Top 5 Mountain Wedding Venues in the Alberta Rockies

By: Carol Ann Price

Whether you're more black-tie ballroom, country chic or somewhere in between, read our guide for pulling off a gorgeous wedding just outside Calgary, Alberta in the Canadian Rockies.

Solara Resort & Spa

Solara Resort & Spa is the ideal venue when you are looking for that ultra-chic resort to host your Kim Kardashian inspired all-white modern themed wedding. Who doesn’t love a monochromatic themed wedding but just make sure you consider adding some depth to your all-white bouquets and centrepieces by mixing in greenery and/or pale pink blooms to make the white really stand out.

Grande Rockies Resort

Rarely do you find a venue in the mountains that offers such a glamorous backdrop with modern crystal chandeliers and dark wood. Grande Rockies Resort provides an opulent and intimate room that suits silver or gold themed decors. I really like crystal stemware with tall non-floral structures such as forsythia to evoke an even more refined evening with plenty of drama.

Cornerstone Theatre

The extremely popular Cornerstone Theatre in Canmore offers a blank canvas for creating the ever popular rustic chic themed wedding. Sprucing up the décor with wood signage and centrepieces using birch vases, field flowers or even pine cones give flexibility for weddings to take place in the much more economical times of the year such as fall and winter. Maybe add some hay bales depending on how much country you have in you.

Silvertip

Spectacular views of the mountains with a gazebo ceremony and a stunning Canadian Rockies lodge for receptions creates the perfect backdrop for the classic and elegantly themed wedding. Silvertip inspires simple refined elegance. Think black and white colour palettes, groomsmen with classic black tuxedos and two-tone sequins bridesmaid dresses. For guest tables, tall white centrepieces accented by greenery and maybe some floating candles would be a nice touch.

Stewart Creek Golf

Stewart Creek offers my favourite views any time of the year with its wall of windows. I really like this venue set with a country club or preppy theme, especially in the summer when the golf course is open. Think groomsman in kilts and colours such as bright pinks, greens, and navy blues. This definitely is the perfect venue for someone inspired by Kate Spade or Ralph Lauren designed weddings. To add some whimsy maybe add some riding boots filled with roses to complete the club theme.

Top Things to do in Kelowna in Summer

By Lisa Kadane

Kelowna shines in every season, but during the long, hot days of summer, visitors can do everything from wine tour to set sail, and most activities and attractions are easily accessible from The Royal Kelowna. Need some inspiration for how to spend your summer holiday? Here’s a curated Kelowna bucket list.

Visit iconic vineyards on a Westside Wine Trail tour

Stop in for wine tastings at Mission Hill and Quails’ Gate estates, along with two or three more boutique wineries, on a tour with Uncorked Okanagan. Along with varietals from Merlot to Viognier, appreciate vineyard vistas and lake views while someone else does the driving.

Tee up at The Harvest Golf Club

Grab a fruit snack right from the tree while swinging through this championship-length, 18-hole golf course that’s nestled among fruit orchards in pastoral southeast Kelowna. After a great game, grab a bite at Masa’s Grill and pair local wine with seasonal favourites.

Set sail on Okanagan Lake

See the city and the surrounding Okanagan Highlands from the glassy surface of Okanagan Lake on a boat tour or private yacht charter. Kelowna Cruises runs sunset dinner sails with live entertainment in July and August, while Holy Doodle Sailing Charters offers a more intimate experience on an S2 8.5-metre yacht.

Cycle the Myra Canyon train trestle trail

Rent a bicycle from Myra Canyon Bike Rentals, located on site seasonally at the Myra Station trailhead, and then pedal 12 kilometres (one way) over 18 historic train trestles and through two tunnels as the most scenic stretch of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail bends around the deep canyon. Pack a picnic and stop for lunch at one of several viewpoints of Okanagan Lake and downtown Kelowna.

Dine with a lake view at the Red Fox Club

Watch the light fade across the valley from the patio at the Red Fox Club, located on the grounds of Indigenous World Winery in West Kelowna. Match award-winning wines with reimagined Indigenous cuisine such as the Bannock Board, Wild & Cultivated Mushroom Pie or Local Foraged Juniper Scented Beef.

Try a Vinotherapy treatment at Beyond Wrapture spa

Literally soak in wine during a Vinotherapy treatment at one of Kelowna’s premier day spas. Beyond Wrapture’s popular massage treatment rubs in Red or White Vino-lotion that’s high in antioxidants for a protective effect on the skin that also helps strengthen and repair connective tissue.

SUP a section of the Kelowna Paddle Trail

Exercise your abs on a stand-up paddleboard and explore part of Okanagan Lake’s new 27-kilometre paddle trail that passes by 20 beaches, two bird sanctuaries and the Downtown Marina between McKinley Beach and Bertram Creek Provincial Park. SUPs, kayaks and canoes can be rented from Okanagan Beach Rentals at four beach locations around town.

Hike to the top of Knox Mountain

Trek 300 metres above the lake for a great workout and the best views in town from the top of the city’s largest natural area park located just five minutes from downtown. Look for native species including the pretty Okanagan sunflower, stately ponderosa pine, and mule and white-tailed deer, on the two-kilometre (one way) grind up Apex Trail to the summit of this extinct volcano.

Bowl with a side of craft beer at BNA

Quaff a seasonal saison or hipster IPA between bowling frames at Kelowna’s coolest craft brewery. Located inside the historic British North American Tobacco Company building in the city’s vibrant Cultural District, BNA has become a hub for nightlife thanks to its food and drink, six 10-pin bowling lanes and retro-casual vibe (check out the retrofitted Airstream trailer that doubles as a bar).

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Looking for deals on Kelowna resorts?

5 New Western Canadian Adventures for 2019

Our favourite spots just keep getting better and better! There are endless things to do and explore when you visit Western Canada, but we’ve found some new adventures to add to your list!

