The tourist and sports potential of the Canadian Rockies was appreciated in the 19th century. One of those who first drew attention to this region was William Cornelius Van Horne. On his initiative, the first hotels were built here and the first ski slopes were laid. They quickly became popular. Everything would be fine, but to qualify for the title of luxury, the resort did not have enough luxury hotel. And in the early 80s, in the area of ​​the Bow and Spray rivers in the Rocky Mountains, where the Banff National Park is now located, architect Bruce Price appeared, famous for his Victorian-style works, which implies heavy weight and respectable solemnity. Van Horn instructed Bruce to create not just a hotel, but a real castle, not only royal-style, but everything worth accepting kings, even with the smallest detail. The experience was a success, the British monarchs became frequent guests of The Fairmont Banff Springs. Apparently, they felt at home here, which is understandable: the hotel’s interiors very much resemble the chambers of Windsor Castle.

The Fairmont Banff Springs was officially opened in 1888, later it was rebuilt, modified, improved. In the 1920s-30s, the American social lionesses and the European aristocracy made it their main resting place. They loved the mountains, but perhaps they loved golf more. And next to the hotel appeared luxurious golf courses created by the famous master of those years, Stanley Thompson. And in the late 90s, in accordance with the fashionable hotel trends, a beautiful SPA-complex appeared here as well.

So what can you see here at the moment? First, spacious suites with breathtaking mountain views from the windows, antique furniture, crystal chandeliers, oriental carpets, stucco ceilings and antique fireplaces.

Secondly, restaurants. In a separate cottage, reminiscent of a hunting lodge somewhere in Bavaria, is the Waldhaus restaurant. German and Swiss dishes are prepared here. Specialization - game. Here is the eponymous pub, famous for its fondue. Local - North American - cuisine can be tasted at the Banffshire Club. In addition to hearty foods, a large selection of single malt whiskeys. At Bow Valley Grill, go for seafood, at Castello for Italian pasta, at Samurai Sushi Bar and Restaurant for sushi, and at Castle Pantry for tasty pastries. In the Ramsay Lounge and Rundle Lounge, the usual European cocktail menu, and in the Grapes Wine Bar, local - Canadian - wines. In short, this gourmet tour in miniature.

And thirdly, golf, SPA and, of course, mountains. Golf is an 18-hole course where American golf championships are held. SPA-complex Willow Stream Spa, where there is a hot tub with mountain water. The mountains are some of the best cross-country skiing in Canada.