This small lakeside town in central Alberta, situated between Calgary and Edmonton, is revered for its calm waters and all of the activities that they elicit, including water-skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Most of the action happens at Sylvan Lake’s beach, a two-kilometre stretch of soft sand and grassy clearings perfect for sunbathing or playing catch. The water is very shallow, making it a safe environment for swimmers of all abilities. The boardwalk that runs along the beach is great for a lazy stroll, with plenty of seats along the way for people-watching. With its mix of mom-and-pop shops, seafood restaurants, and casual bars where you can sip local ale or even refine your axe-throwing skills, Sylvan Lake’s small town centre has more than enough to keep you occupied. If you fancy a bit of romance, stroll the marina, which is a great spot to watch the sunset.

The closest airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG), which accepts flights from all over Canada daily. From there, you can find car rentals for the 90-minute drive to Sylvan Lake. Alternatively, you can also hop on the 75-minute bus to Red Deer and then take a 25-minute taxi ride to town. Another option is to fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), around one hour and 45 minutes away. You can also catch a 90-minute bus from here to Red Deer and then transfer to another form of transportation. Once you arrive in Sylvan Lake, the town is enjoyable to get around on foot, and renting a bike is another great way to explore the environs.

Sylvan Lake has a wide range of rental cabins and cottages for your visit. In summer, expect mostly warm days, but nights by the lake can get cool, so it’s a good idea to pack a sweater with your sunscreen. Every Friday in summer, the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market is the place to pick up fresh produce, jams, and treats, as well as locally made crafts. Spring sees a mix of pleasant days and rain, and in fall, the temperatures can drop a little, so make sure to bring extra layers. In September, the Flannel & Feast Festival is full of food and live entertainment celebrating the area’s laid-back lifestyle and lumberjack culture. Winter is always very cold with snow. The town hosts the only Winter Village in Alberta from December till March, with holiday decorations, tree lightings, bonfires, and music on the lakeshore.

Sylvan Lake Provincial Park Beach

Spend a day at one of Alberta’s most beautiful beaches. During summer, its white sand and shallow waters make the lake perfect for swimmers of all abilities. There are grassy areas, picnic tables, and volleyball courts. From the marina at the southwest end of the beach, you can launch a boat or kayak. If you’re visiting in winter, the beach is a lot quieter but just as lovely, as the lake ices over and the town holds a few events on its surface.

Rotary Lighthouse Park

This park is home to one of the town’s favorite landmarks. The wooden lighthouse is a replica of the world-famous Peggy’s Cove near Halifax. It has colour-changing lights that make the lighthouse stand out from many vantage points in town, and it’s especially pretty at night.

Centennial Park

Wander through this two-hectare, beautifully landscaped park with lush greenery. Scattered about the park are many Adirondack chairs where you can sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. You’ll also find the Sylvan Lake sign, a popular photo op. There’s also a playground, and if you visit at sunset you’ll be treated to glorious views of the lighthouse, lit up in the distance.