Banff (Canada) - Banff (Canada)

Banff
The Castle - Banff Springs Hotel
StateCanada
RegionAlberta
TerritoryAlberta Rockies
Altitude1,463 m a.s.l.
Surface4.85 km²
Inhabitants6 700 (2006)
Prefix tel 1 403
POSTAL CODET1L
Time zone UTC-7
Position
Mappa del Canada
Reddot.svg
Banff
Institutional website

Banff is a city in the region of Alberta, in Canada.

To know

Banff attracts numerous tourists and seasonal workers from all over the country every year Canada and from all over the world. The center is an excellent spot for admiring the spectacular landscapes of the Rocky Mountains.

Geographical notes

The city is located within thepark with the same name, in the area of Canadian Rockies and constitutes the main inhabited center. Banff is located an hour and a half drive west of Calgary and four hours south of Jasper.

When to go

ClimategenFebmaraprmagdownJulneedlesetOctnovdec
 
Maximum (° C)-3.1-0.25.29.714.718.621.621.616.410.00.1-5.2
Minimum (° C)-12.2-11.1-6.6-2.11.95.57.36.92.6-1.3-8.1-13.3
Precipitation (mm)20.417.020.833.662.468.368.061.738.631.925.921.4
Snow (cm)24.220.523.621.615.01.00.10.36.520.230.827.4

Being located in an alpine cloister, at an altitude of about 1,400 m a.s.l. and at a longitude of over 51 °, Banff has a typical subarctic climate. Snowfall can also occur during the summer season. The average daily temperature varies from 15 ° C in summer to -8 ° C in winter. The climate has similarities with that of Scandinavia northern.

The streets of Banff on sunny summer afternoons are often very crowded with tourists who appreciate the variety of activities, shops and restaurants in the city center. Staying in Banff during the winter period offers quick access to the nearby ski areas of Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.

How to orient yourself

The city center winds around Banff Avenue, which, as you can tell from the name, is the main street. There are numerous shops, restaurants and hotels on Banff Avenue.

Numerous hotels are also located on the Mountain Road Tunnel, east of the center.

The three main ski resorts are:

  • Sunshine Village southwest of the center;
  • Norquay just north of the center;
  • Lake Louise, the farthest, north-west of the center;


How to get

By plane

Banff National Park, and therefore also the city, are easily accessible from the international airport Calgary, where flights with national and international destinations are scheduled.

By car

From Calgary, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to the west. The first exit for Banff is approximately an hour and a half from the airport.

There glacier freeway (Icefields Parkway in English or Promenade des Glaciers in French), otherwise known as highway 93 it's a scenic ride to get to Banff from Jasper.

To park it can be tricky, but the five-story Bear Street Parkade near the historic center is free. Look for the parking lot at 100 Bear Street, one block west of Banff Avenue. The Bear Street Parkade also features a EV charging station, a place to recharge electric vehicles. The municipality's website has a map of parking lots.

On the train

Regular passenger trains no longer stop at historic Banff station, but luxury ones Rocky Mountaineer tourist trains operated by Rocky Mountaineer Vacations they stop there regularly from spring to autumn - reservations required. You can buy a train VIA Rail for Edmonton or Jasper and then take a bus or rent a car.

By bus

There are numerous agencies that offer the service airport shuttle from the airport of Calgary for Banff and Lake Louise.

Park entrance fee

All tourists stopping in Banff National Park, even just to refuel in the city, require a permit. If you do not make stops, the pass is not required. Daily and annual permits are available. For more information see the article on Banff National Park.

How to get around

Urban bus

On foot

The city center is small and all major attractions are within walking distance. Walking is fast and easy and allows you to discover hidden and little known sides of the city.

By bike

Cycling around town is very popular, and if you're interested in a trip to the mountains, a quick city tour, or cycling to the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, there are plenty of bike rental shops. It is also possible to combine the bicycle with a bus ride as the buses are equipped with a dedicated space for bicycles. Banff is full of cycle paths that pass through woods, waterfalls and streams: all you have to do is get your bike and ... pedal!

By public transport

The system of city ​​buses covers most of the city's hotels and attractions. The price of tickets is $ 2 for a single ticket for a single journey, $ 1 for seniors and children, and $ 5 for a day ticket. The bus service runs daily from 6:15 am to 10:30 pm.

By taxi

Taxis are also available, which are very convenient if you have a lot of luggage or shopping bags or if you are out late.

What see

The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. Seeing them all in a limited amount of time might seem difficult (and indeed it is), but you can still try to see the main ones or those deemed most interesting.

There are numerous companies that organize guided tours, giving tourists the chance to sit back and enjoy the view without the hassle of having to drive or search for the correct route.

