Banff, a world-class destination for hikers, skiers and world travellers.
But whether you're pushing yourself hiking through the mountains or just strolling in the park the importance of quality food on vacation is paramount. When visiting a culture, start where everyone gathers: the table. High Camp has curated the Canadian Cuisine Tour to represent the authentic flavours of Canada. With food and wine from Banff, Lake Louise and Field B.C. the day's menu represents flavours both local and national. This private tour includes an expert guide and a stylish 4x4 to explore safely on even the snowiest days.
We Begin Early
Eating is serious business and they day begins with custom pick-up from your hotel. We deliver your custom order of coffee and a fritter from Fergie's Bakery in Canmore. We will spend some time getting to know each other over donuts and coffee while briefing you on the day ahead and placing any last minute lunch orders.
First Stop
By 9:30 we set off for a view of the astounding Castle Mountain from the frozen banks of the Bow River. We then go next door to Castle Mountain Gas Station, a relic of Banff that maintains most of its decor and the selection of candy it has sold since opening in the 40's. Taste the variety of treats or save them for later, from here, we are on to Lake Louise.
Icewine and Ice Castles
Lake Louise is where we build our appetites once again while exploring the mystical snowglobe landscape. You can explore the ice castle on the lake's surface, take a short guided hike or have your guide show you around the legendary Chateau Lake Louise, complete with the story of its founding and impact on Canadian history. After this, we sip icewine and vintages from Ontario and British Columbia in the Lakeview Lounge at Chateau Lake Louise. The wild view of the frigid lake pairs well with the most refined tastes of Canada.
Main Course
Lunch is the arguably the highlight of the day as we descend over 1000m into B.C.'s Kicking Horse valley to see the town of Field. Don't let the name fool you, the mountains here are some of the steepest and tallest in the Rockies. This 200 person town is known for its hospitality, helpful locals and the place where they all meet: Truffle Pigs Bistro. Few restaurants are as distinguished or loved as Truffle Pigs. Their menu ranges from light fragrant dishes to meals that warm the soul. The bistro is fancy-free and inviting and the quality of the food speaks for itself.
Untold beauty awaits
Often overlooked by travellers, Emerald Lake is a 40 minute drive from Lake Louise and every bit as stunning. See the untouched snow for kilometres across the frozen lake, ending in dense forest often racked by avalanches. From here we stop at the Natural Bridge, a rock formation along the Kicking Horse River that pours turbulent blue water year round. The rush of the water and the surreal outlay of the rock creates a peaceful, solitary feeling in nature allowing one to reflect before heading back to Banff. We have you back at your hotel by 3:30pm, just in time to decide what to do for dinner.