Fall 2023 | I ignitemag.ca | 93 Rocky Mountain Soap Company’s line of nourishing skin care products are handcrafted in nearby Canmore, made only from natural ingredients and are free of toxins and fi llers. From bar soaps made with fair trade organic shea butter and essential oils to moisturizers made with organic cocoa butter and oat oil, you’ll fi nd countless ways to pamper event guests or team members. Step into Rocky Mountain Chocolates and see chocolatiers making delectable fudge and apples being dipped into decadent caramel. The delicious selection of chocolates and confections, handmade in small batches using the fi nest ingredients, includes their bestselling bombs and mouth-watering bars, like Caramel Apple and Sea Salt Caramel Crunch, with chocolate collections for gift-giving that are beautifully packaged in their signature Mountain Peak Shaped Box. Embellish your space with artwork, sculptures and prints from local and Historic hotels, quaint boutiques and exclusive mountain retreats set the stage for remarkable meeting locations and incentive rewards for all tastes and budgets. From iconic properties like Banff Park Lodge and the Fairmont Banff Springs, known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” to the Moose Hotel & Suites in the heart of the town and luxury backcountry retreats at Baker Creek Resort and Lake Louise Inn—visitors are never far from inspiring landscapes and alpine adventure. While in the national park, it’s only fi tting to visit what is considered the birthplace of Canada’s national parks—Cave and Basin National Historic Site. A sacred place for Visitors are spoiled for choice with an endless selection of accommodation options and unique venues—whether you are extending your stay or planning your next event in this unforgett able mountain sett ing. With an eclectic selection of boutiques, galleries and big brand retailers offering unique items, including local or Canadian-made goods that refl ect the spirit of the destination, it’s easy to bring back a bit of memorabilia to remind you of your time spent here. STAY AND EXPLORE LOCAL TREASURES international artists, showcased in many galleries throughout Banff and Lake Louise. Find spectacular Rocky Mountain landscapes and wildlife images at the Brandon T. Brown Wilderness Gallery by renowned Canmore-based photographer and conservationist, Brandon T. Brown. At the Carter-Ryan Gallery & Live Art Venue, see the vibrant paintings and stunning soapstone sculptures of acclaimed Indigenous visual artist, Jason Carter. Founded in 1903 by Norman Luxton, who played a key role in establishing Banff as an international tourist destination, The Banff Trading Post offers authentic Indigenous jewellery, clothing, leather goods and crafts that celebrate the local culture, including mukluks, moccasins, bags, wallets and intricate beadwork from Canadian artisans. For Western-inspired apparel—cowboy boots, Stetsons, riding gloves, belts and buckles—head to The Trail Rider. Indigenous Peoples for more than 10,000 years, railway workers discovered its thermal springs in 1883, which led to the creation of Canada’s fi rst national park. Visitors can explore the surrounding trails, book guided tours and enjoy interactive exhibits. Climbing 2,292 feet on the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, taking in 360-degree views of the Bow Valley along the way, is a must on any itinerary. And the exhilarating experience doesn’t stop there, boasting hiking trails, interactive exhibits and a multi-sensory theatre. Grab a bite at one of several dining venues, and soak in spectacular panoramic vistas of six mountain ranges from the observation deck. Experience live performances, fi lms, concerts and exhibitions at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, a renowned multi-disciplinary arts and cultural institution that strives to advance artistic practice through its immersive training programs. At the Whyte Museum, engage with the artifacts, exhibitions, art and photography that explore the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies. PHOTO: BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE TOURISM PHOTO: DAN EVANS Ignite Destination Supplement | Ignitemag.ca | 93
