Five Ways to Relax in Banff and Lake Louise

Canada’s first national park has plenty of activities to fill your days, but sometimes all those breathtaking moments leave you wanting to slow down and relax. You’re on vacation, after all— why not treat yourself? Sink even further into your Canadian Rocky Mountain experience by adding a little luxury and relaxation to your stay.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Banff National Park exists because of the legendary Banff Upper Hot Springs. The mineral waters, said to have healing properties that have long attracted visitors to the area, are the perfect way to get into the Banff experience.

Nestled on Sulphur Mountain, the outdoor pool naturally hovers around 40C, which makes for an extra treat during cold winter evenings after a day on the slopes, the hiking trail, or strolling downtown. It’s also the perfect place to head while snow falls, as you’ll be in misty mountain glory while snowflakes fall from the sky.

The unbeatable mountain view doesn’t hurt, either.

Experience a Mountain Spa

If you didn’t get your fill of the water at the hot springs, make your way to one of several amazing spas in Banff and Lake Louise. There, you can spend the day enjoying an invigorating and relaxing experience. Follow up your dip with your spa’s signature massage or facial experiences to truly reset.

Check out "Your Guide To Spas And Hotsprings In Banff National Park" to find the perfect place to rest and reset.

Yoga with a View

Pampering yourself means taking care of your body, and days of hiking, skiing, and sightseeing can tense you up. That's why it is so important to stretch out your muscles. Yoga in Banff can be a bit of a different experience. After all, the views from your rooftop yoga class or out the window can make settling into that pose just a little bit easier.

A local favourite, Banff Yoga Practice, offers rooftop yoga on specific days and aerial yoga, as well as a full range of wellness and movement classes.

Another favourite of Banff's residents is Flow State Yoga, which offers a variety of classes, including those in near darkness and sunrise classes, during which you can watch the mountain peaks illuminate with sunlight.

Enjoy a Delectable Dinner

Don't neglect your tastebuds - Banff and Lake Louise boast a wide variety of excellent restaurants that will pamper your sense of taste. From fine dining to local favourites, you'll find a restaurant that fits your idea of perfect. You can dine on a mountaintop at Sky Bistro or Cliffhouse Bistro, find handcrafted delicacies at 5 Diamond Restaurant Eden, or indulge in fusion cuisine at Block.

Take advantage of the gorgeous surroundings and enjoy a meal with a view. For some mouthwatering inspiration, check out 7 Scenic Restaurants in Banff and Lake Louise.

Curl up in a Cozy Cabin in Banff and Lake Louise

Take the time to truly unplug at a beautiful cabin in the woods that also happens to provide a four-star experience. With exceptional scenery, a rustic cabin feel, and a dinner menu that shouldn’t be missed, these hidden gems are not to be missed.

For easy driving access, head to Baker Creek by Basecamp, which is just a 20-minute drive from iconic Lake Louise. Or head down on Highway 93S to find Storm Mountain Lodge, which has unparalleled access to some of Banff's quietest wilderness. If you're up for a bit of exploration, you can fat bike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe into Banff's backcountry by booking a night at Sundance Lodge.

Check out “Your Guide To A Cozy Cabin Holiday In Banff National Park" to find the perfect cabin getaway in Banff.

However you choose to relax and reset, Banff and Lake Louise have an option for you. Start planning your trip today using our intuitive trip builder.