The Ski Independence Guide to Ski Holidays to Alberta, Canada in 2019/20

Winter 2019/2020

Discover Canada’s Rockies: Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper Book by 31 May 2019 for the best prices and exclusive Ski Independence offers

www.ski-i.com/alberta

Alberta: expand your horizons.

Discover a land of huge skies, spectacular scenery, world-class skiing, incredible powder and luxurious mountain resorts among the majestic Canadian Rockies.

Whether you’re drawn to Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper, we will create your perfect tailor-made ski holiday in the beautiful Canadian province of Alberta.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

With 25 years of experience, our team of Ski Specialists are experts at building bespoke packages to suit your exact requirements. Avid skiers and snowboarders ourselves, we carefully select everything from your accommodation to your itinerary.

Our first-hand knowledge of Alberta allows us to offer the highest possible levels of service, whether that’s making personal recommendations we think you’ll love or eliminating hidden costs such as local taxes and resort fees in our transparent upfront quotes. Each Ski Independence holiday is as individual as you are.

Let’s dream up your ideal Alberta ski holiday.

Speak to a Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097.

“Stargazing at the Banff Gondola is an immersive experience not to be missed. Enjoy the sights of the Canadian Rockies from the top of Sulphur Mountain as you take in the majesty of the night sky from the 360-degree observation deck, 2,900ft above Banff.

Complete the experience with dinner at the Sky Bistro, as featured recently in National Geographic. Prices from £55 per person (call us for details).”

Gareth Ski Sales Manager

The Sky Bistro, Banff

Banff

the most scenic resort in Alberta. In winter, the lake

Venture into the awe-inspiring protected wilderness of

freezes over and the resort takes on a captivating fairytale

Banff National Park and you’ll find soaring peaks, frozen

quality. Lake Louise accommodation offers everything from

waterfalls and steaming thermal springs amongst the

exquisite chateau rooms to quintessential mountain

snow. At its heart sits the historic mountain town of Banff –

lodgings.

a world-renowned ski destination famed for its legendary slopes and passionate winter sports community.

Jasper

Accommodation ranges from cosy lodges to elegant 5-star

With its friendly atmosphere and uniquely rugged

hotels, and Banff’s thriving downtown hub is a lively place

landscapes, Jasper is full of down-to-earth Canadian

to spend the evening.

charm. Set amongst the staggering scenery of the largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies, the slopes are

Lake Louise

uncrowded, the views are jaw-dropping and the welcome

Not far from Banff lies the simply stunning resort of Lake

in town after a long day on the slopes is the warmest

Louise. Ringed by a breathtaking amphitheatre of some of

around. You can relax and soak up Jasper’s wild setting in a

North America’s biggest ski mountains, this is undoubtedly

wonderful choice of hotels.

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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On the slopes: a perfect winter playground.

With terrain to suit all abilities, unsurpassed snow records and expansive views of the mighty Rocky Mountains at every turn, it’s little wonder the ski slopes in Alberta are the envy of the world. Whether you love soft, dry powder or beautifully groomed pistes, there are endless opportunities for adventure.

Billed as the home of ‘Canada’s Best Snow’, the enormous Banff Sunshine Village ski area includes three different mountains: Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain and Mount Standish. That’s over 110km of runs to discover, ranging from beginner-friendly greens to extreme double blacks. On the Great Divide Express run on Lookout Mountain, you’ll even cross over into British Columbia.

As the oldest ski resort in the Canadian Rockies, the compact Banff Mt Norquay ski area has been attracting Banff locals and visitors alike for almost a century. Just minutes from downtown Banff, it caters to everyone from first-timers to elite skiers with a small but varied choice of runs. Mt Norquay is also the only ski resort in Alberta to host night-time skiing and snowboarding.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

“Our three Alberta destinations, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, are all small, friendly mountain communities located close to several amazing ski mountains.

Whilst you always have to travel from your lodging to the skiing, the ski resorts are all set up to make this process as easy and quick as possible. Our Tri-Area and Marmot Basin lift tickets all include regular FREE bus transportation from your lodging to and from the skiing.”

Morven Ski Specialist

Lake Louise Ski Resort has laid out its pristine pistes in a unique way. From the top of every lift, you’ll find a beginner, intermediate and advanced run to choose from, allowing families and mixed-ability groups to ski happily together without compromise. Above the treeline, the

Lift tickets? We’ve got you covered…

FREE Marmot Basin Lift Tickets Ski Independence Exclusive - Book by 30 June 2019 Book for 7 nights or more in Jasper and you’ll receive FREE lift tickets to ski at Marmot Basin with this exclusive Ski Independence offer.

views open up and so do the runs, as you carve through the remote snow bowls and steep gullies of the everimposing Rockies.