Vallea Lumina - Whistler, British Columbia

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A post shared by Glenn Lee Robinson (@glennleerobinson) on Oct 1, 2018 at 6:15pm PDT

Old stories tell of the wondrous things that happen near Whistler. Between the trees, in the shadows of mountains, legends say there’s a hidden valley where stardust falls from the sky, filling all living things with its pure light.

Follow cryptic radio transmissions and the lingering traces of two long-ago hikers to find the scenic trailhead where the real journey begins. This pathway leads toward a place filled with beauty, and proof that the legends of Whistler are true.

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Ghost Walks - Canmore, Alberta

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those who walked here before.

A post shared by Amy Haslehurst (@brokensundowns) on Mar 20, 2019 at 12:32pm PDT

A spooktacular night unearthing ghastly ghosts, ghouls and mysterious events lurking in the shadows of Canmore’s historic streets. A local hangout built on haunted ground, restless spirits shadowing a historic landmark, and unexplained paranormal activity. Join us if you dare…

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New Terrain - Kicking Horse Mountain, British Columbia

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#tbt 🖤 magical @kickinghorsemtn 🙌🏽

A post shared by Stefan (@ski_hebu) on Jan 24, 2019 at 1:52pm PST

The Horse is back with more kick than ever! With a recent expansion, Kicking Horse Mountain now offers 4314 feet of vertical descent. The 5th biggest vertical in North America! 4314 feet (1314 meters) of vertical 3486 acres of skiable terrain 8218 feet (2504 meters) at the top.

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Maeg’s BBQ Boats - Kelowna, British Columbia

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A post shared by MAEG'S BBQ BOATS (@maegsbbqboats) on Jun 15, 2018 at 9:21pm PDT

Maeg’s BBQ Boats is a unique and fun experience for all ages. Take in the gorgeous sites of Kelowna as you cruise along the downtown waterfront on Okanagan Lake, all ​while enjoying delicious barbecue.

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Horne Lake Caving - Parksville, British Columbia

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A post shared by jdallamore (@jdallamore) on May 9, 2017 at 8:24am PDT

Adventure is in the air at Horne Lake on Vancouver Island. A stunning landscape sets the stage for a feast of outdoor experiences that feed any appetite from mild to wild. Year-round guided cave tours are offered where you can meander through a natural underground wonderland.

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Ready to book your next adventure?

Top Resort Meeting Trends for 2019

Wellness continues to be the driving force of many of the emerging trends in meetings. Our Bellstar event planners are seeing some exciting new trends this year.

Brain Food

We encourage planners to consider optimizing attendees memory and focus. Brain foods rich in antioxidants, good fats, vitamins and minerals provide energy and help suppress inflammatory cytokines that may be released during stressful meetings. Planners should focus menu selection around the top brain foods such as avocados, salmon, berries, dark chocolate, broccoli, coffee, whole grains and leafy green vegetables. 

Facial Recognition Check-in

Companies such as Zenus are now using facial recognition to make event check-ins up to five times faster.

Social Media Engagement

Most attendees seek out a caffeine fix on breaks and spend the time scrolling through their phones, but a donut wall is a treat worthy of getting your attendees to tweet or post on Instagram with your event hash tag.

Experiential Meetings

Meetings need to be memorable to drive home a point. In Canmore, Bellstar partners with White Mountain Adventures who offer a Canadian Signature Experience called heli-hiking. Small groups are transported by helicopter to a high alpine meadow. Guides will show you fantastic high alpine hiking and unsurpassed mountain views of the Canadian Rockies,  a perfect venue for a motivational speech.

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Our Bellstar Meeting Professionals are always ready to help you implement any one of these ideas to produce a truly engaging resort meeting for your team.

Or speak with a Bellstar Meeting Professional:

Alberta Properties

Stacey Mitchell
staceym@bellstar.ca
403.695.3204

BC Properties

Kim Bryceland
kimb@bellstar.ca
250.208.6277

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OUR PORTFOLIO OF RESORTS

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Solara Resort & Spa

Canmore, Alberta

Grande Rockies Resort

Canmore, Alberta

Kicking Horse Lodging

Golden, British Columbia

The Royal Kelowna

Kelowna, British Columbia

The Beach Club Resort

Parksville, British Columbia

Killer views, epic terrain, and Champagne powder — this is Kicking Horse

We were needing a break from it all. We wanted a real adventure to get our hearts pumping, legs hurting, and have killer views to go with it. We’ve heard murmurs about this epic ski town located on the outskirts of British Columbia.

If you’re reading this, it’s safe to say you’re on a cellphone, tablet or computer. You may be out with friends, on your lunch break at work, or beginning your long commute home just scrolling away. Simply put, our devices are always an arm’s reach away. These devices have become our lifeline for fast information and our main source of entertainment. We’re living in a society that’s fuelled by digital use, which allows us to stay instantly connected with the things we find most engaging. It’s so easy to get lost in a stream of adrenaline pumping videos, allowing hours to pass by. This content is designed to make us feel like we’re there experiencing it all. In reality, we’re simply choosing to observe more than we are staying active. When was the last time you truly disconnected and opted for wellness without the screen?

We were needing a break from it all. We wanted a real adventure to get our hearts pumping, legs hurting, and have killer views to go with it. We’ve heard murmurs about this epic ski town located on the outskirts of British Columbia. Tucked away amidst snowy alpine peaks in the town of Golden, BC, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is the perfect destination for high adrenaline skiing, a laid back atmosphere and some killer caesars. The mountain’s laissez-faire style and uncrowded atmosphere means there’s always enough of the fluffy white stuff for everyone. With average snowfalls reaching 700 cm or 23 feet, Kicking Horse is the perfect place to find those fresh powder turns. There is a reason it has been named the champagne powder capital of Canada!

