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The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Categories: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Restaurants Beauty and Spas Day Spas Hotels, Restaurants, Day Spas [Edit]
405 Spray AveBanff, AB T1L 1J4
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
- Good For:
- Dessert, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Intimate
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
52 reviews for The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Review Highlights
"The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Canoe Experience."
(in 6 reviews)
"We were able to book a room on the "Gold" level."
(in 2 reviews)
"The Fairmont is nestled inside Banff National Park."
(in 5 reviews)
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52 reviews in English
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Review from Stacey T.
Welcome to the castle, this place is amazing! I was here for business and I was lucky enough to stay at this awesome hotel! The view from my room was so beautiful, I could see up the river in between two mountains with the waterfalls also in site. I could see onto the golf course and each morning there were elk and deer roaming around. We took a hike from the hotel down the river path and saw about 10 elk and a coyote.
I also utilized the gym and did a body pump class, the instructor was very nice and so were all the local girls that were in the class, must be that this gym is the main gym for the locals.
Hot tip - Sign up for the Free Presidents Club Rewards Program before booking your room! I signed up and even though I have never stayed in a Fairmont before I was upgraded to a room with a view, I was able to access the gym for free and also had free wifi.
The staff was very friendly and the facility was really cool, it really was a castle! -
Review from J-Lynn D.
12/6/2011 18 Check-ins Here
I feel like a princess at this Hotel! Couple that with Canadian hospitality and you have a winner. The view is breathtaking and the town it is located in is the most beautiful area I have ever been to in my life! There is plenty of wildlife nearby and the lakes are crystal clear!!! The hotel offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, including indoor bowling, horseback riding, a prestigious golf course, and that is if you decide to leave the hotel. Inside, there are plenty of things to keep you in awe.
You have to try this one out for yourself; the pictures don't do it justice! -
Review from Genre S.
Calgary, AB
11/28/2011
The looks or the lifestyle, as the pop will eat itself pointed out. Banff Springs has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best hotels on the planet. As they say in business 'location, location,location'. The Springs has all three in spades, as well as immediate presentation, and the best staff/employment/customer service I have experienced in hotels. I recommend making a point of staying at this hotel at least once in your life.
However (I will admit) familiarity can often breed contempt. If you are fortunate enough to live near the springs, a few weaknesses may appear in the historical facade. These weaknesses are small, but they indicate a lack of tact and class, I think on the part of the Fairmont group.
Valet is a default setting for this caliber of accommodation, yet charging rates comparable to valet if the customer wishes to forego the service? Tacky. As well (given the actual cost of a room), charging visitors a $20 nightly rate for (non wifi, ground line) internet? Petty money grab. Most hotels in Banff comp this service these days, and to find that the Springs is not doing so surprised me. The lack of civil amenities in the rooms also surprised me. Accoutrements for bathing are there, but for cooking? A kettle is on hand (echos of tea habits), but little else.
In short, please make a point of staying at this wonderful slice of Canadiana, but leave a note suggesting that the Fairmont group would save money, incur respect, and make visitors happy if the hotel made wide-screen televisions an optional (IE charged) service, and instead offered internet gratis, with compliments.
Welcome to the twenty-first century, Fairmont. -
Review from Janine E.
Edmonton, AB
11/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
I would describe this as the Castle of Alberta. As any other princess it's obvious that I will need to get married here. Although super high end and super pricey, it is GORGEOUS. I've only stayed here once and I was really young but I really want to stay here again. I've been to their spa and it's so serene and I've been to high tea here twice (both times were delicious). High tea is filled with a delicious lunch, some great treats and amazing tea that the Banff Springs makes themselves. The presentation of High Tea is definitely part of what enticed me to come back as it was very informative and I felt like I was in Europe.
I dream of dancing the night away in the moonlight with the love of my life on my wedding night here, sigh, it really is beautiful.
The view at the Banff Springs is unbelievable. It will literally take you're breath away. If you are in the area, go and tour around... you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Violet P.
