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13 Best Banff Canada Luxury Resorts for 2024
Banff is home to some of the most incredible luxury resorts and hotels in Alberta, Canada.
Many of these 5-star hotels in Banff offer beautiful rooms and excellent food at their hotel restaurants, and they even have luxurious spa treatments available!
I’m from Canada and have spent a lot of time traveling through the Canadian Rockies, including Banff National Park. Last summer I took my dog out there for 2 weeks. So, I know exactly where you should stay in Banff and which luxury resorts are worth the price!
Whether you’re visiting Banff for a ski holiday, a family trip, a working holiday, or need a romantic place to stay for your honeymoon, there is a luxury resort in Banff that will be perfect for you!
Here are the best luxury resorts that will take your breath away!
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
1. Fairmont Banff Springs (Banff Castle Resort)
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is one of Banff, Canada’s most famous luxury resorts. Some would even call it a castle as it peeks over the treetops.
Today, the ‘Castle in the Rockies’ provides all the amenities of a world-class resort, offering 739 rooms and suites, all with a fully stocked mini-bar.
This Banff Castle hotel has operated continuously for over 135 years and is easily the most famous of Banff’s 5 star resorts.
The hotel even offers two floors of Fairmont Gold rooms for the ultimate luxury experience.
Dining at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is an adventure unto itself.
For example, the 360 Dome offers a unique dining experience in a ‘bubble dome’ with a preset menu for breakfast, brunch, or dinner under the stars.
There are also many private dining opportunities, like the elegant dining room hidden in the hotel’s signature restaurant, 1888 Chop House, or the tables behind the bookshelf in Rundle Bar.
The Fairmont Spa Banff Springs is also located within the hotel, offering a full range of body, face, and hair services. These spa treatments will simultaneously rejuvenate you and melt away your tension.
Afternoon tea is also a standing tradition at the resort, featuring an exciting selection of teas, cocktails, and mini sandwiches.
Two saltwater pools are available for guests, both indoor and outdoor, with exceptional poolside food and a bar menu starting each afternoon!
No matter what brings you to this famous hotel in Banff, you’ll have a superior 5 star experience. It is truly one of the best hotels in Banff, Canada.
Local’s Tip: Get the inside scoop on the hotel food scene via the Alberta Food Tours “Eat The Castle Tour” starting with STOCK Food & Drink in the main lobby.
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2. Rimrock Resort Hotel
The Rimrock Resort is just minutes from Banff’s Upper Hot Springs.
One of two 5-star hotels in Banff, Alberta, Rimrock is a famous Banff hotel with a view that will take your breath away.
If you want an extra luxurious experience, book the Suite Infinity at the Rimrock, which has an incredible view of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
All that mountain air is bound to work up an appetite. Conveniently, there are multiple food and beverage outlets right in the hotel.
Rimrock Cafe is open daily from 6:30AM to 9PM with piping hot coffee and fresh, house-made pastries. Or you can visit the Larkspur for smaller plates and cocktails.
The Primrose is the main dining room here, which shares the same incredible views and is a wonderful place to enjoy breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
And, when you just feel like ordering in, you’ll be thankful that room service is available for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can even order a bag of popcorn after midnight.
Nearly every luxury hotel in Banff has a spa, and Rimrock Spa gets an A+ for its complete list of spa treatments, from massages to body treatments, manicures, and pedicures. Try The Thermal Salt Glow treatment for a full-body rejuvenating exfoliation treatment!
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3. Mount Royal Hotel
The Mount Royal Hotel is an icon on Banff Avenue, the main street in Banff. Recently refurbished after sustaining a devastating fire, it’s now one of the finest luxury boutique hotels in Banff.
Just a few steps from anything in the downtown area, you can conveniently get around without needing a vehicle.
Choose from a standard room or a junior suite, depending on your needs. Complete with a rooftop hot tub and a trendy in-house restaurant, Brazen.
Mount Royal has everything you need under one roof, so it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best hotels in Banff, Canada.
Brazen offers Date Night on Wednesday from 5PM to 10PM, where two can dine for $69. It’s a preset menu, and you can get a wine pairing for an additional $30. There are many gluten-free options here as well, including desserts like the“Crème Brûlèe.”