When you first roll into Golden you can’t help but notice the scenic backdrop of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The massive runs carved into the mountain make you instantly feel the stoke to get on the hill for a day of riding. With access to five alpine bowls, countless chutes, and gnarly ridge lines, KHMR truly provides some of the best adrenaline-pumping in bound skiing in the world. We began the day exploring Crystal Bowl & Bowl Over mainly due to the accessibility. We wanted to feel out the terrain and god damn - we were simply blown away. There is a reason the Freeride World Tour has a stop in KH (we just missed it by a couple of days) — the terrain is unrivalled. No where else in the world can you take a single gondola right to the summit. Of course, this provides stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding national parks as you charge down one of the five alpine bowls and countless chutes. The snow experience is exceptional for people looking to push their limits and get a true taste of an outstanding Canadian resort.  

Double Blacks has you covered for your lunch and après. The restaurant/cafe is located at the base of the gondola and is a must for amazing food, local beers, local coffee and great vibes. Try the maple bacon caesar and you will never look back! Truly, this joint separates itself from typical on-mountain dining. Double Black provides healthy and unhealthy options a like and is served with a flare! In Golden, Whitetooth Brewing Company also offers a great après and gives you a glimpse into more of an authentic local scene. We had a true ski in/ ski out experience resting our heads at Glacier Mountaineer Lodge. We’re always keen on a post-ski hot tub, and the resort equipped us with that.

Overall, we were seeking an extreme wellness trip filled with adventure and adrenaline that would help us recharge from the digital world. We wanted the action minus the screen and couldn’t be more content with our choice to visit Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. We will undoubtedly return when an adrenaline recharge is needed.

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Guest post by Matt & Aaron from The Rolling Van Creative

Matt & Aaron make up The Rolling Van Creative, The duo are passionate outdoorsmen, professional photographers/videographers. Working their way across North America, they’ve been on the road for over 17 months, 35 states, 10 provinces and 1 territory, they stopped for a well needed break at Kicking Horse Lodging.

Best day yet at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

“We didn’t look for the powder. It found us!” Along with the family, Joanne plows through the powder and takes us on her latest ‘best day ever’ at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort at Golden, B.C.

Guest post by Joanne Elves

Courtesy of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

It was ‘That Day.’ You know what I’m talking about. The ‘That Day,’ that will burst from my lips when anyone asks, “What’s been your most epic day on skis?” There have been great runs, great jumps, and epic fails while skiing at resorts all over the world, but this is the day Kicking Horse Mountain Resort delivered an entire day of perfection.

As a Christmas present to our kids, we booked a few days in a condo at Glacier Mountaineer Lodge as soon as fall semester finals were done. It’s our way of selfishly hoarding them for a few days before the rush of the festive season and friends takes over. Having everything you need within walking distance from your place in the village frees up time for more important things – like skiing.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, only minutes out of the town of Golden, B.C., offers over 120 runs spread across five bowls using nearly 3,500 acres of terrain. It’s never been called an easy hill. With way more than half the runs classified as advanced and expert, it calls out the adrenaline junkies hungry for steep chutes pillowed with dry, fluffy powder. Good or bad, we raised such junkies.

We spent a few days on our favourite trails getting our snow legs back and took the annual family selfie. Lap after lap in the glades off Redemption Ridge or in CPR Ridge had us all begging for a day off.

The day before ‘That Day,’ we decided to strap on the skinny skis at Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre only a few kilometres from the lodge. With the prediction of over 30 cm to fall throughout the day, sticking in the trees on 35 kilometres of tracks was a great idea.

Courtesy of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

‘That Day’ we woke to blue skies and heaps upon heaps of powder. Instead of using our all-terrain skis, we rushed downstairs to Selkirk Sports and rented some performance Salomon skis.  The first run was into Bowl Over where thigh-deep powder billowed up on every turn! Far more snow than was predicted had landed. Panic mode wanted to creep in, but those fat skis did their job down the steeps, the chutes and the glades.

You know it’s a good day when you stop to catch your breath and look at the gorgeous mountain views and from somewhere in the trees you hear people hooting and hollering. That happened all day long.

Stopping for lunch when staying at any of the Bellstar properties at the base is a time-saver. Kick your boots off in the locker room and dash up to the condo for soup and sandwiches before heading out for more adventures. A quick stop at the café, Double Black provided the java-jolt I needed for the afternoon.

New terrain opened this season accessed either by heading up the stairs at the top of Whitewall or by dropping into Fuez Bowl and traversing over to boot pack up Middle Ridge to enter the next bowl. You have no idea how happy I was to find out the safety team wouldn’t be opening Ozone or Rudi’s Bowl that day. My kids would fearlessly be making that trek over to Ozone to jump into the chutes used for the Freeride World Tour events – and they’d expect me to follow.

Instead, we headed back to Super Bowl where there was still untracked snow. That’s the beauty of this resort, even days after a blizzard you can still find fresh terrain to blow through.

Courtesy of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

The only reason we stopped skiing was because the lift operators wanted to go home. The sun set while we soaked in the hot tub. While we relived the day dining at Peaks Grill – again, in Glacier Mountaineer Lodge, the groomers with their beaming lights rolled up and down the mountain – prepping the runs for the next day.

A trip back to the resort in January had my husband and I experiencing the thrill of hiking up Middle Ridge to drop into Rudi’s Bowl. Looking at the boot-pack from the chairlift, the effort looks daunting but just like the gold-seekers heading up Chilkoot Pass, you forge ahead for great rewards. Dropping into terrain that so few dare explore makes it even sweeter.

This ‘That Day’ might be replaced next winter when we repeat the visit to Kicking Horse and take the kids over to Middle Ridge. Until then, it will stay the best day ever.

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About the author: Joanne Elves is a travel writer who is always looking to tell the story in a way to inspire readers to explore. Her adventures can be found in publications including The Calgary Herald, WestJet Magazine, The Globe and Mail (Drive Section) and SnowSeekers.ca

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort has been the family favourite since her adrenalin junkies learned to ski on “It’s a Ten.”

Top 5 Western Canada Landscape Photographers On Instagram

With one click, we are photographically transported to all corners of the world — exploring beautiful places from the vantage point of these talented photographers, imagining ourselves alongside them, dipping our toes in streams and climbing up mountain ranges at sunset.

