Banff Yoga Festival: A Destination Guide
- May 1, 2018
The end of May marks a special time in Banff National Park. Winter is a memory as Mother Nature puts the final touches on another amazing summer in the Canadian Rockies. And as the days get longer, the memories get sweeter as you take in the countless ways to make the most out of your visit.
You won’t find a more stunning setting to celebrate everything yoga has to offer the body and the mind at this year’s Banff Yoga Festival.
WHAT TO DO
If you’re flexible, there’s virtually no limit to the things you can do.
Start with seeing the park from a different perspective with a visit to the Banff Gondola. Topping off at a lofty 7,468 feet (2,281 m), the panoramic view from the peak of Sulphur Mountain can only be described as spectacular. While you’re there, take your taste buds to new heights with a visit to Sky Bistro – it’s food with a view.
Or connect with the unique spirit of the Canadian Rockies by heading out on one of the hundreds of hikes within minutes of your front door. Whether it’s a quick hour walk or a multi-day backcountry trek, hiking is one of the best ways to truly capture the spirit of one of the world’s most beautiful places. Check out our hiking overview for a few ideas on where you might want to start.
WHERE TO EAT
Like Yoga, eating is all about balance. Healthy to hearty. Decadent to delicious. Banff and Lake Louise has something for everyone.
Locals love it and you will too. Organic, healthy and delicious, the Wild Flour Bakery offers diners plenty of gluten-free, vegan and special-diet options that won’t disappoint. If it’s vegetarian you’re after, look no further than Nourish Bistro, Banff’s out of this world vegetarian restaurant. From their mouthwatering Bear St Burger to their Socca Tacos, eating healthy never tasted so good. If you’re looking to unwind with a warm beverage, check out The Banff Tea Co. and Natur'el Tea.
But that’s only the beginning. Check out the links below for more ways to satisfy your appetite.
• 9 Ways To Eat Healthy In Banff
• 7 Scenic Restaurants in Banff & Lake Louise
• Discover Farm-To-Table Cuisine
June also means patio season. What better way to show gratitude than on a sunny patio with a cocktail and friends? See the links below on the best places to raise a glass.
• Your Guide To Amazing Cocktails in Banff National Park
• 9 Patios You Need To Try This Summer in Banff and Lake Louise
WHERE TO UNWIND
We don’t have to tell you the importance of wellness. (You’re here for a yoga festival after all). But as you look to spend your weekend connecting mind, body, and spirit to the majesty of the Rockies, we thought we’d take a moment to connect you to a few of our favourite places that embrace living well.
For centuries, people have been seeking out the healing properties of Banff Upper Hot Springs. Today, it’s no different. Visitors come from around the world come to bask in their warm waters and the mountains that surround them.
If it’s the spa experience you’re after, there’s no shortage of places to relax and reset. From The Willow Stream Spa at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs to the sauna (found 14 km into the wilderness), at Shadow Lake Lodge, no one knows what it means to take a moment to yourself quite like Banff and Lake Louise. In fact, here are a few more places to slow down and reflect.
Finally, while you’re here, be sure to check out Rocky Mountain Yoga. As a supporter of the Banff Yoga Festival, they’d be to help you make the most of your time in Banff National Park.
WHERE TO STAY
Looking to stay the weekend for the Banff Yoga Festival? There are a number of great packages available from The Juniper Hotel and Banff Lodging Company. Plus, feel free to explore our accommodation page for a variety of price points and locations throughout the park.
HOW TO CONNECT
We’d love to hear from you anytime during the Banff Yoga Festival. Be sure to share your photos with #MyBanff. And don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.