Canadian Rockies & Seattle, part 1

So came the point of the scary birthday, I knew that I wanted to do something amazing for it and being the canny Travel Agent that I am, I had a few ideas lined up.  One however kept coming back to me over and over and I knew this was the trip for me ...
Moraine Lake, Banff National Park


... our Canadian Rockies Road Trip!

I was very specific and knew the route that I wanted to take, so I thought I would share this with you;


CALGARY & BANFF

We departed from London Heathrow and arrived into Calgary.  Many people stop here for the Greatest Show on Earth...The Calgary Stampede, but we were the wrong time of year for this. As our flight arrived late into Calgary, we opted to stay one night at the airport so we didn't really see Calgary itself, but I have heard that it is lovely!  
Calgary
We stayed one night at the Sandman Hotel Calgary Airport.  A transfer was available to pick us up and take us to the hotel and then back to the airport the following morning to collect our car hire. 

After filling up on a large breakfast, and slightly unaware of what time of day we were, we were taken back to Calgary Airport to collect our car hire.  
Top tip: Collecting a car from the airport can be easier for many reasons, mostly because they tend to be right next to the highway.  Being in a unfamiliar area, driving a completely different car and getting used the view on the other side of the road, means downtown driving could be tricky!


We started our route along route 1A towards Banff.  There is the Highway 1
This wasn't a very long drive at all, approximately 90 minutes.  Stopping at Canmore for a  quick spot of lunch and we were back on our way. 



National Park Passes
Before entering the Banff National Park, you will be required to pay for a park pass.  This will allow you admission to all national parks, operated by Parcs Canada.
The Parc assistant will ask how long you are staying in the Parcs and advise the best pass for your trip. You can then pay by cash or card at the booth and are required to keep the ticket displayed clearly on the dashboard at all times!

Hint: You can pre-book your pass and have it delivered to your home, but make sure you allow plenty of time for this due to postage!

Visit the website for more information: http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np

Banff

Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa
Upon arrival at Banff, we checked in for one night at the Banff Caribou Lodge. 

This hotel is amazing!! 

Very traditional in it's ways and exactly what you think of when you think lodge, Canada and Rockies! 

  





Top tip: Attached to this hotel is the wonderful Keg Steakhouse & Bar.  Quite possibly the best steak I have ever eaten! Book a table, we wouldn't want you to miss this!


Take a look at the Keg Steakhouse & Bar website here: https://www.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/banff-caribou-keg/



Overview of Banff, Hotel and Keg Restaurant location


Walking to Banff centre is easy, although a bus ticket from reception allows you access from the doorstep of the hotel!  A good selection of shops, bars and restaurants lined the way and a quick visit to Bow Valley Falls, beautiful sights and great views on the walk back to the hotel is worth it!

Top tip: Try Toolulou's, open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Be prepared to wait for a table (especially for Breakfast) but it is so worth the wait! Big portions and great choice, very friendly staff and reasonable prices make this the best start to the day!



View the menu for Tooloulou's here: http://www.tooloulous.ca/


Spectacular views are visible at all times!
Tooloulou's, one not to miss!


























Our journey so far .......

Route maps are handy tools, but Sat Navs are even better!


Need more inspiration?  Take a look at our Destination Guides... https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/gb/company/destination/destinations/r-canada?selecteduser=charlotte.mit...

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