We’ve picked our top five Western Canada landscape photographers on Instagram. It’s photos like these that inspire us to drop everything to get outside and experience our beautiful countryside.

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stevint

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A post shared by Stevin Tuchiwsky (@stevint) on Oct 6, 2018 at 9:07am PDT

Sun-kissed mountains, foggy summits and goose bump inducing heights greet you on Stevin Tuchiwsky’s Instagram page. His style of photography gives us a first-person view, allowing us to be part of his latest excursion.

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markjinksphoto

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A post shared by Mark Jinks | Alberta Canada 🍁 (@markjinksphoto) on May 31, 2017 at 8:05am PDT

Patience is the name of the game for Mark Jinks and has it ever paid off! Mark has captured our sky in all its moods. From dancing aurora borealises to brooding storm clouds over prairie fields. Mark’s photos are a treat for the eye.

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beckylynnsim

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A post shared by Rebecca Simrose (@beckylynnsim) on Sep 11, 2018 at 6:22pm PDT

Grab a warm cup of tea and settle in — Rebecca Simrose’s photos will keep you enraptured for hours. Her moody, otherworldly photos have endless details to discover. Star trails over the mountains and lush green forests look fantastical through Rebecca’s lens.

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thismattexists

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A post shared by Matthew Massa (@thismattexists) on Jul 30, 2018 at 1:33pm PDT

Whether it’s teetering on the edge of a snowy mountain ledge or chancing upon a secluded cabin at the base of the Rockies, to glorious reflections in the turquoise waters of mountain lakes, Matthew Massa takes us on his adventures in Canada and beyond. Seeing the western Canadian landscape through his eyes opens ours to the beauty that we call home.

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Dudelum

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A post shared by Dan Lum (@dudelum) on Oct 23, 2016 at 9:34pm PDT

Peaceful. That’s the best way to describe Dan Lum’s photos. Dan is a great storyteller, capturing the essence of the landscape around him in clean, simply beautiful images.

Golden Adventures

Brigid takes us along on her outdoor adventure to Kicking Horse Resort at Golden, BC. Summer offers endless opportunities on the mountain.

Guest post by Brigid Scott

Want a fun challenge that will take your breath away and make you feel like you're a badass? Head to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and sign up for the Via Ferrata and Mountain Biking packages! 

Heading up the gondola to the summit of Kicking Horse Mountain was a great start to our July long weekend. We met our guide Richard at the summit and he hooked us up with all the gear we would need to safely ascend the route. After learning the ropes on the practice wall, we hiked the short trail to the base of the ascension route and clipped our carabiners in. The carabiner follows you along as a constant safety contact with the wall of the mountain. At each junction, you just slide it through the metal plate in order to continue on through to the next section. We crossed a single plank suspension bridge, then headed around and up the cliffs of the mountain, taking a short break on a large rock shelf before carrying on to some spicier sections of vertical and onto a wire bridge. Approaching the single length of cable, I had to take a breath; it looked a bit intimidating! But after another deep breath, slid my safety carabiner onto the section, grabbed onto the wire on top and stepped out onto the single cable and started moving across. Whew! (check out my Instagram Channel for a sweet video of the wire crossing).

A few more vertical sections that tested my upper body strength and then we popped out on top of the summit ridge! Whoo hoo! One last walk of the ridge and we were able to unclip and enjoy the summit. The weather improved for our time up top and we actually got some welcome sunshine. After enjoying the spoils, we headed down the trail and back to the climbing centre to drop our equipment off. The climbing took about 2 hours. We were pooped from the excitement, so we headed down and checked into our suite on the hill with Kicking Horse Lodging.  We finished off our evening with a lovely soak in the hot tub and returned to our room to relax with some wine in front of the fire place.

The next day, after a yummy breakfast and coffees at Double Black (across from the main gondola), we checked into the Performance Rental Centre for our downhill mountain biking lessons and rentals. Sander was an awesome teacher and he hooked us up with all the safety gear we needed to negotiate the mountain safely.  We both got shiny red bikes and headed to the mid-mountain gondola to load the bikes and ride it up. Even though the clouds were low and it was trying to rain/hail on us, we were so stoked. I was also very nervous, but Sander took us on a green trail to help me get a feel of the mountain.

He taught us about FLOW: fingers (only use one on the brake), level pedals, outside of the turns, weight balanced according to gravity and he gave us pointers for improvement. Our second run down we headed onto a blue run, which I was nervous about, but ended up being my favourite due to all the fun roly-polies (probably not the technical term). Since our lunch reservation was approaching, we paused our biking fun and headed up the main gondola to Eagle's Eye Restaurant, "Canada's Most Elevated Dining Experience". 

A lovely host seated us, and our cheerful waitress took our orders. Lunch was delicious and the cheesecake that we splurged on was divine. After a nice hot coffee, we headed back down for another run, this time on our own! It was super fun to rip down the trails and I couldn't believe how much of a work out it was! Elated but exhausted, we headed back to our sweet suite at the Palliser Lodge for another soak in the hot tub and relaxing around the fireplace. Looking out through the balcony windows and watching the rain was super peaceful after a busy, but awesome two days.

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The Rocky Mountain Scrambler

Guest blogger

Brigid Scott lives in Jasper, Alberta with her husband Mark.  They both love being teachers and take advantage of their proximity to the mountains to the fullest.

Brigid says taking photos of her beautiful surroundings has become a passion and she has taken advantage of all the beauty that surrounds her by getting out as often as possible to document the magnificence of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

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autumn savings - 25%

Enjoy the best of Golden when you stay a minimum of 2-nights.

Book until December 1, 2018 for stays from October 1 - December 20, 2018

Full payment required at time of booking. Non-Refundable. Non-Cancellable. Minimum 2-night stay. Maximum 5-night stay. Subject to availability. 

Blackout dates Glacier Mountaineer Lodge: Oct 1 – Nov 30.
Other blackout dates may apply.

