Coolcations are officially a thing. This rising travel trend, born out of a growing climate-conscious shift, is all about embracing cooler destinations that blend natural beauty, cultural richness, and refreshing experiences, all without the discomfort of scorching heat or muggy humidity.
Enter Calgary: a destination at the heart of this trend with Hallmark-worthy snowy streets and natural winter chinooks that can raise temperatures by 15°C (59°F) in just a few hours. Whether you’re strolling the vibrant city streets or adventuring in its outdoor playgrounds, Calgary offers a unique climate perfect for coolcationing.
Beyond its famed skiing and snowboarding at the former winter Olympics hill Winsport (where you may just spot some Olympians training), Calgary delivers Nordic inspired activities that make the most of its cooler climate. Home to the longest urban pathway network in North America, Calgary offers more than 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) of snowy urban trails, ideal for fat biking along the glacier-fed Bow River. Nearby, Bow Habitat Station in Inglewood offers tranquil snowshoeing trails. For cross-country skiing and ice skating, head to Bowness Park, where you can glide across a frozen lagoon lit by twinkling lights or try the unique thrill of ice biking—a perfect family-friendly adventure.
No coolcation is complete without a touch of relaxation, and Calgary’s spas offer the perfect post adventure treatments. In the heart of downtown, SKA Thermal Spa blends an urban speakeasy vibe with restorative wellness. Unwind in their hot pools, cold plunges, steam rooms, and infrared saunas, or join a hydrotherapy class to learn techniques for maximizing your relaxation. Get to know the locals and see for yourself why Calgary was voted the friendliest city in the world in 2023.
For an escape into nature, a short one-hour drive takes you to Kananaskis Nordic Spa, where a restorative thermal cycle enhances circulation, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being. Picture yourself soaking in steaming hot pools surrounded by snow-capped peaks, forested trails, and crisp mountain air—a truly serene experience.
Calgary’s cooler temperatures make it the perfect place to experience winter wellness. Whether you’re ice skating under twinkling lights, soaking in hot pools with mountain views, or simply embracing nature-inspired wellness along the pathways, Calgary invites you to recharge and find tranquility in its chill. Sounds pretty cool, doesn’t it?
