OUR RATING: 8.5 out of 10 for comfort and services, but we give it a 5 for value for money.

The Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge was a free night stay for us. A place like this, at $260 a night, is out of our range completely, but I was awarded a free night’s stay through one of my travel points programs.

First off, I’d like to stay that we really enjoyed our stay at the Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge, but neither of us felt it was worth the price of the room.

As with most hotels in Jasper National Park and Banff National Park, the price is excessive and aren’t worth what you’re paying. Parking was $12 a day and it was not included with our stay.

The staff was extremely courteous and easy-going. Everyone I met at the hotel stopped to chat and asked how we were enjoying our stay in Banff.

The front lobby of the lodge is constructed of wood and stone in the tradition of a mountain lodge with a large fireplace, a giant chandelier, cozy armchairs and authentic Canadian handicrafts.

Our room had two extra comfy king-sized beds. Caleb was thrilled to have his own bed, since he had been sleeping on hide-a-beds and couches of most of the trip. The bathroom was huge with a nice deep tub and ornate fixtures. We also had a fireplace in our room, and we had a commanding view of the inspirational mountain scenery.

We really enjoyed the Grotto spa with its warm mineral swimming pool, hot tub and steam sauna. After a long day of driving and wandering around on the Athabasca glacier, being able to sit back and relax in steamy heated goodness felt out of this world!