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Majestic mountains appeared on
horizon -
snow-capped Rockies,
symbols of Canada that they are, dominate
countryside creating a perfect picture postcard.
On your way, make sure you stop in Banff for a bite to eat; it's truly a town worth seeing. Sure, it's full of tourists and tourist shops that sell overpriced, tacky items, but it's a quaint village in its own right, so take my advice, make a stop.
After lunch, we continued
drive to British Columbia. Remember, we are driving from one province to another. (For those of you unfamiliar with traveling in Canada, there are NO border stops between provinces.) The trip from Banff, Alberta to Radium, British Columbia, is approximately one hour. That is if you don't stop. But you will stop, and have your camera ready because
views are breathtaking. Valley upon valley unfolds before your eyes. As
mountains reach for
sky, I spotted where
tree line ended and was replaced by stark protruding rock faces. I can't help but ask my girlfriend to stop
car, so I can take pictures. I feel compelled to photograph everything, as I didn't want this memory to fade.
When we arrived in Radium, I noticed
hot springs were open. Note to self about Radium. Natural hot springs are favorite tourist spot, so if you're into this type of scene enjoy, if not, wave to
"springers" and keep driving. Another note to self. Beware of mountain sheep on
side of
road and don't stop to close to take photographs, as they get frightened and begin to "joust" right in front of your car.
Twenty-five minutes later,
car stops. I am at Panorama Resort! www.panoramaresort.com Greeted by friendly staff, I was handed a map and promised
weather would cooperate. I was somewhat dubious about
weather comment and I became fixated on
weather channel.
We arrive at our condominium and as we pull up, I squeal, "this is too good to be true!" Picture this: four chateau-style condominiums, perched high on a hill. Behind them loom snow-capped mountains as far as
eye can see. Traces of
snow remain on a few of
ski runs, making me consider that I might have to return for a ski trip. The car stops and I get out. Silence. I inhale deeply and my lungs welcome
fresh air. I feel like I've been beamed from a busy, stark city into an enchanting countryside that offers nothing but splendor and peace of mind. Blue sky, tall pines and silence are
elements
make-up
landscape.
It's one of those moments one experiences when s/he realizes there is much more too life than daily rituals - it is a moment where values are questioned. I hadn't even golfed yet and I was ready to move here!
Our suite is on
fourth floor. It is a corner suite that overlooks
pool area as well as provides us with a panoramic view of
mountains (I'm guessing that's how
resort acquired its name.) It's been a long day, it is time to get some supplies, soak in
hot tub, and eat.
To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link: http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/sports02/golf02/canada/gray/graywolf.html
By Lise Lacasse, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

Lise Lacasse, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Join the Travel Writers Network in the logo at www.jetsettersmagazine.com