Amenities include a business center, gift shop, vending machines, laundry facilities, and meeting rooms for up to 40 people.
So, when you’re in the market for Banff luxury hotels and resorts, make sure this one is on your shortlist!
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Luxury Resorts in Banff National Park
4. The Malcolm
One of Canmore’s newest and most prominent hotels, The Malcolm, is arguably the best place to stay in the Bow Valley area.
You can select from various standard rooms to a One-Bedroom mountain view suite!
The Malcolm is just a few minutes from downtown, so it’s close to everything you need, and they have a rooftop pool/hot tub with a breathtaking view of the Three Sisters Mountains.
The Stirling Lounge & Grill inside the hotel offers convenient onsite dining and cocktails with many gluten-free options. Or you can simply grab an afternoon drink at The Creekside Patio.
Additional amenities include a meeting space, fitness center, outdoor fire pit area, games lounge, general store, and a coffee shop.
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5. Storm Mountain Lodge
One of the best parts about Storm Mountain Lodge is its location. When you turn off the Trans-Canada Highway onto Hwy 93, you enter Kootenay National Park.
Storm Mountain Lodge has been operating for over 100 years, and you can stay in one of its original cabins.
They’re off the grid, without wifi/cell coverage, TVs, or telephones. So, if you are seeking a luxurious peaceful getaway, this is the place for you.
Most cabins even have a soaker tub, where you can relax in the privacy of your own space.
The onsite cuisine is all Canadian, all the time, complete with a Canadian wine list. Dinner reservations are required, but you’ll be surprised at the menu’s variety for such a remote lodge.
There’s also an onsite coffee shop for grab-and-go treats.
Additionally, if you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll be glad to know that Storm Mountain Lodge is pet friendly. You’ll just need to inform the staff beforehand so they can make preparations.
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Luxury Resorts in Lake Louise
6. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is, without a doubt, one of Canada’s most iconic hotels. It draws people from all over the world. Like its sister resort, the Banff Springs Hotel, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Featuring 539 luxury rooms and suites, you’ll quickly discover why this is one of Canada’s most popular destinations.
These hotels offer an additional level of luxury compared to other hotels and resorts in the area.
For example, at the Chateau Lake Louise, there is a superior hotel within the hotel (called Fairmont Gold), which occupies the entire seventh floor. These rooms have additional perks that aren’t offered to regular guests.
The Spa at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is second to none. With more than 20 treatments available, from full-service signature body treatments to specifically targeted facials.
Generally, the spa is open to all, but during peak tourist season, it’s reserved for registered guests only. There are two manicure/pedicure stations, eight treatment rooms, and a hair salon.
The Chateau Lake Louise also has a heated indoor pool, whirlpool, and steam room on the lower level, close to the spa (10PM-11PM is Adults-Only).
There are a few dining options as well.
The Fairview Bar and Restaurant is the Chateau’s signature dining and drinking spot. Enjoy the incredible view of Lake Louise sprawled before you while enjoying Rocky Mountain Cuisine.
Louiza, the Chateau’s newest dining experience, is a Mediterranean-inspired experience. Since it’s brand new, I haven’t yet tried anything on the menu, but I’m looking forward to many of their European dishes.
You can also grab takeout drinks and food at The Guide’s Pantry before setting off on a hike or ski run!
If you can visit the Fairmont Chateau in January, you’ll be delighted to discover the annual ice carving competition, IceMagic. It’s been held here every year for decades and attracts ice-carving professionals from all over the world.
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7. Post Hotel & Spa
The Post Hotel & Spa has been one of Lake Louise’s premier properties for years. It’s close to Lake Louise, including a five-minute drive to the Lake Louise Ski Resort!
The hotel opened in 1942 but was recently acquired by Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts (CRMR).
There are standard rooms as well as suites to choose from. There are also some fantastic historical cabins available to rent, and one that’s even big enough to house a whole family!
