On Top of the World – Banff Gondola

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being on top of the world and the Banff Gondola makes this feeling possible.  Located in Canada’s first national park the gondola whisks you up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.  After a short ride, you will find bliss in a sanctuary of mountains.   But riders beware as the beautiful views up 7500 ft high will most likely  take your breath away.

The last time I rode the Banff Gondola was in my childhood hence I don’t remember too much.  So when I had the opportunity to spend a day of wellness out in the mountains,  I was more than excited to create new rocky mountain experiences and memories.

The Gondola – Banff’s #1 Attraction

When I arrived at the top I was greeted with breathtaking spectacular 360-degree views of 6 different mountain ranges.  The weather was remarkable that day and I couldn’t have asked for better conditions.   A warm 20 c degrees with a subtle breeze, clear skies and a few low lying clouds nestled around the mountain tops.

Also available at the top is a scenic boardwalk that leads to Sanson’s Peak which offers a stunning view of the town of Banff.

The Banff Gondola is a great family experience as kids ages 5 and under are free.  Book in advance and save 10% on Gondola tickets.  Click here for ticket pricing and specials.

Mountain Top Yoga

First order of wellness, a 1 hour yoga class on the rooftop terrace.  Inhaling and exhaling these views was absolutely incredible.  This in the sky yoga has set the standard so high I don’t think I will ever want to do indoor yoga ever again.  These complimentary yoga classes are offered every Sunday throughout the summer and hosted by Lululemon.

Another summer event offered on this terrace which I will definitely come back for another day is the Sunset Festival daily from 7-10pm.   In celebration of Banff’s most special time of day, watch the beautiful sunset while you sip on beer and nibble on bites with local artists.

Sky Bistro – Dining in a Mountain Sanctuary

Even more to discover after yoga, is the perfect pairing of mountain views with fabulous flavours of Canada at the Sky Bistro.  Dining packages are offered that include admission and access to activities at the Banff Gondola.  For more dining package information or to make a reservation click here.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

After a satiating lunch at the Sky Bistro, my day of wellness continued into the afternoon at the world famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.  Built in the 19th century it is the legendary landmark in the town of Banff and is a year-round mountain resort.  It offers a rich tradition of culture, history, elegance and hospitality.

Willow Stream Spa

Within this luxury hotel is the award winning European-style Willow Stream Spa where waterfalls and mineral pools rejuvenate and provide healing with alpine air and sacred waters.  For spa reservations click here.

Vermillion Room Bar & Brasseire

After the spa, I was very excited to visit the Vermillion Room.  Even though it was my first time at the restaurant, it was not my first time experiencing the food.  A few months ago I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Cochon555 event hosted right here in this very same hotel where Vermillion Room’s JW Foster won the friendly competition (read about my Cochon555 Banff experience here).

Newly renovated, the Vermillion room is grand and captivating.  The delightful menu is where French elegance meets Canadian charm.  The space at the bar is vast as is its list of wines, beers and cocktails.  Pictured below is one of their newest concoctions “The Celery Gimlet” made with gin from local Wild Life Distillary.

Wellness Fulfilled in a Day

My day in Banff was not only filled with wellness, it was all experienced within a day.  Not often can we afford to take a lot of time out of our busy lives to treat ourselves.  A day trip is all that is needed for an amazing experience on the mountain top.  Take in various activities on top of the world,  or venture back down into town and pamper yourself some more at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.  Either way you will be sure to feel revitalized and rejuvenated with wellness.

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* This post was in partnership with Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.  All opinions are my own.