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Summary of reviewsThe Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is highly regarded for its prime location, providing easy access to the vibrant heart of Banff. Guests appreciate the lodge's proximity to Banff Avenue, downtown amenities, ski shuttles and trails, which make exploring the town and engaging in outdoor activities convenient. The beautiful, quiet surroundings offer peaceful retreats with the added advantage of free underground parking and nearby bus services.
Dining at the lodge is a standout experience, especially at The Keg restaurant. Guests frequently praise the delicious and high-quality breakfast and dinner options, commending the relaxing atmosphere, excellent meals and friendly staff. While breakfast is not included in the room rate and there are occasional organizational issues, the overall consensus is positive with the restaurant adding significant value to the stay.
The rooms are generally appreciated for their cozy and comfortable feel, featuring clean and spacious accommodations with large, comfortable beds and useful amenities like a TV, coffee maker and fridge. However, some guests mention that the rooms can be small and dark with issues in temperature regulation and noise insulation. Nonetheless, the comfort and rustic feel of the rooms, combined with the helpful staff, leave a favorable impression.
Cleanliness at the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is mostly regarded positively with guests noting clean, well-maintained rooms and a pleasant atmosphere. Some minor issues in communal areas and occasional cleanliness lapses are noted but do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
The lodge's staff receives high praise for their friendliness and attentiveness, enhancing the positive atmosphere and overall guest experience. While there are occasional inconsistencies, the majority of feedback highlights the team's exceptional service and hospitality.
Amenities such as the spa and gym also contribute to the lodge's appeal. The on-site Red Earth Spa is lauded for its quality services, clean and cozy atmosphere and superb facilities, making it a central part of a relaxing stay. The gym, although small and in need of some updates, is generally appreciated for its availability and functional equipment.
The pool facilities, particularly the hot pool, are a popular feature with guests enjoying the relaxing soak. However, some concerns about high chlorine levels and occasional maintenance issues are noted.
Parking at the lodge is convenient and valued with guests frequently highlighting the free, secure underground garage. Although there are occasional issues with ventilation, cleanliness and space, the overall feedback on parking is positive.
For ski enthusiasts, the lodge's location offers convenient access to nearby ski resorts with ski shuttles and buses easily accessible. Ski lockers and a ski room add to the convenience, making it an attractive choice for winter sports lovers.
In summary, the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa provides a well-rounded and enjoyable stay with its prime location, excellent dining, comfortable rooms and friendly staff standing out as major highlights. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel near Ski Resorts
Hotel for Honeymoon
Hotel with Spa
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Heated Pool Indoor Pool
Hotel with Free Wi-Fi
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
Hotel for Yoga
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Indoor Pool
Hotel with Heated Pool
Room Types
Standard RoomThis room features a flat-screen TV, small fridge and in-room safe. A view of the courtyard is enjoyed.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Superior RoomThis spacious room features an exterior view, maple furnishings and artwork inspired by Canada's stunning Rocky Mountains.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Corner Suite with Spa BathThis spacious suite features a 2-person hot tub, a flat-screen cable TV and a seating area with a gas fireplace. A refrigerator and coffee maker are included. Mountain views are available.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 3 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Standard King RoomThis room features a flat-screen TV, small fridge and in-room safe. A view of the courtyard is enjoyed.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Superior King RoomThis spacious room features an exterior view, maple furnishings and artwork inspired by Canada's stunning Rocky Mountains.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests. Maximum occupancy is 4 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Standard Double RoomThis room features a flat-screen TV, small fridge and in-room safe. A view of the courtyard is enjoyed.
Please note that the room rate is based on 2 guests (see Hotel Policies).
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is praised for its ideal location, offering convenient access to the vibrant heart of Banff. Guests frequently highlight its proximity to Banff Avenue and downtown amenities, including shops, restaurants and trails, making it easy to explore the town on foot. The lodge is noted for its beautiful and quiet surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat while still being close to local activities and attractions. Additionally, the availability of free underground parking and nearby bus services enhance the ease of commuting. The location proves to be a superb base for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in skiing with ski shuttles and buses easily accessible. Overall, the combination of a prime location, comfortable accommodations and helpful amenities make Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore Banff.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is varied with a mix of glowing praise and some constructive feedback. Many reviewers highlighted the breakfast at The Keg restaurant as a positive aspect, describing the breakfast buffet as delicious, great and fantastic. Guests appreciated the reasonable prices for what they deemed high-quality meals and the overall pleasant environment. The staff, both in the restaurant and generally, received high marks for their friendliness and attentiveness, enhancing the breakfast experience.
