Canada’s Castle in the Rockies

Better with age

Banff wouldn't be Banff without the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. The iconic castle towers above the town, overlooks the Spray and Bow Rivers, perches amongst awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and resides in the hearts of millions of castle-lovers the world over.

The grand dame of grand hotels, built in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway and remodeled in 1928, recently underwent a $35-million face lift. And what a beauty she is.

The warmth and integrity of an old-world castle, with its stone walls, turrets and winding staircases, happily cohabits alongside modern conveniences and amenities with a Rocky Mountain vibe. This renovation includes 110 Gold guest rooms, "the hotel within the hotel." A private arrival and check-in area welcomes Gold guests who have access to concierge service and a lounge where they can enjoy breakfast, snacks, evening canapés and a full-service bar. The remaining 647 guest rooms are also up-to-the minute contemporary, without sacrificing the hotel's time-honoured charm and natural habitat. The Crown Suite, nestled at the peak of the castle's turret has undergone a sumptuous transformation. Hello royalty and five-star celebrities!

The staff are primed to spoil guests year-round at the golf course, the Willow Stream Spa, indoor and outdoor pools and a four-lane, five-pin bowling alley. Family programming features nature safaris, horseback riding, even treasure hunts, while fourteen upscale boutiques will delight shopaholics. Oh yes, dogs are welcome.

Grapes

The choice of eateries includes a 24-hour snack bar, ethnic-inspired restaurants, Grapes Wine Bar and the Vermillion Room which serves French favourites with a Canadian twist.

You can still catch a glimpse of the past in the see-through mail chute that goes all the way from the top floor to the lobby and in the stories of the Ghost Bride who, 100 years ago, tumbled to her death down the marble staircase. Then there's Sam, the phantom bellman. Like every staff member today Sam is reported to be friendly.

Written by Anna Hobbs for Cruise and Travel Lifestyles (Spring/Summer 2025)