'Alberta's best lake town' transforms into a cozy coastal fall escape and it's near Calgary

This cute small town near Calgary makes for the perfect fall escape with coastal vibes that will make you feel like you're in Cape Cod during autumn.

While there are cozy mountain towns around Alberta, sometimes you want to mix it up, and this is the spot to do it. Lakeside strolls, lighthouse visits, and small town streets await you here.

This is Sylvan Lake, known as "Alberta's Best Lake Town" and brimming with coastal beauty. The town is nestled along the shore of a massive lake, which makes you feel like you're looking out onto the vast ocean — and it's all just an hour and a half away from Calgary.

Obviously, the sandy beaches here are ideal in the summer, but fall offers a different type of beauty in this town.

There are fewer crowds but just as much scenery, and even more charming vibes.

The leaves turn a bright golden shade, and strolling around downtown becomes that much more scenic. Historic buildings line the streets here, and you'll find lots of shops and local boutiques.

You can wander down Lakeshore Drive and Centennial Street, taking your pick of spots to enjoy a warm cup of coffee.

When October hits the town, it puts on a slew of fun fall events, like a haunted house and an outdoor movie to get you into the Halloween mood.

There's nothing like a walk along the lake, though, in the fall, letting you soak up the beauty of the water before it freezes over for the winter.

If you miss Sylvan Lake in the fall, though, don't worry – it's just as fun in the winter too. Bundle up, go skating, and enjoy the annual "Winter Village" the town puts on in the snowy season.

Starting November 14, 300,000 twinkling lights light up the pier here, making for a magical visit.

Basically, this little town has something for every season.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.