MOUNTAINS OF FESTIVE FUN
Winter wonderland awaits you in Banff
Sitting fireside on the 360-degree observation deck at the summit of Sulphur Mountain feels like floating on a cloud. I’m a little light-headed, and completely gobsmacked. Banff’s panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies are only intensified at the top of the gondola.
While my husband and I devour the scene of six snow- capped mountain ranges shimmering amid a blue sky, our kiddo searches in earnest, trying to see where the guest of honour has parked his fleet of reindeer. “It’s like we’re flying in Santa’s sleigh,” she exclaims, with the exuberance only a five-yearold can muster. In an instant, our first visit to the Above Banff interpretive centre has become a new Christmas tradition.
The gondola elves have been busy, adding new activities and events to this year’s holiday lineup. Our little Sugarmouse Greensparkles — the official elf name bestowed upon our daughter — has hit up every holiday station. We’ve spent almost four hours partaking in the free fun, which includes cookie decorating, letters to Santa, screenings of Disney’s Prep & Landing movie, pictures with the big man in red, and a Christmas themed treasure hunt that spans all four floors of the interpretive centre. After said festivities, Mama was ready for a well-earned glass of bubbly in the Sky Bistro. The mountaintop eaterie, which welcomes families, boasts the best view of any restaurant I’ve dined in. We were just as impressed with the food, and although a kid’s menu is available, our tiny foodie was happy to share in the local charcuterie platter and chef’s winter salad.
Our holiday merriment continued at the Fairmont Banff Springs, where Christmas at the Castle is in full swing. Brunch with Santa, in the Bow Valley Grill, continues to be a family favourite. However, this year’s shining star is awarded to the resort’s new theatre production, A Christmas Carol. Having already watched the Disney version featuring Scrooge McDuck, I knew our daughter would be comfortable with the slightly scary storyline.
What I hadn’t anticipated is that the play’s talented cast of five would hold her interest for almost two full hours. She was utterly captivated, and refused to leave the theatre at intermission for fear of missing out on any part of the second act. Tickets to the show, which runs through Christmas Day, can be purchased individually or as part of a weekend brunch package. Hotel guests receive 50 per cent off admission and can partake in the resort’s many free holiday activities, including roasting marshmallows in the garden terrace and family fun in the Kids @ The Castle centre.
As Banff, like Calgary, is still wishing for a white Christmas, we had to head to the hills to play in powder. Mount Norquay’s Tube Town opened last Sunday, and if you’re new to tubing — like we were — you’re in for a treat. I’m told that it’s possible to reach speeds of up to 80 km per hour, which is a little intimidating as you relinquish all control while in the tube. The good news is that absolutely zero skill is required. Simply hop in, and hold on tight. My shrieks could be heard over the park’s blasting music. For the cautious, like myself, expect to feel equal parts of joy and terror. My little thrill-seeking maniac, however, squealed with laughter every time she flew down the hill. Given the speed at which you travel, kids must be at least four years old and 42 inches tall to use the park.
Visiting Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s national park system, was another first for our family. Admission is free in 2017, and at the age of five, our daughter can now appreciate the story behind the landmark. Highlights — for kids in particular — include exploring the underground cave to see the bubbling and hilariously smelly thermal waters, giggling at the overly modest bathing suits from the 1800s, ‘driv- ing’ the cool VW Beetle and playing with the stuffed animals in the family zone. If the weather’s fair, I also recommend walking the boardwalk to see the cave from above, as it’s fun to imagine how explorers first discovered hot pools through such a tiny opening in the ground.
The healing waters of Cave and Basin inspired me to book a little pampering of my own at the Meadow Spa, in The Moose Hotel where we stayed.
While my husband and child splashed in the hotel’s rooftop pools, I experienced 75-minutes of nirvana. In fact, my signature pedicure, complete with mud wrap, paraffin and pressure point massage, was so incredible that I’m booking my husband the men’s version for Christmas. If you’re a skier, hiker, or simply an exhausted parent, this is the treatment for you.
Our weekend theme, of seeking out new experiences, also extended to dining. As such, we discovered two top restaurants that are suitable for kids, yet highly enjoyable for adults. The Banff Ave. Brewing Co., just a short walk from The Moose, is an excellent choice for a hearty meal in a lively atmosphere. Top dishes for us were the grilled Caesar salad with bacon jam and roasted garlic dressing (to die for), spaghetti and meatballs and grilled Alberta beef sirloin.
For a slightly more upscale option, take the short drive to the Juniper Hotel. The Atlantic sea scallops and wild boar rack are menu standouts.
IF YOU GO
Families will love the Banff Gondola Interpretive Centre’s interactive activities that are available throughout the year. Book your tickets in advance to save 10 per cent off adult fares. The bonus? Kids (ages 6-15) ride for free until 12 p.m. during winter, and toddlers (five and under) are always free. Visit BanffGondola.com for the schedule of Mountaintop Christmas events, running through Jan 7.
For the Fairmont Banff Springs’ holiday activities, visit ChristmasAtTheCastle.com. If you can’t make it to the mountains before the new year, try to plan your trip around Banff SnowDays festival in January. As part of the month-long celebration, the resort is offering discounted packages of up to 45 per cent off per stay.
The Moose Hotel & Suites is a beautiful new property on Banff Ave. Ideal for families, the onebedroom suites include two queen beds and a double pullout, and are equipped with a microwave, sink and fridge for quick meals and snacks. MooseHotelAndSuites.com