10/2/2011
I stayed at the Banff Springs for a business trip. I stayed in a suite that was wonderful to have a sitting area so I had 2 tvs to myself! I absolutely loved the view of the mountains from my 2nd floor room. The room was very comfortable and lots of space to put my luggage and laptop. Even though the room was in front of the elevator, I didn't hear much noise at all and appreciated getting a great nights' sleep.
Another great addition to the hotel was the downstairs cafe where they had a variety of food, sandwiches, and breakfast food for reasonable price. I had a muffin for less than $3. It was appreciated as I'm not a big breakfast buffet person and wouldn't have gotten much value from it and could grab a something on the go instead.
I loved my spa experience where I had a relaxing massage. I'm not sure it was worth $175 but it's all about being pampered. After the massage, I tried the sauna, hot tub, and waterfalls. All were wonderful and very quiet with few guests. I also liked the sitting areas where I could enjoy fruit, cookies, water, tea, and magazines. It was very relaxing! For dinner I tried the sushi restaurant and had it to go to enjoy in my room. A very good dinner was enjoyed.
The hotel is also a nice 15-20 minute walk from downtown and shopping. The staff were all accommodating and wonderful. I would certainly go back! -
Review from Tara M.
6/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
If you've saved and saved for a special weekend away, make The Fairmont Banff Springs your destination.
This hotel is marvelous. It's beautiful, historic, relaxing and posh without being stuffy.
The staff are remarkably attentive without being overly so and are both helpful and appreciative. I truly got the feeling that they simply enjoy their jobs and are happy to help (no hands out waiting to be tipped; although with the service they offer, you gladly will).
My sister and I headed to the hotel for a weekend away 'just us girls' and were delighted to find the Gold floor room upgrades were on special for $100 extra per night (normally it's around $500/night to stay Gold); so if you have saved and saved and SAVED for that special weekend away, make Banff Springs your destination and include the Gold level upgrade.
The Gold level has a private floor dedicated to the Gold guests with a private concierge for the floor; a 'Gold only' lounge with nibbles all day; h'or d'eurves and cocktails every evening and breakfast every morning included; turn-down service and access to the outdoor mineral pool, to name a few.
If you don't get a chance to stay in the hotel over night but are in Banff anyway, do try and take in the spa. If nothing else, get the pool-pass for $70 which gives you access to the whole spa from open to close that day; and the spa is really amazing and worth it.
Be warned, this hotel is not inexpensive and it's difficult to go cheaply (especially if you plan to eat at the hotel) as rooms range from $350 into the Thousands per night. The dining is high-end and the spa world-class both with prices to match; however, this hotel does hold room specials and packages if you are pinching pennies and we brought some bottles of wine for the weekend.
Overall, cost aside, I was mighty impressed with this hotel and felt it was worth the price; it's grand without being unfriendly and is truly a destination one must experience at least once.
T. -
Review from Laurie S.
4/18/2011
This is by far the most posh, beautiful hotel I have ever stayed in. I was amazed by the beauty of both the hotel itself, and it's surrounding scenery. I got to stay here for three days, and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it!
One of the days, I had a spa day.. I enjoyed the mineral baths as well as a wonderful massage.
The deli in the lobby was great for getting the occasional snack in between going shopping and sight seeing.
Banff is the most beautiful place I have ever been, and I can't wait until I return. I only hope I'm lucky enough to stay at the Fairmont again! :) -
Review from Natalie W.
Edmonton, AB
12/6/2011
I stayed here last year with my boyfriend, for a few nights over New Year's. It was amazing! We booked through Expedia, and as a result our room was in a bit of dungeon, but it ended up making our stay more fun! The room itself was immaculate, and we spent almost an entire day just exploring the hotel. We had our New Year's Eve dinner at the buffet, which was to die for, tons of options and exceptional service. I love how much this hotel has to offer, it is by far the most unique hotel I've ever stayed at.
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Review from Jill Z.
