Rimrock Banff, Emblems Collection

The newly renovated Rimrock Hotel exceeds all expectations and is a haven of luxury. After a stay in a “Vista View” room at the Rimrock, my wife and I experienced the best view, pool, sauna, and overall hotel experience of our lives. Sitting in the heated infinity edge pool in the snow flanked by evergreens and broadleaf trees dressed in autumn colors backed by snow-capped peaks was a life experience that felt straight out of a movie in the moment it was experienced. The “Hot Salt” sauna was our favorite and only one of several options, each unique in its own right. Hidden features like a wooden spiral staircase, teal trim, heated parking garage, and other architectural elements provide an upscale sense of identity, while luxurious cocktails, a first-class valet and concierge staff, and countless list of amenities make the Rimrock the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in. I cannot say enough good things about the Rimrock. Book a “Vista View” room or better, and your experience will be unparalleled by anything else.

Incredible hotel! It says it’s 4 stars, but definitely felt like 5! Nice staff working all over the hotel, and the breakfast buffet is tasty and contains variety. The rooms are just as advertised and the views are incredible. We had a corner room and got a view of both sides of Banff!

This is the first time I have ever taken the time to post a review online, but considering the price charged for a night at this property and our overall experience, I feel it is important to share our honest impressions. I was invited by a friend to stay at the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, and I have to say that the hotel itself is absolutely magnificent. The renovations and improvements that have been carried out appear to have been done to an exceptionally high standard, with great attention to detail. The property is elegant, impressive, and beautifully designed. The rooms also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, which truly make an unforgettable first impression. We decided to have dinner at the hotel restaurant. The setting is beautiful and the view of the mountains is truly spectacular. The wine list is also interesting and well put together. Unfortunately, for me, the positive points almost stop there. After more than 40 years working in the restaurant industry in Montreal and the United States, I believe I have a good understanding of what can reasonably be expected from an establishment of this standard and at this price point. Unfortunately, I was extremely disappointed by what we were served. I ordered the bison and requested it rare. It arrived almost well done. My friend ordered the fish. The fish was far too dry, and the garnish was honestly disappointing. A few small dots placed around the plate can hardly be considered a proper accompaniment. More generally, the side portions were ridiculously small, especially considering the prices being charged. At this level of pricing, one expects not only precision in cooking, but also a balanced and coherent plate that reflects the positioning of the restaurant. As for the beurre blanc, it tasted mainly of butter. It completely lacked the acidity and balance one would normally expect from a proper beurre blanc. I fully understand that any restaurant can have an off night, and I never expect perfection. But when both a hotel and a restaurant position themselves at this level of pricing and luxury, expectations are naturally high. The mountain views are exceptional, the setting is beautiful, and the wine list is very good. However, considering the room rate, the portion sizes, the quality of some of the cooking, and what is actually offered on the menu, I found the value for money very difficult to justify. To conclude, I would sincerely advise both the hotel management team and the restaurant team to reconsider their vision of luxury and gastronomy. Luxury is not simply about an exceptional location, beautiful décor, or high prices. It should be reflected in attention to detail, the quality of the ingredients, the precision of the cooking, the balance of the dishes, and the overall guest experience. What was also disappointing is that our experience did not appear to be an isolated one. The two tables next to us were also disappointed with their meals. We had the opportunity to speak with these very friendly guests, and unfortunately their experience was very similar to ours. That is what makes the situation even more unfortunate, because the property itself is truly exceptional and has tremendous potential. With such a beautiful hotel, breathtaking views, and such a premium positioning, one genuinely expects the dining experience to be just as memorable. Sadly, that was not the case for us.

The hotel will be a 5* rating once it is up and running properly but as of July 2026 there is much to like and much that still needs finishing… the water in the showers is warm, not hot; the WiFi is patchy and unreliable; the swimming pool hasn’t yet been finished and you need to use the fairmont pool; the decor will be beautiful but there are walls not yet filled with art. On the plus side, the refit was utterly comprehensive so all rooms are brand new. There is also a huge cadre of young and engaged staff who are enthusiastic about looking after guests. We have had a lovely stay, but it could have been so much better still.