The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff

The Fairmont Banff Springs is an icon of Canadian history. Built in 1888 after the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed, it was one of a string of opulent hotels designed to tempt skiers out to the Rocky Mountains – and it worked. The hotel became the place to stay for wealthy Europeans looking to see Canada’s staggering mountain scenery and to climb its rocky peaks. It attracted the cream of society, with the likes of King George VI, Winston Churchill and Marilyn Monroe among its star-studded showreel of past guests.

You can’t help but be bowled over by the Fairmont Banff Springs, or the Castle in the Rockies, as it’s known. It was modelled on a Scottish baronial castle and its austere walls contain a mind-boggling mix of restaurants, bars, lounges and grand ballrooms. Each is dotted with little nods to its historical theme, from whole suits of armour to grand thrones carved from wood. There’s a world-class spa, naturally, indoor and outdoor hot tubs and swimming pools, marble-floored lounges and even a bowling alley. This is North American luxury at its finest, so each of the 764 rooms is beautifully decorated, with all the mod cons you'd expect – not to mention their heavenly beds.

The famous Fairmont breakfasts will keep you on the mountain until dinner, but you’re also just a short walk from Banff, which is full of lively restaurants, bars and shops. And when you’re ready to hit the slopes, the hotel shuttle bus is right outside to whisk you up to Banff's famous Big 3 mountains: Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.

The Fairmont Banff Springs houses a variety of restaurant and dining options. Please note some restaurant are seasonal and are often open on specific days of the week. Where applicable, half board evening meals include 3 courses (appetizer, main and dessert) and non-alcoholic drinks. Buffet and à la carte breakfast options are available in select restaurants to those who prebook. Alcohol and specialty coffees are not included. Dinner reservations are recommended and strongly advised to be made a few months in advance of the festive period.

The Vermillion Room offers French elegance and Canadian charm. It has an all day classic menu served in a stylish and bold brasserie atmosphere.

Castello Italiana serves delicious Italian cuisine using locally sourced and organic products. From tempting appetisers, hand made pasta and a pizza menu to die for, the Castello Italiana brings delicious Italian flavours to an elegant courtyard setting.

1888 Chop House presents a modern twist on the authentic Steak House. Expect fine service and a menu focusing on prime cuts of Alberta beef, sustainably sourced wild game and seafood. Please note for guests on half board, a $30CAD local surcharge applies per person for 3 course à la carte dinner.

Grapes is a charming dining room available for private bookings of 10-16 guests. Specialising in delicious patés, pickled vegetables and freshly basked breads, Grapes is perfect for intimate and special dining occasions.

STOCK Food and Drink brings the best locally inspired and gourmet food to Banff. It is simple and the ideal stop for a fresh sandwich, coffee or artisanal meal.

All rooms have cable TV, pay-per-view video, free WiFi, hairdryer, telephone, coffee maker, iron/ironing board, safe and bathroom with shower and WC

Fairmont room – sleeps 1-2: Either one king bed OR one queen bed.

Deluxe room – sleeps 1-4: Either one king bed and one queen bed OR two twin beds OR two queen beds.

Junior suite – sleeps 1-2: One king bed.

Fairmont Gold room – sleeps 1-2: One king bed OR two queen beds. On an exclusive private floor with its own lounge, serving complimentary continental breakfast, après-ski canapés and an honour bar.

The world famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a distinctive and impressive landmark in Banff. It forms an amazing backdrop to the town from its elevated position about one mile from the centre of Banff.

Prices quoted include flights and transfers from London