Hamanns on Adventure: The Rocky Road

Our journey through the Canadian Rockies was truly spectacular.

Although the weather was snowy and misty (which was to be expected with winter on its way), we were still treated to some incredible scenery. The Rocky Mountains are sheer and steep in comparison to the coastal mountain range we became familiar with in Whistler. In some parts, we were level with glaciers and the snow line of the early winter season.

We began our journey in Whistler, and our first night was spent in Clearwater in a beautiful farm styled B&B owned by cheery Germans. The following day we headed north east to Jasper, an old railway town which has the Marmot Basin ski slopes nearby. We sampled some local brews from the Jasper Brewery, and took a walk around the lake in the national park.

Our next stop was Lake Louise, a turquoise coloured lake set in dramatic mountains. The view from our room was breath taking and we 'ooooh'd' and 'aaaaah'd' all afternoon! This hotel was built in at the turn of the 19th century, with the establishment of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

The following day we set off to explore the Banff National Park. The Banff Springs village is steeped in history - it was discovered when railway workers stumbled upon natural hot springs in the 1880's. We stayed at the Banff Springs hotel, which is a 124 year old national historic site, which is literally a castle! Once again, we felt privileged to enjoy these beautiful areas.

As we watch the sun set over Vancouver from our airport hotel room tonight, we bid Canada farewell. The road trip was an incredible end to a special year.

Tomorrow night we will be on the South American continent.
I think we are in for a major culture shock!