Ah, Alberta. The province of plenty, home of the wild rose, and also one of the best places in Canada to revel in a close-to-authentic Western experience.
Living in the big city makes it hard to partake in cowboy culture (other than at our province’s annual Calgary Stampede, of course). But if you’re craving something a little more rugged, a little more Yellowstone, and with a healthy helping of that Alberta-bred hospitality, these Airbnb listings might just be the thing.
We scanned the province for some of the most authentic Alberta homestay experiences around. From glamping domes in southern Kananaskis Country to converted grain silos and Rocky Mountain treehouses, here are 10 of the best Airbnbs we could find that offer an authentic, Alberta-branded experience.
The Raven’s Nest boasts a stay that is “totally disconnected,” and with its rustic, tiny home cabin feel giving off a Legend of Zelda treehouse vibe, it’s easy to see why. This cabin stay is back to basics in every sense: heating is provided by a small wood stove and an oil heater. The queen bed is tucked into an overhead loft. There’s no running water, and the bathroom is located in an outhouse a short walk away. If you’re looking to experience the rustic rural backwoods of Alberta, this is the perfect spot.
Where: Bragg Creek, Alta.
At Trapper’s Cabin, you can experience life in eight below amongst the company of 30 sled dogs. The cabin sleeps two and is lovingly furnished with retro snowshoes, furs and cattlehorns. The wood walls are warm and inviting, plus you can enjoy a great view of the horse paddocks and dog kennels from the comfort of your cabin. For animal and adventure lovers, this is one unforgettable stay.
Where: Rocky Mountain House, Alta.
Have you heard that staying in a refurbished grain silo is the next hottest thing? Give this cute cabin a try, located near Pincher Creek, Alta. But don’t worry, there’s more than dusty grain and pigeons inside. With a clean, cabin-like atmosphere, it truly doesn’t get more authentically Albertan than this.
Where: Pincher Creek, Alta.
This hideaway from life’s modern stresses boasts a stunning, scenic property that is “virtually devoid” of televisions and alarm clocks. There are no deadlines, and certainly no stress at Riverbend, with a wide range of outdoor activities and a uniquely comforting accommodation. Plus, you’re sure to see plenty of wildlife in the nearby rivers, lakes and coulees. For bird watchers and nature lovers, this is the spot to be.
Where: Yellowhead County, Alta.
This is another cozy cabin stay, with a bit of a twist. Although it’s located in Stetller, Alta., kiddy corner to the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, this cabin features a calming, oceanside aesthetic and beachy atmosphere. There’s a wood-burning hot tub and firewood available to keep the water warm all night. You can snuggle up to your sweetheart and stare at the stars in this ocean-themed paradise.
Where: Stettler, Alta.
Sylvan Lake is known for its breathtaking beauty and summertime watersports, but this dome takes things one step further. Located one block from the beach, this airy glamping dome has a fresh feel, a queen-size bed, and free parking, all nestled within a safe and secure gated community. Located within the Sylvan Lake RV Park, you can explore soft, sandy beaches nearby and plenty of walking trails.
Where: Sylvan Lake, Alta.
The Rose is truly a blast from the past, back to simpler times when farm chores and staying fed were top of mind for most Alberta families. This 96 square foot elegant cottage is as Alberta as it comes, with farmhouse decor, wood walls and a fireplace. The guest house is located on a small farm that raises livestock and grows fresh produce. You’re bound to make some furry friends at this family-friendly farmhouse.
Where: Stettler, Alta.
Big Buck Lodge is another Alberta-Saskatchewan border special that proves remote is often the key to peace and tranquillity. Reviewers rave about the host’s Alberta-signature hospitality, and the miles of hiking and bird watching available nearby are bound to leave you breathless. The best part? The hosts know when to come and go, claiming, “You won’t see much of us, unless you need us for something.” For those looking to find some sense of meaning in a land of blissful solitude, Big Buck Lodge is your answer.
Where: Bindloss, Alta.
You might get to pull a snake from your boot in this charming offsite campground — be careful, it’s not a rattlesnake, though. This remote campground boasts 360° views of the badlands, Alberta’s ultimate wild west. Bring your tent, RV, cruiser bike or just a sleeping bag to camp out on a hilltop under the stars. There are no noisy neighbours, but you’ll see plenty of songbirds, wildflowers and wheatland.
Where: Drumheller, Alta.
This charming antique home was built in 1902 and is ideally situated across the street from Raymond Aquatic Centre. With a southern Alberta charm, colourful antiques, brightly painted walls and gorgeous wood floors, this is every empty-nester’s dream. The best part is the house boasts a six-person hot tub where you can sip on whiskey sours with you and five friends and admire the house’s century-old garden.
Where: Raymond, Alta.
Enjoy the wild, Alberta!
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