However, the breakfast is not included in the room rate, which several guests found disappointing given the premium they paid for their stay. Some reviews mentioned that the breakfast buffet could be better organized, as it sometimes caused a bottleneck and there were occasional issues like cold hashbrowns or a limited variety in fruit and cereals. A few guests felt that the breakfast was not worth the cost and suggested improvements in quality and variety.
In summary, while the on-site breakfast options, particularly at The Keg, are praised for their taste and service, the lack of a complimentary breakfast and occasional execution issues were noted by guests.
Dinner
The dining experience at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa's on-site restaurant, The Keg, consistently receives high praise from guests. Many guests appreciated the convenience of having a well-regarded steakhouse within the hotel premises, often describing their dinners as relaxing and enjoyable. The quality of the food, including delicious steaks and a beyond excellent prime rib, stood out in many reviews.
The Keg was frequently recognized for its excellent meals and friendly, efficient staff, making it a highlight of the hotel stay. Guests specifically mentioned the great breakfast and dinner options, noting that the food was very good overall. The atmosphere of the restaurant also contributed to positive experiences with one review mentioning seeing deer while dining, adding a unique touch.
While some guests found the menu somewhat restrictive or the prices to be a bit high, the general consensus was that the attached Keg restaurant provided fantastic food and added significant value to their stay. Overall, The Keg inside the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa seems to be a cherished amenity, drawing compliments for both its culinary offerings and convenient location.
Rooms
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa's rooms present a mix of positive and negative experiences. Guests appreciated the cozy and comfortable feel with several noting the clean and spacious nature of their accommodation. The rustic aesthetic of the hotel and its location close to downtown were well-received. Many found the rooms to be peaceful and providing a decent night's sleep, enhanced by large, comfortable beds. The hotel also offered a nice array of amenities, including a lounge area in some rooms, updated carpets and the provision of multiple sets of towels.
However, reviewers often mentioned that the rooms could feel small, cramped and were often dark. Some rooms had inadequate lighting and ventilation with notable complaints about temperature regulation—either being too hot or too cold. Additionally, the decor appeared dated to many, suggesting a need for modernization. Instances of dust, smoke smells and occasional cleanliness issues suggested variability in room maintenance. Bathrooms, in particular, were described as small and poorly planned with some having faulty fixtures. Despite these issues, the inclusion of amenities like a TV, coffee maker, kettle, fridge and occasional Jacuzzis were appreciated.
The hotel’s noise insulation was another concern with some guests reporting disturbances throughout the night. Although some rooms had stunning views, others lacked any significant outlook and some windows were too small to allow much light in. Despite the mixed comments on room quality, the hotel's overall service, location and facilities often left a positive impression on visitors.
Beds
When staying at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa, guests frequently note the high level of comfort offered by the beds. Most of the feedback highlights that the beds are comfortable, often described as very comfortable or even super comfortable. Some guests even go as far as to call the mattresses ‘like a cloud’ and ‘incredibly comfortable’. Large beds and pillows also add to the relaxing experience.
However, not all experiences with the beds were positive. A few guests mentioned discomfort due to beds being too hard, soft or old. There were also occasional complaints about bedding issues, including thin or lumpy comforters and dirty bed sheets. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the majority of reviews emphasize the comfortable sleeping arrangements, making Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa a generally cozy place to stay.
Cleanliness
Nestled in the picturesque Banff, the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa offers a mix of positive experiences with a touch of room for improvement, particularly when it comes to cleanliness. The rooms frequently receive commendation for their cleanliness, coziness and comfort. Many guests highlight the rooms being spotlessly clean with housekeeping generally doing a commendable job. The property itself is noted for being clean and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay.
However, the clean and pleasant atmosphere of the individual rooms does not always extend to communal areas, which some feel could benefit from more diligent cleaning. A few guests encountered issues such as dusty surfaces, lingering smoke smells and occasional bathroom cleanliness problems. Despite these setbacks, the overall impression remains positive with the clean, comfortable rooms and friendly and helpful staff standing out as significant highlights for many visitors.
The Keg restaurant within the hotel gets high marks for its incredible food and fantastic breakfast options, adding to the appeal of staying at this lodge. Though the rooms can be on the smaller side, they are often described as cozy and cute, making the overall experience at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa a pleasant one despite a few areas in need of attention.
Staff
The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa receives glowing reviews for its staff, who are frequently described as friendly, helpful and accommodating. Many guests highlighted the exceptional customer service, noting that staff members were not only approachable but also went above and beyond to meet their needs. The front desk staff, housekeeping and restaurant employees received particular praise for their professionalism and kindness.
