Banff Spring Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the awe inspiring Canadian Rockies, Banff Springs Hotel is world famous for it's regal ambiance and sumptuous accommodations. This incredible 100-year old castle is also a historic landmark. Built in 1886 by William Cornelius Van Horne, then General Manager of the Canadian Pacific Railroad. Van Horne oversaw the challenge to drive the historic railway through the Canadian Rockies. Banff Springs Hotel opened in 1888, and has been a favourite haunt of the rich and famous ever since. With such a rich and colourful history, it is not surprising to hear tales of guests and loyal employees who have lingered on, even beyond their departure from life.One very sad and tragic tale involves a young bride and her elegant wedding party in the hotel's grand ballroom. It seems that on the day of the young woman's wedding, she was descending the ornate marble staircase in her beautiful flowing white wedding gown. And, as the story goes, an unexpected breeze (presumably from an open door or window) twisted the gown's flowing train into her path, causing her to stumble. Attempts by the groom to catch-hold of his young wife were in vain, and she fell to her death on the polished marble tiles below. To this day, there are recurring reports of a fleeting vision of a beautiful girl in a long flowing white dress dancing in the ballroom or descending the staircase. At other times, people have commented on brief but chilling breezes brushing past them on the grand staircase. In another tale, guests over the years have encountered a helpful and courteous bellman named Sam, who has opened locked doors, helped with lighting, and even parcels. When the guests of the ninth floor (Sam's favourite floor) try to engage Sam in conversation or attempt to tip him for his services, he very quickly departs, "almost into thin-air" as one guest put it. Guests who inquire about Sam are always stunned to learn that Sam passed-away many years ago.