Location Situated among the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, the hotel stands as a world-renowned symbol of Canadian hospitality since 1888. Its blend of opulence and seclusion has been an emblem of Rocky Mountain majesty for more than a hundred years. Facilities A Scottish Baronial Castle - a unique Canadian Heritage landmark offering a century of tradition in hospitality and professional service. A National Park environment that encompasses majestic mountains, spectacular scenery, and a wildlife sanctuary in safe surroundings. The hotel opened in 1888 and, throughout the last century, this heritage landmark has evolved to meet the changing needs of its guests. In particular, over the last ten years more than one hundred million dollars has been invested in the restoration and renovations and it is now the largest meeting and conference resort in Canada. The most recent seventy-five million dollar refurbishment included the redesigning of three restaurants and main kitchen, the creation of new retail stores, and the construction of a grand new lobby. It offers a total of 770 rooms spread over 9 floors in the main building and 4 floors in an annexe building, and among the many facilities on offer count 24-hour reception, a hotel safe, a currency exchange facility, lift access, a café, a hairdresser, a bar, a pub, a games room, an auditorium, Internet access, room and laundry services, cycle hire and parking for those arriving by car, some in a garage. Rooms Each room comes with an en suite bathroom with hairdryer, as well as a direct dial telephone, a satellite/ cable TV, a radio, Internet access, a mini-fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, an ironing set, a double or king-size bed, heating and air conditioning, a safe and either a balcony or a terrace. Sports/Entertainment An all-inclusive resort with numerous on-site activities, such as a 27-hole golf course, tennis, riding stables, mountain cycling and hiking trails, indoor and outdoor heated pools with children's paddling section and bowling. Guests can relax outside on the sun loungers and parasols laid out for use. Opened in the summer of 1995 as Solace, and renamed Willow Stream in 2002, is the $12-million European-style spa. Spa guests are greeted by lavish interiors highlighted by cascading waterfalls, grand fireplaces, solariums, a sauna, a steam room, a Jacuzzi, 23 private treatment rooms, fitness and cardio-strength training areas. There is an on-site gym offering regular aerobics classes. The spa features a restaurant serving light cuisine, a beauty salon and a boutique. The hotel is located in close proximity to three world-class ski areas. Dog sledding, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and skating are also available close by. Meals An international dining experience with twelve seasonal food and beverage outlets ranging from a 24-hour deli to Bavarian, Italian, Japanese, Canadian and fine dining. Families will enjoy selecting their favourite fare. Payment American Express, Diners Club, JCB, MasterCard and VISA are all accepted as methods of payment. How to get there It is an hour's drive from Calgary to Banff on a 75 mph freeway through the magnificent Rocky Mountains. An hourly shuttle service is provided and a private limousine service is available on request.