For dining, you have a few options:
- Post Hotel Dining Room – International fine-dining dishes
- Fondue Stubl – Traditional cheese fondue
- The Outpost – Old-English style pub
- Sir Norman Lounge – Casual Restaurant
The Post Hotel also has an incredible in-house spa called The Temple Mountain Spa. The Body, Foot, & Leg treatments are wonderful, especially if hiking is part of your Banff itinerary.
If you’re looking for a luxurious mountain getaway with a spa and great food, then The Post Hotel is an excellent choice!
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8. Deer Lodge
A quick walk through this building tells you there’s a lot of history at the Deer Lodge. It’s the perfect place to stay for a nostalgic Canadian experience.
For nearly 100 years, Deer Lodge has welcomed guests in the Lake Louise area to its charming accommodations. As a hand-hewn log structure, it retained much of the original building materials when refurbished in 1985.
There are many different room types here, ranging from antique to modern. The Heritage Wing rooms are the most recently renovated, but the most interesting rooms are the cozy Tower rooms (located in the original lodge tower).
You can take a virtual tour of each room type to understand all the options.
This company takes its culinary scene seriously. For example, they raise all their game meat at a nearby ranch outside Calgary. As expected, the food is nothing short of excellent here. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their full-service dining room, with a breakfast buffet on Saturdays and Sundays.
But for something more casual, you can visit The Caribou Lounge adjacent to the hotel!
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9. Moraine Lake Lodge (Seasonal)
Moraine Lake is now one of the most photographed lakes in the world, and what began as a simple teahouse in 1908 is now an exclusive, seasonal lodge with private balconies and custom log furniture.
Although pricey, the deluxe King Cabin is an excellent, albeit pricey, choice. You’ll be delighted to know that the rate of a room includes breakfast.
The Walter Wilcox Dining Room is an onsite restaurant featuring an excellent menu of Canadian cuisine. A separate dessert menu tells me they take their desserts seriously, a welcome sign for anyone with a sweet tooth!
An onsite cafe means excellent coffee and tea are available all day, and fresh cookies will be available in the library from 3PM to 5PM.
You’ll want to confirm transportation details with the hotel since the access to Moraine Lake has recently changed. The Lodge is only open during summer, so book your stay early to avoid disappointment.
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Luxury Resorts in Yoho National Park
10. Emerald Lake Lodge
Emerald Lake Lodge in Yoho National Park is near Field, BC.
Emerald Lake is named after the deep green color of the water, and the lodge is right on the lake!
First discovered in 1882 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, they built the original guest lodge here in 1902, but it’s now a popular destination for tourists in Canada.
Each room has a balcony to take in the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Suites are also available if you are traveling with a large group and need extra space. Each room also has a wood-burning fireplace, but the rooms have no TV or Wi-Fi.
Mount Burgess Dining Room at the lodge is open for breakfast and dinner.
Local chef Valerie Morrison goes the extra mile to provide many gluten-free options. Nearly half the menu is gluten-free to accommodate those with food sensitivities. She makes a quince paste accompanied by Canadian cheese, which I’ve heard is to die for!
Local Tip: You can’t go to Yoho National Park without a visit to the Truffle Pigs Bistro in Field.
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11. Cathedral Mountain Lodge (Seasonal)
Cathedral Mountain Lodge, also in Yoho National Park, is located along the road to Takkakkaw Falls. These cabins are some of the finest in the area, offering single and loft-style log cabin accommodations.
You can’t beat the private wilderness location that this lodge offers.
You’ll breathe in crisp, cool mountain air from your front deck and relax to the sounds of the nearby Kicking Horse River, just steps away from your cabin.
S’mores, afternoon tea, and cookies are also available for all guests. Then, you should make reservations for their Riverside Dining Room for dinner.
Are you looking to add something extra upon your arrival? Order ahead from the concierge, and they’ll include your wine of choice, chocolate, or even a selection of charcuterie in your room!
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Luxury Resorts in Jasper National Park
12. The Lodge at Bow Lake (Seasonal)
Formerly Num-Ti-Jah, The Lodge at Bow Lake is the first accommodation available as you head north on the Icefields Parkway.
The Lodge at Bow Lake has undergone significant restorations during 2021 and has finally reopened to the public. There are 16 lodge rooms, each with a private ensuite.
