Banff National Park

The dramatic mountains, lakes and forests of Banff National Park's 6,641 square kilometres make it the ideal destination for scenery lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Mountain bikers, hikers, white-water rafters and kayakers take advantage of the unspoiled wilderness in the summer, while skiers and snowboarders tackle the many and varied ski runs during the winter months.

Banff National Park is home to three ski resorts, including Sunshine Village, located just outside Banff. With its three peaks, Sunshine Village caters to winter-sport enthusiasts of all abilities, and provides off-piste areas for experienced visitors. Take your après-ski on the mountain at one of the resort's restaurants.

In summer, visitors throng to Canada's oldest national park to catch a glimpse of its famed lakes. Their spectacular blue colour and mirror-like reflection of the surrounding snow-capped mountains are picture-postcard perfect. Get your own snaps of two of Canada's most famous images from the hiking trails above Peyto Lake and Moraine Lake. Very few of the park's lakes allow boats. One exception is the non-glacial Lake Minnewanka, so head here for some fishing or a boat cruise.

Some of the park's mountains provide chair lifts or gondolas to take visitors to their summits. Banff Gondola, just outside the town itself, takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain in minutes. However, if you prefer to get around under your own steam, there are plenty of hiking trails. Some have man-made paths Johnston Canyon, for example, has a walkway built along its steep sides. Others are navigated via rocky trails.

You'll find a variety of accommodation in both Banff and Lake Louise, Banff National Park's two towns. If you're on a budget, opt for one of the area’s many hostels. Otherwise, treat yourself to a swanky lodge, or splash out on a room at the luxurious 19th-century Fairmont Banff Springs hotel.

Visitors can hire a car, but it's not essential as there are regular shuttles and buses from the towns to the area's main attractions. Shops renting fishing equipment, skis, kayaks and bikes are also plentiful.