7/4/2011
What a beautiful place to spend an afternoon! Even before leaving home for my vacation in Banff I planned to have high tea at the Fairmont. What an experience! My husband and I arrived at the Rundle Lounge about 3:00 and were seated right away without a reservation (I highly recommend getting one to ensure a table). We were seated by the window facing the valley and golf course behind the hotel. We had a very attentive server who was knowledgeable about the teas they served and explained the menu to us thoroughly. We made our selection and sat back to be pampered for an hour or so. So much fun! The finger sandwiches and mini desserts were all super tasty. A bit heavy on the desserts over all but I didn't mind. We were each also given a warm handmade scone right out of the oven. We certainly had plenty of food - enough for a meal, and a pot of tea each.
Yes, you spend a lot for tea service at the Fairmont, but come on. You're paying for the experience and the view, and the story to tell later on. I had a delightful time and loved every minute of it. A fun way to spend an afternoon in Banff. -
Review from Maria H.
Calgary, AB
3/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Loved it. First time to stay there, you definitely need more than one day there, too much to see, walk around see the whole castle, all staff is very friendly and helpful.
Food was quite good too. I would go back again for sure. -
Review from Christina L.
12/6/2011
Winter disappointment :-(
Two part vacation. Small wedding and skiing. Upon arrival they didn't know we were here for a wedding. No matter what size, 4 or 400 you should get the same service. We were placed in a wing I can only describe as a dungeon. After talking with the manager there were several redeeming efforts made to rectify the bland arrival.
For skiing I wouldn't bother again. The long shuttle bus (45 minutes) to a ski resort (4-5 times a day in and out ) didn't really work with my schedule and no one thought to mention that half the mountain was closed for Winterstart World Cup Mens Downhill and Super G.
What I also found was a letdown was the "Fairmont Gold" program. I saw no discernible difference. Rumor has it the staff has high turnover. I can say that the folks working out front in the parkas on arrival and departure were top notch.
I much prefer light bright nice and new. This was an old castle. If you have allergies and dust is a problem expect to get a cold.
Thankfully I wasn't paying. I found this completely overpriced. -
Review from Monica K.
North York, ON
3/17/2011 6 photos
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Canoe Experience:
Lake Louise is internationally renowned for its beauty, all year round, now imagine canoeing all over that emerald beauty and being one with nature! The highlight of my summer in Alberta this past year was my one hour canoe ride on Lake Louise followed by a hike up to Lake Agnes Tea House (you can read my review for that too).The red canoe experience was magical, dream-like, amazing, majestic, stunning, breath-taking.
A one hour rental is enough for this because there isn't much to "discover", you can't leave your canoe and my friend and I had time to paddle all the way to the end, take pictures and paddle back on time, although we were kind of rushing like mad on the way back because we took our sweet time at the very beginning and I wasn't doing much paddling... okay fine I just sat there like a Queen hehe, it's tiring!
The lines were really long but it moved a lot quicker than we expected. The service was quick, efficient, and to the point. The prices were a little on the pricey side at $45 CAD plus GST per hour (40$/h in the fall), $35 CAD plus GST per half hour, but it was definitely worth it.
Note: if you don't bring back the canoe on time they'll automatically charge you extra, so bring it back on time to avoid disappointment!Comment from Angela J. of The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel 3/22/2011
Thank you for posting a review of your canoe experience at… More » -
Review from Koz T.
Calgary, AB
1/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Decor: 5/5
Cleanliness: 5/5
Restaurant Choice: 5/5
Restaurant Food Quality: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Parking: 4/5
Value: 3/5
This is the pinnacle of luxury in Banff. Beautifully decorated with friendly attentive staff, this place is a destination in and of itself. Save up your nickels though, staying here won't be cheap. -
Review from Mike M.
Calgary, AB
If I have one addiction in my life it is that I'm addicted to the Alberta Fairmont Hotels. Whether it is Banff, Jasper or Lake Louise, I love them all for very different reasons.
But this review is about The Banff Springs.
First off, yes The Banff Springs is EXPENSIVE. But it is the Banff Springs, what do you expect?
Once you suck it up and decide to book a room in Canada's most historic hotel, you won't even care how much it cost. The whole hotel is like a giant cruise ship. You'll love getting lost in all of its seemingly endless hallways. You'll melt as you relax in the heated outdoor pool as the snow falls around you and most of all, you'll drool when you smell the food coming from the Waldhaus. I'm salivating right now just thinking about it.