The exclusive Num-Ti-Jah Suite is the ultimate getaway on the lodge’s top floor and includes a Japanese soaking tub. Large windows allow for total panoramic views.
The Lodge at Bow Lake is a relatively all-inclusive experience, as the rates include breakfast, hiking lunches, and dinner each day for 2 people. The menu is pre-set each day when Chef Chris Parnell and his culinary team treat you to culinary delights.
Note: This area has no cell coverage, and the maximum occupancy for each room is 2 people.
Local’s Tip: North of the Lodge, about an hour, is the magnificent Athabasca Glacier. Book a hiking tour to get up close and personal with a glacier.
13. Glacier View Lodge (Seasonal)
Glacier View Lodge has a unique location in one of the most spectacular places in the world, the Icefields Parkway of Jasper National Park.
Situated directly across from the Athabasca Glacier, the stunning views will take your breath away.
It’s only open during the summer months, and therefore, rooms sell out way ahead of time, but if you can secure a spot, every room is comfortable and tastefully decorated with a mountain chalet decor.
There are two excellent restaurants here, which is nothing short of amazing, given the remote location. There’s casual onsite dining at Chalet and a remote fine dining experience at The Altitude Restaurant.
Dinner is available from 6PM to 9PM at The Altitude Restaurants. The menu here is fresh every season, and they consciously try to include as many local ingredients as possible.
The location, the accommodations, and the food come together to make this an incredible place to stay in Banff National Park.
FAQs
What is the dress code for Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel?
The dress code for the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Canada, is smart casual, also known as business casual.
Why was Banff Springs Hotel built?
The Banff Springs Hotel was built in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway to encourage travel to the West and provide luxury accommodations to tourists.
Can you visit Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel without staying there?
Yes, you can visit the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, without being an overnight guest. There is a parkade nearby (paid) where you can park your car and explore the hotel.
How far apart are Banff and Lake Louise?
Banff and Lake Louise are approximately 45 minutes apart, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Where did Marilyn Monroe stay in Banff?
Marilyn Monroe stayed at the Banff Springs Hotel in 1953 while filming the movie River Of No Return.
Can non-guests eat at Chateau Lake Louise?
You could eat at the Chateau during the off-season, but it would likely not be available during peak tourist season.
How much is the parking at Chateau Lake Louise?
Parking is free and generally accessible at Lake Louise, but Parks Canada controls traffic because the crowds are large. Depending on what time of year you visit the area, you might have to park in the overflow and take a bus.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of luxury resorts and hotels in Banff National Park. While they can be expensive, there is no doubt that they are some of the finest accommodations Canada has to offer.
I wouldn’t call any of these a typical Banff Ski Resort type of property, but you can stay at most of these resorts while skiing in the winter months, and a bonus perk is that many have spa services so you can relax and recover after a long day of skiing!
My top recommendation is definitely the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs. Staying here is an experience everyone should have at least once!
But if it’s unavailable, another great option is Rimrock Resort, which is close to Downtown Banff!
Whether on your honeymoon or traveling with the whole family, any of these luxury resorts in Banff will provide a special, memorable experience that might even start an annual tradition!
More Banff Adventures
- Banff National Park Itinerary: 1, 3, and 5 Day Guides
- 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
- 19 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
- 15 Hotels in Banff With Private Hot Tubs You Won’t Want To Miss!
- Scenic Jasper to Lake Louise Drive via Icefields Parkway: 19 Best Stops
- 9 Exciting Banff Horseback Riding Tours
- Where to Stay in Banff National Park: 18 Best Hotels
- 7 Best Banff White Water Rafting Tours
More Banff Adventures
- Banff National Park Itinerary: 1, 3, and 5 Day Guides
- 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
- 19 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
- 15 Hotels in Banff With Private Hot Tubs You Won’t Want To Miss!
- Scenic Jasper to Lake Louise Drive via Icefields Parkway: 19 Best Stops
- 9 Exciting Banff Horseback Riding Tours
- Where to Stay in Banff National Park: 18 Best Hotels
- 7 Best Banff White Water Rafting Tours
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
