What it is

Run by Swiss expats, this 1942 lodge is an alpine dream—with activities galore, a chef from Switzerland, and a sumptuous spa and saltwater pool.

What it isn't

Poorly serviced. The hotel is a member of the ultra-refined Relais & Chateaux network, with all the exquisite staff thoughtfulness you’ve come to expect from R&C.

What we think

Skylark only includes hotels that meet our stamp of approval. Our editorial review for this one isn’t ready yet — but we’re working on it! Below is the hotel’s own description.

Nestled in a beautiful valley in Banff national park, the Post Hotel offers a stunning panorama of the Canadian Rockies. Just a few kilometres from famous Lake Louise with its magnificent palette of emerald greens, the hotels little log cabins with their red roofs overlook the Pipestone River. This is a mountain lodge at its finest where the comfy and romantic interiors make way for spacious suites in pale wood, always stocked with a good supply of logs to warm up your evenings. If your muscles are complaining after a few long ski runs, ice skating on the lake or snowshoeing to spot the nearby elk, deer or moose, a visit to the Hotel's Temple Mountain Spa will surely soothe. For the more adventurous, helicopter skiing is not far away. Enjoy the award-winning menu based on fresh produce and local game.

You're here because

The hotel has loaner Volvo SUVs they’ll happily allow guests to use gratis for up to three hours.

The Moment

With a chef named Hans Sauter, you had a feeling the European-inspired menu would be divine...and you were right. You may never forget this caribou striploin with cherry chiboust cream and spaetzle for as long as you live…or until your next unforgettable meal here, that is.

Restaurants & Bars

The Post Hotel Dining Room - offers gourmet dining by Executive Chef Hans Sauter, along with an extensive selection of fine wines

Fondue Stübli - features traditional Swiss style fondues including cheese fondue, fondue “bourguignonne” and fondue “chinoise”

Sir Norman Lounge - fireside après ski and après hike, also offering a light menu

The Outpost - English style pub

Location

Tucked within the Hallmark movie-ready town of Lake Louise itself, within walking distance of Bow River Loop Trail, which wends along a 1921 bridge made of local rundle rock.