Buffalo Mountain Lodge

The Lodge in general was lovely and spread out in a nice forested setting. We were told (by a rather perky and insincere-ish receptionist) it was just a few steps to our room so we declined help with our luggage. However it was 76 steps! For those of us with bad backs it was horrible lugging our luggage up to our room. The lodge is not downtown and it's a bit of a walk back up the hill. The lodge had a shuttle, but we were told we told we had to reserve it ahead of time, so we took the bus back from town when we were ready. The room was cozy and very dimly lit. We had to hold anything we needed to read directly under a lamp. On the other hand it was nice not to be blinded in the morning when turning on lights. The wood burning fireplace was wonderful and plenty of wood was provided with easy access to it. The balcony was a great spot to relax as well, although it could have been a little cleaner (there was a cigarette butt and some stains on it). The bed was pretty comfy. The bathroom was very large and sported a clawfoot bathtub, but we didn't use it. The shower, in comparison, was quite small. The food in the restaurant was absolutely delicious! Service was good and prices were reasonable. Our biggest gripe was that we could not get coffee before 7 AM. This is a deal breaker (and a day maker or breaker) for my early rising husband. The in-room coffee maker was a joke and should absolutely be removed from all rooms! It made a half a cup of "coffee" (from a full cup of water) that looked like weak tea. When we complained, they replaced it with another one that "worked" exactly the same way. A motel 6 can have coffee available 24/7, so why can't a luxury lodge?? Read less

Stayed at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge for 2 nights. I had been so looking forward to sitting by the fire in the lounge with a drink as the photos on the hotel website looked so inviting. Sadly the first thing I noticed when we checked in was that the lounge area was roped off with the flooring taken up - not the inviting spot I had envisaged. The room was fine, although floor space was a bit limited when you want to get into 2 large suitcases. We didn’t light the fire but everything was supplied if we’d wanted to. The room was very dark as there was a balcony above so very little light could get in. There was a pleasant wooden bench to sit out on the small porch, although it was in need of a good clean. It was not the tranquil spot anticipated as there is a lot of maintenance/building work going on. It was actually a taxi driver that told us they were converting staff quarters into more guest accommodation- no explanation from the hotel. We didn’t eat in the restaurant but walked into town - quite a long downhill trek - unless you are very fit you will need a taxi for the return. That said, the lodge is in a nice position with good mountain views and away from the downtown noise. There is a useful grocery/liquor store next door. Read less

My stay was delightful. The views are awe-inspiring, the lodge is cozy and clean. The food is top notch and offers something for every palate. The game options on the menu get double thumbs up. The service and staff from every department were cordial and eager to please and satisfy every query and whim I had during my stay. I was never disappointed in any way with the amenities and options at the lodge. The new hot tub looks like it is going to be really nice with a scenic view so I may have to come back when it's done just to check it out. The location is close to all the great hikes, lakes, and vistas that Banff has to offer. Of all the lodging option I cannot see a venue beating the Buffalo Mountain Lodge on the whole package. The wedding I attended left every attendee with great views and a good times we will never forget. Cheers to the Buffalo Mountain Lode! Read less

The location of Buffalo Mountain Lodge is close to the town of Banff, but just far enough away to be out of the traffic madness. Very convenient. The room was comfortable and we did use the fireplace even though it was July. There is a bit of construction going on but it did not interfere with our stay. The only thing I would like to have had was a balcony or a space to sit outside our room. Read less