As the last weekend in August approaches, you have the perfect excuse to get out of town and take in as much of the remaining summer as possible. With temperatures expected to be in the high 20s there’s no reason why you wouldn’t want to get in that final mini-break before fall hits. Are we right, or are we right?
As Calgarians, we are lucky enough to have the mountains, and all the fun that comes with them practically in our own backyards. This weekend, we say throw caution to the wind – and work to the dogs – let your hair down and loosen your ties, pack a weekend bag, and make the drive to Canmore. Only a 45-minute jaunt from Calgary, this mountain town is often buzzing on the weekend with many of Calgary’s notable young professionals.
The natural beauty, outdoor pursuits, and laidback energy of the area attracts visitors, while the multitude of restaurants, pubs and cafes and amenities make it a place you won’t want to leave.
Curious where to rest your head? We suggest checking out, and checking into, a Bellstar Hotel and Resort. This local company has boutique properties throughout Western Canada, with six located in Canmore; Bellstar is about the unique experience of each place and destination, not generic cookie-cutter hotels. Each property is unique, with its own name, flavour, and personality so it’s easy to find the right one to suit your needs.
Start Saturday morning right by heading to Rocky Mountain Bagel Co (1306 Bow Valley Trl) for your morning latte. While there, grab one of their housemade bagels with cream cheese, or make it a sandwich and fuel up. Fresh and filling, they are perfect for a picnic lunch.
The Canmore area has a great selection of hiking trails for all levels. One of our favourites is the Grassi Lakes hike. It offers both an easy trail and a more difficult trail for you to choose from, with the final destination of both bringing you to beautiful spring-fed lakes. Lay down a blanket on the bank, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy your lunch.
After a day in the sun we recommend relaxing your tired muscles in the hot tub or hot pool available to Bellstar guests before heading out for a night on the town. Dinner is a no brainer in Canmore. This town boasts some of the best food in the mountains. Murrietta’s (200 – 737 Main St) has one of the best views in Canmore and a fantastic menu. With its warm and comforting hearth, vaulted ceilings, majestic beams, open plan, and the expansive glass windows showcasing the captivating scenery, this second-story dining room is the perfect spot to enjoy a bottle of wine and unforgettable meal. Murrieta’s cuisine offers up an adventurous, refreshing and inviting blend of seafood, meat dishes and pastas all served with uncompromising flair and style.
After dinner head to one of several pubs in town, such as The Drake, which often has live entertainment on weekends for patrons to enjoy.
Before heading home Sunday, grab a coffee and fresh baked cinnamon bun for the ride at Summit Cafe (102 – 1001 Cougar Creek Drive). The cinnamon buns are only available on Sundays and are a favourite amongst the locals…after eating one, you’ll know why.
After a weekend away on ‘mountain time,’ you’re sure to be relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the weekly challenges that the young professional life brings. We wouldn’t want it any other way…