Can you feel it? That magical time of the year when the air turns apple crisp and the scent of pumpkin spice follows you around every corner. As we turn to cozier weather and the world continues to open again, we at SFX Preferred Resorts wanted to highlight some of the best places our neighbor to the north has to offer to see the colors of fall, as well as some nearby Canadian resorts.
Vancouver Island: Butchart Gardens
The story of Butchart Gardens began in 1904 when Jennie and Robert Butchart arrived on Vancouver Island with the business plan of building a cement plant on top of a limestone quarry. Once the limestone was exhausted, Jennie had a dream of transforming the quarry into a grand garden. Today, there are five great gardens with different themes and plants: the original Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, and Mediterranean Garden. The Japanese Garden is particularly lovely for the fall season, as the maple trees turn bright red and golden.
Vancouver Island and Victoria Harbour are lovely day trip ideas from the city of Vancouver. A popular suite-hotel among SFX members is the Rosedale on Robson in downtown Vancouver.
British Columbia: Whistler
Though known for epic skiing and snowboarding and hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, there’s more to Whistler than the winter season. Soar over the mountains and lakes and colorful forests on a helicopter or floatplane excursion. Take a tour to see black bears and eagles in their natural habitats. For those looking for rejuvenation, check out the Scandinave Spa for hot pools and massages. Of course, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails of all levels to take in the beautiful scenery.
There’s something for everyone in Whistler. Visit our Resort Directory to see what accommodations we have in town.
Banff: Rocky Mountains
Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest and most well-known national park. The Rocky Mountains and turquoise blue lakes make for striking contrasts against the red and yellow colors of the surrounding forests. Visit Larch Valley, named for the larch trees that fill it, for a sea of golden conifers. Or, hike up to Lake Agnes Tea House for lunch and a warm beverage and take in the views of nearby Lake Agnes, Mirror Lake, and Lake Louise.
It’s recommended to visit in early fall (September through early October) for the best fall foliage and a better chance for warmer days. Set within the parkland, Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is an ideal stay for members who want to explore as much of the park as they can. It’s recommended to visit in early fall (September through early October) for the best fall foliage and a better chance for warmer days. Set within the parkland, Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is an ideal stay for members who want to explore as much of the park as they can.
Ontario: Algonquin Park
Moving eastward, another ideal setting for fall colors is Algonquin Park, located in Ontario. The park covers an immense area of forests, hills, ridges, and thousands of lakes. Through the many hiking and biking trails, you can immerse yourself in the beautiful fall colors of nature. Or for those who prefer a more road-trip style, Highway 60 runs right through the park. Visit our Resort Directory to see what resorts we have in the area.
Quebec: Mont Tremblant
Like Whistler, Mont Tremblant is more known as a winter and ski resort town. However, the surrounding mountains and sprawling forests make it an ideal backdrop for a fall getaway as well. Beautiful orange and gold outline the green ski runs before the winter snow sets in and the trees lose their leaves. Take a panoramic gondola ride to the summit or zipline over the forests for bird’s eye views. Or take a relaxing cruise through Lac Tremblant. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well, as moose, black bears, foxes, and falcons call the forests of Mont Tremblant home too.
Set overlooking Lac Tremblant, Embarc Tremblant is a charming, European-style resort. Perfect for warming yourself up after a long day of adventure.
Whichever region you prefer to visit each has its unique flavor that allows you to experience the enchanted season of fall to the fullest.