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Top 10 Romantic Getaways in Alberta
One time, we got lost on the backroads of Alberta, with only the stars above and a map that seemed more like a puzzle. It turned into an impromptu adventure, finding hidden gems and cozy nooks perfect for couples—sometimes, getting lost is the best way to find new places!
Don’t worry, as we don’t plan on keeping these finds to ourselves! Read on for our top picks of Alberta’s most romantic getaways, from quaint mountain retreats to serene lakeside havens.
Mount Engadine Lodge
Address: 1 Mount Shark Rd, Canmore, AB T1W 0B9, Canada
Website: https://mountengadine.com/
Contact Details: +15878070570
Price: $$$
At Mount Engadine, you’re treated to an unplugged escape from the hustle of everyday life. Here, the absence of cell service and televisions encourages you and your loved one to reconnect with nature and each other.
It’s an ideal setting for those seeking a blend of wilderness adventure and comfort. The lodge offers a luxurious yet rustic experience, far removed from the concept of roughing it in the wild which adds a balance of closeness and adventure all in one!
What makes Mount Engadine truly special is its proximity to some of the best hiking trails in the Rockies. Just a five-minute drive away, you can find yourself at the trailheads to Smutwood Peak and Tent Ridge, ready to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Alberta.
Pro Tip:
The lodge offers delicious, locally-sourced meals including a customized packed lunch for your day adventures, an afternoon tea with a sumptuous charcuterie board, and a three-course dinner. The meals are served in the comfort of your room, adding an intimate touch to your stay.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Address: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis Village, AB T0L 2H0, Canada
Website: http://knordicspa.com/
Contact Details: +14035916800
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM to 9 PM
Price: $$
Ready for a cozy escape in Alberta? The Nordic Spa at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge awaits! Just a stone’s throw away (40 minutes, to be exact) from the charming Town of Canmore and nestled near Nakiska Ski Resort, this outdoor spa paradise is a hit with visitors year-round.
Winter at the spa is a unique delight. Surrounded by a serene, snowy landscape, the contrast between the crisp air and the warmth of the hot tubs and saunas is simply unforgettable.
Pro Tip:
For a truly immersive experience, plan your visit during a light snowfall. The soft snowflakes add a magical touch to the spa’s already tranquil ambiance, elevating your relaxation to a whole new level. It’s a well-kept secret among regulars that transforms a simple spa day into an enchanting escape.
Banff Springs Hotel
Address: 405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J4, Canada
Website: http://www.fairmont.com/banff-springs
Contact Details: +14037622211
Price: $$$
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, affectionately known as “The Castle,” is a must-visit for a touch of royal flair.
But here’s the real treat: visit during Christmas for the ‘Christmas at the Castle’ experience. The hotel transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with dazzling decorations and a lineup of holiday events that are nothing short of magical.
From the first-ever Christmas Concert Series featuring Canadian musicians to the unique Thirsty Reindeer holiday bar, there’s an air of festive cheer around every corner.
Pro Tip:
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, you’ll be delighted to know the hotel is very pet-friendly. The hotel’s breathtaking surroundings offer both you and your pet an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature.
Drumheller
Address: Drumheller, AB, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Price: $$$
Exploring Drumheller (drumheller restaurants) in Alberta is like stepping into another world. Known as the dinosaur capital, it’s more than just fossils and prehistoric echoes.
The landscape here, with its unique badlands and hoodoos, is a hiker’s dream, offering a mix of otherworldly beauty and geological wonder.
The Hoodoos Trail is a must-see, with its alien-like rock formations that dominate the landscape. It’s a short and sweet loop, but packed with awe-inspiring sights.
For those wanting to delve deeper into the badlands, Horseshoe Canyon Trail offers a 2.5-mile hike through captivating terrain, sculpted by time and the elements.
Pro Tip:
Drumheller is famously known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World.” Embark on the Dinosaur Trail, which leads to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, an unparalleled center for paleontological research renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils
Jasper Park Lodge
Address: 1 Old Lodge Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/jasper
Contact Details: +17808523301
Price: $$$
Embark on a romantic retreat to Lac Beauvert in Jasper, a pristine gem where the water’s clarity rivals the sky’s bluest hues.
Your sanctuary? The Jasper Park Lodge. This isn’t your usual hotel; it’s an upscale summer camp, with cozy lakefront cabins that redefine mountain vacations.
While the Jasper Park Lodge offers stunning views and an excellent base for exploring Jasper’s natural beauty, keep in mind some rooms may feel a bit dated.
However, the focus here is on the great outdoors, so let the breathtaking surroundings be your main attraction. Do check on amenities like air conditioning when booking, as not all rooms have it, and delays in check-in might occur.