Banff Park Museum
Bow Falls
Cave and Basin
  • 1 Banff Park Museum National Historic site, 91 Banff Ave (ext to the Bow River Bridge & Central Park), ☎ 1 4037621558, @. Ecb copyright.svgadults $ 3.90, free with Parks Canada Discovery Pass. Simple icon time.svgOpen from mid-May to mid-October from 10am to 5pm, every day in high season, from Wednesday to Sunday in low season. In the nature history museum you can learn a lot about the animals that live in the nature park. In fact, numerous animals preserved with the taxidermy technique are exhibited here. Most of the exhibits were killed more than a century ago. 
  • 2 Banff Springs Hotel National Historic Site (Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel), 405 Spray Ave, ☎ 1 4037622211, ☎ 1 8665404406, @. Ecb copyright.svgFree admission. The Banff Springs Hotel is not only a hotel, but also a building of historical significance. The oldest part of the "Castle in the Rockies" (lit. Rocky Mountain Castle) was built between 1911 and 1914 using the local Rundle stone (black limestone) for the exterior, and following the style of the Grand hotel for the interior. Fossils can be seen in the floor stones. Tourists can visit the public areas of the hotel, while the reserved areas can only be visited with guided tours. 
  • 3 Bow Falls. Below the iconic Banff Springs Hotel are the stunning Bow Falls. This is not the highest waterfalls in the Banff National Park, but they are located in an easily accessible position and for this reason they are worth a visit. In the vicinity of the natural attraction there are numerous parking spaces for private cars and buses. 
  • 5 Cascades of Time Gardens (Cascade Gardens), 101 Mountain Ave (Next to the Administration Building, at the head of Banff Avenue), ☎ 1 403 762 1550, @. Ecb copyright.svgfree. Simple icon time.svgFlowering from late June to early September. Originally designed and built in 1930, the Cascades of Time Gardens cover 1.6 hectares (4 acres) in the Banff townsite, opposite the Administration Building and behind it. The pavilions in wood and rustic stone in the garden are protected as federal heritage. 
  • 7 Lake Minnewanka Loop, at the end of Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive (Take Banff Avenue North until you pass under Highway 1, follow Lake Minnewanka Drive). Ecb copyright.svgfree. This scenic loop is located a short distance from the center, goes up the side of Cascade Mountain to Lake Minnewanka, and then comes back along a different path. Attractions along the way include Cascade Ponds, Bankhead (formerly a mining and mining town), Lake Minnewanka (with a picnic area, walking, boat trips and small motor boat rental options), Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake . The area is also known for Rocky Mountain sheep (bighorn sheep in English) which can be seen on the side of the road. 
  • 8 Viewpoint of Mount Norquayi, Mt Norquay Scenic Drive. Driving on the road leading to the Mt Norquay ski area, there are several viewpoints that allow you to observe the town of Banff, Vermilion Lakes and the surrounding mountains. 
  • 9 Surprise Corner viewpoint. From this vantage point on the slopes of Tunnel Mountain you can see the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Bow River and Sulfur Mountain. 
  • 10 Vermilion Lakes, Vermilion Lakes Road, south and parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1) near Mt Norquay Rd. These three deep lakes enrich the landscape with Mount Rundle in the background. To visit at sunrise and sunset to enjoy the excellent play of light and to spot beavers or muskrats. 


Events and parties

  • Banff Summer Arts Festival. Performances by artists and exhibitions of all genres with something for everyone: from indigenous dances to opera, from readings to film screenings. 
  • Banff World Media Festival (formerly Banff World Television Festival), Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. An event for professionals from the television or media industry. 
  • Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival, c / o the Banff Center and other locations in the city. Simple icon time.svgearly November. An annual and international festival lasting 10 days. International films and books on outdoor adventure and mountain culture are shown during the festival. It is a very popular event that is very popular with both hiking enthusiasts and from weekend tourists. 


What to do

The activities that can be carried out in the city vary greatly depending on the season.

Annual activities

A convenient way to reach the surrounding mountains
  • 1 The Banff Center, 107 Tunnel Mountain Dr, ☎ 1 403-762-6100. Cultural and artistic center with a good reputation and organizes events and performances with music, dance, theatrical performances, film screening, book presentations, etc. 
  • 2 Banff Gondola Mountaintop Experience (Banff Gondola), at the end of Mountain Avenue, ☎ 1 403-762-2523, ☎ 1-800-760-6934, fax: 1 403-762-7493. Ecb copyright.svg$ 44.10 (including tax) per adult. Simple icon time.svgopenings vary according to the season, closed one week in January for annual maintenance. With the Banff gondola lift you can enjoy beautiful landscapes of the Rocky Mountains comfortably seated. The cable car starts at 698 m a.s.l. and reaches an altitude of 2,281 m a.s.l. Once you get off, you will find a restaurant, a gift shop, a lookout point, a boardwalk to nearby Sanson Peak, on the top of Mount Sulfur. During most Saturdays and Sundays it is possible to enjoy in the restaurant at the end of the line admiring the sunset lights. 

Indoor activity

In addition to museums and galleries, Banff has some activities that can be done indoors, and therefore, even if it rains or snows.

  • 6 Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Center, at the end of St. Julien Road (Sally Borden Building at the Banff Center), ☎ 1 403-762-6450, @. Ecb copyright.svg$ 10 per day for adults, $ 5 for free swimming. Simple icon time.svgMon-Fri: 6: 00-22: 00, Sat-Sun: 7: 00-22: 00. Facilities include a climbing wall, spinning room, aquatic center (25m pool with Sulfur Mountain views, hot tub, children's pool, steam room and solarium), massage and physiotherapy center, rotating yoga and zumba classes, and even more. 

Thermal establishments

Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff National Park it was founded with the aim of protecting and promoting the natural hot springs present at the Cave & Basin (now Cave & Basin National Historic Site). The spas have an ultra centennial tradition with tourists who come here for the thermal waters. Today there are numerous spas and spas to choose from, but only atUpper Hot Springs Pool and Pleiades Spa it is possible to swim in the thermal waters.

