A Guide to Lake Louise’s Historic Tea Experiences
Tucked between towering mountain peaks and immersed in nature’s beauty, Lake Louise offers a rich tradition of tea drinking that goes back over a century. Pinkies up!
Whether you seek an elevated tea room experience in Fairview Restaurant overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, or a beautifully-rustic tea experience in a cozy, mountain-top, heritage cabin, a classic afternoon tea is integral to the charm and history of Lake Louise’s place in the Canadian Rockies – and remains a draw for modern-day hotel guests and visitors.
The Historic Charm
Lake Louise has been embracing the charm of unique tea experiences since 1890. Whether you were a guest of the Chateau or a novice mountaineer, a cup of hot tea and a freshly baked scone along your travels became highly popular.
The Chateau has been welcoming guests for Afternoon Tea for over 130 years. Dating back to the early 1900’s, afternoon tea was what it still is to this day: charming, elegant, and set within a tranquil setting to enjoy it at its finest. The tea room exuded a classic European ambiance with its fine china, white linens, and polished silverware. Large windows framed stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The experience was a sophisticated affair, with guests donning their finest attire. Ladies graced the tea room in elegant gowns and wide-brimmed hats; men typically dressed in tailored suits, epitomizing the timeless charm and sophistication of the era.
Outside of the hotel, was a more rustic experience to be found. Historic Teahouses built atop mountain peaks served as tea stops for Swiss Guides conquering the surrounding peaks. Even amidst the rugged mountain terrain, Swiss Guides dressed in tailored suits and sturdy leather boots, with simple ropes tied securely around their waists and an old school ice axe to navigate the slippery slopes. It was a sense of refined attire and rudimentary gear highlighting their adventurous spirits.
Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1905, Lake Agnes Tea House has been serving fine-loose teas and mountain-top treats to explorers of these parts ever since. Shortly after, in 1920, The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse was built by Swiss Guide’s employed by the CPR for guests of The Chateau, as a stop along their hiking expeditions. Both teahouses were eventually embraced by local families in the early 1900’s, who have lovingly maintained them across generations. Today, these iconic spots remain family-run, with a deep-rooted heritage that reflects a dedication to preserving the spirit of adventure and hospitality that has always defined them.
The Iconic Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Today, you can still experience the elegance of a traditional Afternoon Tea at the Chateau. Nestled in the elegant Fairview Restaurant, guests can take in a tea experience to remember – and, with Champagne for an extra sense of celebration. Infused with traditions derived from London, England, indulge in a variety of Lot 35 signature teas, classic finger sandwiches, freshly made scones with Devonshire cream, and mouth-watering sweet treats. This sought after, unique and timeless tradition is a favorite by many guests and visitors today.
Book your next Afternoon Tea experience here.
Tea atop a Mountain
Two of Canada’s most charming heritage Tea Houses still operate and serve tea to this day. Only accessible by foot or horseback, for those exploring the trails of Lake Louise, the Lake Agnes and Plain of Six Glaciers Tea Houses offer the perfect tea pairing for any adventure. Savor a cup of hot traditional tea and a sweet treat while you overlook breathtaking views of the valley below and the mountains that surround you.
Insider tip: Let us do the planning and guiding! Join one of our accredited Mountain Adventure Guides on a hike up to either Teahouse. As you hike past mesmerizing lakes and tall mountain peaks, you’ll also discover the rich history of the area.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or embarking on an adventure, a tea experience in Lake Louise is a must! Indulge in both refined elegance and rustic charm right in the heart of Banff National Park. Join us for a tea journey you won’t want to miss!
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