The Most Gorgeous Mountain Resorts In Canada With Unforgettable Views
When in Canada, there is beauty in nature no matter where you look. But the Canadian Rockies just might have won the pageant. With its teal alpine lakes— an environment untapped by human hands — and jaw-dropping glaciers, it's a sight for sore eyes. That's why a whopping 9 million people flock to this picturesque region every year to see stunning views, unwind, and partake in outdoor fun. The best part? You don't need to camp in the Canadian Rockies for an authentic experience. Many resorts throughout the region combine logs with luxury, offering amazing views of the mountains — some while atop the mountains — and high-end amenities (although maybe try to avoid the most-hated airline in Canada on your way there).
If seeing jaw-dropping mountain peaks in Canada is on your bucket list, then make a beeline for these resorts. To decide which made the cut, we determined which Canadian Rockies resorts had the best reviews on Tripadvisor, the most high-class features, and, of course, the best mountain views, no matter if you're in your guestroom, in the hot tub, or checking in at the lobby. Here's what we found.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Jasper, Alberta
You can't get closer to the beauty of Jasper National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site and the second-biggest park in the Canadian Rockies — than a stay at Alberta's Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. For more than a century, the resort inside the park has provided respite for everyone from ordinary people looking for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains to famous actors and royalty — the lodge has hosted the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Bing Crosby, and Queen Elizabeth II. In its early days, the hotel was the biggest single-story building made of logs on the planet, and its ability to impress hasn't diminished in the decades since. Today, the 700-acre escape — sat between the Rockies and Beauvert Lake — has more than 400 rooms, suites, and log cabins for a truly spectacular experience.
More than 6,500 Tripadvisor users, who have given the lodge a culmination of 4 stars, would agree. One wrote, "Our stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge was nothing short of magical! Nestled among serene, tree-lined shores of a pristine lake and surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views, the setting alone feels like stepping into a postcard. The rustic yet luxurious cabin-style accommodations were perfectly cozy, with every modern amenity you'd expect from Fairmont while still maintaining a charming, woodsy feel that really connects you to the area." Those amenities include a heated outdoor pool, spa, gym, and five restaurants.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge, Banff, Alberta
Want to enjoy gorgeous Tunnel Mountain views but also have easy access to Banff's lively downtown? Buffalo Mountain Lodge should be your getaway of choice, as it's just a 3-minute drive to the downtown area yet tucked between 9 acres of towering fir, pine, and spruce trees. Despite the lodge's proximity to the hustle and bustle, you'll feel worlds away from it all thanks to its rustic features, such as guestrooms with peaked and wood-paneled ceilings, claw-foot bathtubs, personal wood-burning fireplaces, and outdoor patios. Guests have access to outdoor hot tubs surrounded by snowy peaks and the starry sky, as well as a restaurant that utilizes Rocky Mountain ingredients in a cozy yet modern vibe. For the best that the Buffalo Mountain Lodge has to offer, book its colossal 2,500-square-foot home — called The O'Connor House — for a private experience atop Tunnel Mountain.
No matter which room or house you opt for, a stay at Buffalo Mountain Lodge puts you as close as can be to all that Tunnel Mountain has to offer, such as mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing surrounded by Bow Valley, amazing wildlife such as elk, and lush forests. Buffalo Mountain Lodge has over 2,800 Tripadvisor reviewers, who have given the resort 4 stars. "The indoor fireplace was really the cherry on top," wrote one reviewer. "It was so cozy and nice. The ambiance was incredible. Would always choose this place."
Cathedral Mountain Lodge, Field, British Columbia
Lavishness and logs aren't often seen in the same sentence, but that's the situation at Cathedral Mountain Lodge, located in Field (British Columbia) within Yoho National Park, another breathtaking national park in Canada . Offering a private experience, you won't share walls with other visitors at this resort with 31 pine cabins along the Kicking Horse River, each with fireplaces, deep-soaker bathtubs, antique décor, patios, and crazy-beautiful views. However, you will have to make some tradeoffs for the experience — the cabins have no televisions or phones, encouraging guests to relax and embrace the surrounding nature. The cabins are surrounded by the Canadian Rockies and are near the crystal-clear Emerald Lake, the rock Natural Bridge, and Wapta Falls, to name a few of the scenic surroundings.
The resort's main building is made of reclaimed Douglas-fir beams, with oversized windows and a rock fireplace. Inside, guests can enjoy its Great Room and the Riverside Dining Room with vaulted wood ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a menu that changes multiple times per week. Over 600 people have reviewed the Cathedral Mountain Lodge on Tripadvisor, giving the resort a culmination of 4.5 stars. One said, "Fantastic place to stay. Loved the lodges and the beautiful setting by the river — really relaxing and enjoyed taking a bottle of wine or two down to the riverbank."
