Alberta is blessed with a diversity of natural splendour, and makes for great outdoor adventures in this part of Canada. Tourism in Alberta is centred around the famous Rocky Mountains, which flank its western border with British Columbia, offering a host of alpine attractions. The north is a sparsely-inhabited wilderness of forests, lakes and rivers, while on its eastern border with Saskatchewan, the atmosphere takes a turn for the Wild West with its prairies and the Canadian Badlands. For those looking for a more urban experience, the capital Edmonton is centrally located and decidedly cosmopolitan.

But even in the cities and towns, visitors to Alberta can be sure that nature is never far away. Albertans love the outdoors, and urban environments are interspersed with plenty of lush river parks and greenbelts. In fact, Edmonton has more parkland per capita than any other North American city.

An important aspect of Alberta's heritage is the preservation of aboriginal culture. Home to 34 First Nations found in 14 reserves, the province hosts a number of educational attractions such as native interpretive trails and markets selling exquisite handmade crafts, as well as the world's largest teepee.

The natural beauty of this Canadian province is world-renowned, so it's no surprise to discover that it's home to five of Canada's 14 World Heritage Sites: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump; Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park; Banff-Jasper National Parks; the enormous Wood Buffalo National Park; and Dinosaur Provincial Park.

An outdoor enthusiast's paradise, beautiful Alberta is a must for the adventurous at heart.