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Banff, Alberta

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Beautiful Banff National Park lies in the majestic Canadian Rockies. It is Canada's oldest national park since its sulphur springs were discovered by Canadian Pacific railway workers in 1883. The area offers picturesque mountains, glaciers, meadows, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs and a wide array of stunning wild life. William Cornelius Van Horne, the railroad's president, was the one who stated "Since I can't export the scenery; I'll import the tourists." Thus began a tourism industry.

Today, the town of Banff is located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a protected area that embodies a natural, serene yet dynamic way of life.

Banff offers a range of natural sights, museums as well as festivals along Banff Avenue and a variety of unforgettable dining. A completely unique place known for an authentic culture as rich as its land, this uppermost Canadian town at 1,463m is a wonderful starting point for distinctive tours and impeccable sightseeing in the Wild West.

Sulphur Mountain is the location of one of the most popular attractions in Banff, the Banff Upper Hot Springs. When visiting the upper hot springs you can enjoy the warm mineral water, which is kept between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius, go for a relaxing massage at the Pleiades Massage and Spa, get a bite to eat at the restaurant located above the gift shop, or enjoy the view on the outdoor terrace.

The Banff Sightseeing Gondola ascends Sulphur Mountain year round. This 8 minute ride takes you up to the summit, the upper terminal at the top of the mountain. Enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and the town of Banff. You can also take a short walk along the Banff Skywalk, a one kilometer trail, to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada and the historic Sanson's Peak Meteorological Station to get even better views of the spectacular mountain vistas. Rocky Mountain sheep are a common sight here.

Nearby Tunnel Mountain is very popular for quick hikes; named Tunnel Mountain because surveyors initially wanted to make a tunnel for the Trans-Canada (Canadian Pacific) Railroad right through the mountain.

Ski vacations are very popular with three ski resorts nearby; Ski Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise ski resort just a short drive from hotels.

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