Make a Splash on Vancouver Island

By Megan Niccolls

West coast visitors have so many options when it comes to exploring Vancouver Island's beautiful lakes, rivers and the ocean.  From finding treasured sand dollars on the beach to epic kiteboarding, there is a little something for visitors of all ages.

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nanaimo 

Whale watching

A post shared by Natalie (@natalieamanda) on Sep 15, 2016 at 7:20pm PDT

For those who have dreamed of witnessing a killer whale breaching out of the water, sea lions sunning on the rocks or pods of orcas swimming the Pacific Ocean shoreline, Nanaimo is the place to come. Nanaimo waters are home to transient orca, humpback whales, sea lions, harbour seals, porpoises, eagles, and more. Tours are available seven days a week.

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Parksville

Beachcombing

A post shared by Daniel Pi (@danielhtpi) on Aug 21, 2016 at 3:47pm PDT

Parksville Beach is known as Canada's riviera, with light sandy beaches stretching out for kilometres at low tide. The pockets of salt water left behind are perfect for finding seashells of every kind, fossils, sea glass and many other treasures. When the tide comes in, consider renting a kayak or paddle board to explore all Parksville Beach has to offer. 

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Ucluelet

Surfing lessons

A post shared by Endlessride (@endlessride_ca) on Jun 27, 2018 at 8:19am PDT

From beginner to experienced, we've found every surfer's paradise. Ucluelet, located near Tofino, is 25 km of pristine, sandy beached shoreline and offers some of the West Coast's best surfing. Here surfing is not only a summer activity - the ocean stays at around 10°c all year around. This is another great family activity, with lessons being offered for all ages. 

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Comox valley

Paddling

A post shared by Sienna (@siennamorningstar) on May 16, 2018 at 9:40pm PDT

Bring your kayak or rent some gear and be ready to explore! Take a relaxing day on the calm waters of Comox Lake or venture out to Courtenay River or even the ocean. Canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle boards are some of the locals' favourite ways to enjoy this beautiful valley.  

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Nitinat Lake

Kiteboarding

A post shared by Sara King (@designersarasquam) on Jul 10, 2018 at 9:58pm PDT

For the more adventurous, kiteboarding is something you are going to want to check out. Nitinat Lake is surrounded by ruggedly lush forest and home to one of the most consistent thermal-generated winds in BC, attracting kiteboarders and windsurfers from around the world. The windy season runs from May to September.

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A post shared by Beach Club Resort (@beachclubresort) on Sep 19, 2014 at 10:44am PDT

The Beach Club Resort is the perfect home base for Vancouver Island Adventures. Located in Parksville, the resort is a short drive to all our top five water destinations. 
Head out for the day and come back to relax in a luxury suite with a view of the ocean. 
 

6 Hidden Gems in the Rockies

We’ve picked six of our favourite off-the-beaten-path adventures in the Rockies.

TAKAKKAW FALLS, BRITISH COLUMBIA

A post shared by Lionel Gossweiler (@funmonster) on Aug 7, 2017 at 3:10pm PDT

Takakkaw Falls (meaning "magnificent" in Cree) is a breathtaking waterfall located in Yoho National Park. The falls are fed by the Daly Glacier, which is part of the Waputik Icefield. Tumbling 830 feet in one stretch and 1,260 feet in total, these falls are among the highest in Canada.  Take in the falls from a view far away or adventure to the base before setting out to explore Yoho's beautiful hiking trails. 

Takakkaw Falls is 1 hr and 11 min from Kicking Horse Lodging, the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

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EMERALD LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA

A post shared by JOEY MACKIN 🌎 (@joemackin) on May 31, 2018 at 7:43am PDT

As indicated by its name, this vivid, turquoise beauty is a gem you do not want to miss. Emerald Lake is the largest of Yoho National Park's 61 lakes, attracting tourists and photographers from all around the world. The pristine views are perfect for picnics on the lakeshore or a paddle through its tranquil waters by canoe. Take a hike out to the natural bridge to admire the Kicking Horse River as it carves a path through ancient rock.

Emerald Lake is 52 min from Kicking Horse Lodging, which is uniquely situated between six of Canada's most stunning national parks .

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CANYON CREEK ICE CAVES, ALBERTA

A post shared by sindykaka (@sindykaka) on Dec 7, 2014 at 8:45pm PST

This gem is a great option for a quick day trip for both new and experienced cavers. Located on Moose Mountain near Bragg Creek, AB, the Canyon Creek Ice Cave hike is a relatively easy 7 km, or an even quicker bike ride, ending with a slight scramble up to the entrance to the giant mouth of the cave. Make sure to pack some extra layers to keep warm while exploring as well as good safety gear and a headlamp. Eat your lunch on the sun warmed ledge of the cave while enjoying the spectacular views Canyon Creek Valley.

Canyon Creek Valley is 1 hr and 10 min from the Grande Rockies Resort — the perfect family getaway resort in the mountains. 

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ELK RIVER, ALBERTA

A post shared by Danica (@fishin_danica) on Aug 16, 2016 at 11:46am PDT

Touted as having the best fly fishing in North America, Elk River is a outdoorsman's dream. This short river is nestled in the Eastern portion of the Alberta foothills and drains into the Brazeau Dam. The avid fisherman can expect mostly catch and release fishing for Trout, Mountain Whitefish and Northern Pike.  Wade out into the wide, trailing river while enjoying the surrounding wildlife. For those wanting to enjoy this ideal fishing spot for a few days, Elk River Campsite is a great spot to set up for the night. 

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WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK, ALBERTA

A post shared by Pam Drover (@crown_of_the_continent) on May 30, 2018 at 6:03pm PDT

Here is an unsung treasure of southern Alberta Prairies.  Flanked by the Canadian Rocky Mountains and bordering Montana's Glacier National Park, Waterton National Park has an adventure for every visitor. Whether getting out on the lake, exploring Bison Paddock overlook, going on a Maskinonge adventure or driving the Chief Mountain Highway, it is a day well spent. Be sure to bring your cameras to capture the beautiful wildlife and views along the way. 