Jasper’s Marmot Basin has a fantastic snow record and is known for its quiet slopes. Revel in the unhurried atmosphere and explore almost a hundred ski runs at your leisure, drinking in the extraordinary wilderness scenery of Jasper National Park as you go. There’s a perfectly balanced mix of easy, intermediate and expert runs to appeal to all abilities.

The Tri-Area Lift Ticket For those visiting Banff or Lake Louise, the Tri-Area Lift Ticket is a must, as you get to ski Lake Louise, Sunshine Village and Mt Norquay, as well as ride the Ski Shuttle for free. In addition, the Kids Ski Free programme offers up to 3 free lift tickets, for children aged 12 and under, when a related adult buys a lift ticket of 5 days or more. And finally, everyone buying a minimum 3 day pass, will also get a free pass to Banff Upper Hot Springs and another for the Whyte Museum.* It’s important to book early as Tri-Area prices rise steadily over the coming months, with booking deadlines at 31 May, 31 August, 31 October and 30 November.

Free tickets have the same start date and duration as the adult tickets. Banff Upper Hot Springs and Whyte Museum offer does not apply to Kids Ski Free tickets. You can add tickets to your booking at any time, with payment falling due with the balance of your booking 10 weeks prior to departure.

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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Off the slopes: adventure and indulgence.

Alberta may be home to some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding, but the activities away from the slopes are no less impressive.

Whether you’re in the mood for après-ski, adrenaline-fuelled thrills or pure pampering bliss, an inspiring menu of winter activities awaits in Alberta’s ski resorts.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

Après-ski From fine-dining cuisine to casual burger joints, and from high-end cocktail bars to cosy local brewpubs, Alberta’s vibrant mountain towns have a thriving après-ski scene. Relax by a roaring log fire or dance the night away – there’s something to tempt everyone.

Heli-skiing Experience birds-eye views and untouched powder heaven as you venture into those special places that can only be accessed by helicopter. Or for a more affordable alternative, try cat skiing.

Ice hockey Take in a local match of Canada’s fast-paced national game or join the locals on one of Alberta’s frozen lakes for some impromptu pond hockey.

“e Maligne Ice Canyon tour is a must when you visit Jasper. is is the deepest accessible canyon in Jasper National Park – where you’ll explore frozen waterfalls, ice caves and incredible ice formations. You’ll learn about Jasper’s Maligne Valley, Karst topography and the mystery of the “disappearing” Medicine Lake. Morning, afternoon and evening tours are available, all fully guided with safety equipment and including transport from your Jasper lodging. Prices from £45 pp.”

Magda Ski Specialist

Evening canyon walks Join a guided torchlit icewalk

Spas Ease away those aches and pains with a little spa

through the dramatic rockfaces and frozen waterfalls of

indulgence. Treat yourself to a blissful experience in a 5-

Johnstone Canyon in Banff or Maligne Canyon in Jasper. An

star spa or rejuvenating visit to one of Alberta’s hot natural

unforgettable itinerary must.

mineral springs.

Dog sledding Try your hand at driving your own husky-

Star-gazing This breathtaking province is home to some

pulled sled or sit back and enjoy the ride as a guide drives

of the largest dark sky preserves in the world. Snuggle

you through Alberta’s unspoilt wilderness. You could also

under a blanket and gaze up at infinite clear, starry skies. If

change the pace and explore by snowshoe or fat bike.

you’re lucky you may even glimpse the dancing colours of the Northern Lights.

Banff Gondola Drink in the best views in the province with a ride on the Banff Gondola. You’ll ascend to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for sensational sweeping vistas.

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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www.ski-i.com/alberta

Banff: Alberta’s winter holiday hub. e historic ski resort of Banff has achieved iconic status within the global winter sports community thanks to its exceptional slopes and energetic atmosphere. Drawing in everyone from young families to professional skiers and boarders, it’s a fun-loving winter utopia.

Explore the slopes

Explore the resort

With easy access to not one but three ski areas, Banff

The snowy streets of downtown Banff are packed with

offers unbelievable ski terrain. A Tri-Area Lift Ticket will

welcoming cafés, fantastic restaurants, quirky boutiques

give you access to the Banff Sunshine Village, Banff Mt

and friendly bars. As a bona fide mountain town, it has an

Norquay and Lake Louise ski areas.

unpretentious atmosphere that celebrates its traditional heritage and embraces modern trends at the same time.

