Storm Mountain Lodge Review

The Alberta leg of our honeymoon began with a two night stay at beautiful Storm Mountain Lodge located about 25 minutes outside of both Banff and Lake Louise. The lodge was built in 1922 and has many of the original details, giving it a rustic atmosphere.

The charming lobby welcomes you with a large wood fireplace, a selection of hiking and wilderness guides, a lovely gift shop and gourmet restaurant. In the gift shop you'll find handmade Rocky Mountain Soap, an impressive selection of artwork, clothing, books and carved wood items.

The accommodations at the lodge are a series of log cabins that sleep 2-4 people. We had a private, quiet cabin for two with a queen bed, antique soaker tub and small deck. Even though it was early June, the weather was chilly and we even had snow one evening! We didn't take advantage of the deck, but got a lot of use out of the wood burning fireplace in our cabin. It was very romantic!

The cozy cabins feature cute mountain details like the animal prints on the wall, wooden snowshoes above the fireplace and even an antler chandelier. I would have brought one home if J let me :)

There was a small sink and vanity outside of the bathroom, which featured an antique tub and shower. The cabins are original to 1922 and have been modernized with a heater/air conditioning unit and running water. Keeping with the rustic feel, there are no telephones, coffee makers, fridges or televisions. This is bear country so cooking in your room or storing food outside is not allowed.

Luckily, the lodge has an amazing gourmet restaurant open for breakfast and dinner, and offers packed hiker's lunches as well. The lodge serves a seasonal menu with local and Canadian products, such as wild BC seafood, organic Alberta beef and free range lamb. Wines are from the Okanagan region of BC and beers come from the Grizzly Paw Brewing Company in Canmore. Breads and desserts are baked daily on-site, including this amazing s'mores brownie with Grand Marnier marshmallow. Yum!

The lodge is located across from Storm Mountain and has amazing views right outside of the lodge.

Yes, that's snow...in June!

The cabins are carefully arranged to provide guests with privacy and a feeling of being right in the wilderness. Viewing wildlife such as marmots, hummingbirds and even deer also makes it seem like a bit of luxury out in the woods.

We'd love to return to Banff and would definitely stay here again. The charming rustic cabins, cozy main lodge and excellent food made for a relaxing and indulgent stay. And they're open during the winter with many snowshoeing trails available to explore. How romantic!