About
Based in Canmore, our family owned and operated Inn believes details create a memorable hotel stay. With a unique blend of Victorian elegance and classic country charm, the Lady Macdonald Country Inn provides a one-of-a-kind lodging experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
With only 13 guest rooms, our Inn prides itself on offering something you can’t find anywhere else: a truly personalized mountain getaway. Each guest room has its own style and personality within the Victorian theme. Combined with modern amenities including heated wooden floors and complimentary WiFi; you will find all the comforts of home while you explore the surrounding wilderness.
Whether you are beginning a hiking adventure or just taking in the stunning scenery, the Lady Macdonald’s location provides convenient access to downtown Canmore. Restaurants, art galleries, bakeries, breweries, and shopping are all within walking distance.
Looking for more excitement? World-class hiking, biking, canoeing, and rock-climbing can be found in nearly every direction. In the winter season, you can warm up while cross-country or downhill skiing in the town of Banff only 20 minutes away.
The History of Lady Macdonald
Honouring the family of the first Canadian prime minister, the Lady Macdonald Country Inn earned it’s title through historic events that date back to 1886.
Sir John A. Macdonald and his wife Lady Agnes Macdonald embarked on a journey across Canada by railroad. Their travels took them westward from the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, through the Rocky Mountains, and ending at the Pacific Coast in British Columbia.
Lady Macdonald was captivated by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains along the way. She stole the show in 1887 by proclaiming she would ride on the cow catcher on the front of the train in order to view all of the scenery with the best seat on the train.
Her ambitious and passionate spirit was forging a path in history. She kept a detailed journal surveying all she observed and although many requested she come inside the train, she rode the entire route from “summit to sea.” Lady Macdonald’s journal is the basis of her well-known book, “From Car to Cow Catcher” and her legacy lives on in the hearts of the people who view the scenery with the same appreciation.
“… and for a moment I feel a thrill that is very like fear; but it is gone at once, and I can think of nothing but the novelty, the excitement, and the fun of this mad ride in the glorious sunshine and intoxicating air, with magnificent mountains before and around me, their lofty peaks smiling down on us, and never a frown on their grand faces!”
~ Lady Agnes Macdonald
Mount Lady Macdonald was commemorated in Canmore for the First family and pays homage to the journey and respect for nature instilled by Lady Macdonald herself. This mountain is the scenic central point in the grand backdrop surrounding the Inn’s property and the town of Canmore.
As proud owners of the Inn, we are committed to sharing this special history of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.