Day 27 Western Adventure

Day 27       

Although the views are amazing, the mountains put you in awe every time you look at them (and you are always looking at them because they are everywhere), Todd and I are ready (okay, not sure if ready is the right word) to come home.

Today was a low-key day. We toured around Banff taking in the sights, went for lunch, did some browsing at the stores, then back to the B&B to plan our route home.

We drove up Mt. Norquay which is a ski area in the winter. From the lookout, you can see the town of Banff below and many of the glacial waters. Today was a bit hazy, but still the view is breathtaking.

Next we went to the Cascade Gardens and walked around. It is 12 acres of land with walking paths through numerous flowers of varying heights and stunning colours.

The morning was a little chilly after the rain last evening, but we decided to check out Banff Upper Hot Springs – what a disappointment. Hot spring water flows naturally from Sulphur Mountain (the mountain we visited yesterday); you can smell the sulphur. We expected a natural-looking pond/pool in which to soak in the 39° C  spring water, but it was just a plain old swimming pool…..just didn’t have appeal.

Last stop was the Bow River Falls viewpoint. The 623 km river is comprised of numerous rapids and mini falls. It flows through Banff National Park making its way towards Calgary and beyond. The Bow River is part of the South Saskatchewan River system.

Lunch was at the Bear Street Tavern – well known for their pizzas. We shared a Home Garden Salad with a Cucumber Vinaigrette Dressing, and The Big Bird Pizza (chicken, bacon, spinach, onions, goat cheese, mozzarella, and pesto on a thin crust). Delicious!

The remainder of the afternoon was spent looking around in the various shops. While I really wanted a pair of yellow gold Ammolite earrings, I just couldn’t justify the price (to Todd’s relief….).

For our last “real” night of vacation (10 hr. days driving, doesn’t count), we went to The Terrace Restaurant, rated #1 on TA. Todd and I shared the Smoked Duck appetizer (thinly sliced duck breast on artesian salad with raspberry vinaigrette and candied walnuts), then Todd had the Alberta 6 oz. Tenderloin with Marsala jus, foie gras mashed potatoes, beets, and snap peas.

I had the Elk Medallions served on a rhubarb chutney with brandy jus, asparagus and summer squash, and coffee infused mashed potatoes.

For dessert, instead of coffee to go with the Maple Crème Brulee, we ordered Martinis (traditional for Todd and Chocolate for me).

This meal was a delicious ending to our Western Adventure.

After dinner, Todd bought a Cuban cigar for our walk around the downtown before going back to the B&B. I continued my quest to find a pair of Ammolite earrings – and I was successful! – plus I got them to throw in bear bells for Todd when he bikes……

We know we have said this before, but the mountains are truly an amazing sight! At times they look surreal, like a painted backdrop. We don’t think you could ever take the view for granted…..