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Lake Louise, Alberta
If you want to see Lake Louise, the Victoria Glacier, and the Canadian Rockies while staying in luxury, then the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise should be your destination — although that might be hard to believe considering this hotel's history. When it opened in 1890, its only clientele were outdoor enthusiasts looking for an efficient way to explore Banff National Park, one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has done a 180 since then, and the hotel has been the stay of choice for celebrities like Douglas Fairbanks and Alfred Hitchcock. Today, guests in its 500-plus sophisticated rooms are surrounded by lavish chandeliers, lush couches, and wow-worthy views just outside the windows.
Just a 10-minute drive away from the hotel is the Lake Louise Ski Resort, which offers skiing opportunities for everyone from beginners to experts on four mountain faces. If skiing isn't your activity of choice, use the hotel as a home base for ice skating, snow-shoeing, canoeing, cross-country skiing, or sleigh riding. With the most reviews on this list, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has garnered more than 10,500 comments and 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor. Wrote one of its happy reviewers, "Our stay was awesome at Lake Louise. So good that we stayed an extra night. The view is breathtaking and our room was wonderful."
Four Seasons Resort Whistler, Whistler, British Columbia
A frequent name on lists of top resorts in Canada and the wider world, Four Seasons Resort Whistler lives up to its reputation and then some. Those high standards shine brightest in the hotel's 273 rooms, all of which have gas fireplaces and balconies, while some also have amazing views and walk-in closets. Alternatively, opt for one of the four private residences, which include in-room dining and spa services, as well as personal ski fittings. Outside the rooms, guests will also enjoy Four Seasons Resort Whistler's spa, which has uniquely Canadian services, as well as an outdoor heated pool — perfect for soaking in the surrounding scenery while remaining cozy and warm.
And the hotel couldn't make it any easier for guests to explore the mountainous terrain. It offers harder-to-find activities like dog sledding, snowmobile tours, and ice fishing, as well as mainstays like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. More than 3,600 people have rated the resort on Tripadvisor, giving it a culmination of 4.5 stars and writing comments like, "An exceptional trip from start to finish. The property was flawless, staff were helpful and attentive, facilities exceeded expectations. Our best Whistler trip yet (we've gone over a dozen times)!"
The Rimrock Resort Hotel, Banff, Alberta
The Rimrock Resort Hotel is about as mountainous as it gets, seeing as its 333 guestrooms and suites are perched on Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park and offer insane views. Guests will enjoy the scenery from rooms featuring minimalistic interiors with balconies, marble bathrooms, gas fireplaces, and dark wood tones, allowing the mountains to steal the show. And no matter what's on your weekend itinerary, you'll find it — provided you can tear yourself away from the well-appointed accommodations. The Rimrock Resort Hotel is just a few minutes from the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola, and activities are available regardless of the season, ranging from cross-country skiing and sleigh rides to stargazing and wildlife tours.
After spending a day in Banff National Park (Canada's winter wonderland), head to the Rimrock Resort Hotel spa (which also has stunning views), the indoor pool and hot tub, or the steam room. Alternatively, you can find relaxation in nature itself with activities like sound bathing, yoga, and meditation. When hunger strikes, refuel at its onsite restaurant Eden, which uses classic French cooking techniques to create four- and seven-course chef's menus presented next to mountain landscapes. More than 7,000 people have raved about their experience at the resort on Tripadvisor, giving it 4.5 stars. "This was a wonderful experience," wrote one reviewer. "We had a corner room with a view of the mountains from two sides. Very clean room and comfortable."
Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Alberta
Since 1888, Fairmont Banff Springs has been the premier spot for luxurious getaways in the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park, earning the nickname "the Castle in the Rockies." Today, it stays true to its original intent, as it's home to a 40,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor spa as well as a 27-hole championship golf course. Guests can utilize Fairmont Banff Springs's long list of amenities by booking one of its 739 rooms, some of which have fireplaces and crown molding. All of the rooms have spectacular views, but you can get a whole new perspective on the mountains by dining in the private restaurant Dome, a literal dome with a bird's-eye view of the surrounding peaks. You can also enjoy mountain vibes at the spa, as it offers specialized services like the Mountain Memories massage and mineral bath with eucalyptus, and pedicures with native ingredients like mountain pine essences.
Dripping in opulence, the hotel has garnered more than 9,700 reviews and 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor, with past guests writing comments like, "Spent a truly incredible weekend of quiet relaxation amidst the beauty, history and ambiance of the world famous 'Banff Fairmont Castle.' From impeccably manicured grounds, through the awe-inspiring architecture and history of the Grande Dame, through to the exceptional service and assistance, every part of our weekend was made as relaxing and easy as possible."