However, some guests experienced inconsistencies, mentioning that not all front desk staff were always available or knowledgeable. There were occasional mentions of unresponsiveness or abrupt behavior from certain staff members. Despite these few negatives, the majority of feedback emphasized the warm, welcoming nature of the team, making a significant positive impact on guests' stays. The lodge's inviting atmosphere and attentive service, combined with helpful and prompt responses to requests, contribute broadly to an enjoyable experience at this establishment.
Wi-Fi
Visitors to Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa had mixed experiences with the hotel's WiFi. Some guests reported strong, stable and fast WiFi connections around the property. However, the consistency of the WiFi appeared to be an issue with several guests noting that it was unreliable, frequently disconnected and often slow, particularly in the rooms. Some reviews mentioned that they had difficulty even loading webpages. There were also comments about the lack of information on accessing the WiFi. While there were positive remarks about the WiFi's strength in certain areas, overall, many guests felt that the WiFi service needed significant improvement.
Spa
The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa provides guests with a variety of spa services that are frequently praised for their quality and relaxation. Highlights include the Red Earth Spa, known for its superb private changing rooms and lush spa services. Visitors commend the spa's clean and cozy atmosphere, as well as wonderful indoor facilities that include hot pools, a sauna and a steam room. Relaxation options like the hot tub and the hot pool are often described as amazing, adding a soothing touch to the guest experience.
Many guests also appreciate the convenience of having everything in one spot—accommodation, dining at The Keg restaurant and exquisite spa treatments. The staff receives high marks for their friendliness, contributing to the overall relaxing ambiance. Furthermore, spa services such as massages, facials and mani/pedis come highly recommended, adding to the spa’s positive reputation.
However, it’s noteworthy that some guests encountered maintenance issues or found certain facilities too hot and there were isolated mentions of chlorine in the spa pool being harsh. Despite these minor setbacks, the overwhelming sentiment reflects a positive spa experience, making the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa an attractive choice for those seeking relaxation amidst the picturesque setting of Banff.
Gym
The gym at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa receives mixed feedback from guests. Many found the gym to be nice with good workout facilities and equipment in working order. The fitness area was appreciated and referred to as wonderful by some with good gym services enhancing their experience. However, some reviews indicate that the gym area is small and in need of updates. Despite these criticisms, guests overall seemed to enjoy the availability of the gym during their stay.
Pool
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa boasts a variety of pool-related facilities that guests find largely enjoyable, especially the hot pool, which many describe as lovely and amazing. The oversized hot tub is a standout feature, providing a relaxing soak and being consistently praised for its warmth and comfort. The pool area itself includes showers and changing rooms, enhancing the overall convenience and appeal.
However, it's essential to note some drawbacks. Guests have mentioned that the chlorine levels were at times excessive, leading to burning eyes and a noticeable smell. The pool area can also become crowded and loud, particularly with children splashing about. Issues such as a lack of ventilation, unavailability of towels and occasional maintenance closures add to the less favorable experiences.
Despite these concerns, the hot pool remains a highlight for many guests, celebrated for its soothing qualities—even though some encounters with high chemical use were noted. In summary, while the pool facilities at the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa offer a generally pleasant experience, prospective visitors might want to be mindful of the chemical levels and potential for crowded conditions.
Parking
Guests consistently highlight the convenience and value of parking amenities at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa, often noting the availability of free parking, including an underground garage that is frequently mentioned as a positive feature. Many appreciate the ease and availability of parking spaces with several referencing secure and heated underground parking as particularly advantageous. Positive reviews often point out that there is plenty of parking available and some guests mention the added benefit of a free roam pass.
However, the parking garage has mixed reviews; while it is generally found to be convenient and secure, some guests note issues such as a need for better ventilation and cleaning, along with a bad smell. Additionally, a few pointed out that the parking stalls are small and the parkade can be tight, causing difficulty for those with larger vehicles. There are also mentions of the parking being full at times, leading guests to search for a spot or find no parking available.
Overall, the majority of feedback suggests that the free and secure parking options significantly add to the convenience and enjoyment of staying at the hotel, despite occasional minor issues.
Ski
Nestled conveniently for winter sports enthusiasts, Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is praised for its accessibility to nearby ski resorts. The hotel is located a short walk from the town center, making it easy to catch the ski shuttle or bus with a pickup point right in front of the hotel. Although it’s not the closest option compared to other Banff Lodging Co. hotels, guests appreciate the easy access to ski areas and the convenience of ski lockers and a ski room.