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MIST MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS, ALBERTA

A post shared by Ben (@suborbitalben) on Feb 28, 2016 at 7:44am PST

Mist Mountain Trail is a 9.8 kilometre out and back trail. Although an easy scramble, the elevation gain of nearly 1300 Meters makes this a difficult hike. But those with the drive to keep going will be rewarded near the summit with two small, natural hot springs. Rest your tired legs in the pools, filled with water running down ridges of steep, craggily rocks and foliage from inside towering cliffs above. Bring your pup along and be sure to pack bear spray as this is the heart of grizzly paradise. 

Mist Mountain is 1 hr and 12 min away from Solara Resort and Spa. Rest easy in luxurious accommodations following a good hike and one of the many treatment options from our spa, One Wellness.

Great Vancouver Island Drives

Summer is coming, which means it’s time for a great road trip! Beautiful scenery and wide open roads stretch out ahead, with many great stops along the way to your destination. We’ve picked three of our favourite day trips in and around Vancouver Island.

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Seattle, WA to Tofino, BC

(Complete trip - 9 hrs 30 min, 491 km)

Courtesy of Tourism Victoria

1. Seattle to Victoria  (first half - 4 hrs 50 min, 174 km)

While many people choose to drive the scenic route from Seattle to Port Angeles, in order to board the ferry along with your vehicle, there are a few other modes of transportation worth noting. 
Directly from Seattle, Clipper is a passenger only, high speed ferry, taking about two and a half hours. For a little extra money, a float plane is a unique way to travel around Western Washington and the British Columbia coast, or take a commercial flight for the 86 miles from Seattle to Victoria. If you choose one of these options, be sure to rent a car in Victoria upon arrival.

Courtesy of Butchart Gardens

Once in Victoria, be sure to check out the beautiful Butchart Gardens, Royal BC Museum or take a free tour of the Parliament Buildings. Grab a bite to eat along with some delicious coffee at the Marina Dockside Eatery. 

As you leave Victoria, make sure to stop at the viewpoint close to the summit to see breathtaking views over Brentwood Bay.

Courtesy of The Beach Club Resort

2. Victoria to Tofino (second half - 4 hrs 40 min, 317 km)

Fresh from your sightseeing in Victoria, we recommend driving the two hours to Parksville. Get out and stretch your legs on the famous Parksville Beach and dine oceanside at The Pacific Prime Restaurant. 

On your drive, make sure to explore the iconic and rare ancient Douglas fir ecosystem, Cathedral Grove. The biggest trees are about 800 years old and measure 250 feet high and 29 feet wide.

Breathtaking beaches will greet you as you drive down the Pacific Rim from Ucluelet to your final destination of Tofino. 

Courtesy of HelloBC.com

Relax in Hot Springs Cove, and explore one of the many shops and galleries in the village core on Campbell Street and Main Street. Tofino is an outdoor enthusiast paradise with its trails, hiking, beaches, wildlife viewing, storm watching, surfing and more. 

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Parksville, BC to Port Alberni, BC

(43 Min, 50.2 KM)

Courtesy of The Beach Club Resort

Parksville is home to the beautiful, expansive Parksville Beach. At low tide, the shore reaches almost one kilometre from the water — a beach combing enthusiasts delight! The area is located in a rare, UNESCO protected Biosphere Reserve. Another gem, Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a 12-minute drive from the beach. 

Courtesy of Coombs Country Market

A must see on your drive is the Coombs Country Market. It's not just for the great food that people visit the market, but also the goats on the Norwegian-style grass-covered roof. They are one of Coombs' most famous tourist attractions.

If you don't mind adding 26 minutes onto your trip, Stamp Falls is a neat place to stop and see the salmon swimming up stream. 

Once in Port Alberni, there are lots of activities for all ages. The Alberni Pacific "Steam" Railway takes you through the city and surrounding forests, returning you to the historical steam powered sawmill. Reserve a ride on The Lady Rose Marine services to see the wildlife and scenery. There are many wineries to try as well as the local favourite Bare Bones Fish and Chips restaurant. 

Along with excellent mountain and hiking trails, Port Alberni has outstanding salmon fishing. 

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Horseshoe Bay, BC to Parksville, BC

(2 hrs 57 min, 101.7 km)

Courtesy of Horseshoe Bay Village

Horseshoe Bay is Vancouver's jumping off point to Vancouver Island with several daily ferry departures. B.C.’s world-class ferry system delivers passengers and their vehicles across to Nanaimo. 

Nanaimo caters to different types of travellers. From the free spirited, the cultural explorer to the authentic experiencer. 

Courtesy of Tourism Nanaimo

Snorkel with the harbour seals, charter a fishing and crab guide. Nanaimo has many lakes and harbours to explore, accesible by Kayak, canoe or paddle boards. 

Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail Loop will inspire the artists among you. Cruise through the countryside to farmers markets, artisan studios, pubs and cafes. Before leaving Nanaimo, try out the delicious craft beer at White Sails Brewing.

Drive 30 minutes north to Parksville. Take a sunset walk on the boardwalk and spend the night at The Beach Club Resort in one of their luxurious beach front suites. 

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With so many hidden treasure destinations on Vancouver Island, we could fill every day with a new adventure. 

Our Top 5 Resort Meeting Trends in 2018

Non-traditional Meeting Venues

“More meeting planners are using non-traditional meeting venues and opting out of the conference hotel.”  

Our properties at Kicking Horse Lodging do not offer meeting space but groups are now opting to meet “on-mountain” or in local restaurants to combine work with some incentive R&R.

Security and Privacy

“Meeting planners are now more than ever conscious that hotels meet all necessary technological guidelines to prevent identity theft.”