Staying here is just one of those things that is "worth it". Whether it is for your anniversary, with your family or even some friends, you'll never regret it, no matter how big your Visa bill is.
Quick tips:
-Sign up for the President's Club. It is free and gets you Free Wi-Fi access, workout clothes for the gym and cotton robes in your room.
-Yes, people bring their kids. Would I*? Probably not. There are much more kid-friendly hotels that your children (and the hotel's other guests) would enjoy more!
-Get there early. Check in is at 3pm, but they are rarely full, so get there as soon as you can and enjoy the entire hotel experience.
*hypothetical children. -
Review from David C.
Calgary, AB
4/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing hotel and scenery. Love that they have a small deli in the lobby which is great to grab a snack. They are also pet friendly, but make your plans to be with your furry critter the whole time as they don't want him/her/it home alone. :) My wife swears by the spa, "one of the best". The rooms are on the small side which they lose a star for, but the majesty helps make up for it.
Oh yeah the valets get crazy busy on the weekends. It might be easier to park your car yourself for how long you may wait. -
Review from jon h.
1/18/2011
Wow, what a hotel.
Old, expensive, and yes, it is like a castle.
They have a great pub style restarant, with big comfy leather chairs...can't recall the name - but easy to find.
The heated outdoor pool is amazing. -
Review from Bill N.
8/1/2011
Old world charm and class. The Hotel looks like a castle and they treat you like royalty! Very romantic location....in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
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Review from Machelle H.
Updated - 7/26/2010
I'm adding an update, because my husband disagrees and was not as impressed by the castle-ness. (BTW - the castle was built after a Scottish style, but certain interior areas reflect other castle architecture.) I still loved it. But we argued about it in the car. Thus I demote the castle from a 5 to a 4 for causing marital strife.
The cleaning staff forgot to replenish our coffee. We always had decaf, but I usually had to go on a quest replace the regular. I also twice had to go on a quest to find sweetener. We ran dangerously low on toilet paper (but did not actually run out).
We didn't have enough room for all of our piles of books and papers and the hotel's several promotional materials on the table top space available.
Then we had some billing issues. I had written a long paragraph about the details, but deleted it for being too complicated and boring. Just trust me, several mild unpleasantness added up. My husband would delete the word mild, and felt that the sum was ridiculous: we gave them several days' notice that we were leaving a day early, so they charged us a $50 early departure fee, then told us that we could not check out an hour late, because they were totally booked. And they charged us more than we thought we'd agreed to, because we thought we'd agreed to a particular static US$ price when we reserved the room, not a CA$ price, and the rates changed unfavorably in the meantime.
Also (and this is a minor point) many people were at the castle for various reasons (wedding, conference, tour of the castle, restaurants), so a vague excess of people were always meandering about. Of course, the floor where our room was located was perfectly quiet. I just kept wondering to myself how all these peasants managed to get into my castle.
I still loved it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/23/2010
It's a castle. In a valley in the mountains. Whenever I visit castles, I wander about pretending… Read more »
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Review from Ron L.
8/27/2008
I was lucky enough to stay here for a company meeting, back in the day when we had money to burn.
And burn, we did. We spent lots of dollars. Canadian dollars, American dollars, Hong Kong dollars, you name it, we spent it. And it was worth it...staff was all first class - food service, conference staff, hotel staff - all treated us like we were royalty.
The hotel just oozes opulence, when you first enter, to the time your head hits the pillow. This hotel was once one of the many chateaus built by the railroad barrons of Canada, spread out between the east and west coast. Built in the Rockies, you're surrounded by pine trees all around you. If you're lucky, you can get a room with a view of Lake Louise, or the golf course which is neatly carved into the forest.
On day two of my stay, I woke up to a light dusting of snow, which just added to the already inspired surroundings.
Would I come back? In a heartbeat, even without my expense account. I'll just stay away from the $30 shots of Johnny Walker Blue.Listed in: Rich or lucky? Best places to…
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Review from Eric B.
