As a resort destination, Banff is considered one of North America’s best-kept secrets. Nestled in the tranquil province of Alberta is one of Canada’s most picturesque landscapes, Banff National Park. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, including Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade, Banff serves as an idyllic location for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The town of Banff itself, although modest in size, exudes a plethora of character and rustic charm. The main thoroughfare is lined with various bistros and boutiques. Numerous stunning Chateaux-style residences abound, many of which have been transformed into private vacation rentals.
While the prime location for accommodation close to Banff National Park is the town of Banff itself, there exist several excellent lodging options nearby. Canmore and Calgary offer an alternate scenery and a different pace of life.
Whether you are an adventurous traveler aimed at reconnecting with nature in the North American wilderness, or a sophisticated individual wishing to relax by the fire for a cozy evening, Banff caters to a diverse array of preferences.
Let us explore the accommodation options in and around Banff.
Banff
Banff is the prime location for accommodation when exploring Banff National Park and Lake Louise. The Banff Tourism Board’s motto encapsulates the essence of this destination: ‘this place is alive’—a statement that holds true. At first glance, the tranquil lake and imposing mountains appear magnificent yet otherworldly in their stillness. However, as visitors delve deeper into Banff and its surrounding landscapes, they realize that this stillness is merely a facade. From dog-sledding and horseback riding to fishing and grizzly bear safaris, Banff is brimming with life.
After an exhilarating day of hiking, rafting, climbing, and sledding, it is safe to say that visitors return to town as ravenous as the grizzly bears they have eagerly sought. Banff is a resort town created primarily with tourists in mind, showcasing a stellar selection of upscale bistros. Microbreweries and artisanal distillers are emerging in Banff, resembling trends seen throughout the rest of North America.
Ideal For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Enthusiasts, Couples, Culture Aficionados, First-Time Visitors, Families, Culinary Enthusiasts, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Sightseers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Notable Neighborhood Highlights: Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Bow Falls View Point, Cascade Gardens, Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint, Banff Surprise Corner, Buffalo Nations Museum, Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, Central Park, Fenland Trail, Cascade Mountain, Mt. Rundle, Mt. Norquay
Recommended Hotels:
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa – Located on Banff Avenue, this quality hotel features an in-house spa and wellness center with six treatment rooms specializing in hydrotherapy. The accommodations are spacious, with exceptionally comfortable beds, and complimentary on-site parking is available.
Elk + Avenue Hotel – This family-friendly establishment boasts an in-house tours and travel desk, allowing guests to arrange their adventures in Banff and Lake Louise. Every room is equipped with an iPod docking station and a flat-screen television. The in-house bistro, Ricky’s All Day Grill, offers a delightful menu.
Banff Aspen Lodge – Guests at this lodge enjoy amenities such as a coffee machine and mini fridge in their rooms, along with stunning views of the Banff landscape. Complimentary WiFi and breakfast are included in the room rate. The lodge also features a café and a convenient launderette.
Canmore
Located a 20-minute drive south of Banff is the slightly larger town of Canmore. These neighboring towns are positioned around Mount Rundle and both provide easy access to the magnificent Banff National Park.
Canmore is a resort town that is well-prepared for international travelers, equipped with an array of dining options, shops, and accommodations. Despite its remote location in Alberta, visitors find everything they require and more in Canmore.
This town is particularly well-suited for active travelers, serving as a gateway to Banff National Park and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Visitors can indulge in skiing, sledding, and snowboarding to their heart’s content. Utilizing Canmore as a base for extensive hiking adventures is highly recommended, especially for those interested in scaling the Three Sisters or Ha Ling Peak.
The Grassi Lakes Trail presents an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned hikers. The lush trail, often dusted with snow, meanders past two shimmering lakes and a spectacular waterfall.
Ideal For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Enthusiasts, Couples, Culture Aficionados, First-Time Visitors, Families, Culinary Enthusiasts, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Sightseers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Notable Neighborhood Highlights: Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Grassi Lakes, Ha Ling Peak, Three Sisters Peaks, Bow Valley Provincial Park, Grotto Canyon, Centennial Park, Canmore Golf & Curling Club, Canmore Nordic Centre, Quarry Lake Park, Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre, Bow Flats Natural Area, Mount Fable, Mount Rundle
Recommended Hotels:
Falcon Crest Lodge by CLIQUE – This exceptional hotel in Canmore features luxurious amenities throughout the property, including two hot tubs and a fitness center. Every room includes either a patio or balcony with outdoor seating.
Holiday Inn Canmore – This inviting establishment is an excellent choice for visitors exploring Canmore and Banff. The accommodations are simple yet equipped with all essential amenities for active travelers, including a comfortable bed, hot shower, and decent WiFi connectivity for uploading stunning photos to social media.
Lamphouse Hotel – Featuring striking design elements, Lamphouse Hotel is a contemporary abode in Canmore, perfect for those who appreciate interior design and urban revival. This modern hotel includes a complimentary continental breakfast along with free WiFi and parking.
Calgary
Calgary stands as one of the largest cities in Alberta. For those who are city enthusiasts at heart but also wish to explore the wilderness, Calgary serves as an ideal base.
With towering skyscrapers, vibrant bars, and a rich collection of cultural attractions, Calgary offers travelers a perfect blend when journeying to Banff National Park. Just over an hour’s drive away, Calgary lies in the shadow of the rugged peaks of the Alberta province.
