There’s a lot to love about Canmore. In fact, many people return year after year to spend precious vacation time here. I know families that have moved here from overseas after one magical visit. Others I’ve met dream of their retirement days, when they can finally spend all their time in their Canmore vacation condo.

If you’re new to Canmore, you get to have fun discovering the places that will become “yours”—a welcoming coffee shop, a favourite place for breakfast, or a walking path too special to resist. These are the touchstones that will connect you to the place and its people.

We residents have our own routines and preferred places too, and we’re generally happy to share them with visitors. After all, most of us were newcomers not so long ago. It would be a shame for you to visit Canmore and miss “insider” experiences, so I’m going provide a few of my own secret delights:

LE CHOCOLATIER
This factory and store is a must. Gourmet truffles and solid bars of divine milk and dark chocolate, handmade right here in Canmore. One of life's few truly affordable luxuries.

PATIO PLEASURES
The Wood is Main Street's most lively patio, but the Grizzly Paw is also a super spot for people watching. The food is great at both.

CINNAMON BUNS
At Harvest, people line up every Sunday morning for these melt-in-your-mouth treats, straight from the oven.

SWIMMING HOLE
On a hot day at Quarry Lake, kids play all day in the shallows near the beach, while adults take quick dips in deeper waters to really cool off.

THE OLD SCHOOL BUS
Parked on 10 St near 6 Ave, the bus serves huge portions in 26 flavours. It's a perfect stop after a bike ride, hike or shopping.

LARCH ISLAND
Riverside walking trails at the northwest end of Canmore offers solitude and beauty minutes from downtown. Scenic paths connect most parts of town.

DINING DELIGHTS
For a splurge, I love oddly named The Trough with great food and service. Railway Deli & Café has a Euro vibe and great schnitzel. We show off to out-of-town visitors by taking them to Murrieta's, and find it hard to resist Quarry Bistro's weekend brunch.

ACTIVITIES
Outdoor pursuits comprise the heart of Canmore, and are the reason why most people choose to live or vacation here. Hike, bike, golf, climb, camp, paddle, fish, run, walk or simply stare out at the mountains—just get out and do it!

Aaah, the Canmore lifestyle. It suits you, don’t you think?

Winged Crackled Vase by John Borrowman

Image © of Cabbages and Kings

ARTISAN DELIGHTS
Hidden away Bow Meadows Cres is home to many of Canmore's artisan studios. Watch carvers at Art Thru Stone, visit award-winning goldsmith Rudi Peet, and meet John Borrowman and his daughter Katie at Of Cabbages & Kings pottery studio. Wander around the corner to Ammonite Factory for a tour ($5) at 10 am, 11 am or noon. Le Chocolatier tours are Mon at 10 am, or see chocolate making from the observation gallery anytime. Art supplies to feed your own creative urges are across the street at Sunny Raven Gallery. And when hunger strikes, 30-year old Valbella Deli & Café satisfies with famous specialty meats and counter service meals. — LS