Alberta is the Secret Star in Award-Winning Movie 'Brokeback Mountain'

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. October 14, 2008

ALBERTA, Canada, Janaury 12, 2006. Brokeback Mountain is the film of the moment, and is widely tipped to receive a host of Oscar nominations, having already been nominated for seven Golden Globes amongst many other awards. Although the film is set in Wyoming, it was filmed in Alberta, with the majestic Canadian Rockies serving as a suitably romantic backdrop as the moving story unfolds.

The subtitle of Brokeback Mountain, 'Love is a Force of Nature', illustrates the importance of the scenery to the meaning of the film. Fort Macleod and Kananaskis were the focal points of filming, but the 'Nature' in question is the overall impression created by the 245 rivers, 600 lakes, expansive boreal forests, rolling hills and rugged peaks of Alberta's unrivalled scenic splendour.

Lead star Heath Ledger praised the breathtaking natural beauty of the Alberta countryside as having played an important role in supporting his powerful performance. He commented, "At times you felt you left the whole world behind - you were somewhere else", and described the stillness of his character as "a product of the environment". Alberta offers the genuine serenity that is so rare in the hustle and bustle of contemporary life - an irresistibly relaxing calmness that is increasingly hard to find.

The scenery of Brokeback Mountain is impressive on the silver screen, but even this is just a shadow of the real power of the Rocky Mountains. So having enjoyed the movie version, and on Ledger's recommendation, now is your chance to taste tranquillity for yourself with a holiday in the calm wilderness of Alberta's southern prairies. Below are a couple of ideas for great holidays in Alberta, for more information and details of destinations visit the Travel Alberta website at www.travelalberta.com.

Any would-be cowboys will be quick to saddle up their gear in preparation for a ranch holiday with American Round-Up. Their 13 night package begins with two nights in downtown Calgary, before a week-long stay at the authentic Homeplace Ranch including all meals, transfers and activities. The trip ends with four days of freedom on a hire-car road trip. The package is based on travel in June, and costs lb1,573 * per person. The price includes direct charter flights from Gatwick to Calgary, accommodation, car hire, and travel insurance. To book contact American Round-Up on 01404 881 777, or visit www.americanroundup.com. For more information on travel to Alberta see www.travelalberta.com.

Alternatively, prices with Canadian Affair start from just lb545 ** for a seven-night package in May, including flights. The package includes four nights accommodation at the Delta Lodge at Kananaskis and three nights at the Sandman Lethbridge in Fort Macleod. Flights are available from either Gatwick or Manchester, flying on the state of the art Airbus A330. To book or for more information call Canadian Affair on 020 7616 9999, or visit www.CanadianAffair.com. For more information on travel to Alberta see www.travelalberta.com.