Vast, varied and exceedingly beautiful, Canada's Northwest Territories offers the perfect combination of history, nature and wildlife, coupled with a range of truly unique travel experiences.

Yellowknife

Set on the shores of Great Slave Lake, this small city offers history and charm in abundance. From fascinating indigenous culture to bohemian houseboat communities to superb art galleries and a range of excellent restaurants, it packs a punch which belies its remote location. Visit Yellowknife's museum dedicated to the Dene First Nations tribe from which the city gets its name. Experience the frontier lifestyle on a walk around the Old Town, or head to Long Lake beach, which hosts a brilliant annual music festival. From here you can access trails that explore Fred Henne Territorial Park and the surrounding lakes.

And, for those visiting in autumn and winter, be sure to head outside the city limits after dark to witness some of the world's very best Northern Lights viewing. You also won't want to miss a stay at the incredible Blachford Lake Lodge. Accessible by a 30-minute float plane flight from Yellowknife, this gorgeous retreat offers year-round adventure in the heart of the Canadian wilderness.

National Parks

For something a little more off the beaten track, head west from Yellowknife to Nahanni National Park, a region of canyons, waterfalls and hot springs. Or visit Tuktut Nogait National Park in the north, home to Arctic wildlife such as bluenose west caribou, muskoxen and arctic char. You can try fishing and paddling but further adventures into the park are for experienced hikers only. Alternatively, travel to south to Fort Smith for Wood Buffalo National Park, home to half of the world's endangered wood bison, before continuing to the salt plains, which stretch south into neighbouring Alberta.