Description

With stunning vistas perched on the shores of Lake Louise
Welcome to Canada’s most iconic hotel. The one that sits at the top of many people’s ‘must stay’ bucket lists and has graced more magazine covers than we can count. It’s not hard to see why it is so popular. It sits at the edge of the beautiful Lake Louise – a body of water that’s turquoise in the summer and iced over throughout the winter and early spring – and is dwarfed by its surrounding mountain landscapes which seem almost unreal. As well as its unbeatable natural setting, the hotel also has a rich history and heritage as the hotel has welcomed mountaineers, outdoor adventurers, sightseers and even royalty through its doors since 1890.

While the wider National Park has its attractions, the chateau is a destination in itself whether you’re here to climb, hike, bike or head onto the water. If you don’t want to venture out into the wilderness alone, you can join a guided half- or full-day hike or join a voyager canoe experience out on the lake. Although the hotel was opened primarily as a summer retreat, a visit during the winter is highly recommended as you can ski, ice climb, snow shoe or skate. For 10 days every January the much-loved Ice Magic Festival comes to town and attracts the world’s best ice carvers who come here to create works of art in the ice and compete in the prestigious Canada Cup of Ice Carving. If all this activity sounds a little too much for you (or you need a post-activity indulgence) there’s a tranquil spa on site. The Hiker’s Foot Therapy is definitely a must following a few hours out on the trails.

If there’s anywhere in the world where upgrading to a room with a view is an absolute must it’s here. While the Fairmont Rooms and Fairmont Mountainview Rooms are both a comfortable choice, nothing beats being greeted with a view of the lake as you draw back the curtains each morning. It’s no surprise that these rooms and suites are the first to get booked up so be sure to book far in advance to avoid dissapointment.

Key information
In the heart of Banff National Park, within a UNESCO World Heritage siteAirport transfer time:Approx. 2½ hours from Calgary airport Rooms:554
Accommodation information
554 rooms and suites

Dining
3 restaurants, brasserie, deli, lounge, bar