Jewels of Southern Alberta
Jewels of Southern Alberta - 10 day itinerary
Discover a different side of Alberta as you combine the world famous Banff National Park with hidden gems such as the Waterton Lakes National Park and the Kananaskis Valley, known for their rugged beauty, and the striking Canadian Badlands.
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Browse this example itinerary to give you an idea of how you might like to structure your visit, according to your length of stay. Purely Canada offers a tailor made service, so we can put any route together and these examples of differing lengths act as a handy guide to what your final itinerary could include.
For further advice, please call us on 01372 372123.
Calgary
Days 1 - 2
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Calgary is a modern, cosmopolitan city built on western culture and the perfect start to your Alberta trip. As the host of the 1988 Winter Olympics, you will find that their legacy still lives on in Calgary. But the city is full of major attractions, such as the National Music Centre, which offers a deep dive into Canada’s music scene.
For a taste of Calgary’s western heritage, visit the Alberta Boot Company Experience Centre and the Calgary Stampede’s Sam Centre, which brings to life the excitement of ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ all year long.
Soak up the panoramic views from the top of Calgary Tower, an Alberta icon, and don’t leave the city without stopping at one of the many award winning breweries and distilleries – the readily available fresh glacier water gives their drinks a competitive advantage!
Canadian Badlands
Days 3 - 4
Distance - 235 miles
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The Canadian Badlands is a treasure trove of prehistoric wonders, Indigenous history and dramatic geology.
For a fascinating insight into Alberta’s indigenous past, Blackfoot Crossing Historical Site, where the signing of the landmark Treaty No. 7 took place is well worth a stop enroute.
If you are a dinosaur enthusiast, explore the world renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology and the towering T. rex statue in Drumheller as well as the UNESCO-protected Dinosaur Provincial Park, home to one of the richest dinosaur fossil beds in the world.
Whatever you do, allow enough time to explore Horseshoe Canyon. A natural wonder shaped by wind and water over millions of years, hike along its rugged trails to experience panoramic views of the layered rock formations that define the Canadian Badlands.
Waterton Lakes
Day 5
Distance - 265 miles
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In advance of your first taste of the Canadian Rockies, the sacred Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Here explore petroglyphs, pictographs and hoodoos on a guided walk and learn about the significant of the area to the Blackfoot people and its connection to the North-West Mounted Police.
Tucked in the southwestern corner of Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park may be compact in size but it overflows with unspoilt nature and dramatic landscapes.
Cascading waterfalls thunder down rocky cliffs. Hidden valleys and alpine meadows burst into life with vibrant wildflowers. Rushing streams shimmer with an array of colours. Rolling prairies collide with the towering peaks of the rugged Rocky Mountains creating a striking contrast.
Whether you go on a hike to take in the breathtaking summit views that reflect in the deep blue surface or relax on a leisurely lake cruise, you can’t miss the historic, fairytale-like hilltop castle, which stands watch over the landscape below.
Canmore & Kananaskis
Days 6 - 7
Distance - 215 miles
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The town of Canmore and the stunning Kananaskis Valley have been a hidden gem for years but they boast some of Canada’s most awe-inspiring scenery.
Nestled at the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, this rugged paradise offers endless adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike to breathtaking viewpoints, cycle along scenic trails, paddle across the glassy surface of a glacier-fed lake or climb up some of the region’s legendary summits.
Prefer a slower pace? Canmore itself is a charming mountain town, filled with cosy cafés, farm-to-table dining and a vibrant arts scene. Explore locally owned boutiques, sip craft beer at an award-winning brewery, join a traditional Indigenous workshop or simply relax by the fireplace in a rustic mountain lodge.
Banff, Lake Louise & Banff National Park
Days 8 - 9
Distance - 15 miles
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Known for its impossibly turquoise lakes and towering Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park is a place of breathtaking beauty that will captivate you. Open every day of the year, it offers endless adventures and breathtaking experiences.
Ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, where sweeping views of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley await. Follow the scenic paths of Johnston Canyon, paddle on the stunning Moraine Lake or discover the birthplace of Canada’s national parks at the Cave and Basin Historic Site. Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise or relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs, the highest in the country. You can also hike stunning trails, explore on horseback, take a wildlife tour and so much more.
Authentic Canadian culture, world-class dining and a vibrant arts scene await visitors at the charming towns of Banff and Lake Louise, the perfect base to explore this incredible National Park.
Return to Calgary
Day 10
Distance - 95 miles
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Driving back to Calgary from Banff offers the perfect opportunity to add some memorable stops along the way. Just off the highway near the charming tow of Cochrane, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary provides a unique chance to learn about these fascinating animals up close while supporting their conservation. As you near Calgary, stop by the Calgary Farmers' Market to grab some fresh local produce, baked goods or a delicious meal before continuing to the airport.
Unmissable Experiences To Add