  • 7 Banff Upper Hot Springs and Pleiades Massage & Spa, upper end of Mountain Avenue, ☎ 1 403 762 1515, ☎ 1 800 767 1611, @. Ecb copyright.svg$ 7.30 for adults. Simple icon time.svg10: 00-22: 00 with seasonal variations. In a spectacular alpine setting, in this historic establishment you can enjoy all modern comforts. Relax in the thermal water that made the Canadian town famous and attracted thousands of tourists. For a unique and fun experience you can rent swimwear in style traditional. The outdoor hot pool is a great place to soak in and watch snowflakes fall or starry nights. It can be quite crowded at times. In late spring, hot springs can be greatly reduced and supplemented with artificially heated water. On the website of the establishment it is possible to check if they are using artificially heated water. 
  • 8 Grotto Spa, 459 Banff Ave (Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge), ☎ 1 403 762 3307, @. Simple icon time.svgMon-Sun: 10 am-8pm. Among the services of the structure: mineral pool, Jacuzzi, eucalyptus steam bath, massages, etc. 
  • 9 Mountain Spa, 111 Banff Ave (Second floor of the Harmony Lane Mall), ☎ 1 403 762 0473, ☎ 1 888 762 0473. Turkish bath. The treatments available include massages, double massages, pedicures, facials, etc. 
  • 10 Red Earth Spa, 521 Banff Ave (Banff Caribou Lodge), ☎ 1 403 762 9292. Simple icon time.svg9-21, vary according to the season. Access to the hotel's hot pool, steam rooms, massages, wraps and other treatments. 
  • 11 Rimrock Spa, 300 Mountain Ave (Rimrock Resort Hotel), ☎ 1 403 762 1835, ☎ 1-888-RIMROCK (7467625) (7467625), @. Simple icon time.svg8:00-22:00. In the spa there are two individual massage rooms, a Vichy room, 2 manicure stations and 3 pedicure stations. There are also 2 double massage rooms on the fourth and fifth floors. Sauna guests can also use the swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna and outdoor patio. 

Winter

Skiing and Snowboarding

Sunshine Village

In Banff National Park They are three ski areas, all of which are easily accessible by car from Banff, although reaching them by car is not mandatory as numerous buses to the ski areas stop near most hotels. Coach tickets are sometimes included in the ski passes, other times you have to pay a ticket, usually $ 15.

Of the three plants in the park, only Sunshine Village has accommodations one step away from the slopes (ski-in ski-out). Access to the Sunshine however, it is only possible with the cable car which stops running at 4 pm from Saturday to Thursday and at 10 pm on Friday. Sunshine is a country in name only: there aren't many businesses after the plants close. Most skiers stay in Banff or Lake Louise country.

The ski season starts in early November and ends in mid-April. The last day of the Sunshine Village opening is always Victoria Day, at the end of May.

  • 13 Norquay, At the end of Mount Norquay Scenic Drive, ☎ 1 403 762 4421. Ecb copyright.svg61 $ for a day pass (adults). Simple icon time.svgOn Fridays and Saturdays it is possible to ski at night. The closest to the city and very popular with locals. Unlike the other lifts, here it is possible to ski by paying by the hour. There is also a tube park , where those who do not use skis and snowboards, can let themselves slide down on the huge donuts. The ski season is slightly shorter as the resort is located at a lower altitude. The slopes are mostly steep and difficult, but there are also easier routes. Giv'er Grandi (formerly Excalibur, accessible by the Mystic Express lift) is the steepest groomed slope in the North America. The chalet is not great for breakfast; but lunch or a beer on the deck with spectacular views (often above the clouds) is a must try! 
  • 14 Sunshine Village, At the end of Sunshine Road (20 minutes west of the city), ☎ 1 403 705 4000, ☎ 1 877 542 2633. Ecb copyright.svg$ 85 for a day pass (adults). Thanks to the high altitude, the Sunshine village snows more than the other facilities and consequently the season is wider. Snow is natural, not artificial. It is the only one of the three resorts to have accommodation near the slopes, the breakfast buffet is served in the lodge at the foot of the cable car. 

All the ski slopes are very popular on weekends. Lake Louise snow tends to become frozen if it hasn't snowed in a while, but when it's cool it's hard to beat! With the new slopes and expansions, Sunshine Village's snow has improved and can compete with that of Lake Louise. Especially at the beginning of the season it is good to check how many slopes are open and if the snow is recent in the bulletins. If you only have a few hours, your best bet is probably Ski Norquay, which also has a great view over the city.

Combined tickets

If you arrive in Banff before December 31st and plan to ski for at least three days at Sunshine Village or Marmot Basin in Jasper - or both -, consider buying one Sunshine-Marmot card. The card costs roughly the same as the cost of a cable car ride. The first, fourth and seventh time you use the card, the ticket will be free, all other times you will have a variable discount of up to 25%. (on the third day you should have earned a little compared to buying single tickets). These passes can be purchased at Sunshine or Marmot Basin facilities or at Safeway stores in Edmonton is Calgary and are valid at Sunshine Village in Banff and Marmot Basin ski resort in Jasper. Sunshine-Marmot cards are sold until December 31st, but are valid throughout the season.

There Louise Plus card is very similar to the Sunshine-Marmot Card. In addition to Lake Louise, the card covers five other ski areas: Castle (near Pincher Creek, Alberta), Revelstoke (Revelstoke, British Columbia), Panorama (Panorama, British Columbia), Schweitzer (Sandpoint, Idaho, USA) and SilverStar Mountain Resort (Silver Star Mountain, British Columbia).

Finally, you can buy a Tri-Area Pass for Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Mountain Resort and Norquay. This ticket includes the bus and can be used in any of the three resorts for the duration of the ticket: in other words, it is as if you had bought a ticket for each area.

Ski and Snowboard Rentals

Lake Louise is another popular ski resort

In the city there are numerous shops that rent skis, snowboards and après-ski. Some also rent winter jackets and trousers. It is important to know that skiers and snowboarders under 18 must wear a protective helmet in all ski areas of the Banff National Park. It is also highly recommended for adults as it not only protects against falls, but also protects the head from the cold a little.

  • 17 Chateau Mountain Sports, 405 Spray Ave (Fairmont Banff Springs Convention Center), ☎ 1 403 762 2500, @. Simple icon time.svg8:00-20:00. Rent alpine ski equipment, snowboards and cross-country skis, après-ski and snow shoes, ice skates and sticks and discs to play hockey. 