1/7/2009
I have never actually stayed here. But over the years and several times that I have come to Banff, I always stop in. I have been here during all 4 seasons and the Banff Springs and the surrounding National Park have a different unique beauty each time I visit.
I love the architecture inside and out. I love walking the grounds and sitting (with my favourite adult beverage) by the back view of the valley below. I also stop at the Canadian Pacific store and other places within their sizable shopping arcade.
Most of all, it's just a very classy and elegant place. And even though I haven't yet been a paying guest, hotel staff has always treated me with kindness and respect. -
Review from Andrew C.
8/6/2008 5 photos
Located deep within The Banff National Park, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is without a doubt the nicest hotel I have ever (and probably will ever) stay in. It's absolutely gorgeous inside and out. Check out the pictures and you'll see what I mean.
On darker note and far less than a 5 star experience, these also serve as the grounds on which I saw my uncle Joey for the last time before he passed away. Waving from the car window as a light snow fell in the spring of 1998.Listed in: The Best of The Best (Over 5…, Canadia
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Review from Kate M.
8/7/2008
Unreal. Truly, staying at the Banff Springs on a family ski trip felt like being in an old-time movie set in wintertime Austria. The hotel is set apart from everything else, giving it a tucked-away enchanted castle feel. It helps when you pull up and the exact details of the exterior are obscured by thickly falling snow - magic.
One of my greatest memories of this place is the time my family and I spent just wandering around the seemingly always-quiet halls. It was amazing how many people were staying there but, while exploring the place, we hardly ever seemed to come across anyone else. One night, we found a beautiful old ballroom with sky-high muraled ceilings and lots of gleaming gold accents, completely empty. Since my dad is a dancer, and my stepmom a pianist, we had our own Viennese Waltz Ball - so cool. Another night, we walked out behind the hotel to the outdoor skating rink and skated around for awhile in the falling snow before heading over to the German restaurant for some piping hot food and polka music.
I know this place truly left its mark because I remember much, much more about the hotel and its wondrous, mysterious qualities than specifics about the skiing we did on the mountain. I highly recommend this place - it is truly a gem. -
Review from Patti A.
7/19/2011
Very nice and elegant. Never failed to please us each time we visit Fairmont hotels. You pay for what you get. If you do not have enough money, try to save and celebrate your special day at this hotel as it is worth the stay. Cheers!
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Review from Liza T.
9/27/2010 4 photos
Another Great experience at Fairmont Hotel. The hotel was just amazing. It's beautiful and the view was breath taking. It was about 25 minutes walking distance from downtown. The outdoor pool was a lot of fun. I went to the pool at night and I could able to look at the stars while swimming.
I took off one star here because the room was very small and we already upgraded our room. The bathroom was very old and the sink was too small. There was not enough space to place my toiletries.
Overall, I still had a wonderful experience at this hotel. -
Review from Mary I.
8/7/2008 1 photo
If I could give this place 10 stars, I would.
Quite possibly the most magical place I haver ever visited and stayed at.
I have only visited in the winter time, and it is truly a "Castle in the Rockies". The staff goes out of their way to accommodate you in every way possible. Even going as far as to provide hot cocoa throughout the hotel.
During the holidays they have many activities throughout the castle that are great for the whole family. The last time I was able to witness the lighting of the Yule Log which was a completely new holiday tradition to be exposed to.
The hotel rooms are very spacious and clean! I have been lucky enough to get a room with an excellent view of the Bow Valley.
Another excellent quality of the Banff Springs (during the heavy ski season) is that they will gladly store your snowboard/skis and boots and have them ready for you whenever you wish.
I could go on and on about this hotel, but I could never capture the essence of this place... -
Review from Tina T.
8/7/2008
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is one of those hotels that is in a class by itself - just the history here alone is phenomenal. We've stayed here a couple of times now, having come here first on our honeymoon on a ski trip during Thanksgiving week. We were a little early for prime snow conditions, but it did not matter - we fell in love with this place. I'll never forget our first magical evening sipping scotches in one of the charming piano bars in this gorgeous hotel.
