Review: Calgary, Rockies, Banff Gondola & Hot Springs

Alright, so you’re thinking of taking a trip that combines the buzz of a vibrant city with some absolutely majestic scenery? Perhaps you’re after something that mixes urban exploration with views that almost feel like they’re from another planet. Well, very arguably, the Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Banff Gondola, and hot springs combo could just about be the ticket. Let’s check out what makes this area a fantastic destination and what bits you definitely should not skip.

Exploring Calgary: The Gateway to Adventure

Calgary is very, very much more than just a jumping-off point, right? It’s almost a spot where you can get a taste of what Alberta is all about. I mean, that blend of big city life mixed with the great outdoors? That’s totally Calgary. There are a ton of different cultures mixing it up too. You can tell just from wandering around the downtown core or chilling in one of the many cool neighborhoods. Like, maybe Inglewood could be your style with all its history or maybe you are interested in Kensington. Kensington has the best cafes for starting the day with coffee before going on an adventure. Plus, maybe you’ll want to explore the history in some unique spots?

One thing to make sure you do? Check out the Calgary Tower. Honestly, standing way up there? It really offers almost an unbelievable peek at the city below. It can be, by all accounts, an amazing starting point for orienting yourself. Oh, and too, just a tip. Maybe plan to be up there around sunset because the views? Seriously stunning. I mean, after that? Well, almost, it really is all about those foothills to the west, alright?

The Canadian Rockies: A Majestic Landscape

Speaking of mountains, in some respects, you simply can’t mention Alberta without talking about the Canadian Rockies. They’re almost like the headliner act, you know? I mean, these mountains are incredibly big and covered in snow for a pretty long time, they look spectacular. And you? It’s quite likely that you will spend hours just taking it all in. That’s very understandable, I guess.

You’ve got places that people like your are pretty wild about and want to visit. Let’s say you went to Banff or maybe Lake Louise or even Jasper. All the views could well feel as if they were carefully placed there just to blow your mind, like in a movie. What might be worth planning too? Some time exploring different areas. The landscapes can seemingly change as you travel a bit, so expect an even greater array of vistas.

Also, don’t forget that the drive alone can be really gorgeous, it could be some of the most picture perfect stuff you have ever seen. Stopping at different spots? Good call. There are all kinds of spots and turnoffs, some are pretty obvious, a few are really tucked away. Actually looking for cool little lookout points can be great.

Banff Gondola: A Bird’s-Eye View

Alright, when people tell you that going up the Banff Gondola is great, maybe they are trying not to exaggerate. Okay, just going for a ride is fun by itself. You’re basically gliding above the trees. When you are up at the summit? Wow, right? This could be a view that really does the trick.

What might interest some people like your are that there are things you can do when you get to the top too. Could be a short stroll on a boardwalk. You could actually, finally learn a bit about the place thanks to different informative displays too. And too, you should, basically make a point of hanging around as the sun dips low. Sunsets? Really spectacular.

Maybe remember that booking ahead can just make your life simpler too, mostly. It might, too, mean less time hanging around in a line. Basically, getting that ticket ahead of time is just the thing that I do, by the way.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs: Banff Upper Hot Springs

Ok, think for a second about being outdoors and getting totally relaxed, and that sounds kind of special, eh? Just picture yourself surrounded by those stunning Canadian Rockies. So the Banff Upper Hot Springs might just be a super relaxing experience for those weary bones.

After all the exploring in the fresh air? Very likely you might be sore from a busy day. Therefore, taking a bit of time soaking and getting all mellow? Excellent idea. Besides? This is also more or less one seriously historical pool, as I was saying. It might seem just like a pool with naturally hot spring water, right? Well, anyway, think of all those people who relaxed there before, since it was discovered.

Consider that just about anything can happen at anytime. Keep it in mind it can get a little crowded. So, it can be a cool idea to maybe aim for a dip earlier in the day. Besides? This might also get you prepped to go back for round two of exploring the mountains. How cool is that?