Ski and snowboard lessons

In addition to the lessons organized by the Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise ski areas, there are other independent ski and snowboard schools:

  • Snowboard / Ski Club, 119 Banff Av. Excellent school to learn to ski or snowboard in small groups of 4/6 people. Snowboard teaching methods are varied and includeEuropean where you teach how to surf on the snow. 
  • 22 SnowSkool, 801 Hidden Ridge Way, @. SnowSkool offers packages that include both accommodation at the Banff Alpine Center and ski / snowboard lessons. Prices are approximately $ 12,300 and include room, board and flight. 

Other winter activities

  • Ice skating. There are outdoor skating rinks at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Banff Community High School (just off Banff Avenue). A section of the Bow River is also open to skating. If you are planning to go ice skating on frozen streams or lakes, please read the safety information for natural ice skating published by the Natural Parks of Canada. Finally, there is an indoor track at Fenlands Banff Recreation Center. Skates can be hired in some of the shops that also rent ski equipment. 
  • Snowshoeing. Once you have put on your snowshoes, it is possible to walk in the fresh and pristine snow, a bit like the fur traders who once frequented the area. Guided snowshoe hikes are organized, but it is also possible to rent snowshoes. Before starting your excursion it is advisable to check the snow situation, for example on the website of the Canadian Avalanche Center. 
  • 23 Sleigh rides, Warner Stables on Sundance Road, ☎ 1 403 762 4551, ☎ 1-800-661-8352, @. Ecb copyright.svgadults: over $ 30. Simple icon time.svg10:00-20:00. Sleighs for 12 and 18 passengers make rides near the city. The excursion lasts approximately 45 minutes. The company provides hats, gloves and blankets upon request. Couples can book tours for two for $ 182. 
  • Tubing and sleds. Tube park are featured at Mt Norquay and Lake Louise Ski resorts. 

Summer

Like winter, summer in Banff is full of interesting activities such as hiking in the mountains and in the natural park, horse trails, rafting, mountain biking and much more. When booking packages from agencies it is good to pay attention to the smaller ones that, if overbooked, could turn the booking to another agency that perhaps offers different packages and / or at different prices.

Hummingbird on a spoke of a bicycle in Banff
  • 24 Rowing with Banff Adventures Unlimited (formerly Blue Canoe), Canoe dock in Banff on the Bow River (A three minute walk from the center of Banff), ☎ 1 403 762 4554, ☎ 1 800 644 8888. Ecb copyright.svg$ 36 per person for one hour. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks to embark on a quiet excursion on the Bow River. Kayaks for 1 and 2 people and canoes for 3 people are available. Guided tours are organized twice a day. Purchase your tickets at 211 Bear Street. 
  • 25 Holiday on Horseback, Warner Stables or Spray River Corrals (At the end of Sundance Road), ☎ 1 403 762 4551, ☎ 1 800 661 8352, @. Ecb copyright.svgfrom $ 46 per person. Horseback riding trails, western barbecues (meal horseback trail) and trips to almost untouched areas. Chariots are available to make the whole group (even non-riders) go at the same pace. 
  • 26 Rocky Mountain Raft Tours, Base of Bow Falls, ☎ 1 403 762 3632. Ecb copyright.svgFrom $ 50 per adult. Bow River boat trips starting near the foot of Bow Falls. It is the only rafting company that offers trips within the Banff National Park; the other agencies will pick you up in Banff and start the excursion somewhere outside the park. The season runs from mid-May to the end of September. 
  • Banff Legacy Trail. 22km of cycle path between Banff and Canmore. 
  • Mountain biking. Mountain biking is allowed in the Banff National Park only on paths traced, most of which start or end near the city. The bike paths are also used by hikers, horse riders, bears and other animals. Off-piste in the park are not allowed. 
  • Climbing. Ecb copyright.svgFrom $ 100 per person, the prices per person drop the larger the group is. The area around Banff offers climbs of all difficulties and each of them must start with a licensed guide. A great place for beginners is Rundle Rock near the golf course, and Yamnuska Bluffs and Zygote Crag. More experienced should try Wasootch Creek, Heart Creek, and a site near Lake Louise. 
  • 27 Via Ferrata in Norquay. A somewhat safer hike than climbing, you go up the mountain along a sort of ladder on the mountain wall. 
  • Fishing. Companies organize fishing trips on Lake Minnewanka. Both boat and shore fishing tours are available. Some packages also include equipment and a fishing permit, please inquire first. 
  • 28 Banff Springs Golf Course. If you are a golf enthusiast, there is a 27 hole course next to (and managed by) the Landmark hotel. Tournaments are also organized during the summer season. 

Hiking in nature

Rocky Mountain sheep - Bighorn sheep

Banff has numerous hiking trails surrounding it. At the tourist office you can request a free trail map (many trails are also shown on maps available online, for example here). Before embarking on any excursion it is advisable to check the state of the weather conditions and the paths (i.e. presence of snow bears ...) or on the bulletins disseminated online or by asking the Parks Canada office. If you don't feel confident enough, you can also join guided hikes.

Once in nature it is important to sharpen your eyes in order to spot as many animals of the local fauna as possible. Obviously, it is a good idea to keep a "safe distance" from animals as some of them could also be aggressive and therefore potentially dangerous. In spring, female moose are very protective of their young, which may be close but well hidden. In autumn, when they are in heat, males can be dangerous. For this reason, you will need telephoto lenses to be able to take great photos while staying safe.

How to tell when you get too close to an animal? When the animal starts staring at us, backs away or behaves aggressively, it is a good idea to move away until these behaviors stop. It is illegal to feed animals in the nature park.

