Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site bucket-lister. It’s tough to imagine what could improve this stunning outdoor playground of the Canadian Rockies, with its jaw-dropping mountains, turquoise lakes, and incredible wildlife. But staying at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs, also known as the “Castle of the Rockies,” takes the experience up a few notches. This luxurious resort with outstanding hospitality and unparalleled views just might ruin other hotels for you. But it’s absolutely worth the splurge if you enjoy a little pampering alongside unparalleled natural splendor.
Rooms with Views
Just over an hour from Calgary, this historic Fairmont location has an iconic castle vibe. The hotel has attracted movie stars and world leaders since it was built in 1888. Its 739 rooms range from smaller, cozy rooms, larger spaces with deluxe views, and expansive luxury suites. Many of the rooms retain original architectural features, like fireplaces, while also keeping an eye toward modern comforts and conveniences.
The mother of all rooms is the Crown Suite at the building’s pinnacle. With 1500 square feet, this space boasts a private elevator, a reception foyer, two king bedrooms, a modern bathroom, an entertainment area with vaulted ceilings, a bar, and panoramic views of the mountains. It was designed for royalty and dignitaries..
Room rates start in the $500 range, and the Fairmont also welcomes dogs for an additional $50 per room per night. If your fuzzy buddy prefers to stay home, you can book a walk with black lab Lily, Fairmont Banff Springs’s resident “canine ambassador.”
Deluxe View King Suite with living space
Photo by Brandon Withrow
Luxury, Squared
The hotel is bursting with luxury amenities, like a spa, an award-winning patio surrounded by mountains, and indoor and outdoor pools. If you’re feeling peckish, there are several onsite restaurants and bars to choose from, like Rundle Bar with a speakeasy backroom, or the 1888 Chop House.
If you’ve booked a Fairmont Gold level room, you will have access to a private entrance, check-in, concierge, and lounge. The Gold Level recently won four stars from Forbes for its “hotel within a hotel” experience and its exceptional, personalized service.
There’s No Bad Time
When should you stay at Fairmont Banff Springs? You could go in the spring and summer, as the weather warms and the foliage blooms with vibrant colors. During the fall, you’ll see the larches turn a burnt orange against the evergreen pines on your trails. Winter visits promise ice-skating, skiing, and hiking throughout Banff’s ideal winter wonderland.
Whatever time of year you decide to stay, Fairmont Banff Springs is an ideal place to rest your exhausted head after snowboarding, snapping photos of elk, bears, and eagles, or simply enjoying all the shopping and food Banff has to offer.
