Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Lake Louise


The opulent Fairmont enjoys one of the world's most enviable locations on the shores of Lake Louise. Originally built in the 1890s and added to in 1925 and 2004, the hotel and its plastered exterior do little to fit in with the surroundings. Nevertheless, the giant interloper's facilities, service and fork-dropping views are undeniably amazing.

Rooms are comfortable, if a little generic. Much of the hotel was destroyed by fire in the 1920s, and the oldest existing wing is from 1913; however, if you're after air-con or don't like cramped quarters, opt for one of the newer rooms. Note that Mountain View rooms may include a view over the parking lot. The spa, dining areas, lobby and shops have unforgettably grandiose decor.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Lake Louise attractions

1. Lake Louise

0.55 MILES

Considered by many to be the crown jewel of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is nearly impossible to describe without resorting to clichés. This…

2. Lake Louise Summer Gondola

2.94 MILES

For a bird’s-eye view of the Lake Louise area – and a good chance of spotting grizzly bears on the avalanche slopes – climb aboard the Lake Louise Gondola…

3. Morant's Curve Viewpoint

4.08 MILES

Evoking oohs, ahs and countless shutter clicks from every traveler who passes near, this pullover and viewpoint on the Bow Valley Pkwy/Hwy 1A sits at a…

4. Moraine Lake

6.76 MILES

The spectacular, deep teal waters of Moraine Lake are one of Banff National Park’s most iconic sights. The lake’s rugged and remote setting…

5. Kicking Horse Pass & Spiral Tunnels

8.03 MILES

The historic Kicking Horse Pass between Banff and Yoho National Parks is one of the most important passes in the Canadian Rockies. It was discovered in…

6. Lower Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint

8.15 MILES

Canada's marvel of railway engineering, the so-called 'spiral tunnels,' can be viewed from this pull-out on the Yoho Valley Rd.

7. Upper Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint

8.93 MILES

The main viewing platform for Canada's ingenious spiral railway tunnels is off Trans-Canada Hwy/Hwy 1, 8km east of the hamlet of Field.

8. Takakkaw Falls

12.45 MILES

A thundering torrent of water tumbles from its source in the nearby Daly Glacier over a sheer cliff face for 255m (836ft), making it the second-highest…