Tourists often confuse Rocky Mountain sheep with snow goats. Goats are white with black noses and short black horns and are typically spotted high on rocky spurs. Sheep, on the other hand, are closer to brown in color with brown horns and the rump and back of all four legs are white. They are usually seen grazing on grass near rocks.

the Bow River trail
  • 29 Sulfur Mountain Trail. Instead of taking the cable car up to Sulfur Mountain, you can walk the path to the top and then take the cable car down (the ticket costs half the price). The path is quite steep, but suitable for those who are moderately trained. Note that there is a little used road that goes down the mountain away from the city This is often confused with the trail, but it is much longer. If you choose to walk down after getting on the cable car, to understand which path to take just look at which of the two makes a kind of "zig zag" under the cable car. 
  • 30 Mountain Trail Tunnel. A 4.3 km long trail classified as easy. It starts from the city and leads up to Tunnel Mountain, from where you can enjoy a great view of the surrounding areas. Although the name may be misleading, there will be no tunnels along the way: when the Canadian Pacific railway was built in the late 19th century it was thought to build a tunnel through this mountain, but the project was never carried out. 
  • 31 Fenland Trail. A great place to observe local birdlife all year round. You can also spot beavers and muskrats along the way. In the spring, the authorities may close the path due to the moose being very protective of their young. 
  • 32 Marsh Loop. An easy 2.4km route through the wetlands near Banff. This is a great place for bird watching and great views of Mount Norquay. 
  • 33 Bow River Trail. The Bow River Trail is a path that follows the banks of the river just over 1 km long which according to the municipality site is also accessible to wheelchairs since the bottom is paved. 
Hoodoos in the winter
  • 34 Hoodoo Trail. A popular walk leading to hoodoos, a rock formation east of Banff. 
  • 35 Sunshine Meadows. Un parco alpino con sentieri di diverse difficoltà. Ci sono anche escursioni guidate e l'area offre panorami sulle più alte montagne del Parco nazionale Banff. Servizio di Shuttle bus da Banff. 
  • 36 Lake Minnewanka Loop. Sentiero che gira attorno al lago, ottimo luogo per osservare le pecore delle Montagne Rocciose, specialmente nelle zone vicino ai Lake Minnewanka, Johnson Lake e Two Jack Lake. 
  • 37 Bow Valley Parkway. Una strada panoramica da Banff a Lake Louise che segue parallelamente la Highway 1. Si hanno ottime possibilità di avvistare mammiferi come le pecore delle Montagne Rocciose, lupi, alci, cervi e orsi grizzly. Ci possono essere restrizioni stagionali all'accesso. 
  • 38 Banff Springs Golf Course. Luogo perfetto dove osservare alci mentre brucano l'erba. 
  • 39 Mount Norquay Road. Lungo la strada si possono avvistare le pecore delle Montagne Rocciose e, se si è più fortunati, anche qualche capra delle nevi. 


Shopping

Godetevi una passeggiata per le vie del centro mischiandovi con i locali e i turisti provenienti da tutto il mondo scoprendo la collezione cosmopolita di gallerie, negozi, boutique e caffetterie. I negozi variano da quelli di marchi vestiari internazionali a quelli indipendenti con una ricca storia. Il metodo migliore per scoprire i negozi della città è iniziare dalla Banff Avenue al Cascade Plaza mall. Dopo aver visitato velocemente i negozi del centro, si può continuare su Bow River. Bow River è il luogo dove si concentrano negozi, ristoranti e caffetterie della città. Una volta vicini al fiume tornare indietro su Banff Avenue per completare l'anello dello shopping di Banff.


How to have fun

Banff ha una grande varietà di luoghi dove è possibile sedersi e godersi una bevanda. La maggior parte dei pub hanno musica dal vivo sia con band chiamate dai gestori sia con spettacoli a "open mic" (letteralmente a microfono aperto) dove tutti gli ospiti possono cantare a turno. Ovviamente ... è possibile anche danzare!!

  • 1 St. James Gate, 207 Wolf St, ☎ 1 403 762 9355. Irish pub. 
  • 2 Wild Bill's Legendary Saloon, 201 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 0333. Wild Bill's offre spettacoli musicali, una sala da ballo dove si ballano sia balli di gruppo che di coppia. Adatto per gruppi di tutte le dimensioni. 
  • 3 Rose and Crown, 202 Banff Av (Upstairs), ☎ 1 403 762 2121. English pub. 
  • 4 Elk and Oarsman, 1119 Banff Av (2nd floor), ☎ 1 403 762 4616. Pub in stile canadese,. 
  • 5 The Beaver (Samesun Backpackers Lodges), 433 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 4499. Ecb copyright.svgcocktail a 3$ e 1 pinta di birra a 3,25$ fino alle 19. Il più vivace e centrale bar per viaggiatori con zaino in spalla. Bevande speciali durante la notte. Spettacoli a microfono aperto, musica dal vivo e feste a tema. 
  • 6 Pump and Tap Tavern, 215 Banff Av (c/o Sundance Mall), ☎ 1 403 760 6610. British pub. Ottimo luogo dove guardare le partite di football o di cricket. 
  • 7 Bear's Den Pub (Inns of Banff), 600 Banff Av. (A Inns of Banff). Simple icon time.svg17:00-24:00. Offre un'ottima selezione di birre locali e cibi da pub. 

Spettacoli

Locali notturni

  • 10 Aurora Nightclub and Hoodoo Lounge, 110 Banff Ave (lower level), ☎ 1 403 760 5300. 
  • 11 Dancing Sasquatch, 120 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 4002. Simple icon time.svg21:00-2:30. Molto popolare sia trai turisti che la popolazione locale, è uno dei club notturni più recenti della città. Nei weekend e nei giorni festivi è meglio esse qui prima delle 10 per evitare code in ingresso. 


Where to eat

Banff Avenue

Banff è un'eccellente meta turistica su tutti i fronti e ... il palato non è escluso. Nella città ci sono pub, fast-food, ristoranti, steakhouses (dopotutto si è in Alberta!) con piatti tradizionali e piatti internazionali.

Mangiare a Banff, soprattutto nei locali più turistici, può essere molto costoso.

