If you're looking for a quick weekend escape, look no further than our Northern neighbor, Alberta. Located in western Canada with short direct flights to Calgary and Edmonton from most major international airports, Alberta offers travelers a wealth of active adventures, natural wonders and world class events. Framed by the Rocky Mountains to the west and vast prairies to the east, the climate is idea for a sweet summer escape for both outdoor activities or a little r&r. Boasting long, hot summer days and cool summer nights, fresh air and adrenaline are abundant, whether you're in the mountains for heli-yoga, horseback riding or hiking.
A truly A-list getaway, marvel at your surroundings of luxurious castles in the middle of untamed mountain beauty. Whether on bike, boat or foot, explore off the beaten path trails and terrain touched only by an elite few and see legendary turquoise lakes like nowhere else in the world.
Active Adventures
Alberta by helicopter defines free-spirited adventure. Fly to a secluded alpine meadow in the Rocky Mountains - the perfect place to calm your mind, stretch your body and heighten your awareness of the breathtaking surroundings. For lodging, the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts in Banff and Lake Louise offers guests a little bit of everything, from tranquil relaxation to exhilarating adventure in the heart of Banff National Park; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the best ways to experience the park is by horseback. Inexperienced riders and first-timers can take easy guided tours by the hour to forge their own connection with the western landscape.
Natural Wonders
Inspiring views and landscapes will make your pictures as breathtaking as the experiences for a lifetime of memories. Walk on glaciers over 100,000 years old, see bears, elk and big horn sheep in their natural habitat and cruise legendary turquoise lakes like nowhere else in the world. Looking to clear your head and get intimate with your surroundings? Stay in a back-county mountain lodge for a one on one wilderness experience. Mount Assiniboine Lodge, accessible only by helicopter or on a 28-kilometer hike/ski trail offers a wonderful escape from urban chaos.
World-Class Events
Join visitors from around the world in experiencing the events that make Alberta unique. Called the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede offers a behind the scene look at real cowboys, bulls and broncs in this 10 day western festival and rodeo. Indy Racing is also wildly popular in Canada. Described as "part stadium rock concert, part sunny summer weekend mixer, part big-stage sports spectacle, and part people watching heaven," the race is part of Edmonton's "festival city" reputation. Get close to the action of exhilarating open-wheel racing in Edmonton at the brand-new 3.631 km course. As home to more horses than any other province in the country, Alberta also has a rich history of equestrian events. Attend international outdoor show jumping tournaments at Spruce Meadows in Calgary.