A Luxurious Escape: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Review

Welcome to Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, where luxury meets the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. As a working adult couple seeking the ultimate retreat, this iconic destination blends opulence, history, and natural beauty seamlessly. Want to learn more? Check out our review from our recent stay!

When planning our trip to Banff, we were set on staying at the renowned Fairmont Hotel. Little did we know, there are actually two Fairmont properties in the area: one in Banff and the other in Lake Louise. Opting for the Fairmont Banff Springs right in town, we eagerly anticipated our visit, which turned out to be nothing short of amazing.

History

A stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a step back in time, with a history dating back to 1888. Originally built to resemble a Scottish Baronial Castle, the hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries over the years. The architecture and décor pay homage to its storied past, providing a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.

Getting There

The journey to Fairmont Banff Springs is an adventure in itself, just a 90-minute scenic drive from Calgary International Airport. The picturesque route through the Rockies sets the tone for an unforgettable escape. The beauty of the Bow Valley brought tears to our eyes, even as seasoned mountain enthusiasts from Wyoming (IYKYK)!

Keep in mind that both the hotel and Banff itself are located within a National Park, so make sure to buy a pass online or upon arrival.

Price Points

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel caters to discerning travelers, offering a range of room options to suit different upper-end budgets. From elegant rooms with stunning mountain views to spacious suites exuding classic charm, the pricing is reflective of the unparalleled luxury and service you can expect.

Translation: it’s on the pricey side but booking in advance like we did can help. Still, you’ll need a pretty healthy budget to stay here.

This hotel books up early, so again, book your room well in advance. We booked in November for a stay at the end of June.

Grounds and Offerings

The hotel is a castle-like masterpiece set against the backdrop of Banff National Park. The grounds are a playground for nature enthusiasts, with hiking trails, a championship golf course, and outdoor activities just steps away. Here you can also relax by one of the pools, stroll the lovely grounds, or indulge in their spa.

If you’re looking for convenience, you can also dine at one of the on-site restaurants offering a diverse range of culinary delights. They also have an onsite coffee shop. Souvenirs are no issue here as there is also a gift shop.

There were plenty of spots around the property that we didn’t make it to. This property is so large it has its own section of staff housing units.

Guest Rooms and Bathrooms

We stayed in a deluxe king room which was lovely and well appointed. Here, attention to detail met comfort, with breathtaking views to seal the deal. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel takes pride in providing guests with premium amenities, including luxurious bedding, high-end Le Labo Rose 31 toiletries (some of the highest quality and wonderfully scented products we have encountered), yummy coffee and teas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you just can’t help yourself, you can buy the Le Labo products from the Fairmont Store.

One item to call attention to is the small size of the bathroom. I’m not sure if all rooms are like ours, but this was one of the smallest bathrooms we have ever encountered in our travels. It was so small, you actually had to sit sideways on the toilet!

Our room also had a large walk-in closet in our room. I loved getting our luggage out of the main space. However, shortly after unloading our bags in the closet, the lightbulb burnt out. While this was promptly addressed by hotel staff, it was a bit spooky. After all, there are some rumors of the hotel being haunted.

It was a nice treat to have slippers and robes in our room, which is pretty standard for a hotel of this nature. They had a great selection of tea and coffee in the room. We also appreciated the champagne and card left by the staff as we were celebrating a special occasion. Special touches like these are just wonderful!

Parking Information

For the convenience of guests arriving by car, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel provides valet service and ample parking space. Whether you prefer self-parking or the ease of valet service, rest assured that your vehicle will be in safe hands.

If you choose valet, ensure you have enough cash to properly tip the valet drivers and bell staff.

It was also fun to admire some of the high-end vehicles (think Lamborghinis) fellow guests arrived in and were left out for display.

We chose to self-park in the nearby car park at the back of the property. This was convenient as we were in and out quite a bit during our stay. We had no issues finding a spot or accessing our vehicle at any time. However, this may not be the best option for people who have large vehicles or trucks.

Amenities

Staying at Fairmont Banff Springs, every detail is crafted to exceed expectations. Indulge in top-notch amenities like a fitness center, heated pools, and personalized concierge services. Plus, savor a variety of dining options from casual to upscale right on site.

The hotel also offers a variety of activities right on site and a variety of tours and experiences. Keep reading to find out more about the tour we booked through the Fairmont Banff Springs!

Truly, this hotel offered more than we were able to get to during our short stay. The good news is that now we have a reason to return and explore further one day.

Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts will find paradise on the hotel’s championship 27-hole golf course. This is the most beautiful course we have ever golfed at. We were surprised to have to check in with security before being admitted to the parking lot.

Surrounded by the majestic Rockies, the course offers not only a challenging game but also breathtaking scenery at every turn. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice looking to enjoy the sport, the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course provides an unforgettable experience amid the natural beauty of Banff National Park. We were hoping to see wildlife while on the course, but unfortunately, we did not.

We booked our tee time as soon as the pro shop opened for the season in March.

Shuttle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

For those seeking to explore the nearby wonders, the hotel offers a convenient shuttle service to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. These iconic glacial lakes are a short and scenic drive away, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the turquoise waters and picturesque landscapes that have made Lake Louise and Moraine Lake must-visit destinations.

Personally, we think this is the best option to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. We were able to do a half day trip and return in time to enjoy dinner and an evening at Banff Upper Hot Springs. The price for the group tour was very affordable, the bus is very nice, and the overall experience is great.

This option takes the stress out of getting there. It is quite challenging to find parking at Lake Louise. And you cannot drive a personal vehicle to Moraine Lake. Just be sure to reach out to the hotel concierge early to secure your seat as space is limited and sells out quickly.

This option also allows a brief stop and access to the public areas of the beautiful sister Fairmont property – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Sustainability Practices

For eco-conscious travelers, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is committed to sustainable practices. From energy-efficient initiatives to waste reduction programs, the hotel strives to minimize its environmental impact. Guests can enjoy their stay guilt-free, knowing that the hotel is dedicated to preserving the pristine natural surroundings.

One of the biggest questions we get asked about a hotel like this is, “was it worth it?” Our answer is absolutely yes! We truly enjoyed our stay here and wished we would have stayed longer. Nonetheless, we are so glad we could experience a place of this nature. It is expensive but it was worth it! My only regret was not taking more pictures of the interior and surrounding grounds.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel offers more than just accommodation; it’s an unforgettable experience. Perfect for adult couples seeking magic and luxury in the Rockies, your journey here promises adventure, relaxation, and indulgence.

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