Rocky Mountaineer Magazine RM Magazine 2018 | Page 62

Lake Louise

PoPulation 1,030 time Zone mountain

Main attraction

The unbelievably turquoise lake and its surrounding backdrop of mountains is — without a doubt — the main event . There are plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery : cross the lake in a canoe , take a walk around it , snap a photo , or embark on a longer , more vertiginous hike for views from above ( see feature on page 20 ).

WiLDLiFE

Lucky wildlife-watchers may spot Rockies ’ residents such as grazing mule and white-tailed deer , or their larger cousin , elk ( also known as wapiti ). The even luckier still see coyotes on the prowl for small rodents . Local wildlife is often spotted from the Lake Louise Gondola , which glides upwards 2,088 m ( 6,850 ft ) above a wildlife corridor that ’ s travelled by black bears and grizzlies .

UniqUE SoUvEnir

Qiviuk at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is known for warm , beautiful clothing made from the soft inner down

Paddling a canoe across Lake Louise is just one of the many ways to enjoy this natural wonder

Visitor information 403-522-2744 www . banfflakelouise . com

of the Arctic musk ox — called qiviuk by the Inuvialuit Inuit . This Canadian knitwear company ’ s dresses , sweaters and coats can be found in the closets of British royalty and celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker .

Dining

› The grand stone fireplace and rustic wood accents in the Post Hotel &

Spa ’ s dining room make the perfect backdrop for some of the most elegant cuisine in the Rocky Mountains .

Time for Tea

› Overlooking tranquil Lake Louise , the Fairview restaurant at the Fairmont

Chateau Lake Louise serves elegant farm-to-table Canadian cuisine as well as British-style afternoon tea .

› Tucked away in an historic log teahouse , Caribou Lounge offers

views of Victoria Glacier alongside an all-Canadian menu that includes game meats raised on a local ranch , like elk salami and smoked-pepper duck .

› The Station Restaurant turns back time to 1910 , when the heritage railway station was first built . The turnof-the-century ambience and decor are complemented by casual bites like bison burgers and grilled BC salmon .

qUicK BitES

› Casual and quick , Trailhead Cafe serves made-to-order wraps , bagels

and sandwiches that are perfect for packing along on a hike . The breakfasts and espresso beverages also draw a crowd .

› Laggan ’ s is well known — and generates queues — for quick-service pies ,

pastries and mac ’ n ’ cheese . Only a few seats are available , so plan to take your baked goods along with you .

PatioS

Whitehorn Bistro is perched at the top of the Lake Louise Gondola , 2,042 m ( 6,700 ft ) up Whitehorn Mountain . The sprawling patio offers magnificent views of the Rockies . Those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground may opt for the Lakeview Lounge patio at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise .

Would you climb a mountain for the perfect cuppa ? then these teahouses are for you . Located in a hanging valley at an elevation of 2,135 m ( 7,005 ft ), Lake agnes tea House sits on the shores of a picturesque mountain lake . it ’ s reached by a 3.6-km ( 2.2-mi ) hike , or for those seeking a less strenuous option , a trail ride courtesy of Brewster Lake Louise Stables . a longer ride takes thirsty travellers to the Plain of Six glaciers teahouse , built in 1924 as a rest stop for Swiss mountain guides . this breathtaking journey up Mount Whyte rewards hikers and riders with views of glacial fields and towering peaks — and a refreshing pot of tea enjoyed 2,070 m ( 6,800 ft ) up . teatime , well earned . BY JILL VON SPRECKEN

PHoto By PaUL ZiZKa PHotograPHy coUrtESy BanFF & LaKE LoUiSE toUriSM

62 Rocky Mountaineer Magazine 2018