Nestled in the Canadian Rockies is the magical Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. With over 550 rooms and countless restaurants, bars and conference facilities, it is massive. Set beside the frozen Lake Louise with mountains and glaciers looming in the distance, the views from this hotel are simply stupendous.
A Canadian icon, Fairmont Chateau was built over 100 years ago for ‘outdoor adventurers and alpinists’. It was originally a log cabin with a dining room, kitchen and two small bedrooms. But times have changed, and many evolutions and renovations later, it is now one of the largest and most luxurious hotels in the Banff region.
This hotel has played host to thousands of guests over the years, including professional skiers and royalty. The Lake was actually named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, Queen Victoria’s fourth daughter.
There’s a wide variety of room types (from hotel rooms to spacious junior suites and one to two bedroom suites) so whether you're looking for a simple stay or would like the benefits of being a Fairmont Gold guest, the choice is yours. Like all Fairmont Hotels, there’s a hotel within the hotel – Fairmont Gold. Guests who are staying at Fairmont Gold have their own separate check-in, and they will also get to enjoy complimentary breakfast and canapés served in a private lounge. If we’re to be really honest, we think that a better option is to spend the same amount of money on a Lakeview room and then treat yourself to the buffet breakfast downstairs (or grab something cheap from the deli). (The regular Lakeview room is, however, smaller than the Fairmont Gold room).
During winter, there are five restaurants to choose from including the gorgeous Swiss-style Walliser Stube (serving fondue), and a pub that’s open until 2am. All of the dining options are fairly expensive, however there is a grab-and-go Chateau Deli open 24 hours that has a good range of reasonably priced snacks and meals. Registered guests aged under 5 eat for free, while there’s a 50% discount for kids aged 6-12. The Fairview Bar and Restaurant is a must-visit at least once during your stay (be sure to request a window seat), while the Lakeview Lounge is the perfect spot to end your day with a night-cap.
Finally, there are plenty of activities in and around the Chateau. These include an extensive spa, pool and fitness centre, as well as ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, walking along the frozen lake and going for a horse-drawn sleigh ride. There’s also an onsite equipment rental and retail store. And if you want to stay true to the original vision of the hotel, you can be a true alpinist and try your hand at some ice-climbing.
The Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise is truly a magical experience and perfect for adding a little romance (or luxury) to your ski vacation.