Visitors frequently mentioned that the area offers great skiing and snowboarding opportunities with positive feedback on the surrounding ski amenities. After a long day on the slopes, the hot tub at the hotel provides a welcome retreat for relaxation. Despite minor inconveniences like the necessity of shuttle transport and the inability to ski straight to the front door, the overall sentiment reflects satisfaction with the ski-related facilities and the lodge's strategic location for accessing prime ski destinations.
3 Star
Nestled in Banff, the Caribou Lodge and Spa is positioned as a solid three-star accommodation, boasting a range of features that cater to travelers seeking reliability and comfort without extravagance. Guests have described their experience as a perfect three-star stay, appreciating the good value offered by the hotel. Some even believe it deserves a higher star rating, citing its pleasant and nice environment. The hotel features a large skytub, which adds to the overall satisfactory experience.
While the rooms provide essential amenities, some guests noted that they are dated and could use renovation to uplift the ambiance. Cleanliness in the rooms also had mixed reviews with a few visitors expressing a need for improvement. The tiny bathrooms and absence of air conditioning were minor drawbacks for some. Additionally, the demeanor of staff was pointed out with remarks that they didn't seem welcoming or friendly.
The property's location requires a bit of a walk to reach the main strip, which might be a consideration depending on personal preference. Although some found the hotel to be slightly expensive for the value provided, others deemed it as certainly worth more than its three-star designation. Overall, while there are areas that could use some attention, Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa meets and often exceeds the three-star expectations, making it a reliable choice for visitors.
Accessible
The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa has received mixed reviews regarding accessibility for guests with disabilities. While some reviews highlighted the presence of accessible facilities, including easy access via elevators and good parking options close to the hotel, others pointed out a lack of accessible rooms available. The location itself was praised for being very accessible and the staff were noted as helpful and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. However, it was mentioned that the absence of air conditioning resulted in some areas being less wheelchair-friendly. Despite these shortcomings, the efforts made in terms of elevator access and appreciated accessible parking contributed positively to the hotel's accessibility.
Heated Pool
The heated pool at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa consistently receives high marks for its well-maintained condition and relaxing atmosphere. Guests frequently describe the hot pool and sauna as lovely and praise the convenience of the hot tubs. The large indoor heated pool, maintained at 30 degrees, is highlighted as enjoyable and amazing. Although the hot pool can occasionally be very foamy, its temperature is often considered perfect by visitors. Despite an isolated negative remark about the pool, most reviews reflect positively on their experiences.
Indoor Pool
The indoor pool area at the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is often likened to a large hot tub rather than a traditional swimming pool. Guests appreciate that the water is clear and free of chlorine. The hot tub itself gets rave reviews with many describing it as amazing and wonderful. While some guests note that there is no swimming pool and only a small heated indoor area, the hot pool remains a standout feature. Reasonably priced amenities, such as the Keg House restaurant, also add to the overall positive experience at the hotel. The hot pool, consistently described as excellent, is clearly a favorite among visitors.
Honeymoon
The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa offers a charming and comfortable experience, especially for those seeking a special getaway for occasions such as anniversaries or honeymoons. Guests have noted the cute and cozy rooms with an emphasis on honeymoon-level service that includes special touches like a complimentary bottle of wine when anniversaries are mentioned. The prime rib at the onsite restaurant is highly praised. The hotel is also suggested to enhance its offerings for honeymooners by transforming the hawthorn suite into a bridal suite with rose petals and a bottle of champagne. The staff receives positive comments for being super friendly, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While there are no specific arrangements made solely for honeymooners, the overall ambiance and service provide a romantic setting ideal for such celebrations.
Dog Friendly
The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is recognized for its exceptional pet-friendly environment, making it an ideal destination for travelers with dogs. The hotel is welcoming to dogs with several amenities that cater specifically to them. Guests consistently note the friendly staff who go out of their way to ensure that pets, particularly dogs, are well-treated during their stay. Upon registration, dogs are greeted with snacks and toys and rooms are equipped with a dog bed and water bowl as advertised.
The hotel's dog policy is well-regarded and there is even a park located right next to the lodging, providing easy access for pet walks and outdoor activities. The consistent cleanliness of the pet-friendly rooms is highlighted, ensuring a comfortable stay for both the guests and their furry companions. However, a minor point of contention is the occasional smell of dogs in some rooms, which is something to consider for those sensitive to pet odors.
While the focus is on pets, it is worth noting that there are some areas for improvement in the general services offered by the hotel, such as the need for better clarity around housekeeping services and bike storage security. Nevertheless, for dog lovers looking for a welcoming and accommodating stay in Banff, the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa stands out as a reliable choice.
Yes, Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa.
Yes, Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa.