Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

An hour from downtown Calgary, the sweeping rows of tall pines and snowcapped mountains are the welcoming gateway to the Kananaskis Valley. Shedding dated decor, the newly renovated Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge—the latest addition to the Marriott’s coveted Autograph Collection—has Albertans heading to the picturesque valley.

Keeping “modern mountain” as the design mantra, Toronto-based Moncur Design infused the hotel with a contemporary yet cozy look. The striking lobby is the first to impress: the two-storey space features stacked stone columns surrounding an earthy palette of couches, ottomans, and mid-century styled chairs in shades of grey and caramel brown. Sounds and scents coming from the oversized fireplace are an instant stress-reducer best taken in from the surrounding seating area—an ideal place to meet before exploring the nearby Kananaskis Village.

Dining options are all new, too; business types and families will appreciate the Market Café for its grab-and-go options, or the casual Forte Restaurant which serves modern Italian cuisine. Woody’s Pub and Patio is a popular spot among locals for its shareable plates and unbeatable view of the mountains, while the laid-back and elegant Cedar Room is a classic chophouse offering Alberta beef, pork, and bison, among other hearty options. For those wishing to cap off the evening with something sweet, there is a nightly bonfire with s’mores.

A long counter, low-slung leather couches, and curved chairs surrounding round high-top tables, makes up the Blacktail Bar in the lobby, regularly crowded at happy hour. Handcrafted cocktails and craft beer are popular options for cinq a sept, while the menus also feature vintages from British Columbia’s Okanagan region.

Guest rooms are wrapped in shades of gray and white, with accents of warm brown found on doors, lamp bases, and armchairs. Standard rooms come with queen or king beds, spacious bathrooms, snug bathrobes, and plenty of storage for a weekend away, whether hiking, golfing, skiing, or snowmobiling. For those who don’t want to leave home without their furry companion, note: canines are welcome.

The lodge has many distractions for those who don’t want to sit still: walking trails, tennis courts, skating rink, and a fitness centre with essential workout amenities and a pool, split between inside and outside.

Nearby is the Nakiska Ski area, Kananaskis Country Golf Club, and the newest next-door neighbour: the Kananaskis Nordic Spa. An outdoor circuit of warm, hot, and cold can be found in the pools, steam rooms, and saunas (traditional spa treatments also offered), while rest and relaxation have options too: lounge chairs around the pools, chairs near the firepit or heated hammocks below the trees. The spa also features Two Trees Bistro for shared small plates of post-treatment.

Room to Request

The bi-level luxury loft. A distinctive accommodation option, this room is a haven of natural light with three sets of windows along the two-storey wall and a secluded balcony. Equipped with a pair of Algonquin chairs, it’s a peaceful, private stoop for taking in forest and mountain views, and catching a glimpse of the resident deer population.

The bi-level luxury loft at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.

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