Lake Louise

Canada may not have all the castles I could ever want but it’s lacks for nothing when it comes to natural beauty. From east to west Canada is full of forest, lakes, rivers, plains, mountains, badlands, moors, anything one could want. One of the most popular though is Lake Louise, in Banff National Park, Alberta.

You’ll find Banff National Park in the mountains just west of Calgary, surrounded by other and equally as massive national parks. Banff is of course world renown for it’s famous hot springs and nearby glaciers, but Lake Louise seems to be the one quintessentially recognisable photo which people look at and say “Ah, yes. That’s in Canada!”

This crystaline body of water is set in a perfect triangle between two towering mountains and the Fairmont Chateau, a hotel perfectly situated to take in the view. Don’t let that fool you though, you needn’t stay at the hotel to experience the lake. The viewing areas and trails are open to the general public, which is good because the hotel is quite expensive.

If you are willing to spend a bit extra I remember the hotel having a very luxurious interior. You can also get a delicious high tea there if you can’t or don’t want to stay an evening. The tea rooms are situated right at the back of the hotel, with large windows facing the lake, so you can take in the view even if it happens to be raining or cold.

Other than the Chateau there are lodges, camping grounds, and bed and breakfasts for those who want a more secluded or a more close proximity to nature. Along with places to stay there are also many things to do including canoe rentals, ski trails, and hiking trails which lead up to a tea house with a view overlooking the lake. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing high tea or a mountain adventure, Lake Louise has it on offer along with an amazing view!