Looking to book a fall weekend getaway that won’t break the bank?
Travel writer Jody Robbins joined Global Calgary on Thursday to share her top four picks for budget-friendly escapes for Albertans to try this fall:
Waterton Lakes National Park
“Visiting in fall, it’s like having an entire national park all to yourself,” Robbins explained.
Although Albertans may be under the impression that the area shuts down in the fall, it’s not entirely true.
“It’s true there are many businesses that close their doors – but not all. There’s two hotels that remain open – Glacier Suites and Waterton Lakes Lodge – and they have just fantastic rates.”
“There’s so much you can do there – from snow-shoeing to cross-country skiing. And wildlife viewing is particularly fantastic in the fall.”
The Prairie Creek Inn
“It’s one of those destinations that you don’t think that we have in Alberta,” Robbins said. “It really reminds me of those romantic country inns that they have in New England.”
The Prairie Creek Inn is set on a 150-acre forested site about 18 kilometres from Rocky Mountain House, Alta., and 200 kilometres north of Calgary.
“You just feel miles away from anything,” Robbins said.
“It’s got a fantastic kitchen – and a two-course breakfast is included with your room.”
Fairmont Banff Springs
“A lot of people think staying at Fairmont Banff Springs is a bit out of reach – you know, it is the ‘castle in the Rockies’ – but they actually have a special rate for Alberta residents, which is 30 per cent off their best available rate,” Robbins explained.
The Fairmont Banff Springs is located on Spray Avenue and has been operating for more than 125 years.
“You can get some great rates there – and it dramatically slows down after the Thanksgiving weekend.”
“Even if you don’t want to stay overnight … you can still have a wonderful experience there.”
Hotel Zed
Located in Kelowna, B.C., Hotel Zed is one block away from the city’s main street and one block away from the downtown marina.
“You can get rates there for under $100 a night,” Robbins said. “It’s a very funky property – they have a mini disco with strobe lights and a fog machine, complimentary roller skates for all guests, you can get shuttled around town in this funky green Chevy van.”
“It’s great for people who like to have fun – even for families, some of their rooms have bunk beds.”
“There’s actually lots to do within the hotel if you’re not into wine tasting or taking advantage of all the other wonderful things they have in Kelowna.”
To learn more about Jody Robbins visit her website TravelsWithBaggage.com.
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