Opulent, elegant, very European classic - this hotel impresses when you first pull up to it. It's a huge compound, with many conference rooms and banquet halls and little nooks and crannies and fantastic restaurants and lounges. And the history here is legendary - we were told about the one area where a new bride, over 100 years ago, fell down the staircase and still can be seen haunting that very quiet area to this day. I don't know if it's true, but I will admit that the hairs on my neck did stand on end while in this secluded spot. ANd that's the cool thing about this hotel - it's like an old beautifullly restored castle in Europe - full of cool stories and legendary ghosts and beautiful areas. You must come here, even if to have a drink in the lounge.
And Banff is absolutely a beautiful place, if you have never been there before. Come here and fall in love! -
Review from Vicky L.
2/26/2009
OMIGOD!! Absolutely gorgeous hotel...
We got to visit here a few times now and one of the earlier trips happened when they still let the gawkers walk through. The architecture is gorgeous and it's a must stop place for photos.... -
Review from Denis K.
8/7/2008
I'll be honest. I only walked through the Fairmont as I was visiting Lake Louise, but talk about opulence. I should have paid just to walk through the hallway. Incredibly gorgeous. While I was there, they had tables filled with different types of jewelry and antique rings. Fairmont is simply on another standard.
The grounds of the hotel is very very beautiful. The Fairmont is nestled inside Banff National Park. You can image how clean the air must feel and how quiet the environment is. In front, Lake Louise. Lake Louise is a clear cold blue and completely surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. Victoria Glacier sends sediment down that refracts the light in the lake to wonderfully gorgeous colors. My family rented a canoe out and rowed around the lake. Really really peaceful...even if I did all the rowing..
Absolutely wonderfully gorgeous.
review 8/7/2008
I.M.Y. -
Review from Roger B.
11/5/2009
Truly breathtaking and magnificent. One of the most spectacular places I have ever been! Top notch food! Exceptional locale and views. Great history and all the amenities you could desire. The whole reason Banff is so spectacular.
World class golf, a wonderful horseback ride, just an unbeatable experience. The rooms were very old school and charming, if your looking for modern luxury its not quite that but a fantastic place to stay or just spend a whole day exploring everything. -
Review from Jessica G.
4/19/2011
Loved everything about this hotel- from the heated outdoor pools, incredibly friendly staff, concierge services, and outstanding restaurants; AMAZING! Grapes and the Italian restaurants located in the Thompson wing were my favorites. Chad and Robert at the concierge desk were incredibly helpful for planning our activities. This is the place to stay when visiting Banff.
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Review from dinah g.
Calgary, AB
2/21/2010 13 photos
Oh my god if you want to be completely blown away by an architecturally landmark then this is the place to be.
I swear you feel like you have travelled to another country in Europe because this hotel is literally a castle. It is enormous and I can't even imagine how much square footage it covers. It has 770 rooms and it absolutely extra ordinary. Breathtaking views from every angle, the most ornate and stupendous rock work and interior gold leafing, you could literally get lost in this hotel.
Built in 1886, room rates can start here at 179 dollars a night which still a reasonable price is considering that prices in the late 1880s were around 3.50 a night. The brainchild of the general manager of the CPR, Van Horne wanted to import tourism to the Rocky Mountains and this was the prime location where the Bow and Spray River converge.
After months of working hard, I didn't realise that travelling to an exotic area was only 1 and a half hours away. I swear I was on vacation, the fresh air, the breathtaking views and the most courteous of hotel staff.
This must be one of the most impressive older buildings in Western Canada, there is nothing that compares to this location, perhaps the Bessborough Hotel in Saskatoon and this is definetly a strong competitor to our Government buildings in Ottawa.
There is also a lot of paranormal activity rumoured to exist at this hotel, so enjoy the hot springs here, the nice shopping, the amazing brunch, and the much seen bride to be ghost who had the misfortune of passing away here at her own wedding. -
Review from Christopher W.
