It was 125 years ago that railway pioneer Sir William Cornelius Van Horne opened “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies.” The setting-- in Canada's Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site-- is one of the most beautiful on earth. (Van Horne famously said, “If we can't export the scenery, we'll import the tourists.”) In the run-up to its 125th birthday, the Fairmont Banff Springs unveiled some refurbishments: the Royal Suite, perched atop the Castle, was renovated, alongside the hotel’s two signature Terrace Suites facing the Bow River Valley. In addition, the Rundle Lounge and Waldhaus Restaurant & Pub (the golf course clubhouse) got makeovers.
For travelers heading to Banff Springs this autumn or for the yuletide season, there's a merry calendar of events for the hotel's 125th anniversary. Celebrations include the 125 Years, 125 Nights: Pay It Forward contest on Facebook (125 free room nights will be given away!); specials at the Willow Stream Spa including the Diamond Radiance Facial and Twilight Spa Access; culinary delights like the 125th specialty cocktail and the Wine Maker’s Dinner Series; monthly artists in residence; heritage tours of the castle; and the Heritage Golf Experience. For more information, visit www.fairmont.com/banff-springs
