3-Day Adventure in Lake Louise

About two years ago I saw a photo of winter wonderland that made me think of Brothers Grimm's fairytales. I immediately had to find out everything about it. Thankfully Instagram makes it very easy to research any travel destination nowadays.

I was admiring the Fairmont Chateau on Lake Louise which is a part of Canada's oldest and most iconic Banff National Park. I love nature and being in the mountains makes my soul sing. From the glorious morning greetings that the sun gives the mountains to free-flowing water between the rocks and mountain peaks covered in fluffy snow, you can't help but feel magnificent.

Lake Louise is known for its turquoise, glacier-fed lake ringed by high peaks and overlooked by a stately chateau.

I would highly recommend a 3-day trip to Banff, which is a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you simply can't go wrong! Between the views, dining and cocktail scene, helicopter skiing, snowmobile tours, sleigh rides, dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, you will not be bored.

Here is my 3-day itinerary:

The flight from Chicago to Calgary International Airport takes about 4 hours. It is very easy to rent a car from the airport. The car rental and parking lot is attached to the airport, so you don’t have to go outside! For a girl who loves the mountains, I do not like the cold temperatures (it is a constant internal struggle). From the airport it takes about two hours to get to Lake Louise. The drive is incredibly beautiful and peaceful, time seems to fly by. Make sure you do not go over the speed limit because it is very easy to do.

Fairview restaurant at the Fairmont hotel

The first day was relatively quiet as I consider it my travelling day. I opted for the Fairview restaurant, which is located inside the hotel. While dining there it’s hard to deny the sense of connection to the mountains that surrounds this corner of the storied Chateau. Dark marble accented with brass curvature sets the scene for special occasions or relaxed bar lounging. I tried their top cocktail suggestion Luna. It is made with clarified milk, which initially caught my attention, and it was delicious! At any time of your stay you can skate on the lake, admire the ice sculptures or enjoy a cocktail at the ice bar outside.

On the second day, I would highly recommend waking up early. It is easy to lose track of time drinking your morning tea or coffee while admiring the views. If you choose to stay at the Fairmont, make sure to ask for the lake view room.

I really wanted to experience dog sledding. Snowy Owl Dog Sled Tour is located in Canmore, which is about an hour away from the hotel. Fun fact, their dogs were just featured in the Disney movie Togo. Make sure to book your adventure in advance as their time slots fill up fast.

Wearing Prada snowsuit, Gorsuch gloves, Giuseppe Zanotti boots, & Gucci scarf

The tour was scheduled for 3pm, however check in was at 2pm. That in mind, I left the hotel at 10am in order to make a quick stop by The Johnston Canyons Frozen Waterfalls. The hike to the lower falls takes about an hour and if you are travelling with children, this is an easy hike everyone will enjoy.

Prior to the dog sled you can enjoy lunch at Murietta's which has remarkable views of the mountains, or the family-owned Crazyweed. Canmore is an adorable little town with a charming main street surrounded by small shops with handmade souvenirs.

For dinner I would highly recommend The Post, which is about 10 minutes away from the Fairmont. The Fairmont hotel offers bus shuttles everywhere. However, if you rent a car drive, it is very easy to navigate and find parking.

The third day I reserved for skiing. Skiing in the Lake Louise Ski Resort is no joke even for the advanced skiers. Renting skies is very easy and the gondola ride offers breathtaking views! I was so impressed with all of the small kiddos who were going down the black diamond as if it was a bunny slope. Get lunch at WHITEHORN Bistro, which you can only access from the gondola ride. It closes at 3pm, and I got there at 3:03pm completely missing out on their dining experience.

Wearing Fendi snowsuit, Aritzia scarf & Gorsuch gloves

For dinner, I would suggest Baker Creek Bistro located 30-minutes from the hotel.

Banff is welcoming, wild and photogenic. It is accessible, easy to navigate and a great option for families or a romantic getaway. Their winter activities vary from their summer calendar. I have already made the decision to return in the summer months.

Thank you Canada for your hospitality!

TravelMonika DixonFebruary 18, 2020Travel