This summer, Phil and I took the XLTS Plateau Pleasure-Way for a one week camping trip. Here are a few overall observations. First, let’s not call it camping. It was definitely a ‘glamping’ experience, one that I really enjoyed. There was so much room. I don’t see how I could have filled all the storage areas. Everywhere I looked there was more space. I never once felt crowded in the motorhome. Everything is well made and it is obvious much thought was put into everything.
For every shelf, there is a ledge so things can’t fall out. The knobs for each drawer have an easy locking system, so that while driving they don’t open. The bed was very easy to set up and take down. The kitchen had a nice deep sink with a stove top, microwave and a fridge with a freezer. The driver and passenger seats are very comfortable with lots of room.
I can’t think of anything else I wanted!
Part 1 – Cypress Hills
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, located in southwestern Canada is a great place to escape, where lush forests, sparkling lakes, and panoramic viewpoints rise above the surrounding prairie. This park is known for its towering pine trees that provide beauty and shade to every campsite.
Hiking is one of the park’s greatest attractions. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, there’s a trail for every skill level.
Amenities such as: the Cypress Hills Scoop & Sizzle, (that includes icecream, fresh coffee and baked treats) or Ivan’s Restaurant. (where a full meal can be enjoyed) or the outdoor pool, (where you can escape from the heat) mean that Cypress Hills has something for everyone.
We stayed at the LodgePole Campsite #9. If I were to go back I would request #10 because it was much bigger with only one site beside you. LodgePole is a smaller area but that makes it more quaint. It is an easy 15-20 minute walk to the above listed amenities and also has very clean washrooms.
Part 2 – Lost Lemon Campground in the Crowsnest Pass
Crowsnest Pass is nestled in the stunning Rocky Mountains and is made up of five charming mountain communities. We stayed at the Lost Lemon Campground, close to Blairmore. Attractions include the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, which tells the story of Canada’s deadliest rockslide and Crowsnest Museum where you can learn about the local mining history. Activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, golfing, and wildlife viewing are all available.
Our campsite was located right beside a gurgling river. We enjoyed the beautiful weather while we listened to the water and the trains pass by. Although the train is loud, a true Canadian enjoys the site of water and a mountain in the background while listening to a train whistle by.
This campground was clean…and quiet. There are two sides you can choose. The one side is up against the mountain and provides more shade. But I would absolutely choose the side by the river. If you go, choose site 1-12.
We were able to walk beside the river all the way to Blairmore, a 30 min walk, and enjoyed coffee and a famer’s market.
Part 3 – Gas City – Medicine Hat
So that we didn’t have such a long drive, we stayed one night at Gas City Campground. This was a beautifully treed, very spacious campsite. Even though our site was right by the main office it was still quiet. The best campsites are at the back – they overlook a valley. It was extremely hot that day (41 degrees Celsius) so when we arrived we set up and then went into the Pleasure-Way to escape the heat. While we were sitting at our campsite, during the evening, a group of car enthusiasts drove by with their restored vehicles.
After using the XLTS Plateau Pleasure-Way, I can’t imagine camping in anything else. It was so easy to keep clean, mainly because there was so much space. It was so easy to set up. In just a few minutes we were ready. It was also really easy to drive and park. Everything about this week was fantastic. Thanks Pleasure-Way for making an incredible product.