Beginners have plenty of wide, gentle green and blue runs

Locals and visitors mingle happily, brought together by a

where they can grow in confidence and skill. Experienced

shared love of spending time in the great outdoors.

skiers and riders have a vast area to explore featuring everything from steep gullies to out-of-this-world

Banff après-ski covers everything from innovative fine

freeriding on the region’s famously dry powder. High-speed

dining to chilled out beers around roaring log-burners.

gondolas and chairlifts transport you easily around the

Enjoy the Canadian beer culture with a cold pint at a craft

slopes, and you’ll find no end of cosy mountain restaurants

brewery, sample such local culinary delicacies as elk steak

to take a break in.

and bison burgers, or sip fine wines in a stylish bistro as you watch the sun set behind a silhouette of peaks and ridges. After dark, things tend to get lively as Banff’s bars and clubs crank up the floor-filling tunes.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

“Banff is a quintessential ski mountain town with a unique community spirit and energy. It shouts loud and proud about its historic mountain heritage, whilst at the same time managing to be cool, current and on-trend. It’s small, friendly and compact with the downtown hub only really three blocks long by two wide.”

Nick Product Manager

Moose Hotel & Suites

Moose Hotel & Suites

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Rest your head

Where to stay? We recommend…

We’ve carefully hand-picked the best accommodation

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel HHHHH

options in Banff for you. Treat yourself to a stay in one of star facilities and unparalleled service. Relax in a secluded

One of Canada’s finest hotels, the Fairmont Banff Springs provides first-class service and facilities. This castle in the Rockies has a ‘wow’ factor and sense of history you rarely find in North American hotels. Simply exceptional.

ski-in/ski-out alpine lodge where you can bask in sweeping

Willow Stream Spa • 11 restaurants & lounges • Fairmont GOLD available

the resort’s world-class luxury ski hotels, complete with 5-

views and the tranquillity of the wilderness. Or maybe you’d prefer a comfortable room in a charming downtown inn with Banff’s bustling après-ski on your doorstep?

Whatever your preference, we have something to suit all tastes and preferences.

SAVE 35% - Book by 31 May 2019 7 nights from £1198 per person (based on 2 sharing a Fairmont Room)

Moose Hotel & Suites HHHH One of Banff’s latest additions, this fantastic hotel on Banff Avenue has a great ambience and some nicely thought-out features like its amazing rooftop hot tubs. The view from here at the end of the ski day is legendary!

Excellent rooftop suites • Meadow spa & pools • Close to ski bus pick up

EXCLUSIVE: SAVE 30% - Book by 31 May 2019 7 nights from £1148 per person (based on 2 sharing a Superior Room)

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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www.ski-i.com/alberta

Lake Louise: a picture-perfect setting.

Imagine a holiday on the shores of a frozen lake, surrounded by wintery forests and truly spectacular mountains towering steeply on all sides. By day the chiselled peaks of the Rockies offer amazing skiing and snowboarding. By night the hotels and lodges are aglow, offering warmth and comfort after an amazing day on the slopes. Picture all this and more, and you’ll begin to see why Lake Louise is a destination in a million.

Explore the slopes Not only does this one-of-a-kind ski destination boast an idyllic setting, it also offers over 145 ski trails to suit skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities. And let’s not forget Lake Louise Ski Resort’s unique layout of novice, intermediate and advanced trails leading off from the summit of every chairlift.

Explore the resort The hamlet of Lake Louise is small and picturesque with a handful of shops and bars. Most of the resort’s dining and après-ski takes place within its hotels, making it a wonderful destination for those who wish to focus their energies on pistes rather than parties. That said, there are also plenty of non-skiing activities to be enjoyed in Lake Louise, from dog sledding to skating on the lake.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

“Black Tie rentals were top notch. I highly recommend people use them.

Black Tie came to do the fitting in our room and swapped out equipment half way through our trip when we wanted to try different boards/skis.”

James Kraft February 2018

Fairmont Chateau Lake Lousie

Fairmont Chateau Lake Lousie

Fairmont Gold Lounge, Fairmont Chateau Lake Lousie

Expand your itinerary

Where to stay? We recommend…

Set within the Banff National Park, Lake Louise is located

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise HHHHH

around 35 miles from the larger, livelier resort of Banff, Why not consider a twin-centre itinerary, spending time in

This hotel has an amazing location beside Lake Louise, surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies. Impressive in every sense, it effortlessly blends tradition with modern facilities to create one of the world’s great hotels.

both Banff and Lake Louise? After all, with such incredible

Wonderful Lakeview rooms • Fairmont GOLD available • Secluded location

with convenient transfers running daily between the two.

scenery and skiing to be enjoyed in both destinations, it can be hard to choose just one.

