Search KamloopsBCNow
While I would always recommend more than one day devoted to exploring the acclaimed town of Banff, Alberta, time doesn’t always allow us the freedom to see and do everything we would wish.
Here’s how to make the most out of one day in this mountain town if one day is all you have. I promise you’ll be booking your return trip as soon as you leave.
When time is of the essence, you will want to stay in the midst of the action and close to the adventure. For this, I recommend booking The Mount Royal Hotel. This establishment was built over 100 years ago, survived two fires, and sustained multiple renovations to become what it is today.
The hotel presents a modern flare while paying homage to its historic roots with themed wings, historic time-piece decor, and a brand new restaurant opening this month whose menu celebrates the historic figures who have visited.
Legend says that Bill Peyto marched into the Alberta Bar, as it was then called, with a live lynx!
The brand new restaurant, Brazen, is the result of several individuals’ deep passion for culinary delights that push the boundaries on what most people consider to be ‘normal’ cuisine.
Scott Hergott is one of these individuals, his menu focuses on providing classically good food with a ‘brazen’ flare, something just a little edgy and different with each inspired dish.
The food and beverage team are devoted to sourcing local ingredients to create flavourful shareables and mains that are ahead of the curve. You’ll also enjoy bold and creative cocktails that are an experience in and of themselves.
Banff has fantastic public transit which you can hop onto from just outside the Mount Royal Hotel. Hop aboard the free shuttle from downtown Banff that will take you to the Banff Gondola at the base of Sulfur Mountain. This adventure caters to the alpine lover looking for a mountaintop experience.
Solo travelers, couples and families alike will feel the childlike wonder of soaring above the forest and climbing a mile from the base to the top.
The summit experience provides entertaining education about the pioneers, the wildlife, and the landscape. There are two exquisite dining options, spaces to lounge around fire tables, photo ops, and stunning 360-degree views of six breathtaking mountain ranges.
On your return to town, a stop at House of Angelica boutique is a must! This locally-owned shop fits with the theme of being bold, brazen and feeling alive! With colours, designs, and styles that truly stand apart from the rest, House of Angelica will leave you feeling energized.
The owner has carefully curated a tantalizing selection of brands and clothing choices that make you want to be brave with your life. As it happens, I found a jaw-dropping outfit for our anniversary this month. If you’re not planning to visit in person, shop online here!
With the views and the shopping leaving you ready for another meal, walk on over to Farm & Fire for breakfast, lunch, or dinner for farm-fresh, wood-fired food. I found the ambiance of Farm & Fire had me feeling like I was visiting old friends.
The menu is nostalgic yet unique aspects include grapefruit hollandaise, shredded confit rabbit, and wildflower tea vinaigrette. For restaurants like Brazen and Farm & Fire, it’s all about the details.
Each aspect of service from your plate ware and the decor to the locally sourced ingredients and historical inspirations elevates the traditional dining experience we’re used to, and does the phenomenal job of making you want to come back for more.
End your evening gazing at Cascade Mountain from the rooftop hot tub. A rejuvenating soak is just what you need to process all you’ve seen and experienced in one day.
A comfy bed awaits you but for now, a relaxing moment of gratitude is needed. A day spent in these mountains will undoubtedly cause a shift in perspective for you as it did for me.
Thank you to all who followed along this Banff journey with me on Instagram @loewenlifestyle. We’d love to have you engaging on our next trip to Revelstoke for the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Pipe Mountain Coaster opening!