Image © Reuben Krabbe
Banff, Canada is a unique ski resort with distinctive scenery, incredible ski runs, and an amazing choice of places to wine and dine. If you’re looking for an adventurous ski destination with distinct character we’d definitely recommend a ski holiday in Banff.
But what makes Banff such a unique ski destination? Here are just five great reasons why you should visit Banff this winter…
Image © Reuben Krabbe
1. Incredible scenery
Situated amongst the spectacular surroundings of Banff National Park, the mountain scenery in Banff has a rugged and wild appearance that inspires a sense of adventure. The dramatic mountain scenery and beautiful pine forests covered in snow form part of a winter wonderland virtually untouched by humankind. Just imagine skiing in such a wilderness!
Image © Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography
2. Downtown Banff
The charming centre of Banff is a fantastic destination for eating out or getting a drink from one of the many bars. The main strip, Banff Avenue, is loomed over by the dominating Cascade Mountain, meaning that even in the town centre you’re afforded spectacular views.
It’s easy to eat somewhere different each night in Banff – there are over 100 restaurants! Banff has a spectacular variety of dining options, from traditional Canadian steakhouses serving local game, to Asian restaurants serving stir-fry and sushi.
Image © Reuben Krabbe
3. Double Diamond Black runs and the Delirium Dive
Banff has an excellent reputation amongst advanced skiers, with incredibly challenging terrain in the Sunshine Village. Head to the Goats Eye for an epic range of seriously steep and lengthy single and double black diamond runs. But for the most notorious run in Banff, head to the top of Lookout for the double black diamond Delirium Dive.
Delirium is a serious, and very steep, backcountry route. Skiers who dare to tackle it must wear an avalanche transceiver and carry a shovel, as well as arrange for a guide. This is one of the world’s classic ski challenges.
Image © Noel Hendrickson
4. Amazing non-ski activities
A ski holiday to Banff rewards a long stay. Make sure you include a couple of days of your holiday away from the slopes, exploring the many active adventures that are available. Banff National Park is an excellent area for cross-country skiing, with approximately 80km of trails. Dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating are all popular activities too.
Truly get close to nature and give snowshoeing a go. This gentle activity is accessible to all ages and is the perfect way to get up close to the pristine snowscapes and beautiful quietness of the Banff wilderness.
Image © Reuben Krabbe
5. Ski and snowboard in Lake Louise
Banff’s close (in Canadian terms) proximity to Lake Louise make the two resorts the perfect partners for a ski holiday. Both resorts feature on the same ‘Tri-Area’ lift-pass, which includes a free bus that connects the two ski areas.
Lake Louise is approximately a 45-minute journey from Banff, but it is well worth getting up early to experience this incredible resort. Its remote location easily matches the wild beauty of Banff, and with over 139 runs to explore there’s no chance your visit will disappoint.
This winter, Inghams are offering savings up to £100 per couple on ski holidays to selected Banff hotels. Book your ski holiday to Banff before the 30 November 2017 to take advantage of our spectacular offer.