Where to stay in Alberta

Hotels

Accommodation ranges from top-quality hotels to motorway motels, lodge estates, camping and hostels. A basic room tax of 4% is levied on all accommodation. Banff also has a 2% tourism improvement fee. Some cities in Alberta levy an additional Destination Marketing Fee (DMF) up to 3 per cent.

Banff National Park is famous for its two landmark chateau-style hotels, built when the railways were driven across Canada and offering approximately 1,300 rooms. Canada Select star ratings (1 to 5 stars) is an optional rating programme. However, much of Alberta's accommodation is inspected by the Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association. Look for the 'Approved Accommodation' sign.

Bed and breakfast

Bed and breakfast and ranch stays are available throughout Alberta.

Camping

There are numerous campsites in the national parks. Camping Select has given campsites star ratings but the permanent facilities tend to be more basic in the north and some campsites have a fire ban. A number of companies can arrange motorhome rentals, with a range of fully equipped vehicles. They are known in Canada as recreational vehicles, or RVs. Full details can be obtained from Travel Alberta (see Contact Addresses); see also Camping/Caravanning in the general Canada section.

Other accomodation

Many lodges offer various levels of self-catering, often in conjunction with fishing and hiking trips.