Overview
Bentley is a sleepy farm-town of 1,100 perched on the Blindman River valley, valued mainly as the nearest settlement to Gull Lake's sandy southern shores. It suits travelers seeking a low-key Alberta lake weekend away from the busier crowds at Sylvan Lake, with fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and sandy beaches in summer, plus cross-country skiing and a small ski hill in winter.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Family Travel · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Lakeside and rural camping/RV parks dominate; there are few traditional hotels. Book ahead for summer weekends at Sandy Point Resort & RV Park, Summerland Leisure Park, and Wilson's Beach Campground.
Connectivity
Cellular coverage (4G LTE) is available from major Canadian carriers. WiFi is found at cafes and accommodations but is not ubiquitous in public spaces.
Food
Bentley's main street has three restaurants and one bar; most close by 9PM. A grocery store is available for self-catering.
Transport
Bentley has no public transit or intercity bus service. A personal vehicle is required to get around the area and reach nearby towns.
Weather
Alberta summers (June–August) are warm with temperatures in the low-to-mid 20s °C; Gull Lake's beaches are most popular during this period. Winters are cold with significant snow, ideal for skiing at Medicine Lodge Ski Hill and cross-country trails at Aspen Beach.