Photo via Shuttershock
About 40 minutes southwest of Calgary lies Diamond Valley, a fascinating contradiction of a place. The area is rife with history but is also Alberta’s newest town. Technically.
This came to be in 2023 when the once-separate towns of Black Diamond and Turner Valley joined forces and amalgamated as one. Since then, the newly minted town of Diamond Valley has consolidated municipal offices, reorganized facilities, and given the town’s website a facelift.
However, at its heart is the town(s) you’ve always known and loved, along with the things that visiting there so great.
Upon entering Diamond Valley, you’ll be met with a series of saloon-style buildings lining what’s known as “Whiskey Road.” In earlier times (we’re talking 1929 early) these were movie theatre and dance hall venues. They also served as a town hall, political rally centre, and community gathering spot.
Today, the buildings are occupied by Eau Claire Distillery, Canada’s most awarded craft distillery. Visitors can browse products at the Whiskey Lounge, step back in time through the Eau Claire Distillery Prohibition Experience at the Speakeasy, or enjoy a delicious meal that blends history with gastronomy at Rupert’s Parlour.
Strenuous hikes? Not today.
Enjoy the scenery of the stunning foothills while taking a stroll at your own pace. Friendship Trail is a 3 km path that passes the McPherson Coal Mine or head 30 minutes west to the beautiful Sheep River Falls.
Want to take a piece of Diamond Valley home with you? Swing by Vale’s Greenhouse before you leave. Upon entrance, you’ll be greeted by a stately river stone and wrought iron fence before a twisting walkway adorned with beautiful show beds leads you to the greenhouse sales area. Plus, everything is grown on-site, so you know these plants can stand up to Alberta weather.
Diamond Valley proves that good things come in small packages. With less than an hour’s drive out of the city, you’ve got nothing to lose! Get some fresh air and learn a thing or two when you visit Alberta’s newest town.
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