Winter Itinerary: 3 Days of Winter Romance in Banff and Lake Louise

Step one in disconnecting from the everyday and reconnecting with your romantic side is simple: head for the hills. In this case, the hills are the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park, and the moment you arrive, you’re guaranteed to be swept up by their presence. When wintertime comes in Banff and Lake Louise, a sense of togetherness descends with the falling snow and makes this winter wonderland the perfect time and place for a romantic holiday getaway.

Day 1: Escape to the Mountains

Make your base camp at the feet of giants in a charming alpine cabin. Perfectly rustic and romantic cabins are waiting amidst the forest at Baker Creek by Basecamp, and the Woodland Cabins at the Juniper Hotel.

Check-in early and bundle up for dog-sledding – an adventure made for two. Greet your eager dog team, and then cocoon yourselves inside the sled as your musher gives the dogs the signal they’ve been waiting for, and you glide smoothly across the sparkling white wilderness.

As the late afternoon sun dips down towards the peaks, take the Banff Gondola upwards to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Wander the observation decks and watch the night sky come to life as it only can in the crisp cold air of winter. To complete this ultimate date night, visit Sky Bistro for an enchanting meal high above the glittering lights of Banff.

Day 2: Charm & Wonder in Lake Louise

The village of Lake Louise – and the stunning peaks surrounding it – are transformed during the winter season. The magic of a mountain Christmas is alive here and carries through the winter season. To discover it for yourselves, rent ice skates in Lake Louise and carve twin tracks along the frozen surface of this immense lake.

Explore further along the snowy shores of the lake on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. It’s the kind of experience that is so genuinely romantic you may not realize it until you look back at the photos of the snow-dusted horses and traditional wooden sleigh against the backdrop of the mountains.

The Station Restaurant in Lake Louise is a living reminder of the rich history of Banff National Park, and it’s the perfect place for dinner. Dine amidst treasures from the past in the historic train station building, where the trip of a lifetime for countless couples began in the early days of mountain exploration.

Day 3: Time for Two in Banff

Walking through snowy downtown Banff clasping mittened hands, there’s no denying that the mountains bring out everyone’s inner romantic. Go ahead and indulge yourselves in the shops of Banff Avenue and Bear Street. The holiday spirit is evident in every smiling face and, most of all, at the wondrous Spirit of Christmas store.

Take some time for true relaxation at the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where the mineral waters are soothing to body and soul. For your final evening, take part in a culinary adventure at Lupo or Brazen – two of the newest additions to Banff’s vibrant dining scene. Reflect on the memories you’ve created here in the mountains, and make a vow to return for more to come.