I’ve never stayed overnight in a real-life fairytale inducing Castle until I stayed at the Banff Springs Hotel last month. So, if you are looking for a mountain resort to stay at in Banff, look no further than the Banff Springs Hotel, Canada’s Castle in the Rockies.
Let’s rewind a second, I got married last month and since my wedding was there, I got to stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel for the first time ever! I’ve admired this hotel for years, ever since I spent a weekend at a conference there when I was twelve, but that’s a whole different story. I knew that this would be the location of my fairytale winter wedding and it didn’t disappoint. (Blog post coming soon!! I promise)
Fairmont Hotels are some of my favourites, and in Canada, they own all of the old Canadian Pacific Railway hotels that look like full blown Castles. Seriously, so many of them have tall towers, stone exteriors and amazing history, but Canada’s Castle in the Rockies is just my favourite.
The Hotel: Canada’s Castle in the Rockies
If you were writing a romance novel in the Canadian Rockies then you would use this as your setting, it is a place to relax, fall in love, get swept away and have a real-life magical experience. Everything you want in a luxury hotel is at your fingertips and that is what they strive for.
The Banff Springs Hotel is all about getting away in the mountains and having everything taken care of. This hotel features a mountain resort vibe, a world-class golf course, a European style spa and amazing dining experiences.
Whether you are visiting in the summer or in the winter, there is something for everyone in this hotel from the minute you go through the revolving doors into the main lobby. This is by far the best hotel in Banff to stay in.
Don’t Miss! The Full Banff Springs Experience
The Banff Springs Hotel is teaming with things to do and see. There are experiences galore that shouldn’t be missed. Here are my top three:
- High Tea at the Banff Springs: Whether you go to high tea in every city you visit, or this is your first time. From the moment you sit down at a table with its perfectly pressed white table cloth and get to look through the book that features the actual tea you’ll be choosing from, you’ve stepped into pure bliss. From the finger sandwiches to the
- Hike the Bow Valley: There are trails in the surrounding Bow Valley that go by waterfalls, the Banff Springs golf course and then continue all the way back to Banff. Whether it is winter or summer, this is a great experience to get out and explore the grounds.
- Experience Willow Stream Spa: European luxury lives here in this gigantic spa. Access is complimentary with a message. You can spend your time in the pools and relaxing in the mountains.
History: The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel History
A huge draw for people is being able to learn about the history of this hotel, the original structure was built in the late 1800s and after a fire, the current hotel was rebuilt in 1926. There has been so much change through the years, with the original lobby now turned into the Rundle Lounge and many places changed between restaurants, lounges and event spaces. The tower and main building are built from steel and rundle limestone, and you can feel it as you walk through the warm hallways.
With 125 years of history, the Banff Springs Hotel remains a hotel that sees celebrities and royalty alike. From pictures of Marilyn Monroe to the menu the Queen ate in her royal visit in 1939, this hotel is rich with cultural significance.
Looking for more things to do in Banff? Check out these posts!
Banff in the Winter: HERE!
Banff 3-Day Itinerary: HERE!
Don’t worry they will open in a new tab so you can keep reading!
Top Notch Banff Springs Restaurants and Banff Dining
If you are looking for food fit for a queen, you can look no further than the restaurants and lounges that exist in the Banff Springs Hotel. Whether you are looking for easy afternoon snacks and drinks, a full French meal or a breakfast buffet that seems never-ending, you’ll find it at the Banff Springs.
- The Vermillion Room: Banff weekend brunch doesn’t get better than the Vermillion room, at almost $60/ person. From crab legs to cheesecake and everything in between, this weekend brunch is a must-do if you are at the Banff Springs. For dinner, you can enjoy French classics here and enjoy the picturesque windows.
- The Rundle Lounge: This warm, inviting and aptly appointed lounge features fresh cocktails, homemade ginger ale, craft beer and bar food. You can enjoy wings while sitting beside the fire and watching the mountains outside.
- Grapes: This charcuterie and cheese bar features chef made plates, Alberta classics and an extensive wine list. Grab a board and a bottle and enjoy the inviting intimate atmosphere.
- Stock Kitchen: One of the best cups of coffee in Banff can be found at Stock. Grab a macaron to go with it too.
World Class Service For the Team
Our arrival macarons! Chocolate Strawberries!
The concierge is willing to help with everything you could need, and know their way around Banff and the Rockies. They are true experts and helpful in booking tours, finding your way through the Castle and the grounds, and helping with everything from rentals to transportation. I’ve never been to a hotel where everything was arranged and easily taken care of.
Planning Your Stay: Banff Springs
If you are planning a trip to Banff you have probably seen this hotel, it rises out of the forest and mountains around it and sits nestled just outside the town of Banff. Driving up the building gets bigger and bigger, and you are transported into a whole new world!
This is the most expensive hotel in Banff to stay at, and even with the best promotion, you are looking at around $300 per night. But the price is well worth it, and you get what you pay for. From the service to the amenities.
The rooms are somewhat small in comparison to other hotel rooms, but this is because it is a historic hotel. This does not impact the amazing bedding, pillows, toiletries and the like that you get at the Banff Springs.
Booking Tip: I recommend booking directly from the Fairmont website. If you become a (FREE) Accor Hotels Rewards member, you can often save 5-10% of your nightly stay.
Special Events at the Springs
There are special events happening all through the year at the Banff Springs Hotel. From Cochon555 to the World Media Festival to Christmas in the Castle, some are put on by the hotel and others just use the venue.
Check the website for the latest happenings!
Getting Here: Transport to the Banff Springs Hotel
If you are coming to Banff from Calgary there are many ways to get to the hotel, you can book a private car, a bus shuttle (I recommend Brewsters) or rent a car (if you want to explore more). However, car parking is at least $30/night.
The Banff Springs team offers free shuttles to town too, and to the ski hills, so keep that in mind. You can also use Roam transit during your stay to get around.
