Upper Banff Avenue, Banff

Elk and Avenue Hotel

★★★★★

The Elk + Avenue Hotel is a reliable mid-range base on Banff Avenue, a short walk from the downtown core, and one of the more stylish options at its price level. It is part of Pursuit's Banff Jasper Collection, the same company behind the Banff Gondola, the Mount Royal Hotel and the Columbia Icefield Adventure, which means it often appears in packages that combine a stay with those attractions. The design is contemporary and cosy, with warm wood and mountain touches, and the room range is broader than it first appears. Standard rooms come with one king or two queens; Deluxe rooms add mountain views and a bigger ensuite; Loft rooms put two queen beds in an upper loft above a large sitting room, a practical layout for families or friends sharing; and Junior Suites offer the most space. Mountain views are featured in Loft, Deluxe and Junior Suite rooms but not guaranteed in standard rooms. Bathrooms have upgraded showers and quality toiletries. Year-round amenities include a jacuzzi and dry sauna, coin laundry and full-size lockers for ski equipment, and dining on site is at Farm and Fire. Children stay free, and pet-friendly rooms are available on request. Parking costs a modest nightly fee, with underground parking subject to a height limit and overflow parking first come, first served. There is no pool, so families who need one should look at the Moose or Banff Ptarmigan Inn.

Location. The hotel sits on the upper part of Banff Avenue, where the street is quieter than the central blocks but still within a comfortable walk of restaurants, shops and the Roam bus. It is a good choice for travellers who want to leave the car parked and walk everywhere, while still being close to the Trans-Canada for day trips to Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway.

Choosing a room. The Loft rooms are the standout for families, with sleeping space upstairs and a separate sitting area below. Couples should consider a Deluxe King for the mountain view and bigger bathroom. If you are travelling in a group, the Junior Suite gives you the most space for the price. Ask for a higher floor and a room away from the street if noise is a concern.

Practicals. Parking costs extra per night, and the underground garage has a height limit, which matters for larger vehicles or roof boxes. Ski lockers make winter stays easier, and the SkiBig3 shuttles pick up from many Banff hotels. Fit: families wanting value and kids-stay-free policies, couples who prefer contemporary design, and travellers combining a stay with Pursuit attractions.