Sabre’s recent data breach is causing headaches for hotels using their software such as Four Seasons, Trump Hotels, Kimpton Hotels and Red Lion Hotels.
Last year, Bellstar incorporated new technology and strict PCI compliance at all its properties to prevent hacking and to secure guest identities and credit card information both onsite and within the booking process.

Virtual Meetings and Training

“Despite the increased use of video and virtual meeting technology, off site meetings continue to offer a more focused and productive environment.”

Feedback from meeting planners at The Beach Club Resort in 2017 showed that meetings at this property offer a more focused learning experience than nearly any virtual meeting.

Anti-anxiety Trends

“From corporate layoffs to worldwide events the ever connected world
means more stress.”

Organizations' human resources teams are looking at budgeting more events to relieve employee stress.  At Solara Resort and Spa in Canmore there is a continued interest for bookings that combine spafacilities, yoga and other wellness activities to provide a fresh distraction to the stressors of everyday life.

Virtual Travel Companions

“Bellstar and many other hotel brands are looking at introducing this technology into guest rooms for 2018.”

As Amazon’s Echo increases in popularity, more guests will want to begin travelling with their own cloud based personal assistants and will be using them in-room to explore things to do locally, play music, answer questions and just provide companionship while on the road. 

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Or speak with a Bellstar Meeting Professional:

Canmore

Stacey Mitchell
staceym@bellstar.ca
403.695.3204

Vancouver Island & Kicking Horse

Kim Bryceland
kimb@bellstar.ca
250.208.6277

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OUR PORTFOLIO OF RESORTS

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The BEACH CLUB RESORT

Parksville, British Columbia

Solara Resort & Spa

Canmore, Alberta

grande rockies resort

Canmore, Alberta 

kicking horse lodging

Golden, British Columbia

Top 16 Things To Do in Canmore in Winter

The majesty of the Rocky Mountains pulls at our hearts all year around, but winter holds a special magic. We've made a list of our favourite things to do around Canmore, Alberta, and, in our gorgeous backyard playground.

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1. Dog Sled Tours

Dog sledding is a Canadian experience that can’t be missed. Glide down pristine mountain trails in hand-made oak sleds, led by highly trained guides. Snowy Owl Dog Sledding Tours offer an unforgettable experience.

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2. Art Tour

If it's too cold to explore outside, Canmore has public murals, galleries and festivals showcasing some of Alberta's best talent. From the public murals to the markets and festivals held year-round.

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3. Tavern Trivia at Tavern 1883

Tavern 1883 will test your general knowledge with trivia and chances to win prizes and gift cards. This fun Wednesday night includes happy hour, a late night menu, as well as learning some interesting trivia.

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4. Snowshoeing

Head out on the trails of fresh snow and explore our beautiful mountain valley landscapes and trails. View Tourism Canmore's trail guide.

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5. Fat Biking in Kananaskis Country

Get your bike out and enjoy the trails in Canmore. Alberta Parks Highline Trail, Meander Trail and Montane Traverse Trail offer a wide variety for riding. Map out your adventure today. 

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6. Grotto Canyon Ice Walk

Follow your Kananaskis Outfitters guide through a frosty canyon decorated with frozen waterfalls and ancient pictographs. This 4.2km trail with 100m of elevation gain is suitable for anyone over 8 years of age. The walk takes 2 to 2.5 hours.

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7. Rocky Mountain Soap Company Workshop Tour

Tour the Canmore Rocky Mountain Soap Company workshop and see how they make their 100% natural products. You will also receive a $20 gift card with an adult ticket, or a $5 gift card with a child ticket

11:00 AM – 12:15 PM MST

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8. Canmore Winter Carnival

Enjoy ice carving competitions, kids’ ice carving, skating parties, street hockey, log sawing competitions and more.  

February 1 - February 10, 2019

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9. Wildlife Distillery Tour

Get a close look at Wildlife Distillery. Learn the company history, process of craft spirit production, and sample delicious in-house made spirits.

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10. Wall Climbing at Elevation Place

Too chilly to venture out? Try out your rock climbing skills inside. Elevation Place offers a large pool, climbing gym, fitness gym, and numerous daily drop-in core classes.

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11. Family ice skating on the Canmore pond

Take the kids out to enjoy some skating, two blocks off of Main Street. Heated gazebos make it easy to change into your skates and warm up.

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12. Ice Climbing

Canmore and the Canadian Rockies offer some of the best ice climbing in the world. Yamnuska Mountain Adventures offers a wide range of ice climbing instruction and guiding for people of all skill levels.

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13. Live Music at Communitea

Select evenings of live music and good company. Communitea serves healthy, fresh food made from as many local and organic ingredients possible. Specializing in gluten free and vegetarian/vegan options.

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14. Mountain Meracato

Warm up with delicious gourmet coffee or a house-made soup, grilled panini, salumi and cheese platters, and beer and wine, served seven days a week.

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15. Murrieta's

Murrieta's is great for a special night out or casual dining. An elegant dining experience with small-town hospitality.  

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16. Shopping

The Canmore area is known for its local, authentic, mountain-town feel. Shop in our one-of-a-kind of shops and boutiques. From outdoor clothes, original art to specialty chocolates — we have it all. 

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Looking for great deals on Canmore resorts?

SEE DEALS AT GRANDE ROCKIES RESORT

SEE DEALS AT SOLARA RESORT & SPA

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Header photo by Brooke Wilson

New Year's Eve in Canmore 2018

New Year's Eve on the Pond

Celebrate New Year’s Eve Canmore style … outdoors! Great family event including ice skating, warming up around a bonfire with hot chocolate and hot dogs while you enjoy the fireworks.

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New Year's Eve dinner at Blake

Enjoy an evening of food and Champagne, party with a DJ while you ring in the new year.

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The Critters New Years Party

The Canmore Legion is hosting The Critters for a night of live music, gourmet bites, champagne and party favours.

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Gaucho Brazilian BBQ

Book your table for New Years Eve at Gaucho. They will be serving all the usual favorites, plus some more mouth watering additions to the menu.

