You’re scrolling through options for a mountain getaway and "hotel Solara Resort and Spa Canmore" keeps popping up. It looks sleek. The photos of the Three Sisters peaks out the window are basically eye candy. But here’s the thing: most people book this place thinking it’s a standard, full-service hotel.
It isn't.
If you show up at the 187 Kananaskis Way address expecting a bellhop to grab your bags and a 24-hour concierge to hand you a physical key, you might be standing in the lobby feeling a little confused. Solara is actually a collection of independently owned, upscale condo suites. It functions more like a high-end vacation rental community with resort-style perks.
Honestly, that’s better for most people, but you’ve gotta know the rules of the game before you drive out from Calgary.
The "Not a Hotel" Reality Check
Basically, Solara is split. Some units are managed by Bellstar Hotels & Resorts, while others are private Airbnbs or managed by different companies. This matters because the "front desk" experience is virtually non-existent for many guests now.
In 2026, the resort has leaned heavily into a self-service model. You get an email. You get a code. You find your own way to the heated underground parkade. It’s efficient, but it’s not "pamper-me" service.
One thing that catches people off guard? Housekeeping. If you’re staying for a week, don’t expect someone to fluff your pillows every morning. Standard stays usually only get a clean before arrival and after departure. If you want a mid-stay refresh, you’re usually paying an extra fee, often around $150 depending on the suite size.
What’s Actually Inside These Suites?
The rooms are huge. Like, "I could live here" huge. Even the one-bedroom suites usually clock in at over 800 square feet.
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You aren't getting a mini-fridge and a coffee maker. You’re getting a full-blown gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and usually a wine fridge. The flooring is imported cork—it’s quiet and warm under your feet, which is a blessing when it’s -20°C outside.
The Layout Specs
- One-Bedroom: Perfect for couples. King bed, plus a queen pull-out in the living room.
- Two-Bedroom: These are the workhorses. You get two bathrooms (usually with multi-jetted showers) and two separate bedrooms.
- The Penthouses: Top floor, higher ceilings, and views that make you feel like you can touch Ha Ling Peak.
Every unit has an electric fireplace. It’s the centerpiece of the living room and, frankly, the best spot to sit with a glass of wine after hiking Grassi Lakes.
The Amenity Situation (The Spa and Beyond)
The "Spa" part of the name comes from One Wellness, which is located right on the property. It’s a separate entity, so don’t assume your room rate includes a free massage. You have to book these in advance. They have a steam room and a dry sauna that are world-class, but they are "pay-to-play."
Then there's the pool. It’s an indoor relaxation pool and a massive hot tub. It’s decent, but if you’re looking for a waterslide for the kids, this isn't the spot. This is more of a "soak your sore muscles" vibe.
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The Hidden Movie Theatre
One of the coolest things about the hotel Solara Resort and Spa Canmore is the on-site cinema. It’s a private, tiered-seating theatre. You can actually book it out or catch scheduled screenings. It’s a lifesaver when a mountain storm rolls in and you can’t go biking.
Food: Bring Your Own or Walk
Here is another "gotcha." Solara doesn't have a traditional sit-down restaurant inside the building.
They have the Take a Hike Market on the ground floor. It’s great for a high-quality latte, a breakfast burrito, or picking up some local artisan cheese, but it isn't a dinner spot.
You’ve got two choices:
- Use that kitchen: Stop at Safeway or Save-On-Foods on your way in. The suites are fully stocked with pots, pans, and even a dishwasher.
- The 15-minute walk: Downtown Canmore is a straight shot down the creek path. You’re looking at about 10-15 minutes to get to the main drag where places like The Grizzly Paw or Where the Buffalo Roam are located.
Parking and Logistics
Parking in Canmore has become a bit of a nightmare lately, but Solara has a massive, heated underground parkade. As of late 2025, they’ve implemented a mandatory registration system for your license plate, even if the parking is "included." Don’t skip this step or you might end up with a very expensive souvenir from a local towing company.
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The parkade is also where you’ll find the ski lockers. Don’t bring your muddy mountain bikes or snowy skis into the suite; the cork floors are beautiful but they aren't indestructible.
Is it Actually Pet Friendly?
Sorta. You can't just show up with a Great Dane and expect a room. Only specific units—usually the two-bedrooms—are designated for pets. There is a weight limit (typically 40 lbs) and a fee of about $25 per night. If you try to sneak a dog into a non-pet suite, the cleaning fee "fine" is a staggering $500. Not worth it.
The Verdict: Who is Solara For?
If you want a romantic, quiet basecamp where you can cook your own meals and have enough space to not trip over your luggage, this is it. It’s arguably the best value for families who need multiple bedrooms but still want a "luxury" feel.
However, if you want a lobby bar where you can meet people, or a concierge who will book your Banff tours for you, you’d be better off at The Malcolm or the Rimrock in Banff.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Management: Before clicking "book" on Expedia or Booking.com, see who is actually managing the unit. Bellstar-managed units usually have more consistent access to on-site support.
- Download the App: Since there’s no front desk, the resort uses a guest app for everything from opening your door to requesting extra towels. Get it set up before you lose cell service in the mountains.
- Book One Wellness Early: If you want a massage on a Saturday, book it at least three weeks out. It’s the most popular spa in the Bow Valley and it fills up with locals, not just resort guests.
- Verify your Park Pass: You don’t need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to stay at the resort, but you will need a Parks Canada pass the second you drive 10 minutes west into Banff National Park.