Una nota sulle bevande alcoliche: i turisti possono talvolta stupirsi sulle leggi sulle bevande alcoliche dell'Alberta. L'età minima per bere alcol è 18 anni. Un ristorante che non serve alcolici può accettare persone di tutte le età. Gli altri ristoranti, tuttavia, potrebbero non poter accettare i minorenni, anche se accompagnati e se non berranno alcolici. Alcuni ristoranti hanno però una licenza differente che consente l'accesso sia a maggiorenni che minorenni. L'accesso ai minorenni, inoltre, potrebbe anche variare a seconda dell'orario: per esempio i minorenni potrebbero essere ammessi a pranzo, ma non a cena.

In albergo, gli ospiti non possono prendere le loro bevande alcoliche non finite dal ristorante dell'hotel per portarle nella propria camera d'albergo.

Queste non sono regole imposte dai gestori, si tratta bensì di regole imposte per legge.

Prezzi modici

  • 1 Chaya, 118 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 760 0882. Locale carino dove è possibile gustare noodle giapponesi. 
  • 2 Nesters Market, 122 Bear St. Simple icon time.svg8:00-22:00. Per coloro che preferiscono un supermercato al posto di un ristorante, Nesters ha un'ampia scelta di prodotti biologici. 
  • 3 Pad Thai, 110 Banff Ave (Clock Tower Mall, piano principale), ☎ 1 403 762 4911. Economico, offre piatti della cucina thailandese in un locale in stile caffetteria. 
  • 4 Safeway, 318 Marten St (3 isolati dal Samesun Backpacker Lodge e dal Banff International Hostel), ☎ 1 403 762 5378. Simple icon time.svg8:00-22:00. Questo grande negozio di alimentari vende anche cibi cotti da asporto. 

Prezzi medi

Sala con vista sulla Sulphur Mountain
  • 6 Balkan Restaurant, 120 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762-3454. Il Balkan restaurant aprì nel 1982 quando una famiglia greca volle portare nella città un po' dei sapori e delle atmosfere che caratterizzano la cultura mediterranea e greca. Ottimi piatti greci, il martedì e il mercoledì organizzano la "Greek Night" con musica e balli. 
  • 7 Magpie and Stump, 203 Caribou St, ☎ 1 403 762 4067. UN ristorante messicano specializzato in margaritas e altri piatti messicani. Solitamente una (o più) sere a settimana vengono organizzati eventi in cui le margaritas sono a metà prezzo. Un consiglio per queste sere: arrivare presto e andarsene tardi! 
  • 8 The Meatball Pizza & Pasta, 337 Banff Av (nella Banff Ptarmigan Inn), ☎ 1 403 762 3667. The Meatball offre piatti di influenza italiana. 
  • 9 Seoul Country Korean Restaurant, 215 Banff Ave (Sundance Mall), ☎ 1 403 762 4941, @. Ecb copyright.svg$20. Appena di entra in questo ristorante BBQ coreano si percepisce subito l'ottimo profumo che ci trasporta quasi in Corea. Buon rapporto qualità-prezzo. 
  • 10 Three Ravens Restaurant and Wine Bar, End of St. Julien Road (Terzo piano del Sally Borden Building). Buon ristorante con bei panorami. Vengono usati ingredienti locali e il servizio è ottimo. 
  • 11 Wildfire Grill, 600 Banff Av (Inns of Banff), ☎ 1 403 762 4581. Buon cibo a un prezzo ragionevole, personale attento e vista fantastica sulle montagne. 
  • 12 Rose and Crown, 202 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-2121. Serve un menu eclettico con 11 birre e 1 sidro alla spina. 

Prezzi elevati

  • 13 Le Beaujolais, 212 Buffalo St. Buona cucina francese con anche alcuni piatti legati alla cultura canadese e dell'Alberta. Il menu include per esempio l'osso buco d'alce delle Montagne Rocciose e Alberta Wild Boar Tenderloin (filetto di cinghiale dell'Alberta). 
  • 14 Grizzly House, 207 Banff Ave. Sicuramente da provare, questo ristorante era in precedenza un locale d'incontri. Ogni tavolo ha un telefono e una mappa in modo da poter chiamare gli altri tavoli durante la cena. Tranquillo, con un'atmosfera divertente, anche il cibo non delude. Un pasto tipo può comprendere una Caesar salad come antipasto, una fonduta di formaggi servita con verdure al vapore e dell'ottimo pane. Tra i secondi da provare è la fonduta in stile hot-rock. Le pietre sono riscaldate fino ad una temperatura di 300 gradi, dopodiché ogni pietra viene ricoperta con del burro all'aglio (prima dal cameriere, poi da voi). Ogni persona riceve un piatto personalizzato con diversi ingredienti tra cui pesce crudo, pollo, carne do bisonte, cosce di rana, manzo magro (AAA), squalo, serpente. Ad accompagnare l'esotico mix di ingredienti alcune salse come chipotle is teriyaki. 
  • 15 The Keg Steakhouse and Lounge - Caribou Lodge, 521 Banff Av., ☎ 1 403 76-4442. Bistecche. Ambiente casual. 
  • 16 The Keg Steakhouse and Lounge - Downtown, 117 Banff Av, ☎ 1 403 760 3030. 
  • 17 The Maple Leaf, 137 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 760 7680. Un ristorante 4 diamanti d'elite con un'ottima selezione di vini e antipasti. 
  • 18 Saltlik Steakhouse, 221 Bear St, ☎ 1 403 762 2467. Offre cocktail unici e un'ottima selezione di vini al piano di sotto e una steakhouse sopra. 
  • 19 Vistas Dining Room, al termine di St. Julien road (Piano più alto del Sally Borden Building). Ristorante a buffet nel centro della città. 
  • 20 Eden, 300 Mountain Ave (Rimrock Resort), ☎ 1 403-762-1865. Ristorante francese, con alcune influenze asiatiche, che utilizza numerosi ingredienti locali. Per dieci volte considerato da 5 diamanti e insignito di altre onorificenze. 