Calgary, AB
12/16/2008
The Banff Springs Hotel is amazing. A friend and I had lunch there one afternoon and then took a walk around the grounds and the inside. It's truly spectacular...and they'll charge you for it. It's not cheap, not even for a steak sandwich. But it's an experience.
I strongly recommend checking this place out, even if you don't spend a night. It's a first-rate establishment nestled in the picturesque mountains that just oozes history. -
Review from Victor P.
1/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Some things in life are worth the splurge. A stay at the Banff Springs is one of them. Three words: Hot outdoor pool. All year round. I asked for a quiet room, they obliged in spades. The Fairmont Gold floor (5th) has its own check-in and extended concierge service. We arrived at 4PM, were greeted with piping hot face towels, and hors d'oeuvres were served in the lounge at 5PM. For dinner we tried the (tiny, charming) Grapes Wine Bar on Mezzanine 2 across from the elevators. Their chocolate fondue for two bordered on indulgent excess. Grapes does not take reservations; go before they open at 6PM, the room only seats 12. My wife and I expected a superb level of service, food, and accommodation, and we got it.
Listed in: Dining Out
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Review from Jenn G.
4/17/2010
I've had the good fortune to stay at this property twice now (admittedly both stays were for work events, but it's the kind of work I can love unabashedly). While the visits were spaced out over 4 years, the high level of 'old world' service was consistently exceptional both times.
While most of the other reviewers have spoken to the architecture and history surrounding the hotel, it's worth checking out the free site tour at 3pm on weekdays. Without a guide, it's easy to get lost on the lower floors, especially if you're walking from the conference center to the main building!
Do note that in the spirit of old-world hotel design, the rooms here are on the small side. That said, the views are stunning, and the location is such that you really shouldn't be spending too much time in the room, when there's so much to do within both the hotel and the national park!
My only gentle gripes about this property are twofold. First, wireless internet is non-existent in the guest rooms, though there is wired available. This may be a non-issue to most, but for those of us not using our data plans outside of the US, it makes smartphone use a challenge.
Second, if you're a person who likes a firm bed (like I do), the uber-squishy mattresses aren't ideal. I did wonder if the latter was a stealth marketing effort to encourage guests to go to the spa for a massage, but I'm pretty sure that's not part of any Fairmont strategy.
Overall, this hotel is well worth saving your pennies for! -
Review from Louis P.
4/1/2010 1 photo
This hotel is truly the epitome of refinement. The customer service here is top notch; no exceptions. From the valets to the house keeping personnel, everyone here goes the extra mile to ensure your stay here is top notch.
The hotel itself is marvelous to look at. While it seems tucked away within the mountains, it's actually a short walk away from Banff. There is both shuttle and bus services to and from the hotel and, if need be, the front desk will most certainly call a cab for you as well. The moment you walk in the lobby you see that this is no ordinary Super 8 or whatever. There is a distinct order of food, alcohol and ambiance that strikes you the moment you walk in.
There are numerous restaurants in here that would suit anyone's palate. My favorite was Grapes which, albeit a little small, had a great environment in there and really good food. This being the Fairmont, don't expect anything to be on the cheap side. The lamb dinner I had ran around $50.
There are a multitude of shops, or boutiques, in the lower floors of the hotel. Normally, any shop in a hotel is a gift shop however, these stores in the shopping area a little more high scale than your average souvenir shop. Personally, I think the stores cater more towards women than men however there is a golf store on Mezzanine 1 for the guys.
For a little R&R, they have a spa (the real kind) in the lower level that everyone raved about. There is also an outdoor pool overlooking the mountains as well as tennis courts and, not to mention, a great golf course as well. I came here for the snowboarding so I wasn't able to partake in a lot of these things but whatever you're here for, you won't be disappointed.
The rooms are very nice with nearly all of them having a great view of something. My room overlooked the cul de sac and was right across from the conference hall. The conference hall offers a small convenience store as well as a liquor store and ski shop. All three of these places, again, are not cheap.
For the skiers/snowboarders, there is a shuttle to the Big 3 (Sunshine/Norquay/Lake Louise) everyday and leaves every half hour I think.
