Thursday, April 30, 2015

Day 10 - Lake Louise


It is difficult to explain the astonishing beauty surrounding Lake Louise.  Even though the lake is frozen, there are walking tracks around the lake, lookouts, and frozen waterfalls to see.  A dusting of light snow has been falling spasmodically all day today.  

This morning our group met for a team photo outside the main entrance.  Then we had an interesting presentation by a retired "Mountie" clothed in dress uniform which they only wear on 2 days per year (July 1 and Nov 11).  The rest of the year they wear a blue uniform.

After lunch we all took a gondola ride up to the nearby very large ski field to play in the snow.  Many  people are still skiing and snowboarding.  The top of the lift was 7,800 ft high and the lifts and runs excellent.  Almost 3000 feet rise up on the gondola, a nail biting exercise for some !

This afternoon we took a walk along the banks of the lake to the other end.  Much needed exercise!  Our Gortex boots bought in Australia have been a godsend - perfect for the ground and weather conditions here.  

Dogs are allowed in hotels here, where the owners have them on a lead.  We even saw a poodle being slipped into a carry-on bag for a flight!!!

Everywhere we have been so far has been extremely clean - no rubbish or plastic bags anywhere.  

Our tour guide Cathy is excellent.  She keeps us constantly entertained and ensures that all bookings and activities run smoothly.  Nothing is too much trouble.  For Anzac Day she provided us with a very moving memorial service.


The Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise.



Frozen Lake Louise in the background 



Mountainous backdrop with plenty of snow



The "Mountie" before his presentation



At the top of the ski slopes



Top of the gondola



Two Aussies heavily rugged up in layers to beat the cold



View of the enclosed gondolas on the way down from the peak



Building with facilities from where the gondola begins



Photo of our bus group.  Cathy is lying on the ground in front of the flags.  Zed from Fiji is our Coach Captain/ bus driver.  He is in the front row on the extreme left.



The Chateau taken from the other end of the lake



The blue water of the lake is just starting to appear as the ice is beginning to melt



Some will sit and look all day rather than get outside and enjoy the fresh air and the environment.

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