Summary of Activities in Edmonton, Canada
The following day in Edmonton was characterized by a leisurely pace, a fitting conclusion to a vibrant previous night.
A Relaxed Morning in Edmonton
The day commenced with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel (an interesting detail – the Metterra Hotel also offers a happy hour), followed by a casual stroll through the farmers market in Old Strathcona, partly motivated by the desire to sample each tasting available.
Visiting the Farmers Market
However, our capacity for souvenirs was limited for our return to the UK. Consequently, my market acquisitions included a selection of fresh fruits, an ample supply of confections, and some delightful spicy chicken sausages. This decision was influenced significantly by the enticing aromas wafting from one particular stall, propelling me to request a taste of everything offered.
Dining at Situation Beer
We passed by our previous favorite spots, Have Mercy and El Cortez, feeling quite famished as we made our way to Situation Beer.
Last night, I had visited Situation Beer for a few drinks with Lloyd’s associate and became enamored with a unique, one-time grapefruit beer. Prior to this experience, I had not realized grapefruit beer could exist, yet it captivated my thoughts throughout the following day.
Frustratingly, as I mentioned, this grapefruit beer was indeed a limited-time offering, leading me to settle for a robust dark house ale while proceeding to order an elaborate lunch.
Initially, I believed I was merely ordering a small portion, consisting of chicken wings accompanied by fries and waffles as dessert. However, when the food was presented, it was unmistakably evident that I had ordered enough to satisfy several diners!
Nevertheless, undeterred by previous reservations, I proceeded to indulge completely, successfully consuming far more than anticipated (though I found myself struggling to depart the bar for the subsequent hour).
Evening Hike at Elk Island National Park
After approximately an hour of snowshoeing during which we paused for photographs against the strikingly bright moonlit backdrop, we halted for s’mores, toasted marshmallows, and hot chocolate (which Lloyd enjoyed, although I am not particularly fond of it – rather peculiar, isn’t it? Who could dislike hot chocolate?)…
Following our excursion, we returned to Edmonton to enjoy some tea alongside delectable chocolates sourced from one of the local purveyors earlier that day – Jacek Chocolatiers – and to recover before embarking on an extensive drive the following day.
Anticipating Jasper National Park
We prepared for an early dinner at Ampersand 27… and yes, I once again opted for a cocktail (Lloyd chose water). It appears I sampled more cocktails during my stay in Edmonton than I had in recent memory; however, given their exceptional quality, it felt almost a crime not to indulge in several options.
We commenced our meal with a charcuterie board…
This day of leisurely exploration in Edmonton served as a delightful prelude to the adventures planned ahead.
