A gorgeous hike will get you to this hidden Alberta Tea House in the mountains

Sure you could steep a hot one at home, but would that leave you feeling accomplished? In your parent’s day, they had to hike uphill in the snow both ways to have a cup of earl grey – or at least that’s what they like to tell us. Show them up by checking out the ‘top secret’ Lake Agnes Tea House – a cozy mountain retreat that requires its visitors to really work for their herbals.

Just up the mountain from Alberta’s Lake Louise, rests a quaint (cash only) waterfront cabin. This quiet little spot has a menu that is as extensive as the view, with over 100 different teas, decadent desserts and comfort food just like momma used to make.

The catch? This adorable little hideaway is actually an hour to two-hour hike from the chateau – and that’s just one way. Sorry, folks… but when we said ‘just up the mountain’ we actually meant 3.7 km. We hope you have some comfortable footwear!

Related Posts:
This Calgary cidery will pay for your extra homegrown fruit
City recommending restaurants ‘winterize’ patios ahead of colder months

Don’t let the distance, or the time it’ll take you to get from point A to point B scare you off though.

This hike is considered pretty moderate and can be done by almost anyone. To get there, just take the Lakeshore Trail from the hotel,  keep your eye out for the Lake Agnes Trail, PASS the Plain of Six Glaciers, cross the horse trail and continue on until you see Mirror Lake. Eventually, you’ll hit a flight of stairs, which is the last challenge before finding the house.

Once you’ve climbed those bad boys, you’re golden! Take the afternoon, enjoy the fresh air, a few cups of your favourite tea and then head back down. Make it a day trip!

We promise you, it’ll quite literally be the best hot beverage you’ve ever had. It’s worth it!

LAKE AGNES TEA HOUSE 

When: Open between June 4th and October 10. (Closes on Thanksgiving until June)
Where: Directions here 
Time: 8 am – 5 pm