'I'm a self-confessed city girl who couldn't get enough of this hiking destination.'

If you asked me to picture my perfect holiday, you could be fairly certain it would involve some type of cocktail (fitted with a mini umbrella), a beach chair and a nap in a king-sized bed in the arvo.

Hiking shoes, hostels, and 4am wake-ups? Not so much.

But if there's one thing I can't resist, it's a pretty view. So when I somehow stumbled onto Canada Tok amidst a daily doomscroll, I couldn't believe what I was seeing wasn't a green screen. A few taps later, my flight was booked.

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Now here I am, after a week in Banff, and I. Will. Not. Shut. Up. About. It.

So, here's why every conversation I've had about this destination ends with "YOU MUST GO THERE!"

Image: Supplied.

Where to stay in Banff.

In the spirit of honesty, Banff, much like the rest of Canada, isn't a cheap destination. It's not a huge town, so in the peak seasons it can be tricky to find accommodation that won't bring a tear to your eye as you tap your card.

But, I've done the research so you don't have to. I give you HI Banff Alpine Centre. Just thank me later.

My partner and I stayed in a private room at this hostel, and it ended up making our Banff experience even more memorable. 

Not only are hostels just a great way to meet people and take advantage of free activities, HI Banff also throws in free bus tickets with your stay, making it super easy to get around town. There's also a bar with cheap drinks, good food and even better views, so you can put your feet up after a big day of steps.

If you're willing to spend a little more to walk a little less to the town centre, Banff Aspen Lodge or the Banff Ptarmigan Inn are some other options with the same alpine feel. 

Must-do activities in Banff.

Now for the tricky part. Deciding how to see the absolute most of the Canadian Rockies as humanly possible.

We didn't hire a car, but there are plenty of rentals available if you'd prefer to make your own way around. Or if you're like me and the thought of driving on the opposite side of the road sends you into an anxiety spiral, then fill your days with bus tours led by locals and/or make the most of Banff's free shuttles.

Sunrise at Moraine lake.

If you do one thing in Banff, please hold my hand, look me in the eye and promise me you will visit Moraine Lake for sunrise.

We booked a shuttle with Moraine Lake Bus Company that collected us at an ungodly hour and carted us out to Moraine Lake to watch the sun come up.

This is the photo that I now show everyone to convince them to visit Banff. I'll let it speak for itself.

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Little Beehive trail at Lake Louise.

Speaking of stunning lakes that will make you say 'is this real or am I on the Truman Show?', you need to add Lake Louise to your Banff itinerary.

There's no denying the view at the base of the lake is insane, but it can get packed during the day. After snapping a few pics here, we hiked the Little Beehive trail up the mountain to shake the crowds and see Lake Louise from another perspective. 

The hike is steep, yes, but not 'hiking poles' steep. Just wear comfy shoes, pack some lunch, and don't forget to grab your bear spray before you hike (yes, really, you need it).

Hot tip: Stop at the Lake Agnes Teahouse on your way up for a lemonade and a scone to refuel. 

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Sunshine Village.

One of my favourite days we spent in Banff was hiking the trails at Sunshine Village. 

Totally uncrowded and easily accessible with the free shuttle from Banff, the words 'fairy wonderland' probably came out of my mouth upwards of 100 times while I was here.

Catch the gondola and then the chairlift to the base of the hike and complete the trip around the two lakes for breathtaking scenery around every bend (if you're not bored of that yet). 

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Spend a day in the town.

Give your feet a rest and make sure you dedicate one day to exploring the town of Banff. There are plenty of shops to snake in and out of, including a year-round Christmas ornament store. Who doesn't love that?

Wander down to Bow River and sit in the park, or if your feet aren't too sore, walk or bike the perimeter. Better yet, hire a canoe to see it from the water. 

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Where to eat in Banff.

After a morning of hiking up mountains, spamming the camera roll and exhausting any remaining supplies of trail mix, your stomach will likely be grumbling. 

I will admit, I did not actually have one bad meal in Banff, but here are my personal faves. 

Hello Sunshine.

For a Happy Hour that reigns supreme over all Happy Hours – book into Hello Sunshine between 3 and 5. It's a trendy modern Japanese restaurant with half-price sushi, half-price cocktails, and there's also karaoke… if that's your thing.

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Park Distillery.

If I told you to imagine the perfect meal after a morning of hiking, kayaking and generally using up all of your energy, would it involve the following? Wings? Burgers? Beer?

If the answer is yes, visit Park Distillery for the best of the best.

My tip: Try the Sawback cocktail featuring their house-made chilli vodka. Chefs' kiss.

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Honourable mention: BeaverTails.

It's no trip to Banff without a visit to one of their iconic BeaverTails. I have no other way to describe this other than deep-fried dough (?), covered in various types of sugar. 

It's sickening and beautiful. It's sickeningly beautiful. You just have to try it. 

Image: Supplied.

If the pictures alone didn't convince you, I hope by now you've added a trip to Banff to your bucket list. 

And if you see me there again next summer chowing down on a BeaverTail? Mind your business. 

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