One of Banff's oldest buildings is also one of its best
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The third-oldest building in Banff, the Mount Royal Hotel hasn't lost any of its charm. |
RICK MACDONNELL
BANFF, ALTA. – When I sat down to have a chat with Gemma Halstead, the front office manager of Banff's Mount Royal Hotel, the first thing she said to me was, "We're located in the heart of Banff, and we have the team to make your vacation as low-key or as action-packed as you'd like."
On its face, the statement might seem customary, but for me – someone who has stayed at dozens of hotels, motels, inns, and hostels over the past few years – it really hit home. Every accommodation sets out to make its customers comfortable, it's not every accommodation that sets out to make its customers comfortable in whatever way they'd like.
"We can book all kinds of activities for you. If you want to spend your time in our jacuzzi and sauna you can, if you want to run around all day sight-seeing, then we're able to do that as well," said Halstead
A modern classic
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Fantastic rooms with all the comforts of home, and more. |
The third building ever built in Banff, the Mount Royal is steeped in history. When construction began, Banff was little more than a dirt road. As a result of the hotel's 102 year history, it has some serious character, with its high ceilings, crown moldings, and countless other details that give this modern building a classic feel.
The number one advantage of the Mount Royal is its location. It's the hotel that Banff was built around, so its within walking distance of all restaurants and gift shops.
"When you stay here you don't have to put your key in the ignition unless you're going off on some winter excursion or headed to Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village, or Lake Louise," said Halstead.
Banff's only downtown ski bus
The Mount Royal has the distinction of being the only downtown hotel that has a ski bus pickup right at its door. You can hitch a ride to either Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Norquay.
And even though you're within walking distance to dozens of Banff restaurants and eateries, there's almost no need to go anyway. With Tony Roma's (steakhouse and grill), the Buffalo Paddock (pub-style, pool tables, shuffleboard, trivia ... an adult playground), and in-room dining available, you'll never have to step outside if you don't want to.
To commemorate its recent centennial birthday, The Mount Royal is re-branding its historic property. With a new website, a new logo, and a fresh new feel, the Mount Royal is in great shape to spend the next 100 years serving Banff with quality, with character, and with kindness.
For more on Mount Royal, please visit its website.