EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
Canada, the land of wild moose, passionate games of ice hockey, a staple diet of maple syrup and of course intense natural beauty. With its geography, almost as diverse as its history and people, Canada is one of those countries you really need to visit and explore before you die.
There are honestly, very few places on Earth that offer plentiful natural wonders that are not only breath-taking but unique as well. Whether its crystal turquoise blue waters, rugged Rocky Mountains, vast rolling green lands, thundering waterfalls or places that literally look like the Edge of the World.
Here are the top 8 places to visit in Canada:
Peyto Lake, Banff
Is the water really that blue? It honestly is, and absolutely stunning, even on a gloomy day like the day I visited. Peyto Lake is located in Banff National Park approximately 40km’s northwest of Lake Louise. It can be best viewed from the Bow Summit along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, although the best view is slightly off the beaten path and through some forest.
The lake gets its colour from the large amounts of glacier rock flour that flow into it during the summer months. It can get pretty busy here even during off season so I would suggest arriving quite early morning.
Explore Whistlers Delights
I probably don’t need to tell you that Whistler is pretty famous already for its skiing and snowboarding along with its beautiful snow-capped mountains. But in those moments between sleep and snow, you might be wondering how best to spend your time in this snow-capped winters wonderland. Well, rest assured there is plenty! From magical fairy-tale moments in Lumina Vallea to abandoned train wrecks in a forest, Lost lakes, and the world’s highest and longest cable car there’s something for everything.
The village itself is a unique hub of hustle and bustle with plenty of restaurant and bars plus one of my favourite places to stay – Pangea Pods. This quirky hostel/hotel provides original designed pods that are like nothing you have ever stayed in before. Equipped with a bar, restaurant, hang out areas and balcony to relax on this is a great place to base yourself while being in the centre of Whistler.
Click here to see more of Pangea Pods
Moraine Lake, Banff
I have to stay, that over my many years of travelling the world I have never seen anything quite like Moraine Lake – it is easily one of the most beautiful places that I have ever visited. With bright blue (and freezing cold) turquoise water, surrounded by rugged snow-capped mountains and dense green trees this was as picturesque as a postcard. And even then, that just wouldn’t do it any justice.
If you have to visit anywhere in the world, then Moraine Lake should definitely be at the top of your list. Be sure to get there as early as possible due to the popularity of this lake. We got there at 6am and the car parks were already full to give you an idea. Afterwards, swing by Lake Louise and the Fairmont Hotel for a nice warm cup of tea.
Edith Cavell Glacier, Jasper
This is one of the few places you can get up close and personal with a glacier and it is truly a humbling experience. The Edith Cavell Glacier is actually a short trail which takes only 30-45 minutes one way from the car park to the glacier and is relatively easy too. All around you are mountains, stunning forestry and plenty of wild animals like chipmunks running around.
The colours of the glacier itself are awe-inspiring, making you take a moment to truly devour its beauty along with the super blue waters below, with its own floating ice burgs. Wrap up warm though, it can get a bit chilly.
Joffre Lakes, Pemberton
Pemberton is a short drive away from Whistler and it sure is worth the effort as you will come face to face with some incredible scenery and wildlife. Joffre Lakes is home to three beautiful glacier lakes which are aptly names Lower, Middle and Upper. The most famous of these is the Middle which you will see you all over social media, however, Upper is well worth the extra 30-minute hike as you can see in my photo here.
We stayed at Pemberton Valley Lodge and had a whole suite to ourselves which was perfect after doing this 4 hour round hike, plus we got to soak in the outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi. It’s in a great location, next to waterfalls, lakes and even more mountains. Can’t complain!
Click here to see more of Pemberton Valley Lodge
The Edge of the World, Jasper
This super secretive spot can be found in Jasper National Park, and with few directions online it can only really be found by word of mouth through other travellers or trying to ask the locals. Situated near to a well-known ski resort, it off the main road and a short 15-minute walk through some forest until you reach the aptly named Edge of the World.
It’s here that you will reach some boulders on the edge of the mountains with views overlooking the whole of Jasper National Park and lots of gorgeous colours. A short walk to right and you will also find a unique waterfall running through fallen trees and lumber.
Click here to stay at HI Hostels nearby
Bow Lake, Banff
The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most beautiful scenery as you have seen in the last 6 photos and lakes such as Moraine and Louise get brandished a lot, however there are some hidden gems which many people don’t mention – Bow Lake being one of them.
It is approximately 30-minutes north of Lake Louise and sits at elevation of 6.300 feet and is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park. Fed by meltwater from Bow Glacier in the Wapta Icefield, Bow Lake lies at the base of Bow Summit, which is perfectly reflected in its aquamarine waters on a calm day creating some fantastic and artistic photo opportunities.
Lake Louise, Banff
I must admit, I had to save one of the best for last. At Lake Louise, there are scenic drives to beautiful hikes and from canoeing to photography, you’ll find a plethora of options when considering what to do here. Arguably one of the most beautiful lakes in Canada and the world, it is situated at the foot of mountains which tower over the lake in the horizon creating a surreal atmosphere.
One of the more fun things to do here is to jump into a canoe and admire the bright blue water from up close while paddling to the centre and getting some very spectacular photos and videos. After this exhilarating experience head up to the Fairmont Hotel for a really good cup of tea and some delicious food.
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