Festive Vacations That Really Bring the Holiday Spirit
A Festive Christmas getaway: The Magic of the Canadian rockies
As the holiday season approaches, the Canadian Rockies in Alberta and the Coastal Mountains in Whistler transform into a winter wonderland, making them the perfect destination for a jolly and festive Christmas escape. So, whether you’re dreaming of a cozy mountain getaway, a castle-like retreat, or a snow-covered adventure, Fairmont Banff Springs, The Rimrock Hotel, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler have something special for everyone on your list. Let’s unwrap the magic of these iconic hotels and see why they’re on the “nice” list for your next Christmas getaway!
A CASTLE FIT FOR SANTA
Fairmont Banff Springs
If you were to close your eyes and dream of the most festive place to spend a Christmas holiday, it would undoubtedly be Fairmont Banff Springs. Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Fairmont Banff Springs is a fairytale castle that comes to life, especially during the holiday season. Lovingly referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies,” this legendary hotel wraps you in a warm embrace of festive charm from the moment you arrive. Picture twinkling lights, grand Christmas trees, and cozy fireplaces that even Santa would envy.
The hotel welcomes the holiday spirit starting in November and continues until the beginning of January—but the “official” start of Christmas at the Castle begins with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Mt. Stephen Hall. As you take in the sights of the Castle adorned with décor—twinkling lights lining the drive to the hotel, Christmas trees around every corner, and so much tasteful tinsel that every room is an Instagram photo waiting to happen—you’ll start to believe in magic. But it’s also the sounds and smells of Fairmont Banff Springs that elevate this experience to new heights. Whether it’s the laughter of children ice skating with Santa, the sweet harmonies of roaming carolers, or the delicious aromas wafting from the hotel’s kitchens (Fairmont Banff Springs has become renowned for its holiday dining experiences), you’ll experience a Grinch-like glow-up, with your heart and tummy growing three sizes by the time you’ve completed your holiday stay at Canada’s Castle in the Rockies. It’s an experience you can’t miss.
Top 3 Christmas Experiences at the Castle:
- The Thirsty Reindeer: Surround yourself with the best festive spirit(s) and over-the-top décor.
- Festive Afternoon Tea: A perfect Christmas treat – steeped in tradition. Picture iconic views, exquisite finger foods, and really good teas.
- New Year’s Eve Gala: Dress to impress and dance the night away in the Castle – and when the party is over? Just take the elevator home.
- Learn More at Christmas at the Castle
Festive Happenings in the Town of Banff:
- Banff Christmas Market: Offering unique gifts, festive entertainment and culinary delights.
- Christmas Eve Torch Light Parade at Banff Sunshine Village.
- In Search of Christmas Spirit.
- Find more holiday information at Banff Lake Louise Tourism.
Merry Mountain Escape
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
If you’re looking to combine the magic of Christmas with the thrill of the slopes, Fairmont Chateau Whistler is the perfect destination. Nestled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, this luxurious hotel is the ultimate holiday playground. With ski-in/ski-out access, you’ll be dashing through the snow faster than you can say “Rudolph!”
Celebrating the holidays in Whistler is like stepping into a snow globe—shake it and watch the magic unfold. This famous winter locale transforms into a true winter wonderland, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler is at the heart of it all. From the moment you drive up the hotel’s twinkling, light-adorned driveway, you know you’re in for a festive treat. Step into the bustling lobby and feel the Christmas spirit as you see guests returning from a day on the slopes or gathering by the grand fireplace in the Mallard Lounge for a cozy après-ski nightcap.
Not to be outdone by her sisters in the Rockies, Fairmont Chateau Whistler brings its festive A-game with a lineup of holiday events and treats to delight the whole family. Experience the Chef’s Parade, where the skilled culinary team parades through the hotel’s halls, showcasing an array of delicious Christmas creations—think gingerbread houses, yule logs, and other sweet delights. Join in the festive fun by creating your own personalized holiday wreath, or let the kids’ eyes light up as they visit Santa himself. Whether you’re savoring seasonal delicacies, taking in the breathtaking mountain views, or simply reveling in the holiday cheer that fills every corner of the hotel, your Christmas at the Chateau will be filled with memories that last a lifetime.
Top 3 Christmas Experiences at Fairmont Chateau Whistler:
- Wreath Making: Create a charming and personalized touch to your guest room by making and decorating a beautiful cedar wreath to hang on your door.
- Chef’s Parade: Get your cameras ready! The annual Chef’s Parade of holiday fare will be a hotel tour.
- Alpenglow Après: Join us for an illuminating family après experience on the Woodlands Terrace. Come dressed for the outdoors and get ready for an enchanting evening under the beauty of the night sky.
- Learn more about Christmas at Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
Festive Happenings in the Town of Whistler:
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at the Brickworks Public House
- Starry Night Holiday Skating Performance at the Meadow Park Sports Centre
- Eberspächer Luge World Cup at the Whistler Sliding Centre
- Find more holiday information at Whistler Tourism.
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
The Rimrock Hotel
Perched high above the town of Banff, The Rimrock Hotel offers breathtaking views of the snow-dusted Rockies, providing the perfect backdrop for a Christmas to remember. With its elegant décor and luxurious amenities, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into a Christmas card.
