There is no more breathtaking setting than the dazzling, turquoise mountain lake, Lake Louise. Nestled between a glacier and towering Rocky Mountain peaks, the lake is a pool of serenity that sends any onlooker into deep contemplation about nature and its creation. Even the constant bustle of people milling around at the lake side, having group photographs taken against the scenery, chatting in every language in the world cannot take away from the calm, soul-soothing sight of water, stone and snow.

And so one cannot imagine a place to stay that could surpass the grand Chateau Lake Louise that sits overlooks the lake and stands seemingly level to the mountains. A lakeside room may be the finest accommodations on the planet. But setting “setting” aside, there is another place tucked away in Lake Louise. If it lacks the supreme view, it more than makes up for this shortcoming in terms of service, dining, and other luxuries.
The Post Hotel is located in the town of Lake Louise itself about a five minute drive from the actual lake. This luxury log chalet is set beside a babbling mountain brook and majestic, rich green pines. Strolling over the brook’s bridge, one is sure to see cheerful, billowy clouds of smoke coming from several of the hotel’s chimneys. Several rooms and suites are outfitted with a stone, wood-burning fireplace for chilly mountain mornings all year round, cozy après ski afternoons, or romantic evenings. The fireplace alone is a reason to go (and return) to the Post Hotel. Staff cleans the fireplace and refreshes the wood daily so that you can always keep a glowing fire burning.

And it is only the beginning of the luxuries. The rooms, cozy and attractive with wood-beamed ceilings, are outfitted with fine sheets and down pillows and comforters. You sink into the homey yet tastefully patterned sofas and chairs set in front of the fireplace. Bathrooms are spacious, clean and modern, complete with an air tub and fine Aveda products. Even the towels are lofty and cozy. And this is just the sort of touch that you come to expect at the Post Hotel where the greatest attention is paid to the smallest detail to make you feel transported, pampered, and worry-free.
Our sole complaint about our room paired with a strong recommendation–when staying at the Post, be sure to request a room on the “Preferred Side” as opposed to the “Standard Side”. Not only is the view better, but across the parking lot on the Standard Side is a rail line with trains constantly making their way across the Rockies. Charming in postcards, but not so at four in the morning. I’ll say it again–insist on the Preferred Side when making your booking.

The hotel itself is spacious, with a main building, and several private cottages along the mountain brook. If you need a change of scenery from your room or the unparalleled outdoors, an attractive reading room,the great room of the chalet, is steps away. Comfy reading chairs, board games, and walls lined with books make this room a particularly homey and relaxing way to spend a few hours.
The Temple Mountain Spa is another way to wile away hours at a time while at the Post Hotel. With private treatment rooms and luxury products, this is a must for anyone who loves to be pampered.
And we have saved the best for last–the dining. It is truly spectacular. With one of the largest wine lists in Canada, the Post Hotel excels at every aspect of fine dining. Under the masterful direction of Executive Chef, Swiss-born Hans Sauter, the menu is tantalizing and portions almost too generous. With incredible seven course tasting menus, or items like lobster with morel mushrooms and port reduction, you will leave filled and fulfilled. The décor is inviting–tasteful without being stuffy, reflecting the relaxing yet refined alpine chalet atmosphere. A grand stone fireplace enhances the romantic, mountain mood. The Chateau may have the view, but the Post Hotel has the food.

Consider the Post while at Lake Louise. Yes–visit the lake, take the scenic hikes, book a seating for High Tea at the Chateau, and dine at the Waliser Stube there for a classic cheese fondue–nobody does this better than the chateau. But you will not regret returning to the Post to be pampered, to luxuriate over food and wine, to be served like you are a cherished guest. This is what a holiday is all about.
Overall Experience
We give The Post Hotel 5 Stars- Outstanding!
The Post Hotel is located at 200 Pipestone Road, Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada, T0L 1E0. For hotel reservations call (403) 522-3989 or Toll Free in North America at 1-800-661-1586. Email [email protected] or visit www.posthotel.com for more details.