Arriving in Banff

Arriving into Banff (take first Banff exit and go left into town) was nice, downtown is about 5 city blocks long with LOTS of tourist shops, however the view on either side of the Mountains is a great distraction. Arriving at the Fairmont Banff Springs was beyond spectacular-the hotel appears to be a giant castle backed up by magnificent scenery. The hotel is strictly first class-warm greetings by name, whisked away luggage and car, greeted by etc. Concierge was very helpful and exuberant, really wanted to help assure our time was well spent. The fitness center is totally first class-great machines, spectacular view of the mountains.

On our first night, we had dinner at Castello Ristorante in the hotel—the view is very nice, the service is spectacular and the food very good albeit a bit pricey. The breakfast buffet was beyond belief, beautiful setting, a mind boggling choice of food and pleasant service. On the second night, we went into Banff and had dinner at the highly recommended Maple Leaf Restaurant—again spectacular view of the mountains from the second floor table, good, fresh food and an enjoyable experience.