of the concierge people are really laid back, saying, like, yeah this is a really lovely hike. I think they need to up their enthusiasm game and maybe YELL “THIS IS INCREDIBLE – this is going to knock your freakin socks off!!” If anyone goes will you please bring your teal SA Rose boots and do a fun on photoshoot for us? Just sayin!
Sweet Treats & Local Flavor
Refueling is SO fun after a good hike, and Banff delivers. In Lake Louise, we found a delightful bakery called Laggan’s Mountain Bakery – they had this delicious thing called a Honey Cake – ooey and gooey with a salty cracker bottom. Go there and get it!! You deserve it and bring us one home, please.
Back in town, we fell in love with Bluebird Café & Bar, a cozy spot that combines a welcoming atmosphere with fantastic food. BRUNCH – go ahead and get the souffle pancakes and you’ll probably come back another day and get the souffle pancakes. I kinda want to think they are loaded with protein, they aren’t that sweet, but utterly delicious. [insert photos] https://www.bluebirdbanff.com/gallery
They also do a fondue service if that is your thing. It looks super cool, but we have a huge fear of constipation. Once again, this is my guide and I am “just sayin”
Hello Sunshine Sushi & Karaoke: They are known for creative dishes and fresh sushi and sashimi. interesting and delicious sushi-inspired dishes, as well as the beautiful presentation of the nigiri and sashimi. The restaurant boasts a lively, fun atmosphere, making it a great option for a unique dining experience - They had a cheeseburger gyoza that was certainly delicious. Amazing service and vibes. We did not see any karaoke, but given the chance Margaret would definitely have performed, “I Love Rock n Roll” by Joan Jett. If you are wondering. And the absolute perfect cowboy boot pairing for this spot, would, of course by our Sunshine boot!! Insert some cool images from their website..
https://www.hellosunshinebanff.com
Friendly Locals & Mountain Spirit
What truly made our trip special were the people. Everywhere we went, locals and fellow travelers alike were so kind, outdoorsy, and enthusiastic. They’d stop mid-conversation to show us pictures of the Northern Lights on their phones, sharing their passion for the sky’s natural light show. Their warmth and friendliness added a personal touch that made Banff feel like visiting friends in the mountains. People come from all over the world to work here – it was cool to meet so many folks from so many far flung places. We had a waiter from Tasmania who really scared us with his stories of poisonous Australian snakes.
Final Thoughts: Banff is a mountain paradise that captures the rugged spirit and natural beauty of the wild west — perfect for cowboys and cowgirls at heart. Whether you’re exploring pristine lakes, hiking scenic trails, or soaking in mountain vistas, this Canadian gem is sure to leave you inspired.
And just like a good pair of cowboy boots, Banff’s rugged charm and breathtaking scenery will stay with you long after you’re back home.
Ready to saddle up and explore? Pack your boots, bring your sense of adventure, and let Banff’s wild beauty take your breath away. It is truly Eden on earth!!!
