What’s cozier than curling up next to a roaring fire, cocktail in hand, while a wintery mountain scene plays out around you? Not much, as far as we’re concerned. Lucky for Calgarians, the nearby Rocky Mountains are filled with rustic lodges serving up postcard-perfect fireplace settings, both indoor and outdoor.
Here are six fireplaces and pits at mountain lodges and hotels that, whether you’re a guest for the evening or not, should be sought out this season.
Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
The outdoor firepit at this mountain resort is sure to impress, as it’s the Autograph Collection hotel’s official “MARK of Craft” — the signature experience that showcases what the property is all about. Roast marshmallows, sip a cocktail and take in the vistas around you at this large communal pit on the patio outside Market Cafe.
Pair it with a S’mores Old Fashioned. Lean into the campfire vibe with this on-theme cocktail featuring single malt Scotch, rye, bourbon, chocolate bitters, Angostura bitters and honey cinnamon smoked syrup.
1 Centennial Dr., Kananaskis Village, 403-591-7711, lodgeatkananaskis.com
The Malcolm Hotel
In the summertime, the pool deck at this Canmore hotel is the place to be. But don’t overlook the winter season: Not only are the outdoor heated pool and hot tubs open year-round, but a rooftop firepit complete with cushioned seating is the perfect place to take in the epic view of a snow-covered Three Sisters.
Pair it with a Zero Proof Spiced Toddy (Seedlip Spice 94, lemon and honey) or a Monte Cristo (Grand Marnier, Kaluha and coffee) — either way, you’re going to want something warm for this alfresco fire.
321 Spring Creek Dr., Canmore, 403-812-0680, malcolmhotel.ca
Juniper Hotel
A hidden gem in the Bow Valley, the Juniper Hotel’s Juniper Bistro & Lounge is home to stunning views, Canadian comfort food and a homey atmosphere thanks to the impressive wall-to-wall Rundle stone fireplace. Try to snag the leather armchairs next to the fire, the ideal après-ski spot for conversation and share plates, such as melty Canadian brie topped with fruit, mustard and cedar compote.
Pair it with a Bow Valley Sunset. Toast your surroundings with this cocktail consisting of local vodka, grapefruit, lemon, spruce tip and rosemary syrup, and prosecco.
1 Juniper Way, Banff, 403-762-2281, thejuniper.com
Waldhaus Restaurant at Fairmont Banff Springs
Tucked behind the iconic “Castle in the Rockies,” this Bavarian-style cottage has all the makings of a cozy night in the mountains: views over the Spray River Valley, cheese fondue, crispy schnitzel and apple strudel, vaulted ceilings and a grand stone fireplace that casts a glow over the whole room.
Pair it with a Black Bear. Bearface rye, blackberry purée, lime juice, mint and peach bitters combine in this refreshing, fruity concoction that balances out the rich alpine fare and toasty fireplace.
Bonus: Fairmont Banff Springs has introduced a new fire feature this season. Book one of its four luxury private fire pits on the Upper Rundle Terrace and you’ll enjoy drinks from Rundle Bar while relaxing with pillows and blankets around smokeless flames with a private butler to do the stoking.
405 Spray Ave., Banff, 403-762-6860, fairmont.com
Storm Mountain Lodge
After a day spent skiing or riding at Lake Louise Ski Resort or Banff Sunshine Village, we can’t think of a better spot to après than fireside at Storm Mountain Lodge. Celebrating its centennial in 2022, the lodge on Highway 93 near the Alberta-B.C. border has a rustic stone fireplace positioned right next to the main bar. Grab a seat on one of the adjacent leather couches and settle in for a cocktail or two — before retreating to your own fireplace-equipped cabin for the night.
Pair it with a Buffalo’s Breath, with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Grand Marnier, black walnut bitters, maple syrup and a cherry, delivered under a smoke-filled cover.
Highway 93 S, Banff National Park, 403-762-4155, stormmountainlodge.com
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
The double-sided stone fireplace in the Main Lodge of this resort on Lac Beauvert, which is also marking its 100th anniversary this year, is one of the most iconic in the Rockies. One side heats up the casual Emerald Lounge, and is mounted with a bison head, while the other provides the backdrop to the Great Hall, the resort’s main dining area, complete with a striking Indigenous art piece.
Pair it with a Mulled Marg. This mulled wine-margarita mashup is the winter cocktail we didn’t know we needed, featuring Hornitos Reposado, Amaro Montenegro, lime juice, agave syrup and finished with a mulled wine float.
Old Lodge Road, Jasper, 780-852-3301, fairmont.com