Buffalo Mountain Lodge is the place to stay in Banff if you are looking for a peaceful and romantic mountain getaway. We love this property, not just because of its wonderfully rustic and cozy rooms, but also because the price is just so on par with or better than many of other fairly properties in Banff.
Sure it doesn’t have a downtown location, but in a way that is what makes this place all the more special. It’s located amongst the woods on Tunnel Mountain, just a five minute drive or bus ride away from downtown Banff.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge has a central building that houses the reception area, bar and two restaurants. Think country club style with deer antler chandeliers and log furniture. But unlike so many other properties in North America that attempt the mountain rustic look, here it works.
We also really like the cozy bar area which has lounges, a crackling wood fire and plenty of space for people to spread out. While nearby, the Sleeping Buffalo restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with reputedly good food and decent prices. It’s the type of fare you would expect from a mountain lodge: steaks, salmon, caribou and lamb. Yum. The lounge area is perfect for a relaxing glass of wine in front of the fire with your loved one.
All of the rooms at Buffalo Mountain Lodge are scattered throughout the 9 acres in cabin-like buildings, a short walk from the main lodge. They all have a wonderfully cozy feel to them, with warm colour schemes, dark wooden furniture and wood-burning fireplaces (that are restocked and remade every day by housekeeping). The Standard and Double rooms (or Lodge Rooms) are nice, but the Premier rooms are wonderful, particularly the ones on the top floors as they have vaulted ceilings and bathrooms featuring claw-foot bathtubs. Bedding is flexible throughout, so there is always an option for small families and groups. The Buffalo Rooms and up feature a small kitchenette which includes a stove top, fridge and microwave (if you feel so inclined to dine in).
There are some additional services here too, such as an impressive steel outdoor hot tub, room service, full concierge facilities, a small gym and free Wi-Fi.
The Buffalo Mountain Lodge is perfect for couples and families who seek the additional hotel amenities, and a more secluded ski vacation.
