Royal Canadian Lodge, Banff, Canada

· 15 minutes’ walk to the centre of Banff · less than 1 minute’s walk to the ski bus stop · 20 minutes’ bus ride to the ski school meeting point · 15 minutes’ bus ride to Mount Norquay, 25 minutes to Sunshine Village and 45 minutes to Lake Louise

You’ll know you’re in the Rockies when you walk into the Royal Canadian Lodge. The lobby combines luxury with classic Canadian mountain vibes, with its large stone fireplace, wood panelling and impressive chandelier. Rooms are spacious and decorated in warming, earthy colours. Some have gas fireplaces for extra cosiness.

You’re only a 15-minute stroll from the buzz of downtown Banff, with all the cafes, cool restaurants and craft beer bars you could want. But there’s next-to-no walking in ski boots needed when you stay here, because the free bus to the three Banff ski areas stops almost outside the door. Your stop’s early on the bus route too, so you won’t have to worry about not getting a seat.

After skiing, head downstairs to the indoor mineral pool and hot tub for soaking or swimming. There’s a steam room and a small gym, too, in case you fancy working up a sweat. Then, head into town, or stay put and settle in for drinks and an evening meal at the on-site restaurant, which uses locally-sourced Alberta ingredients. Speaking of food, you’ll be staying here room-only, but you can pay extra to fill up at the hot breakfast buffet each morning.

· indoor hot tub · indoor heated pool · fitness room · steam room · à la carte Evergreen restaurant and lounge · free WiFi · free ski lockers · lift to all floors

· optional upgrade to hot buffet breakfast (if available) or hot plated breakfast (eggs, sausage, bacon, fried potatoes and toast with choice of coffee, tea or juice). Breakfast requests should be made at the time of booking

All rooms are non-smoking and have a flatscreen TV, free WiFi, hairdryer, bathrobes, telephone, safe, fridge and tea and coffee-making facilities.

When you arrive, a pre-authorisation of between 200 and 350 CAD is added to your card to cover any spending during your stay. When you check out, you’ll pay the real value and the pre-authorisation will be cancelled.

Double room – sleeps 1-4 : One or two queen-size beds (depending on occupancy), private shower in bathand WC.

Double room – sleeps 1-4 : One king-size or two queen-size beds (depending on occupancy), private shower in bath, WC and enclosed gas fireplace.

Junior suite – sleeps 1-3 : King-size bed, single sofa-bed in bedroom, private shower in bath and WC.