SAVE 35% - Book by 31 May 2019 7 nights from £1198 per person (based on 2 sharing a Fairmont Room)

Black Tie Rentals For ski & snowboard rental in both Lake Louise and Banff, we recommend Black Tie Ski Rentals. We will arrange for Black Tie to deliver your equipment to you at your accommodation, at a time convenient to you (usually on your first morning). Their professional staff will then fit you with a range of the most state-of-the-art equipment, all from the comfort of your hotel or condo.

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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www.ski-i.com/alberta

Jasper: full of rugged charm.

Take a once in a lifetime trip to the beautiful ski resort of Jasper and discover the untouched wonder of this true Canadian gem.

Set deep in Jasper National Park in the north of Alberta, this special destination offers visitors the chance to revel in wide open spaces, abundant wildlife and epic natural beauty.

Explore the slopes

when it comes to enjoying a few après-ski drinks, you’ll

Jasper’s Marmot Basin ski area is the real deal, thoroughly

find a small but characterful selection of brewpubs,

spoiling skiers and boarders with its beautifully varied

lounges, bars and clubs.

terrain, unbeatable snow conditions and uncrowded slopes.

You won’t even have to wait in line for the ski lifts. Whether you’re a beginner looking for lovely gentle blues to cruise or a thrill seeker on the hunt for powder bowls and gnarly tree runs, Marmot Basin is a dream.

Away from the slopes, mix up your holiday by diving into Jasper’s extensive winter activities. As the second largest dark sky preserve in the world, Jasper National Park is made for star-gazing, but there are also plenty of other unforgettable experiences to enjoy, such as snowshoe tours, guided wildlife viewing and ice canyon adventures.

Explore the resort Jasper is close-knit and sociable alpine town with a wonderfully welcoming feel. You’ll find an eclectic choice of restaurants, lovingly showcasing both local specialities such as Alberta steaks and an impressive number of international cuisines for such a remote destination. And

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

Rest your head Accommodation in Jasper blends Rocky Mountain heritage with contemporary comfort and cool. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury or a laid-back downtown

“Jasper is truly a one of a kind ski destination. It offers all the elements you could wish for in a ski holiday: great terrain, amazing scenery, fantastic snow, a long season and FREE lift tickets. But it also has other unique features which can add hugely to your overall holiday experience: bespoke wildlife and snowshoe tours, star-gazing events and guided tours to the incredible Maligne Ice Canyon.”

Karen M Ski Specialist

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The Crimson

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The Crimson

base, you can expect excellent facilities, fresh design,

Where to stay? We recommend…

gorgeous views and a genuinely friendly welcome in our featured hotels.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge HHHHH

Expand your itinerary

The Jasper Park Lodge is a Fairmont hotel like no other. It retains all the hallmarks and facilities of a luxury 5-star hotel, but offers a unique style and layout, which complements its location on the shores of Lac Beauvert.

Jasper makes the perfect addition to a multi-centre

Wilderness escape • Outdoor heated pool • 10,000 ft2 spa

itinerary with Banff and Lake Louise. Hire a car and take a

SAVE 35% - Book by 31 May 2019 7 nights from £1198 per person (based on 2 sharing a Fairmont Room)

road trip through the breathtaking glaciers, canyons and waterfalls of the Icefields Parkway for possibly the most scenic drive of your life. The journey is just under 300km and takes between 3-4 hours, although you might want to factor in a few hundred photo opp stops. Far from a chore, this pure delight of a drive is likely to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

The Crimson HHH The Crimson is a beautifully renovated hotel in downtown Jasper, offering affordable accommodation, great facilities and a good location. You’ll enjoy spacious rooms, an indoor pool and a nice ambience.

Modern mountain resort • Great for families • Superb facilities

Every 7th night is FREE - Book by 31 May 2019 7 nights from £948 per person (based on 2 sharing a Standard Room)

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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www.ski-i.com/alberta

Ski Independence: getting you there.

We want your journey to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible, so we work closely with our travel partners to ensure you arrive at your resort happy and ready to hit the slopes. Our expert Ski Specialists have first-hand experience of the different options for travelling to Canada and will offer all the advice and help you need to create a tailor-made travel plan.