Sunshine Mountain Lodge, Banff, Alberta
Sunshine Mountain Lodge in Banff, Alberta, is one of a kind — literally. It's the only hotel on Sunshine Mountain, and due to its remote location, the only way to get to it is via gondola, making it perfect for those looking for a unique, ski-friendly stay. And for those who don't ski, take note — it also has the biggest hot tub in Banff, big enough to accommodate up to 40 people. Inside the classic lodge, everyone lucky enough to stay is treated to beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and fir trees, all while enjoying fireplaces, balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and more. After spending the day skiing down the mountain — right from the lodge — indulge in Sunshine Mountain Lodge's spa or send the kids to a game room that has a Nintendo Wii, foosball table, and other fun.
More than 2,200 people have provided feedback about Sunshine Mountain Lodge to Tripadvisor, earning the resort 4 stars. Past visitors have written comments such as, "The fact that anyone not staying at the lodge has to take the gondola down at 5 p.m. makes the mountain feel so private and remote! It was a truly special experience. The view is stunning and the night sky was so lovely."
Stoneridge Mountain Resort, Canmore, Alberta
Whether you want to unwind next to the fireplace in an alpine-inspired room, breathe the mountain air on the patio, kick back in the outdoor heated pool or hot tub, or take in the rays on the sundeck, you'll find a gorgeous view no matter which way you turn at Stoneridge Mountain Resort in Canmore, Alberta. Better yet, it's also near tons of modern conveniences like a grocery store, distillery, a museum, a golf course, and restaurants. Stoneridge Mountain Resort is smack-bang between Banff National Park and Lake Louise, making it the ideal locale for hitting both spots. If you need ideas on what to do while visiting the sites, Stoneridge Mountain Resort offers plenty, like renting e-bikes or taking a helicopter tour.
The resort, nestled within snow-capped mountains shrouded in greenery, has earned 4.5 stars from over 2,000 reviews on Tripadvisor. Fans have written reviews like, "Highly recommend staying here. The rooms are spacious and decor is beautiful just like the view from our room. Couldn't ask for a better weekend getaway with my friends. Will definitely be back real soon."
Solara Resort by Bellstar Hotels, Canmore, Alberta
At Solara Resort by Bellstar Hotels in Canmore, all guests can enjoy wine with their mountain views, as the condo-like suites include wine fridges as well as full kitchens, living rooms, fireplaces, private patios, and underground heated parking. The oversized windows make it easy to enjoy the mountain ambiance in the comfort of indoors. Every amenity has been considered at this elegant mountain resort, and it has a score of 4 stars on Tripadvisor from over 1,300 reviews. Wrote one, "Spacious, comfortable condo with amazing views from every window. We stayed here very comfortably with seven people over Christmas vacation. Overall I would definitely stay here again."
It isn't difficult to understand why. Besides the stunning rooms with imported cork flooring, enormous windows, granite kitchen countertops, and spa-like bathrooms, visitors can enjoy even more spa enjoyment with amenities like an aromatherapy steam room and cedar saunas. The hotel also makes it easy to see the best of the Canadian Rockies that await outside the resort doors, as it offers easy ways to book activities like horseback riding, cave tours, whitewater rafting, and more.
Moose Hotel & Suites, Banff, Alberta
At Moose Hotel & Suites, you won't just have views of the Canadian Rockies from the 174 guestrooms. You'll also have views of locally-made masterpieces, as the hotel is adorned with décor made by local artists, creating another layer of authenticity to this hotspot just a short walk from downtown Banff. The hotel is just a short distance from Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. If you don't feel like heading to one of Banff's dining options, Moose Hotel & Suites has its own onsite Italian restaurant with a bread buffet, perfect for recharging with carbs after a long day exploring the slopes.
Moose Hotel & Suites uses energy-efficient lighting and temperature controls, as well as high-quality groundwater. Inside its guestrooms, guests can enjoy clawfoot soaker tubs, fireplaces, and balconies. It has earned more than 1,600 reviews and 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor, with plenty of rave reviews saying things like, "Spent three nights here and it was incredible! The room was spacious and felt like I was in a modern log cabin. We are already planning a return trip here!"
Methodology
With so much to do and see, it's no surprise that bucket-list worthy Canada is chock-full of resorts ready to cater to guests looking for mountainous experiences. To determine which were better than all the rest, we combed through blogs, reviews, and travel publications to see which resorts could offer the best views and stays.
We chose these Canadian mountain resorts based on the amount of Tripadvisor reviews they had garnered and the number of stars they earned. We also considered which hotels had the best views (based on their locations), and also focused on those that utilize mountain vibes and inspiration in their guestrooms, services, and amenities with features like fireplaces, wood and stone details, and balconies for mountain scenery from guests' own doors. Looking for more nature vibes in Canada? Check out one of the country's most underrated hiking destinations.