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As far as ski towns go, Banff has got it sorted. The town has great night life, plenty of bars, a couple of night clubs, more then enough shops for you to empty your wallet and enough restaurants that you can eat something different, somewhere different, every night (special mention goes to the Saltlik Steakhouse where we had some of the best customer service I've ever seen). We stayed in a fantastic condo at the Douglas Fir resort which is less than 5 minutes from the town centre by car or taxi. It was not uncommon for us to see wild deer in the garden or walking across the road as we drove down into town which made us feel even more like we were out in the wild. The main ski resort at Banff is Sunshine Village which is about 20 minutes away by bus or car but is well worth it because the resort proper is actually up the mountain and makes you feel shut off from the rest of the world. It has everything - it has cruisey skiing, steep and deep off piste skiing, a 'playground' area where you can practice your little jumps and cliffette drops and even a chair that picks you up in Alberta but drops you off in British Columbia. I could have quite happily stayed at this resort for our entire holiday but we had a tour to do, so we moved on. If you're staying in the resort though, it didn't look like there was much to do so if you want a bit more hustle and bustle, stay in Banff centre. Also on the town's doorstep was Mount Norquay, the closest of the resorts. This was our hangover mountain. You could get up late and be up there and putting your skis on in 15 minutes and the terrain isn't too trying if you want an easy day. If you did make friends with too many beers the night before you won't feel guilty about calling a half day either. This would also be a great little resort for beginners since it's not overcrowded. On the whole, Banff gets a big thumbs up. It's only downside is the travelling to the ski areas. I can't see any way that you wouldn't be able to have a great holiday there and unlike some resorts it's only an hour and a half from Calgary airport. If you're considering Banff for a holiday, also consider Fernie (I've put a review on there too) where the skiing is just as good, if not better, but the ski/town/nightlife mix is slightly different.

Visited Resort December 2007

If you only dine out once make it to the nightly buffet at the Banff Springs Hotel. I was advised to do this by one of the staff at www.worldski.com, Mike and he did not let me down. For around $36 I ate like a Lord with a variety of food that was only surpassed by the majesty of a building that has seen Kings and Queens, Filmstars and Robber Barons rest their weary heads on the hotel's feather down pillows. What a treat! Top Tips ** Be advised if you wont to keep the cost down, stay on the soft drinks!!! Top Tips ** Book ahead, its popular Top Tips ** If you have a few moments to spare, go out to the viewing deck and be prepared to be blown away by the stunning valley view. This is an Ansel Adams moment!

Visited Resort February 2008