Flying to Alberta

Scheduled transfers

The fastest way to fly to Banff or Lake Louise is from

We offer shared scheduled door-to-door transfers from

London to Calgary. We offer a choice of airlines on this

Calgary airport to Banff and Lake Louise, and from

route and provide complete flexibility to choose the day of

Edmonton airport to Jasper, as well as transfers between

departure, holiday duration, choice of airline and cabin

all three of our Alberta resorts, and beyond! In addition we

type. We have the freedom to build the perfect holiday

offer a full range of private transfers using SUVs and vans.

itinerary around the best flight options that suit you.

From Calgary International Airport, it takes just 90 minutes If you’re travelling to Jasper, you’ll fly via Amsterdam to

to drive to Banff and just over two hours to reach Lake

Alberta’s capital city, Edmonton, though you can also

Louise. There’s no better feeling than the mounting

choose to fly from London to Calgary. Again, we offer a

excitement as you travel deeper into Canada’s Rockies.

completely flexible choice of airlines, departures, cabins and holiday duration (subject to airline schedules).

The beauty of Jasper is its remote wilderness location, so you can expect a longer transfer - around four hours from Edmonton or five from Calgary - but with dazzling views en route this is no hardship. It’s worth considering a stopover after your flight so you can enjoy your drive fully refreshed.

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Call your Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097

“Our experience of Ski Independence was very high quality from initial enquiry to booking process and information provision. Very clear and reassuring personalised service. Keep that up, it is pretty unique in our experience of ski companies!”

Raymond Jowett Banff, February 2019

Car rental

Take an unlimited road trip adventure!

While our shuttle transfers give you the luxury of being

If you’re looking to experience as much of Alberta’s ski

driven to your door, a self-drive car gives you the freedom

terrain as possible, or simply like the flexibility of being able

to explore the many wonders of Alberta’s natural

to follow the snow, then a motorhome could be just what

environment.

you’re after. These 6 berth, 28 foot RVs are well specced and fully winterised for maximum comfort.

We offer 'Gold' option car rental from Calgary and Edmonton airports, which includes all the mandatory taxes

We can help you plan as much or as little of your itinerary

and fees, including an additional driver, unlimited mileage

as you prefer prior to departure, so that when you collect

and a full tank of fuel. We can also offer vehicles with a

your RV in Calgary you’re good to go. We can also arrange

SatNav. All of our car rental packages include driving

for the odd night in a hotel en route if you fancy some

instructions and maps. Our Ski Specialists have driven

pampering! Prices start from only £59 per day.

extensively in Canada and are uniquely placed to advise you on the best option, particularly if you want to experience more than one destination.

To start planning your Alberta ski adventure, just call one of our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097.

Remember to book by 31 May for the biggest savings!

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Phone

0131 243 8097

Email

ski@ski-i.com

Web

www.ski-i.com

Image Credits: Cover: Lake Louise Ski Resort, Travel Alberta/John Price; Page 2: Crowfoot Mountain, Paul Zizka Photography; Page 3: Left to right: Travel Alberta, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise; Banff Upper Hot Springs/Noel Hendrickson; Banff Avenue/Paul Zizka, Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC); Sky Bistro/Chris Amat; Page 4: Lake Louise Ski Resort, Travel Alberta/John Price; Page 5: Left to right: Marmot Basin/Jamie Buffham; Travis N Rousseau; Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography; Cliff House Bistro Mt. Norquay/Mike Seehagel; Mt. Norquay/Dan Evans Photography; Page 6: Maligne Canyon, Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel; Page 7: Left to right: Park Distillery/Noel Hendrickson; Fatbiking Maligne Lake/Jeff Bartlett; Fairmont Banff Springs; Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Noel Hendrickson; Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours/Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel; www.darrenroberts.ca; Paul Zizka Photography; Page 8: Travis N Rousseau; Page 9: Left to right: Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel; Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography; Park Distillery, Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography; Paul Zizka Photography; Page 10: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise; Page 11: Left to right: Banff Sunshine Village, Travel Alberta/John Price; Jason Stang; Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Noel Hendrickson; CTC; Page 12: Marmot Basin Ski Resort/Ryan Bray; Page 13: Left to right: CTC; Page 14: CTC; Page 15: Left to right: Bow Valley Parkway/Stevin Tuchiwsky; Lake Louise Ski Resort/Mike Seehagel; Pyramid Lake/Scott Kranz; Lake Louise Ski Resort, Travel Alberta/John Price; Roth and Ramberg Photography Inc;