Located in central Alberta between Calgary and Edmonton, and in an area surrounded by incomparable natural beauty, Sylvan Lake is one of the most prominent year-round recreational sites in Canada. During the summer, cruise through the waters by sailboat or motor boat, and engage in fun activities such as swimming, fishing, golfing, and hiking. When the colder months set in, partake in winter sports including ice skating, pond hockey, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. Enjoy a getaway at a phenomenal Sylvan Lake vacation rental no matter the season. Here are some of the top spots to stay at in and around Sylvan Lake.

1. Sylvan Lake RV Park

Sylvan Lake RV Park is a campground where people from Canada and the US come together to see the beautiful lake. Bars, restaurants, stores, and other recreational activities are available at the lake shore drive, which is a two or three-minute walk from the park. Stock up on candies and beverages and pick up miscellaneous RV supplies at the RV Park office.

2. Jarvis Bay

Situated on the eastern shore just north of the town of Sylvan Lake, vacation rentals in the community of Jarvis Bay lie adjacent to Jarvis Bay Provincial Park. During the summer, enjoy hiking the various trails and observing wildlife, and in the winter, marvel at the chill beauty of the landscape as you explore it by snowshoeing or cross country skiing.

3. Sunbreaker Cove

Located on the northern shore of Sylvan Lake, Sunbreaker Cove is a small, uncrowded community with a public beach and boat launch. Enjoy breathtaking views of the lovely lake from your vacation rental. Go boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, and fishing. Head for nearby Sylvan Lake Natural Area to observe birds, such as the ruffed grouse, spruce grouse, bald eagle, Swainson’s thrush, and ovenbird.

4. Half Moon Bay

Vacation rentals in the community of Half Moon Bay on the western shore of Sylvan Lake lie within Sylvan Lake Provincial Park. The park abounds in recreational amenities. A long sand and grass beach where you can swim and sunbathe borders the lake. On the lake, have fun canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing. During the winter, ice skate on one of the two rinks, try your hand at ice fishing or go snowmobiling on the surface of the lake.

5. Norglenwold

Located on the northwest edge of the town of Sylvan Lake, vacation rentals in the community of Norglenwold have access to the amenities of the town while lying in a less congested lakeside setting. Nearby family-friendly facilities include go-karts and miniature golf. If you’re a serious golfer, head to the Sylvan Lake Golf and Country Club with its impressive 18-hole course.

6. Red Deer

Situated in rolling hills just a few minutes away from Sylvan Lake, vacation rentals in the city of Red Deer have easy access not only to activities on the lake, but also numerous activities and cultural events in the city. Learn about the history of the region at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery. Explore Waskasoo Park along the Red Deer River by walking, cycling, rollerblading, or horseback riding in the summer or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Check out the Westerner Exposition Grounds for events, such as rodeos and local fairs.

7. Blackfalds

The town of Blackfalds sits just north of Red Deer and east of Sylvan Lake in a region surrounded by small lakes and rivers. Vacation rentals in Blackfalds are only a short drive away from Sylvan Lake, Gull Lake, and other recreational areas. Blackfalds features a number of trails for walking and cycling that wind through the town and also link with nearby cities, such as Lacombe and Red Deer. Family-friendly facilities include the Tayles Water Spray Park, the Blackfalds Multiplex, and a number of outdoor ice skating facilities.

8. Bentley

Highway 20 offers quick access for vacation rentals in the town of Bentley to the southeast shore of Sylvan Lake. Bentley lies just west of the shore of Gull Lake and features paved walking and cycling paths, horseback riding, and weekly farmer’s markets during the summer. Winter activities include curling, ice skating, hockey, and skiing.

9. Eckville

Just a short drive west of Sylvan Lake, Eckville features vacation rentals sitting in rolling green countryside and provide easy access to the recreational facilities along the lakeshore. Local activities include a spray park for children, an outdoor skating rink, and a network of walking trails.

10. Benalto

Located in beautiful green meadows 13 miles west of the town of Sylvan Lake, vacation rentals in the village of Benalto offer quiet getaways to relax in after your exciting activities on the lake or in the nearby city of Red Deer. Benalto also has convenient access to the winding Red Deer River, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and bird watching.