Fairmont Spa — Local services in Alberta

We hiked around Lake Louise then went to the Fairmont Chateau for lunch. Food was great. We had a salad and a seafood board and the JackDaniels carmel butter ice cream for dessert. It was a little pricey but it was worth it for the beautiful view of the lake. Don't forget to budget for parking because this is an additional $30 just to park while you have lunch. I would recommend leaving your car at the public parking lot which you have to pay for to hike the lake and walk to the Chateau so you don't pay twice for parking. We visited in mid October so parking was free but people were still paying at the parking kiosk because they were not aware of the free parking during the shoulder season. There are multiple restaurants at the hotel so if one can't accommodate a walk in without a reservation check the others. It was overcast and and gloomy the day we visited Lake Louise but still stunning and beautiful. A camera can't capture the beauty you see with your own eyes. The water is crystal clear as you can see in the shallow areas but as it gets deep the minerals in the water make it look turquoise in color and it is much brighter in person than in pictures. As you walk from the public parking lot towards the lake you can see the turquoise water shining through the trees. Weather was great when we arrived in Canmore where we stayed while in the Banff area. Color's were beautiful this time of year and less tourists because it was Canadian Thanksgiving and the summer / fall season was winding down. Some shops in the area were closed but still plenty to see and do in the area. Since we visited during the shoulder season the was construction activity outside the hotel but this didn't bother us, we enjoyed the free show while we ate and took in the amazing view. A must visit, just do your research first and you'll have a great trip as we...

First off the staff were at the spa were all really nice. A couple of things impacted my score significantly.

First off, we asked the valet if we could park and be validated, and he said no and that our parking would cost $55. This is actually not the case. It turns out they actually do validate parking.

Second, the pool and other amenities are about a 5 minute walk through the hotel. Walking through a hotel in a robe and slippers is not ideal, comfortable, or 5 star quality.

Finally, thirdly, the conditions of the changeroom and the pool area are very, very, very low for a Fairmont. The changeroom is tiny. There are only two very basic shower stalls - my shower head and handle were broken. Also, you're sharing this space with the other hotel guests who are coming in with little kids - it's chaotic and it's tiny. I would not recommend this spa at all if you're going for an authentic spa experience. If you are simply looking for a massage or facial only, it is a service they provide (do not count...

I loved the quietness of the place. I walked round the lake photographing breathtaking views. The air feels clean and fresh. My room was spacious, clean and very comfortable with a view across the lake. I ate at The Fairview restaurant which was delicious and had breakfast in The Louisa. The buffet was ok but I enjoyed more, the dishes from the menu. I sat in The Lounge, which was very relaxing, with tea, looking across the lake. I enjoyed swimming in the pool and taking in the steam room and hot tub. Staff were at all times, courteous, helpful and proactive. It was a wonderful experience. I would go back in a shot. I stayed in April with snow on the ground, and loved it. I would stay any time...