For over a century, visitors have been seeking rejuvenation in Banff’s Rocky Mountains. I love going to the mountains to appreciate nature, breathe in the fresh air, and escape the busy city. My most recent road trip there was all about rest and relaxation. On my mini-vacation, I stayed in a luxurious suite at the Blackstone Mountain Lodge. During the day, I focused on feeling restored at the Fairmont Banff Springs. My holiday showed me how to embrace tranquillity in Banff by soothing my soul, mind, and muscles.
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Embracing Rock Mountain Tranquility in Banff
*For this article my accommodations, tea at Rundle Lounge, and entry to Willow Stream Spa were complimentary. All opinions are completely my own based on my experience.
BLACKSTONE MOUNTAIN LODGE
Overlooking the Rocky Mountains, my suite in Canmore had two balconies with fantastic views. Inside was fully equipped with everything I could want for an extended stay; the kitchen was stocked with pots, plates, and coffee with little creamers in the fridge. The living room was kept cozy and warm by the electric fireplace. The bedroom had an attached bathroom and walk-in closet. The best part? There was an in-suite washer and dryer. Outside in the courtyard were a row of BBQs for guests to use beside the heated pool and two hot tubs. I spent a lot of time out there; sitting outside at night relaxing in the hot tub as snow gently fell. It was a magical experience!
FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS
Situated in the middle of the towering Rocky Mountains is this luxury castle hotel. Its dark stone exterior fits beautifully with Banff National Park’s landscape. Normally when I visit the park, I wander around outside the resort getting picturesque photos, but I have never ventured inside. During my visit, I appreciated how friendly the staff was; from their warm greetings, assisting me with directions, and checking in to make sure I was enjoying myself.
TEA TIME IN RUNDLE LOUNGE
I went up a grand staircase towards the back of the castle to Rundle Lounge. Here the tables were set up for tea on white linen tablecloths overlooking the mountain range. Once seated, I chose from twelve different kinds of tea, and the server explained how long I should let them steep.
Before pouring my first cup, I cleansed my palate with fresh fruit. The server then brought over a tower filled with many petite treats; warm Victorian scones with lemon butter, sandwiches on freshly made bread, and bite-size desserts. Everything was prepared in-house; from the smoked duck breast with cherry chutney on sourdough bread to the Saskatoon berry & pear frangipane tart. The only item not freshly made on-site was the macaroons, which were flown in from France. I spent the next two hours sitting back savouring the delightful view and cuisine.
WILLOW STREAM SPA
The soft sounds of the mini waterfall filled the lobby of the spa as I checked in. They provided me with everything I needed including lockers, sandals, robes, towels, hairdryers, and even had a spinner for drying my bathing suit afterwards. Inside the spa, the air smelled of eucalyptus mixed with the sounds of the three surrounding waterfalls. As I walked around, I could feel my shoulders relax and my stress start to melt away. I decided to experience the European mineral pool first. After soaking in the minerals, I spent time in each of the three whirlpools starting with the coldest one. I really enjoyed standing underneath the waterfalls. The water hitting my back gave a perfect gentle massage. To finish my spa experience I ventured to the outdoor whirlpool. While lounging I enjoyed epic views of the Rocky Mountains and the grand Fairmont.
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