So far, I haven't stayed in a better facility than this. This place is top notch and for good reason. Better bring your wallets though since this place isn't cheap. However, once here, you'll see why the place is so expensive and renowned for their service. -
Review from Bart E.
Vancouver, BC
7/27/2009
Magnificent. Like staying in a castle...everything here is first class.
Spent two nights in Banff and it was a dream spot. I stay on business in a LOT of hotels so it's not easy to impress me...but the Banff Springs was no "BS". Join the president's club -- you are checked in when you arrive and they just hand you your key without going in the hotel. It also gives you free internet and gym access. Also, the rooms are old but well-appointed. Hotel is worth walking around and there is a free historical tour. But it's really the service that makes this stand out. No tipping allowed (so you feel no one is sucking up to you) and just over the top friendly.
Only downside is cost. Posted rate was $400 / night -- we stayed on a corporate rate at $275 then valet parking is another $35. Don't even bother with room service (breakfast for 2 will run you $80).
Strongly recommend this!!! -
Review from Mr. and Mrs. G.
1/19/2010
Stayed here for a few nights during our Canadian Rockies honeymoon in August '07. Everything about this hotel is straight out of a fairy tale! We enjoyed a quick, uber-friendly check-in and complimentary strawberries and champagne upon arrival into our room. Our room had a beautiful courtyard view.
The grounds here are magical...take a walk around! Upstairs is an outdoor cafe with unbelievable views of the mountains.
I will never forget the minty smell of this hotel...they must pipe it in, I swear! -
Review from Jay L.
2/7/2010
I stayed here for three nights. Beautiful hotel, great customer service. The rooms are big, well decorated and the showers are just gorgeous.
Did not hear about the ghost stories until reading other reviews, don't want to know about it although I did not feel anything out of the ordinary.
I did not walk around the surrounding area, but the saltwater pool was quite good, and the facilities are great! It's worth the stay. -
Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
10/6/2009 4 photos
I have never stayed here so I am solely reviewing the Sunday Brunch offered at The Banff Springs Hotel.
OH. MY. GOD.
When I found out that brunch costs $39.50 a person, I didn't want to eat here, I'll be honest. I mean seriously, how much can a person eat, and I highly doubted that I'd be able to eat $40 worth in one sitting. But then I got here, and it all made sense.
Let me take you on a mini tour:
Banana Bread french toast, homemade brownies, cookies, custom-made omelettes, pound cake, stir fry, egg rolls, french fries, seafood, fresh fruits, yogurts, freshly baked breads, homemade cakes and trust me, my list isn't even doing their selection justice.
This buffet was up there next to some of the buffets I've had in Vegas! I had no idea they had anything like this in Alberta!!!
Plus all the food is prepared by talented chefs who view it as an art rather than a chore, and trust me, it's obvious when you take your first, second, third...let's just say, EVERY bite!
I know what you're thinking: "It's still too pricey! I'd never pay $40 for brunch!" But look at it this way: It's AT the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, and you can go and enjoy the brunch without having to spend the $450/night on a room there! Plus the atmosphere is indescribable, the food is delicious and the experience will last you a lifetime! You deserve to treat yourself to this mind-blowing brunch, even if it is a one-time deal. -
Review from Scott m.
4/22/2010
Stayed here on business April of 2010, and really enjoyed my week.
The Service - very sharp in every area
The Property - historical, cool, one of a kind, even a bit whimsical
The Food and Drinks - Good, but I now need to mortgage my first born.
Our room was located in one of the newer wings and between the decor, amenities, views, linens, and size it was what I would consider to be very "stock" for a 4 diamond rated hotel room.
Notables:
*The housekeeping service during my stay was hands-down, the best I've ever had
*The Sunday buffet in the Bow Valley Grill, (although pricey) was a great experience
*Pool areas are grand & very unique
*Still can't believe there's no free shuttle into Banff. It was a bit cold to walk to/fro in the evenings, and $2 for a 3/4 miles bus ride that only came once every 50 minutes seemed silly
I would very much like to return in summer, and would I recommend this hotel to both the business and pleasure traveler.Comment from Angela J. of The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel 6/24/2010
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