What it is

A historic grande dame in the forested heart of Banff National Park.

What it isn't

An intimate wilderness lodge—this is a massive resort.

What we think

On the shores of Lake Louise, in the heart of Banff National Park and in front of Victoria Glacier, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a stately throwback to yesteryear. One of Canada’s original “railway hotels”—a series of great lodges built in the late 1800s to entice travelers westward—the property honors its pristine setting with extensive conservation practices, earning it global recognition for responsible tourism. There are 539 classically elegant rooms (ask for a corner unit for views of both lake and mountains) and superb dining choices, from fondue at the Walliser Stube to high-style dining at the Fairview, Activities abound: summer means guided hikes, canoeing, horseback riding and more; cold weather brings ice skating, sled rides and ski trails with some of the world's most stunning views. Be sure to borrow the hotel's GoPro camera to capture the action.

You're here because

You want to visit the untrammeled, pristine beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

The Moment

Sitting in a heated ice-fishing hut in the middle of a frozen lake, your rod suddenly jumps—and you pull up a ten-pound river trout! You make a silent toast to the fur trappers of yore as you raise a steaming cup of hot chocolate to your lips.

Restaurants & Bars

Fairview Bar & Restaurant - Contemporary Canadian cuisine

*Afternoon tea served daily

Walliser Stube - Innovative European alpine cuisine

Louiza - Mediterranean-inspired restaurant

Lakeview Lounge - Features seasonally inspired lunch fare and a deliciously shareable evening tapas menu

Alpine Social - A Canadian style pub with a casual, friendly atmosphere

The Guide’s Pantry - Open 24 hours a day and offers a variety of tasty meals to eat in or take out

Location

The shores of Lake Louise in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Calgary International Airport is the closest airport, roughly a 2 1/2 hour (and decidedly scenic) drive.