Surrounded by a stellar mountain landscape about a ninety minute drive west of Calgary, Canada in the town of Banff is the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, Also known as the “Banff Centre”, it’s a post-secondary education institution “inspiring artists, leaders and creatives since 1933”, and whose programs cover a range of disciplines: visual, music, dance, opera, literary, and theatre.
One summer during university, I lived in Banff while working at the legendary Chateau Lake Louise as well as at an art gallery in the equally iconic Banff Springs Hotel. I loved it! Back then, there was little mention of the Banff Centre, so I never went to explore it. But, I’m thankful for an opportunity I had recently to discover this hidden gem!
LOCATION
Although situated a bit of a distance from the tourist area, the Banff Centre is nestled on Tunnel Mountain about a twenty minute walk or five minute drive to the town’s main street.
Parking is free or hop on the local transit bus system, Roam, but they operate on a limited schedule.
As I explored the quiet grounds of this remarkable place and admired the breathhaking scenery, I kept thinking about what a perfect getaway this would be for someone whose heart is heavy due to burnout, a death, a relationahip break-up or otherwise.
Although the campus can be busy with conferences and events, during my visit, it was an ideal setting for somenoe seeking solace and needing a space to rest, reflect, and rejuvenate.
ACCOMMODATION
The Banff Centre has 387 guest rooms divided between two hotel options – Hotel at Professional Development Centre and Lloyd Hall Hotel – which are together called the “Banff Centre Hotel” and situated in a pine, spruce, and fir forest.
Hotel at Professional Development Centre
Rooms at the Hotel at Professional Development Centre are akin to the size and décor of a standard North American hotel room.
Lloyd Hall Hotel
More to my liking were the rooms at the Lloyd Hall Hotel. Although they tend to be smaller, their warm cedar and white oak panelling, unobstructed views, and in-room resident artist creations make for a memorable stay.
FITNESS & RELAXATION
Guests have complimentary access to a fantastic fitness facility in the Sally Borden Building which is conveniently located between the two hotels. If you’re staying elsewhere, you can still purchase a day pass.
Get active at the facility’s selection of cardio, weight training, and relaxation amenities at their aquatic centre and fitness centre:
- 25m glass-enclosed pool
- Hot tub
- Steam room
- Cardio machines
- Free weights and weight machines
- Indoor running track
- Outdoor sun deck (summer)
Plus, there’s a climbing gym!
DINING
Take advantage of the unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains by dining at their highly rated restaurants: Vistas Dining Room and Maclab Bistro.
Vistas Dining Room
Wrap-around views await at the Vistas Dining Room atop the Sally Borden Building fitness facility I mentioned. Buffet-style, Vistas is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. During my visit at lunchtime, healthier options included a small salad bar, hot vegetable dish and fresh fruit.
Maclab Bistro
Alpine vistas are also on the menu at the casual Maclab Bistro. For lunch or dinner, dine indoors or embrace the fresh mountain air from their patio. I sat outside and the image above was the view I had – absolutely breathtaking!
Nourishing recommendations are their Chickpea & Corn Falafel as well as these salads: Vegan Cobb, Mixed Green and Kale. Or, you might consider what I savoured – the artfully presented Grilled Tofu Bowl, which contains black quinoa, white rice, carrots, cucumber, grilled tofu, avocado, orange, sesame seeds and gochujang aioli which has a bit of a kick to it. The white cloud is a rice crisp. Superb!
CREATIVE TOUCHES
Capping off the incredible experience here are the quirky creations and artistic elements throughout the campus instilling a sense of fun and wonder!
The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity is such a special place to unwind and recharge – I hope you’ll have an opportunity to visit!
Want to discover more wellness spaces?
Check out my blog where I share my top picks. If you know of someone you think would enjoy this post, any shares are much appreciated! Plus, consider signing up for my newsletter.
Are you seeking a wellness spaces speaker or writer?
If you’re a conference organizer, employee wellness coordinator, or magazine editor looking to explore the transformative power of wellness spaces, I’d love to share insights at your event or workplace, or contribute articles on the topic.
Check out my video, Banff Wellness Getaway, for more ideas and inspiration for wellness hotels, spas, healthy restaurants, and fitness activities.
I’m thankful you dropped by. Wishing you a healthy week!
