The picturesque Bow Valley in Alberta (Canada) is set to benefit from a CA$1.5 million federal investment to bolster tourism initiatives and attract more visitors to the province.
As per a report, the funds will support various projects, including electric bicycle and walking food tours in Banff and Canmore, a year-round glamping experience in Kananaskis Country, and the development of destination marketing organizations’ tourism plans and strategies.
As part of the larger CA$500 million Tourism Relief Fund, the federal government aims to revitalize the tourism sector in the prairie provinces. Banff and Lake Louise Tourism (BLLT) received CA$600,000 from the fund to support its 10-year vision for sustainable tourism.
BLLT has used the funds to create a new trip-planning tool on its website, which is set to be an industry-leading resource. This tool will enable travelers to plan single or multi-day trips to Banff and Lake Louise from scratch, with access to key information about local experiences, general tips, hours of operation, seasonality, and pricing.
Paul Shaw, corporate communications manager with BLLT, highlighted the importance of the funding, stating that it would “help support sustainable growth, create jobs, and elevate Canada’s brand on the world stage, including here in Banff and Lake Louise.”
Shaw added that the new trip-planning tool promotes local businesses and supports transit, tours, and active modes of transportation to reduce car dependency in the area.
In addition, Tourism Canmore Kananaskis is set to receive CA$313,368 to fund its sustainable tourism strategy. The organization will collaborate with businesses in Canmore and Kananaskis to develop an online training program for staff, focusing on promoting local attractions and increasing visitor traffic during the shoulder and winter seasons.
Skyridge Glamping Ltd. has been granted CA$500,000 to launch an innovative year-round dome glamping experience in Kananaskis. This unique accommodation option is expected to attract more visitors seeking an immersive, nature-based experience.
Banff, Canmore, Calgary, and Edmonton will share nearly CA$100,000 to expand and market electric cycling and walking food tours in their communities. These eco-friendly and immersive experiences will provide visitors with an authentic taste of local cuisine while exploring the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
In total, the federal government has announced a CA$17.8 million investment in 50 projects across Alberta, which is expected to support more than 2,800 jobs in the province.
Todd Loewen, Alberta’s minister responsible for parks and tourism, emphasized the importance of such investments for the visitor economy’s recovery, growth, and long-term prosperity, stating that “tourism generates jobs for Albertans and economic opportunity throughout the province.”
Isn’t it awesome how the Bow Valley is getting a boost for tourism? It’s great to see the focus on enhancing experiences and sustainability. With these initiatives, the region is all set to offer visitors unique adventures amidst Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes. So exciting!