Dessert e dolci tentazioni

Qualsiasi meta turistica ha negozi che tentano i visitatori con prelibatezze di tutti i tipi.

  • 21 Beaver Tails, 120 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-985-0086. dolci fritti conditi con varie opzioni. 
  • 22 Chocolaterie Bernard Callebaut, 111 Banff Ave (Harmony Lane Mall), ☎ 1 403 762-4106. cioccolateria con sede principale a Calgary 
  • 23 Cows Ice Cream, 134 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-760-3493. gelati, frullati e alcuni gadget come magliette con il logo della catena. 
  • 24 The Fudgery, 215 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 3003. Cioccolati e creme artigianali. 
  • 25 Mountain Chocolates, 200 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 2624. Considerato l'unica cioccolateria della città dove il cioccolato è prodotto in loco, vendono anche mele caramellate, gelati e altri peccati di gola. 
  • 26 Welch's Chocolate Shop (The Banff Candy Store), 126 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403 762 3737. Caramelle e cioccolati sia locali che da tutto il mondo. 


Where stay

Essendo in un parco naturale, Banff ha numerosi alloggi. Nonostante ciò, è necessario prenotare con largo anticipo sia in inverno che in estate. Per ottenere la residenza nella città e, non essere quindi considerati turisti, è necessario avere un'attività nella città. Se si dispone di una macchina, una valida (e più economica) alternativa è soggiornare a Canmore per poi guidare fino a Banff o verso i resort sciistici.

La maggior parte degli alberghi sono situati lungo Banff Avenue a Tunnel Mountain Road.

Prezzi modici

Aurora boreale sopra Banff
  • 2 Banff International Hostel (Non associato a Hostelling International), 449 Banff Ave (A soli 2 isolati dal centro, e connesso con una linea di bus a tutte le principali attrazioni del centro.), ☎ 1 403-985-7744, ☎ 1-855-5HOSTEL (467835), fax: 1 403-985-7745, @. Ecb copyright.svg$25-160. Check-in: 16, check-out: 11. Il Banff International Hostel è stato completamente ristrutturato e ha riaperto nel luglio 2012. Offre letti in dormitori o camere private. Ha una connessione WiFi a internet e 3 postazioni per accedere a internet con i computer. 
  • 3 Banff Y Mountain Lodge, 102 Spray Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-3560, ☎ 1-800-813-4138. Ecb copyright.svgCamere private e semiprivate da 46$, letto in dormitorio da $22, tariffe agevolate per gruppu. Il Banff Y ha un patio esterno e numerosi spazi comuni, una lavanderia e una cucina comune (non sempre pulitissima). La connessione a internet costa 1$ per 10 minuti o 12$ per 24 ore. 
  • 4 HI-Banff Alpine Centre, 801 Coyote Dr (sulla Tunnel Mountain Road, a 20 minuti a piedi dal centro), ☎ 1-866-762-4122. Con camere private, 2 ampie cucine e un'area lounge, 2 caminetti e il restaurant Cougar Pete's Lookout & Kitchen. Nuova apertura all'HI-Banff è "The Storm Cellar, Banff's Pub and Game house" con drink speciali e giochi (biliardo, freccette, calcio balilla). 
  • 5 King Edward Hotel, 137 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-985-3734, ☎ 1-888-762-2607, fax: 1 403-985-3735, @. Ecb copyright.svg55-199$. Check-in: 16, check-out: 11. Il King Eddie, come lo chiamano a Banff, è in uno dei punti più centrali della città. L'hotel offre camere private con connessione WiFi a internet, bollittore in camere per preparare caffè e the, bagno privato e TV via cavo. Il servizio di portineria è disponibile alla reception. 
  • 6 SameSun Backpacker Lodge, 433 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-4499. Ecb copyright.svgpacchetto "Ski and Stay" da 155$ o stanze da 31 $/notte. Un ostello con 100 letti con camere private. Ogni stanza ha un bagno privato. Armadietti, lavanderia, spazi comuni, connessione a internet, video games, attività serali, tour guidati, sono solo alcuni dei servizi offerti dalla struttura. La colazione è a self-service e include pancakes, toast, porridge, frutta, succhi, caffè e the. 
  • 7 Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds. Ecb copyright.svg27,40-32,30$. Due sedi: una aperta tutto l'anno, l'altra, Tunnel Mountain I, solo in estate. 

Prezzi medi

  • 8 Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa, 521 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-5887, ☎ 1-800-561-8764. Questo lodge in stile montano offre camere lussuose, una grande piscina idromassaggio riscaldata, un parcheggio sotterraneo, The Keg Steakhouse & Loung e The Red Earth Spa. 
  • 9 Banff Inn, 501 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-8844, ☎ 1-800-667-1464. Il Banff Inn propone sia camere standard sia camere con vasca a idromassaggio, king rooms e suite per luna di miele. 
  • 10 Banff Rocky Mountain Resort, 1029 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-2638, ☎ 1-800-563-8764. Questo resort propone sistemazioni in stile suite con cucine e camino. La struttura è inoltre dotata di una piscia coperta, campi da tennis, WiFi e un servizio shuttle da/per la città. 
  • 11 Best Western, 453 Marten St, ☎ 1 403-762-5575. Piscina coperta riscaldata, balconi con vista sulle montagne, suite jacuzzi, parcheggio riscaldato e pet-friendly. 
  • 12 Fox Hotel & Suites, 461 Banff Ave, ☎ 1 403-760-8500, ☎ 1-800-661-8310. Il Fox offre suite signole con una o due camere da letto e stanze standard. Tra le strutture dell'albergo c'è una piscina riscaldata ispirata all'originale Cave and Basin Site. 
  • 13 Hidden Ridge Resort, 901 Hidden Ridge Way (sulla linea di trasporto pubblico), ☎ 1 403-762-3544, ☎ 1-800-661-1372. Alloggi con cucine e caminetto. Il resort offre anche piscine esterne riscaldate, BBQ e un'area picnic e una connessione Wi-Fi. 
  • 14 Inns of Banff, 600 Banff Ave (sulla linea di trasporto pubblico), ☎ 1 403-762-4581, ☎ 1-866-704-3693. Questo hotel ha una piscina coperta e una scoperta, 2 ristoranti e una lounge, uno ski shop e un parcheggio sotterraneo. 