Travelers should not miss the opportunity to ascend Calgary Tower. It offers stunning panoramic views that rival those found within Banff National Park itself. The tower even features a revolving restaurant, making it a great choice for a romantic dinner in Canada. For a lovely daytime outing, Prince’s Island Park is an excellent find, complete with scenic walking trails, shaded areas, and abundant picnic tables.
Ideal For: Active Travelers, Art Enthusiasts, Enthusiastic Historians, City Explorers, Couples, Culture Aficionados, First-Time Visitors, Families, Culinary Enthusiasts, Sightseers, Shopaholics, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Notable Neighborhood Highlights: Calgary Tower, Prince’s Island Park, Glenbow Museum, Fort Calgary, WinSport Olympic Park, Calaway Amusement Park, Fish Creek Provincial Park, Devonian Gardens, Peace Bridge, The Bow, The Military Museum, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary & Nature Centre, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, Lougheed House
Recommended Hotels:
Fairmont Palliser – This stylish hotel on 9th Avenue is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Fairmont Palliser features an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, with every room equipped with a coffee maker and minibar. Luxurious bathrobes and toiletries enhance the guest experience.
Hyatt Regency Calgary – Located on Centre Street in the city’s center, Hyatt Regency Calgary invites guests to dine at its in-house restaurant or order room service. Each room is equipped with a premium Keurig coffee machine and an assortment of minibar treats. The hotel also boasts an impressive gym facility.
Grey Eagle Resort – This modern hotel on Grey Eagle Drive offers minimalist accommodations. The spacious ensuite bathrooms feature walk-in showers and complimentary toiletries. Guests also have access to an indoor swimming pool and a bubbling outdoor hot tub, complemented by four on-site restaurants.
Invermere
Invermere is a charming community that remains somewhat off the tourist circuit. Ideal for adventurous travelers eager to immerse themselves in nature, Invermere invites exploration.
Nestled between Golden and Cranbrook, Invermere is a lesser-visited locale that exhibits a preference for tranquility. However, when visitors arrive, they are often welcomed with the renowned Canadian hospitality.
Staying in Invermere grants travelers access to various outdoor activities. Hiking, the most favored pastime throughout Alberta, is prevalent here with numerous trails to discover. In Invermere, it is advantageous to connect with the locals, as they can guide visitors to the best routes and trails, some of which may be absent from guidebooks.
Windermere Lake boasts a serene expanse of deep blue water, ideal for fishing, boating, and, for the daring, swimming.
Ideal For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Enthusiasts, Couples, Culture Aficionados, Explorers, Families, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Off-The-Beaten-Track Travelers, Local Experience Seekers
Notable Neighborhood Highlights: Windermere Lake, Kinsmen Beach, James Chabot Provincial Park, Pynelogs Cultural Centre, Golden, Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Calgary, Cooper Point Golf Course, Windermere Valley Museum, Columbia River Paddle
Recommended Hotels:
Invermere Hostel – This hostel offers affordable accommodations in the modest town of Invermere. Featuring both private rooms and communal dorms, it serves budget-conscious backpackers and travelers. The facility is clean and well-maintained, with helpful staff available to store luggage while guests explore.
The Kanata Inns Invermere – Located on Arrow Road, this inn features quaint and cozy rooms with mountain views, providing exceptional value for guests. Each room boasts a private ensuite bathroom, luxury coffee maker, and a work desk. An indoor hot tub enhances the comfort.
Invermere Lakeside & Mountain View Home – This accommodation offers exactly what its name implies. Just a 12-minute walk from the lakeside beach, it presents beautiful views of Alberta’s rolling landscape. As a private rental, guests enjoy exclusive access to the entire property, inclusive of a kitchen, garden, and free parking.
Golden
Golden is another hidden gem in Canada, located adjacent to Banff across from Yoho National Park and Mount Temple. This town serves as an access point for adventure in British Columbia.
Travelers should come prepared for exploration, situated between Glacier National Park of Canada to the east and Yoho and Banff National Park to the west—Golden promises an exhilarating experience.
During the winter months, guests can enjoy skiing, sledding, and snowboarding as much as desired from a base in Golden. The Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a beloved destination for winter sport enthusiasts and offers dining at Canada’s highest restaurant.
In summer, Golden evolves into a vibrant destination. From white water rafting and adrenaline-pumping downhill mountain biking to quaint farmer’s markets and picturesque lakeside picnics, every moment is filled with excitement. For travelers eager to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, Golden is an optimal choice.
Ideal For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Enthusiasts, Couples, Culture Aficionados, Explorers, Families, Hikers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Off-The-Beaten-Track Travelers, Local Experience Seekers
Notable Neighborhood Highlights: Yoho National Park, Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Glacier National Park of Canada, Moonraker Mountain, Sea Lion Mountain, Moberly Peak, Burges James Gadsden Provincial Park, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge, Island Restaurant
Recommended Hotels:
Days Inn by Wyndham Golden – This straightforward hotel on Golden View Road offers travelers the comforts of home at great rates year-round. Each room comes with a kitchenette—ideal for preparing light meals and snacks.
River to Peaks Inn – This establishment on River Glen Drive provides an element of luxury in Golden at an affordable price. Guests enjoy a cottage-like atmosphere with warm and cozy accommodations. Each ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower and complimentary toiletries.
Deer Ridge B&B – Positioned in central Golden, this charming accommodation offers a true home-away-from-home experience in British Columbia. Guests have access to a fully equipped kitchen, complete with a premium coffee machine, alongside an outdoor hot tub and patio space.