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, look no further than The Rimrock Hotel. Nestled into the mountainside of Sulphur Mountain, this hotel boasts panoramic views of the valley below and the surrounding mountain ranges, creating an idyllic winter retreat. The Rimrock offers the best of both worlds—an exclusive mountainside escape with the lively atmosphere of a holiday celebration. Days are filled with festive activities, from evening skates under the stars to cozy visits with Mrs. Claus. The hotel truly knows how to get guests rockin’ around the Christmas tree.
During the holiday season, The Rimrock pulls out all the stops with its festive dining experiences, offering everything from traditional turkey dinners to gourmet feasts that would make Mrs. Claus proud. You can also indulge in a magical cocktail at the Larkspur Lounge or treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at the award-winning Eden restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of the season. Whether you’re enjoying the serene beauty of the Rockies or diving into the hotel’s festive offerings, Christmas at The Rimrock Hotel is an experience that will linger in your memory long after the snow melts.
Top 3 Christmas Experiences at The Rimrock Hotel:
- Firepits: Gather around our cozy outdoor firepits while roasting marshmallows and sipping hot cocoa.
- Family Craft Session: Get creative with Gingerbread and KitKat House-making sessions.
- Christmas Dinner in Eden: Experience the elegance and warmth of Christmas dinner at Eden, Western Canada’s only five-diamond dining room.
- Learn more about Christmas at The Rimrock Hotel.
Festive Happenings in the Town of Banff:
- Mountaintop Christmas – at the Banff Gondola
- Santa Claus Celebration of Lights
- In Search of Christmas Spirit.
- Find more holiday information at Banff Lake Louise Tourism.
Dashing Through the Snow
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
There’s no place like Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for a storybook Christmas. Set against the shimmering expanse of the frozen Lake Louise and cradled by towering, snow-capped peaks, this majestic hotel is the very essence of winter enchantment. Picture this: gliding through snow-laden forests on a horse-drawn sleigh, twirling across the glistening ice of the frozen lake, and savoring the warmth of mulled wine outdoors—it’s as if you’ve stepped inside a magical snow globe!
The holiday season at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a symphony of festive delights. The hotel’s grand lobby is transformed into a winter wonderland, where sparkling lights dance across towering Christmas trees and the air is filled with the sweet melodies of seasonal carols. Guests can join in the merriment with a host of activities, from cozy storytelling sessions by the fireplace to lively holiday-themed games for the whole family. The Chateau also hosts a magical Christmas Eve celebration, complete with a visit from Santa Claus himself, who arrives in a whimsical sleigh, ready to spread joy and cheer. And don’t miss the spectacular New Year’s Eve gala, where guests can toast the coming year with festive cocktails, enjoy a lavish culinary delights, and dance the night away under a canopy of twinkling stars. Here, the holiday festivities are crafted to create unforgettable moments and joyful memories, ensuring every guest experiences the true magic of the season.
Delight in gingerbread house workshops where sweet creations come to life or indulge in the charm of festive afternoon teas that sparkle with holiday cheer. For ski enthusiasts, Lake Louise Ski Resort is just moments away, offering powder-filled slopes that cater to all levels of skill and adventure. After a thrilling day on the slopes, treat yourself to a sumptuous festive dinner at the Fairview Bar & Restaurant, where the only thing richer than the delectable cuisine is the heartwarming Christmas spirit. At the Chateau, every moment is a page in a holiday fairy tale, leaving you with memories as enchanting as the winter wonderland outside.
Top 3 Christmas Experiences at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise:
- Ice Bar: Sip a hot beverage while enjoying the crisp mountain air.
- Santa’s Visit: Santa will arrive by sleigh at the front of the hotel to visit all the good girls and boys. Meet him in the Victoria Ballroom to tell him your last-minute wishes, and maybe he’ll give you a Christmas surprise!
- Bavarian Curling: Bavarian Curling is a fun outdoor activity for all ages and skill levels. Try your hand at this age-old game with one of our Resort Activities team members, who will teach you the basics and get you gliding across the ice like a pro.
- Learn more about Christmas at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Festive Happenings in Lake Louise:
- Brewster Sleigh Rides—Brewster’s Lake Louise Stables offers a winter sleigh ride to the end of Lake Louise. The ride offers a soul-cleansing sense of peacefulness as you breathe the fragrant air, gaze at the mountain panoramas, and enjoy your adventure.
- Night Owl Snowshoe—Secret spots and unique discoveries await us after dark. Journey into the woods on snowshoes and enter a world of stillness and mystery. If the skies are clear, we will take the time to learn some of the great constellations that wheel overhead. Snowshoes, poles, and headlamps are included.
- Santa Claus Celebration of Lights – Town of Banff
- Find more holiday information at Banff Lake Louise Tourism.
Wrapping Up Your Christmas in Western Canada
Whether you’re carving down the slopes, sipping cocoa by the fire, or soaking in the festive ambiance, Christmas at Fairmont Banff Springs, The Rimrock Resort, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler promises to be a holly, jolly experience. So, pack your bags, grab your mittens, and get ready to make some magical holiday memories in western Canada. After all, ‘tis the season to treat yourself!