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Rose & Crown New Years Party

Electric Squirrels will be performing popular covers and door fee includes party favours and a sandwich buffet at midnight. Tickets can be bought at the Rose & Crown or by phone.

Tel: 403 678 5168

12 Days of Christmas Fun From the Rockies to Vancouver Island

Cave tours

(Near Canmore, Alberta)
Join a guided tour of the wild, undeveloped cave under Grotto Mountain.

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Christmas Craft Fair

(Golden, British Columbia)
Enjoy some Christmas inspiration and pick up unique gifts made by local artisans.

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Whale watching

(Near Parksville, British Columbia)
Catch a glimpse of some incredible Orcas and Humpbacks in Cowichan Bay.

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Milner Christmas Magic

(Near Parksville, British Columbia)
A family festival of lights and music in the garden, including visits from Santa Claus.

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Christmas in Canmore

(Canmore, Alberta)
Stroll the picturesque downtown and discover discover unique shops, boutiques and galleries.

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Gondola ride

(Golden, British Columbia)
Explore the breathtaking views of Kicking Horse Mountain from 7,700 ft high.

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Wild Life Distillery Tour

(Near Canmore, Alberta)
Get a close up look at the production facility and sample some delicious house-made spirits.

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Dog Sledding tours

(Near Canmore, Alberta)
Glide down beautiful mountain trails, pulled by a team of enthusiastic dogs.

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Johnston Canyon Icewalk

(Near Canmore, Alberta)
See the awe-inducing glittery frozen Upper Falls towering 30 feet high.

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Skate the pond

(Canmore, Alberta)
Get your skates out and enjoy the views while you glide on the ice.

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Heli & Cat Ski

(Near Golden, British Columbia)
Take an adventure in Golden’s vast and pristine glacier terrain.

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Wine and Cheese Tours

(Near Parksville, British Columbia)
Wagon rides and private wine & cheese tasting await you on your private tour.

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LOOKING FOR GREAT DEALS ON RESORTS IN WESTERN CANADA?

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LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT?

Bellstar E-Gift Cards are the gift of a vacation at any Bellstar Resort.

E-Cards are delivered by email — so they can't be sent right away (or scheduled for Christmas!)

Available in any amount.

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Vancouver Island — Canada's Unknown Wine Destination

The soothing mountain and ocean views from your private balcony at The Beach Club Resort in Parksville are exactly what you need to start the perfect romantic getaway in Vancouver Island and discover Canada’s unknown wine destination.

Choose from our expert tips to plan for your memorable trip to the Pacific Coast and find out why Vancouver Island was number one island in Continental US & Canada in the 2015 World’s Best Awards by Travel + Leisure magazine. 

Enjoy Outdoor Activities by the Sea at Your Doorstep

The sun-kissed Parksville Beach Boardwalk and the lulling waves of the Pacific Ocean are the perfect backdrop for an energizing morning run or a long evening walk at The Beach Club Resort. 

The hotel is located in the heart of Parksville which means you have easy access to a variety of outdoor activities for two. Call ahead and rent a kayak for two at Adventuress to explore the West Coast waters. Or discover the stunning views of water falls while hiking the trails at Little Qualicum Falls, 15 minutes away from Parksville. 

Explore Top-Rated Wineries Less than One Hour Away

You won't need to go too far from The Beach Club Resort to explore some of the top-rated Vancouver Island wineries, making them the perfect destination for a day trip.

The Millstone Estate Winery, a small, family-owned maker of handcrafted wines, is just a half-an-hour drive from the hotel. Visit for some of the finest wines aged in oak, the breathtaking views of the Millstone River Valley, and the organic eggs produced by free range chickens roaming around the vineyard, rated by locals as some of the best they've tried. 

For award-winning wines, the Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery is the right place to visit. Committed to innovating and producing outstanding wines, the estate has won, so far, over 78 international and national awards, including two double gold medals for their white wine 2014 Beaudacious and their red wine 2015 Foch Cab. Take a bottle home with you or become a Beaufort Case Club member for exclusive events.

Discover the Best Parksville Restaurants for Wine Lovers

Wickaninnish Inn is not the only Wine Spectator award-winning restaurant in Vancouver Island. At The Beach Club Resort, savor the finest of the West Coast cuisine mastered by Executive Chef Rick Davidson at the Pacific Prime Restaurant & Lounge, paired with local and international wines, handpicked by the resident sommelier. The epic ocean and mountain views from the beachfront patio complement the ideal dining experience.

Realm Food Co., a restaurant focusing on sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients within walking distance from the hotel, and Bistro694, combining international recipes with local ingredients in Qualicum Beach, are also part of the list of top-recommended restaurants in the area.

Complete Your Itinerary with these Must-Visit Spots

Coombs Old Country Market started off as a stall on the side of the road selling fruit to travellers on their way to the West Coast in 1973, run by an immigrant couple from Norway. It's not just for the great food that people visit the market. The goats on the Norwegian-style grass-covered roof are one of Coombs' most famous tourist attractions. Enjoy lunch on the terrace as the goats mind their own business on the green roof above you.

At Canada's unknown wine destination, no trip is complete without sampling some local cheese. At Morningstar Farm, Little Qualicum Cheeseworks has been crafting the best artisanal cheeses for over 15 years. Take a self-guided tour or book a guided one in advance to learn all about this local family-owned company. 

Canmore with the Family

An Incredible Vacation The Whole Family Will Love

You can't beat Canmore for a family vacation. Whether young or young at heart, there's something to pique all interests. 10 Hikes has put together some great suggestions for how to make the most of your time — from activities to where to stay, and where to dine. And, if hiking is your thing, be sure to check out their directory of the best hikes in Canmore and Banff.

A Top Hiking Getaway in the Canadian Rockies

Ready for an adventurous start to fall?

Our friends at 10 Hikes have compiled some top hikes in the Canmore area complete with all the other recommendations you need to round out an adventurous getaway (including some R&R at Solara Resort & Spa).