Best Resorts in Banff

An imposing structure set against a backdrop of Alberta's picturesque mountains and forests, "Canada's Castle in the Rockies" has been wowing guests since its opening in 1888. The Fairmont Banff Springs possesses a grand exterior, and recent guests say that this historic hotel's interior matched their high expectations. Each of the 757 guest rooms and suites offers views of the woods, courtyard or the mountains. The food at this AccorHotels outpost's six restaurants and bars also does not disappoint. And guests describe the Willow Stream Spa as gorgeous, though its services lean toward the expensive side. Plus, active visitors can take advantage of the Fairmont's spectrum of activities, including skiing, hiking and horseback riding. If you enroll in the Le Club AccorHotels program, you can earn and redeem award nights and take advantage of other benefits for choosing to stay here. You'll find the property located about a mile south of downtown Banff.

Rooted in the slope of Sulphur Mountain, The Rimrock Resort Hotel is about as close as you can stay to the Canadian Rockies without camping. Recent guests rave about the views of the surrounding mountains from the guest rooms on the hotel's higher floors and from the Grandview suites. Each of The Rimrock's 343 accommodations features neutral tones and dark wood accents and come equipped with 32-inch LCD TVs and wireless internet access. Venture from your digs to sample some of the cuisines at Rimrock's four dining venues and lounges (guests say the Italian fare at Primrose is exceptional). The hotel spa and pool also receive high praise for their clean and relaxing atmosphere. Looking for more active pursuits? The hotel concierge can arrange outdoor activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, whitewater rafting and horseback riding. And if you're looking to shop or museum-hop, you'll have free access to Banff's bus system (Roam) from The Rimrock Resort Hotel into nearby downtown Banff. There is also on-site parking at the hotel, though recent guests thought the fees were pricey ($36 CAD for valet and $22 CAD for self-parking, which works out to about $27 and $16 USD, respectively).

Set in scenic Banff National Park, this AccorHotels resort impresses visitors with its gorgeous setting. Inside, visitors are greeted with accommodations outfitted with flat-screen TVs and coffee makers, among other amenities. Most recent guests suggest splurging for a lakeside suite, claiming the higher rate is well worth the additional space and enchanting views. In winter, guests can enjoy sleigh rides and ice skating; and in summer, visitors are invited to take advantage of horseback riding and whitewater rafting. When it comes to dining, guests have a wide selection of options ranging from regionally influenced dishes in the main dining room to Swiss- and German-inspired entrees at Walliser Stube. For a particularly memorable meal, previous visitors suggest dining at the hotel's Lakeview Lounge, which affords gorgeous vistas of Victoria Glacier. Le Club AccorHotels members may redeem award nights or earn extra benefits like complimentary room upgrades for choosing to stay here.

Surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies, Stoneridge Mountain Resort offers dramatic views at every turn. About 20 miles southeast of Banff National Park and 27 miles east of Sunshine Village, Stoneridge offers a convenient base from which to explore Banff and Lake Louise. But you don't have to go far to enjoy your spectacular surroundings: The sundeck, the pool and all the rooms boast sweeping mountain vistas. When you're not gazing at the view from your digs, enjoy a gas fireplace, free Wi-Fi, a 42-inch TV and en-suite laundry. Accommodations also feature a fully equipped kitchen, which comes in handy if you're not in the mood to trek to Canmore's main street for dinner (there is only a cafe on the resort grounds). Recent guests describe the accommodations as luxurious and cozy. Many visitors also say that the entire resort feels like a home away from home, thanks in large part to the courteous staff. Note: There is a 3.8% resort fee, which covers the cost of Wi-Fi, parking and other amenities.

Previous visitors especially commend this hotel's prime location in central Banff, close to the restaurants and entertainment that the small ski town has to offer. But even with all the tempting options outside the hotel, guests still find reasons to stay on site. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with minifridges and queen- or king-sized beds and the premier, deluxe and executive suites even come with a gas fireplace; however, some recent guests mentioned spotty Wi-Fi service. And while Banff is filled with plenty of fine dining options, visitors often opt to eat at the Evergreen Restaurant, which serves up tasty dishes prepared with local and sustainable ingredients. The Grotto Spa and its mineral pool also receive rave reviews for their relaxing ambiance.

If you've come to Canmore, Alberta, for the heart-pumping outdoor pursuits, Solara Resort & Spa provides a convenient home base. The resort, situated about 20 miles southeast of Banff National Park, plays off of the area's best asset: the Canadian Rockies. Solara puts you within an hour's drive of Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise. After working up a sweat hitting the slopes or hiking the trails, head to One Wellness and Spa. Recent visitors say the spa provides soothing relief for sore muscles. For more relaxation, kick back in your room. Each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom suites features a cozy fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious bathroom with a jet massage shower. Some of the suites also boast balconies appointed with electric grills, but if you're not in the mood to cook, you'll find a handful of restaurants and cafes in Canmore (less than a mile north). Or, you can head to the property's sister resort, Grande Rockies Resort, which has its own on-site eatery.

Nestled at the base of Banff National Park in Canmore, Alberta, the Grande Rockies Resort appeals to families and business travelers alike. Inside, guests are greeted by generously sized one-, two- or three-bedroom accommodations appointed with gas fireplaces and 40-inch LCD flat-screen TVs. Additional features include rainfall showers, complimentary Wi-Fi access and kitchens, though some guests felt the property was a bit dated in spots. Recent visitors are fond of the courteous hotel staff, which they say enhanced the resort's warm, inviting atmosphere with attentive and personalized service. During the day, you can take advantage of the fitness area, heated indoor swimming pool, hot tub and kids pool (with waterslide) — a major hit among those traveling with children in tow. Meanwhile, those traveling for work appreciate the same-day dry cleaning service, as well as the meeting rooms and ample conference facilities. The Grande Kitchen & Bar receives two thumbs up from recent patrons for its regionally inspired menu items. If you came looking to tackle fresh powder, venture to Sunshine Village or Lake Louise (both are situated within a 50-mile radius).

Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre is a 3 star hotel located at 511 Bow Valley Trail in Banff. It has a 4.0 overall guest rating based on 1108 reviews.

Johnston Canyon Resort is a 2.5 star hotel located at Hwy 1A in Banff. It has a 4.0 overall guest rating based on 426 reviews.