For many, where they rest their head at the end of a long day in the mountains is just as important as what they do while they’re among the peaks.
A quality, comfortable place to sleep isn’t the only thing hotel guests are prioritizing these days, though. Many accommodations elevate the mountain experience further by offering rejuvenating pools, delicious dining experiences and fun amenities, all wrapped up in eye-catching spaces. Here’s a look at some of the hotels bringing new life to the Rockies’ hospitality scene near Calgary.
Moxy Banff
Between the retro mid-century modern design and some impressive property amenities, a stay at Moxy Banff — Marriott Bonvoy’s only Moxy Hotels location in Western Canada — is never boring. Moxy Banff is bursting with entertainment options like an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, a fitness centre, the bookable Voyager Room where guests can listen to vinyl records and watch movies, and food options from a ’66 VW Kombi food truck in the lobby. Those with outings planned can rent bikes from the hotel for $30 a day, or store their own gear in the bike, ski and snowboard locker room.
555 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-762-3301, marriott.com
Otter Hotel
Many Banff hotels have great views, but most of those views aren’t from a rooftop pool. Enter Otter Hotel, Banff Caribou Properties’ newest hotel. Guests can head up to the roof to take in panoramic views of the peaks from the two hot pools or the cozy chairs around the fire pits. Inside, the Good Folk restaurant offers seasonal Canadian fare with dishes ranging from Alberta wild-boar chop to West Coast halibut. The hotel also makes it easy to get out and explore Banff with free Roam bus passes for guests.
1000, 600 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-760-8517, otterhotel.com
The Kenrick
A stunning renovation has turned Banff’s High Country Inn into a new hotel destination. Designed by Calgary’s Mera Studio Architects, The Kenrick exudes sophistication. The earthy green and warm wood tones create a blend of nature and luxury. The incredible design extends to the hotel’s pool area, which features a saltwater pool, a sauna and steam room, whirlpools, a cold plunge tub and cabana rentals. Guests can choose from the poolside drink and snack menu, dig into Italian cuisine at The Fat Ox on-site restaurant, or grab a drink at the hotel’s Analog Coffee shop (the first Banff location for the Calgary brand).
419 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-762-2236, thekenrickhotel.com
Black Diamond Club at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
The only thing better than one incredible mountain hotel is two incredible mountain hotels. Last year, Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge launched its “resort-within-a-resort concept” with the Black Diamond Club, a luxurious new expansion with 71 guest rooms beside the main lodge. Guests can tuck into a morning breakfast buffet, afternoon snacks, evening desserts and more as part of their exclusive Black Diamond Lounge access. There’s even an adventure concierge who can help with special adventures and experiences.
1 Terrace Dr., Kananaskis, 403-591-7711, blackdiamond.lodgeatkananaskis.com
On the Horizon
The Rocky Mountains’ hospitality scene always has something new on offer, so mountain lovers can anticipate more refreshed additions to come.
The Alexander Hotel will bring a new adults-only wellness experience to Canmore when it opens beside The Malcolm Hotel in 2027. The luxury spa hotel promises to be an exciting new addition, with features ranging from a rooftop pool to a full-service spa.
The Rimrock Resort Hotel is undergoing renovations that will set the stage for a mountainside infinity pool, saunas, meditation rooms, fresh dining experiences and more. The hotel, which recently became an Emblems Collection property, is slated to reopen in summer of 2026.
