Located in the heartland of alpine forest and natural hot springs that spawned Canada’s first national park in 1885, this independent, boutique resort makes it easy to see why Banff’s raw beauty still leaves visitors gawking some 125 years later.

Marketing literature boasts that the Rimrock Resort Hotel commands the area’s “finest views,” and you’d be hard pressed to find another spot to bed down that could argue that point. Carved into the ankles of Sulphur Mountain and overlooking Banff from some 750 feet up, the secluded property has been crafted as a man-made showcase for the spectacular eye-candy dolled out by the Spray and Bow Valleys.

Regal design and décor, posh amenities and lofty hospitality are evident hallmarks of the hotel upon stepping inside. Chocolate-hued wood, Bavarian limestone flooring and tasteful art greet visitors in the front lobby, which quickly opens up to views of Banff and Tunnel Mountain from the Larkspur Lounge—the sort of place where drinking anything less than single malt scotch may feel disrespectful.

The 346 guest rooms (21 of which are suites) extend the welcome, with comforts like LCD TVs, Pillow Top beds and high speed WiFi that eventually fade against the majestic views of Sulphur or Rundle mountains through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Opportunities for spoiling yourself abound throughout the property, from a well-appointed spa and fitness area (including squash court, indoor pool and whirlpool) to a handful of lavish dining experiences. Notably, Eden justifies its moniker with epic multi-course tasting menus—including the marquee 10-course Grand Degustation—served up against more incredible views in an intimate, classic cloister of small dining rooms.

Eden has forged a strong reputation for inventive French cuisine with a penchant for local ingredients, earning recognition as Western Canada’s only AAA/CAA Five Diamond dining room (there are less than 10 in the country) since 2004, and also receiving a perennial nod on Wine Spectator’s “Best Of” lists for its well-curated cellar. Likewise, the sommelier staff are like choreographers of indulgence, dolling out thoughtful and contextually rich wine pairings, and generally spoiling diners as though in competition with other service staff to do so.

One floor below, Primrose is a great choice for brunch, replete with an extensive buffet, more wonderful views and a series of lovely floral works by French painter Michel Henry.

You may also recognize the Rimrock's facades from One Week, a recent feature film starring Joshua Jackson that was billed as a celluloid love letter to Canada’s national landscape. It figures that a property with an unmatched perspective on one of the country’s most remarkable landscapes got the part.

Room rates begin at $218 for a Superior room.