Moraine Lake Lodge- Banff NP, AB

While I prefer historic hotels, exceptions are made in certain circumstances. Sometimes, location is everything. In other cases, outstanding design will win me over. Both situations apply to Moraine Lake Lodge. It was not an easy decision with Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise just down the road, but it was the right decision.

Nestled on the banks of beautiful Moraine Lake, the lodge has a location that can’t be beat. Although tent rental in the area dates back to 1912, followed by four cabins in 1922, today’s compound dates to 1988. At that time, renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson was retained to build a new facility that would blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment. Erickson, who also designed the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C., knocked it out of the park.

The neutral color and low slung design of the lakeside cabins allow them to effortlessly melt into the landscape. Wildflowers, long grasses, and stone walkways further camouflage the compound, preventing the built structures from impacting the surrounding scenery. The overall effect is of stones scattered in a meadow. Inside, the extremely well built cabins could be not cozier, complete with sunken living rooms, wood burning fireplaces, and large pictures windows.

The common areas, which are just for registered guests, are equally well designed. Although the lobby is a bit tight, a large library provides a quaint common area where an endless parade of complementary food is provided throughout the day. Its solarium window wall could feel dated in another setting (Wendy’s, TGIF), however, looking out over Lake Moraine, it still works.

With its dining room also only open to registered guests, crowding is not a problem. Reservations are a must though, as it is the only option in the immediate area. As perfect as the cabins are, the real benefit here is location. Staying on the lake allows you to jump out of bed and onto the trails in a matter of minutes. Day guests start arriving early, so this option is priceless. Also, guests receive unlimited canoe rentals during their stay, which is by far the best way to view the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Although the rooms are pricey, rates are comparable to nearby Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Between the two, I would recommended Moraine Lake Lodge for its more intimate setting and detached cabins. Although forced inside by torrential rains during our visit, spending the afternoon sitting by the fireplace and looking out over the lake was one of the highlights of our stay, rather than a missed opportunity.