The Post Hotel, Lake Louise, Alberta: The Rocky Mountains aren't just for climbing
Nestled in the Bow Valley Parkway about half an hour from Banff, Alberta, the Post Hotel and Spa is tucked away like a hidden gem. The Rocky Mountains are a popular destination for Canadians and foreign visitors alike, but aren’t only for climbing and skiing. Though the Post naturally draws people during ski season given its proximity to the Lake Louise mountain, it’s worthy of a visit any time of year. In the “off” season, Lake Louise offers stunning trails and fishing, and if it’s warm enough, paddling in the sparkling blue alpine lake at the base of impressive glacier capped peaks.
The Post is known for its extraordinary cuisine, led by European-trained Executive Chef Hans Sauter; in fact, the Cond. Nast Traveler’s Gold List awarded the Post Hotel & Spa “Best Food in the Americas”. (And kids are very welcome; they are offered half portions of any menu item, and the kitchen has been known to accommodate requests.) The Post is also home to the biggest wine cellar in Canada, with more than 25,500 bottles, inspiring a series of unique winemakers dinners every year. Outside the dining room, the skating rink winds between pine trees, surrounded by mountains and lit by twinkling lights and the moon at night.
The Sir Norman lounge offers a more relaxed atmosphere by the fireside and live piano on weekend evenings. Fondue Stübli – which translates to small, cozy room – is an elegant alcove just off the main dining room that serves traditional Swiss-style fondues including cheese, bourguignonne, chinoise and classic chocolate.
The Post also has a salt water pool and world-class spa, a library full of books, games and puzzles, cushy chairs and a fireplace. It offers a few connecting rooms that are perfect for families as well as a number of separate cabins, including the 3,000-square-foot Watson House, perched on the banks of the Pipestone River.
Travel Tip: The Post Hotel is located in Lake Louise, about a two hour drive north of Calgary. Air Canada and WestJet offer regular service to Calgary. While in Calgary, visit the Telus Spark New Science Centre, located a stone’s throw from the Calgary Zoo. Visit sparkscience.ca for details.
Visit Posthotel.com for more information.
Originally published in ParentsCanada magazine, May 2015.
