A winter visit to SkiBig3 in Banff National Park is, in a word, magical. From stunning vistas and vibrant towns to delicious ski turns and Canadian hospitality - every moment is rich with details that will linger in your memory. That's why we've rounded up six apres experiences - the ultimate guide to experiential apres in Banff and Lake Louise - that go beyond post-ski pints, to pique your interest and delight the senses.
Banff's craft bevie scene has blossomed in recent years. Many local bars and restaurants serve up handmade creations crafted with locally sourced ingredients, whether it be grain from an Alberta prairie field, spruce tip from Canadian Rockies' forests, or glacier water that sources the local lakes and rivers. At Park Distillery, distillery tours run throughout the week and allow guests to discover the steps behind their spirits.
Photo by Anna Robi / Park Distillery + Restaurant.
A steaming cup of fine loose-leaf tea warms your hands as you take in the mountain vistas at your window-side table. An intricate tower of sweet and savory treats is placed before you – Victorian scones, dainty finger sandwiches, macaroons and cakes, and even more, all crafted with care. This après experience at both Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise will leave you feeling like royalty. Insider Tip: book your reservations ahead of time and begin your après early. Afternoon tea runs from approx. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This classic Mt. Norquay experience is not to be missed! From the top of the North American chair, the Cliffhouse Bistro maintains the retro-cool look of a European chalet with mid-century modern décor. Delight your taste buds with regionally inspired by Albertan flavours, at one of their Starlight Dinners as you enjoy uninterrupted views over the town of Banff.
Cliffhouse Bistro at mt. Norquay
Why not take your hot chocolate to a mountain top? These winter hikes are easily accessible and best enjoyed later in the season. When daylight hours stretch into the evening, there’s more time to enjoy the stunning vistas. Rent a pair of microspikes and fill your backpack with hearty snacks and extra layers to make the most of your mountain picnic. This is an unconventional apres in Banff idea for those who love the outdoors!
Did you know Banff's hottest new sushi bar, Hello Sunshine, has karaoke too? They've got two rooms in the back, perfectly fitted out with discos balls, speakers, and your favourite tracks. Rent a private room with 6-8 friends and have cocktails and sushi delivered right to your table.
Hello Sunshine, located on Wolf Street, has two private karaoke rooms for your and your friends. | Photo by Banff Hospitality Collective
Mark your calendar for January, as a magical winter festival comes to Banff and Lake Louise. SnowDays is a highlight of the winter season in Banff National Park as massive snow sculptures emerge throughout the town of Banff. Kids will love their larger-than-life PlayZone (built from real snow) and all ages will be wowed by the main spectale - Skijoring (pictured below).
SnowDays winter festival is a great time to plan your Canada ski vacation around. It always happend at the end of January. | Photo by Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Ready to bring your apres game to a new level? Call our SkiBig3 Vacation Specialists today at 1-844-754-2443 to ask questions about your incrtedible destination. Plus, be sure to check out great Ski & Stay Packages available now.
