The perfect location to enjoy the holidays is most definitely the mountains! The beautiful views and Christmas vibes are unparalleled and after spending the past two years cooped up at home we couldn’t wait to visit when Pursuit invited us out. Banff has so many fantastic attractions and fabulous places to stay and dine that we are thrilled to share with you!
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Where To Stay
During our visit, we were staying at the Elk + Avenue hotel located on the main street in Banff. We loved being just a few steps away from the downtown and a 10-minute drive from the gondola. The mountain views from our room were absolutely stunning and we had tons of room to spread out. The deluxe two queen room and the loft are perfect for families and we would definitely be back with our kids!
Our favorite features:
- Heated unground parking
- Coffee shop next door
- Spacious and updated rooms
- Onsite dining
- Pet friendly
- Full-sized lockers for ski equipment
- Pursuit gift shop + experiences
- Large glass shower
Where To Dine
Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen
This restaurant is located at the top of the mountain! After riding up the gondola and exploring the breathtaking views head on up and enjoy a family-friendly meal. This is a buffet-style restaurant with tons of delicious dishes that everyone is sure to enjoy. Some of our favorites were the carving station that had beef brisket, gruyere & bacon spaetzle, grilled pork loin with an apple cranberry compote, flatbreads, and lots of delicious desserts. We paired our meal with their winter sangria and it was perfect!
Farm & Fire
Located on the main floor of the Elk & Avenue hotel this restaurant serves up meals that include ingredients from Canadian farmers. While I haven’t had the chance to try out their lunch and dinner menus I have enjoyed brunch there several times and it is incredible. My husband is a self-proclaimed eggs benny snob and they serve one of the best! We love having such a phenomenal restaurant right in the lobby of our hotel. Whether you are grabbing an early morning breakfast with your family or late night drinks and appys with friends you can expect that they will knock it out of the park.
What To Do
There is never a shortage of activities to do while visiting the mountains but during this time of year I am a sucker for anything festive. Pursuit has several fun experiences for your family to enjoy.
Elf Express
Get picked up by some of Santas special helpers in a decked-out 1920s coach and be whisked off to Sulfur mountain. On the way enjoy a fun story told by your elf chauffeur to get you into the Christmas spirit. Unfortunately, we were unable to join the group for this portion of the trip but we can’t wait to come back again and enjoy it.
Cost
$79/Adult $39/Child
Includes
Pick up and drop off at either the Elk & Avenue or Mt Royal hotels and gondola tickets
When you arrive at the gondola after your magical ride in the elf express you can enjoy a Christmas wonderland! Pursuit has decked out their gondola experience with all kinds of family-friendly fun to make your holidays magical.
Enjoy a wide variety of holiday activities at the top of Sulfur mountain including:
- Visit Santa
- Christmas Carolers
- Cookie Decorating Packages
- Feature Christmas Film
- Sugar Shack Maple Toffee
- North Pole Bar
- Craft Decorating Packages
Weekends, Nov 20 – Dec 19
Daily, Dec 20 – 30
Prices vary per day
Children 5 and under ride for free!
One free child admission for each paying adult when you visit before 12 noon
*Disclosure: We were hosted for this visit but as always all my opinions are my own*