Pro Tip:
For your stay, opt for a cabin close to the lodge if long walks aren’t your thing, and brace for a mesmerizing experience in Jasper’s heart. Your love story deserves a setting as enchanting as this!
Red Deer’s Heritage Ranch
Address: 6300 Cronquist Dr, Red Deer, AB T4N 7E8, Canada
Website: http://www.heritageranch.ca/
Contact Details: +15878023707
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM to 9 PM
Price: $$$
For another romantic escape in Alberta, the collaboration between Red Deer’s Heritage Ranch and Cambridge Hotel offers a unique experience.
Enjoy a five-course dinner at one of Red Deer’s top restaurants, renowned for its romantic ambiance. Your stay includes a convenient shuttle service to Heritage Ranch, where you can indulge in a private carriage ride, perfect for couples seeking a special moment together.
To top it off, unwind in the hotel’s jacuzzi suite, adding a touch of luxury to your romantic getaway.
This combination of fine dining, scenic ranch tours, and relaxing accommodation creates an unforgettable romantic retreat—and the best part, it won’t cost you and your partner an arm and a leg to enjoy!
Pro Tip:
For a truly romantic getaway in Red Deer, consider the collaboration between Heritage Ranch and the Cambridge Hotel. This package offers the perfect blend of luxury and unique experiences, making it an ideal choice for couples looking for a special retreat.
Smoky Lake
Address: Smoky Lake County, AB T0A 3N0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Price: $
For a delightful fall getaway in Alberta, Smoky Lake is the perfect destination. The town’s famous Pumpkin Fair and Weigh-off also happens every fall and is an event not to be missed.
It’s a celebration packed with activities, including a car show, a pumpkin decorating contest, and various town-wide festivities.
Besides the Pumpkin Fair and Metis Crossing, Smoky Lake offers a peaceful escape at Hanmore Lake. It’s ideal for a picnic or a paddling adventure in the serene surroundings.
After a day full of activities, treat yourselves to some of the local dining options in Smoky Lake, where you can savor delicious meals that celebrate local flavors. And don’t forget to check out the unique shopping spots in town for some memorable souvenirs or gifts.
Pro Tip:
When visiting Smoky Lake for the Pumpkin Fair, plan to stay for the whole weekend to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and festivities. Also, consider booking accommodation in advance as the event draws a considerable number of visitors to the area.
Tekarra Lodge
Address: Highway 93A South, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: https://tekarralodge.com/
Contact Details: +17808523058
Price: $
For those looking for a romantic escape in Alberta, Tekarra Lodge’s “Romance in the Rockies” package is a perfect choice.
This special getaway includes a two-night stay at the lodge, complete with sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries upon your arrival, creating an immediately enchanting atmosphere.
Guests have shared positive experiences about their stays, highlighting the peaceful and intimate environment, perfect for romantic getaways.
Dining at the Tekarra Restaurant is a treat, with tasty and well-presented meals. While some guests noted the slow service, the overall experience has been reported as very positive, especially for special occasions like anniversaries.
Pro Tip:
When booking the “Romance in the Rockies” package, it’s a good idea to confirm your dining and activity preferences in advance to ensure a personalized and smooth experience.
Crooked Creek Ranch
Address: 3000 Co Hwy 517, Fraser, CO 80442, United States
Website: http://crookedcreek.younglife.org/
Contact Details: +19707266690
Opening Hours: 24/7
Price: $
Another great romantic retreat in Alberta is Crooked Creek Ranch which offers an ideal blend of tranquility and adventure.
This hidden gem, nestled in the scenic southwest corner of Alberta, provides a unique bed and breakfast experience amidst 40 acres of stunning landscape. It’s a perfect destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in nature.
Imagine waking up to a magnificent mountain sunset or a serene prairie sunrise, setting the mood for a day filled with exploration or relaxation.
You and your partner can choose from various activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, or hiking.
Pro Tip:
To make the most of your romantic getaway at Crooked Creek Ranch, consider planning your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. This timing allows you to avoid the peak tourist crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the ranch and its surroundings.
Athabasca Falls
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Price: $$$
Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park is an extraordinary choice for you and your partner! While it’s not the highest waterfall in the Canadian Rockies, its power is undeniable, making it a captivating sight.
The Athabasca River, fed by glaciers from the Columbia Icefield, crashes down over a layer of hard quartzite, creating a stunning display against the softer limestone beneath.
Visiting Athabasca Falls is convenient and accessible too! There’s a large free parking area, and the falls are just a short walk away on a boardwalk, making it easily accessible for most people.
Pro Tip:
The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, ensuring a more peaceful experience. Athabasca Falls is open year-round, each season offering a unique view of this natural wonder.
