It’s been a really long few months and I think all of us have been feeling that itch to go somewhere. Since international travel is still not encouraged (or allowed), we decided to stay close to home and visit Banff for a mini staycation. We’ve been thinking about this staycation in Banff for quite some time and last weekend was the perfect time to do just that. We lucked out and got some amazing weather as well.

For those of you that don’t know, Banff is a resort town in the province of Alberta and is located in Banff National Park. It’s about an hour and half away from Calgary. I really do love visiting Banff and this trip was extra special as it was our daughter’s first time visiting.

A special thank you to Pursuit for hosting our Banff staycation. Pursuit offers inspiring, unforgettable, adventure travel experiences including the Banff Jasper, Glacier Park and Alaska collections.

MOUNT ROYAL HOTEL

I’ve had my eye on the Mount Royal Hotel for quite some time. Last summer when we stayed at sister property Elk+Avenue (click here to read more), I knew I wanted to stay at the Mount Royal at some point.

The Mount Royal Hotel was the perfect spot for a Banff staycation. Conveniently located on the iconic Banff Avenue, it’s the ideal location. All tourist attractions including the Banff Gondola are a quick 5-10 minute drive away not to mention all the restaurants and shops are walking distance.

The Lobby is super cool as it’s a museum allowing for guests to take a trip back in time through photos, art and artifacts. We didn’t visit the Cascade Lounge or Hot Tubs (closed for now) but hopefully next time!

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We were provided with the Centennial Room and it was perfect for our family of 3. The room was very clean and had all the modern -day amenities. After checking in, we did a little window shopping and ended up at the Farm & Fire (more below) for dinner.

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The comfy beds were a delight after our scrumptious meal. We all had a wonderful night’s sleep. Our stay at The Mount Royal was amazing and we would highly recommend it to others.

FARM & FIRE

What can I say? I’m in love with this restaurant. This was my third time dining at this restaurant and it was as good as the first time. Located in the Elk+ Avenue Hotel, Farm & Fire is a MUST visit. “Locally Sourced Farm Fresh Wood Fired”, every dish on the menu is delicious and the portions are generous. The restaurant is known for its sharing plates.

This time around we ordered the Margherita pizza with the Yam & Arugula Salad for appetizers and the Flank Steak, Half Rotisserie Chicken and Forno Carrots for dinner. It was perfect for our family.

For dessert, we had the Pull Apart Bread and it was just the best. Caramel, cinnamon, sugar, what’s not to love? Even our little one enjoyed it!

BANFF GONDOLA

The Banff Gondola is a 10 minute drive away. We booked our tickets in advance so it was super easy once we got there. I should mention all COVID protocols were in place and we felt safe at all times.

This adventure was the highlight of our trip. It was the first time our little girl went on the Gondola. I was a bit nervous but she did amazing on the 8 minute journey to the summit of Sulphur Mountain (2,292 feet).

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The Banff Gondola has something for everyone – a walk along the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, restaurants with stunning views and an interpretive centre for those inquisitive minds (currently closed – AHS).

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I am always amazed at the views from the top which encapsulate six stunning mountain ranges and the sweep of the Bow Valley. They are truly breathtaking.

FINAL THOUGHTS

We had a lovely Banff staycation over the weekend. It was everything we wanted for a mini -getaway. Pursuit offers so many great experiences that I highly encourage you to check out their site and book something!  

*This post was sponsored by Pursuit. All opinions are my own.