Prezzi elevati

Banff Springs Hotel
  • 15 The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, 405 Spray Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-2211, ☎ 1-866-540-4406. Ecb copyright.svgDa 270$ per notte. Uno dei vecchi Grand Hotel: solo pochi alberghi al mondo possono essere paragonati alla magnificenza del Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. In mezzo al bosco e con vista sulla città e su tutta la valle, è dotato di più ristoranti, una piscina esterna riscaldata e un'ampia gamma di sistemazioni. Tutte sono però costose ed è anche necessario prenotare con largo anticipo. Tra i servizi di lusso, spiccano i loro trattamenti con cascate e idromassaggi, oltre alla piscina minerale ungherese (in cui è diffusa della musica sott'acqua per farvi galleggiare in completo relax). Biciclette e sci sono affittati presso l'hotel e possono essere prenotati in anticipo. 
  • 16 Rimrock Resort Hotel, 300 Mountain Ave, ☎ 1 403-762-3356, ☎ 1-888-RIMROCK (7467625), @. Ecb copyright.svgda 168$ per notte. Arroccato sul bordo della Sulphur Mountain, il Rimrock dispone di una spa e diversi ottimi ristoranti. 


Safety

Si possono incontrare orsi, anche se la probabilità si è notevolmente ridotta

Banff ha molta fauna selvatica in giro attorno la città. Mentre si guida è importante prestare molta attenzione ad alci e cervi. L'animale più pericoloso del Parco nazionale Banff non sono gli orsi o i puma, ma le alci. In primavere le femmine di alce sono molto protettive nei confronti dei propri cuccioli e attaccano chiunque si avvicini. In autunno i maschi sono in calore e molto aggressivi. Le femmine pesano circa 230 kg, mentre i maschi circa 320 kg. Entrambi i sessi sono in grado di ferire gravemente una persona e i maschi in calore possono anche danneggiare una macchina.

Trent'anni fa, gli orsi erano abbastanza comuni in città, ma il problema è stato per lo più risolto. Immondizia e rifiuti all'interno della città devono essere gettati in contenitori a prova di orso. In Parco nazionale Banff è illegale alimentare la fauna selvatica, ed è sia stupido che illegale alimentare gli orsi. "Un orso nutrito è un orso morto": orsi che imparano ad associare l'uomo con il cibo, minacciano gli esseri umani e possono portare all'abbattimento dell'animale.

The Valanghe sono un rischio in inverno. Il rischio non è limitato alle persone che effettuano scii nordico o fuori pista, arrampicate e che vanno in motoslitta.

È importante imparare a identificare i pericoli di valanghe. Un pendio a rischio valanga ha abbastanza pendenza da consentire di sciare verso il basso, ma non è così ripida da trattenere la neve. Se non hai familiarità con l'individuazione del rischio di valanghe e si desidera praticare attività all'aria aperta come racchette da neve, sci di fondo, slittino è consigliabile contattare il personale dei Parks Canada o il Centro valanghe canadese per ulteriori informazioni.

Bisogna infine prestare attenzione anche all'ambiente circostante: non tutti i dirupi o altre aree pericolose sono segnalate o interdette. Quando ci sono i cartelli di pericolo o le ringhiere, non sporgetevi oltre per ottenere fotografie migliori: se qualcuno li ha messi ci sarà un motivo!

  • 1 Banff Mineral Springs Hospital, 305 Lynx St, ☎ 1 403-762-2222. 


How to keep in touch

Telefonia

Tutti i numeri di telefono devono essere preceduto dal codice dell'area. I codici usati per Banff & Lake Louise e la gran parte dell'Alberta meridionale sono 403 e 587. Se si legge un numero senza il codice dell'area, usare il vecchio codice: 403.


Nei dintorni

  • Se vi trovate nell'area di Banff e Lake Louise e non vi dà fastidio guidare un po', un'opzione da considerare è anche il Kicking Horse Ski resort poco oltre il confine a Golden, Columbia Britannica, situato a ovest del Parco nazionale Yoho, il parco gemello a quello di Banff.
  • Guidare lungo l'autostrada 1A a ovest di Banff.
  • Johnston Canyon - ottimo per le passeggiate.
  • Bow Falls - vicine alla città.
  • Peyto Lake, nel Parco nazionale Banff, a 40 km a nord della città, sulla Icefields Parkway.
  • Parco nazionale Jasper — con stupendi paesaggi delle Montagne Rocciose e sentieri per passeggiate.
  • Calgary — la più grande città della provincia, famosa nel mondo per il rodeo Stampede e ottimo punto d'accesso per gli altri parchi naturali della regione.
  • Edmonton — in una bellissima valle fluviale, Edmonton è il luogo ideali per spettacoli teatrali e musicali.



Strade che passano per Banff
Kamloops ← Lake Louise ← O Alberta Highway 1.svg E → Canmore → Calgary

Other projects

  • Collaborate on WikipediaWikipedia contains an entry concerning Banff (Canada)
  • Collaborate on CommonsCommons contains images or other files on Banff (Canada)
3-4 star.svgGuida : l'articolo rispetta le caratteristiche di un articolo usabile ma in più contiene molte informazioni e consente senza problemi una visita alla città. L'articolo contiene un adeguato numero di immagini, un discreto numero di listing. Non sono presenti errori di stile.