Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection

Set in Alberta’s Kananaskis Valley, Kananaskis Mountain Lodge blends refined comfort with access to adventure

After a few days spent exploring Alberta’s cinematic landscapes – from Banff to Jasper National Park – it was time for me to meet up with my friend Amanda and explore another part of Alberta’s scenic spots. After a very long day of driving to the Jasper and back, it was time to check into Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection.

Driving to the area, I absolutely loved the vibe of the alpine retreat. I loved how remote it was and how it just felt – removed from the noise of the world.

Check in

Check-in, after valeting my car, was easy. I absolutely loved the aesthetics of the property.

Room and Stay

My one bedroom loft was my sanctuary. With soaring ceilings and warm accents, the space felt both expansive and deeply personal. I absolutely loved waking up and viewing the sun lit pine trees. Plus, I loved curling up next to the fireplace. Honestly, I could have spent just one more day at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge and have been fulfilled.

Restaurants

Dining at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge was quietly exceptional. I loved the seasonal, thoughtful, and grounding array of choices. From night time s’mores to hearty meals, there was something for every mood I was in.

Blacktail served cocktails that were better than what I had at the bar at Fairmont Banff Springs. I enjoyed the S’MORES OLD FASHIONED (Auchentoshan, Canadian Club, Makers Mark, Chocolate Bitters, Angostura Bitters, Honey Cinnamon Smoked Syrup) and a SALTED CARAMEL ESPRESSO MARTINI (Grey Goose Vodka, Caramel Van Gogh Vodka, Kahlua, Espresso, Simple Syrup).

For dinner service at Forte – which I had served take away at Blacktail, I savored the BIRCH GLAZED PORK BELLY (Brassica Insalata, Pickled Strawberries) and the BRAISED SHORT RIB PAPPARDELLE (Mushroom Cream Sauce, Pulled Alberta Short Rib, White Truffle Oil, Parmesan).

At the Cedar Room Restaurant, I enjoyed the COZY SWEATER SOUR (Park Maple Rye, Canadian Club Whisky, Angostura Bitters, Maple Syrup, Citrus, Red Wine Float) and PAN ROASTED DUCK BREAST (duck fat roast squash, fried Brussels sprouts, caramelized honey & rhubarb jus).

Amenities

Plus, after a day of winding drives and spontaneous alpine detours to Drumheller through Calgary and back, I found joy in the simplest pleasures: a wood-fired entrée, a espresso martini cocktail, a blunt while chilling in the hot tub with Amanda – the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge was a vibe.

Overall

Just a short drive from Calgary, yet a world away in atmosphere and serenity, Kananaskis Mountain Lodge proved to be exactly where I needed to be. After a year marked by transformation – equal parts growth and release – this alpine retreat offered the kind of reset I didn’t even realize I’d needed.

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