A Banff stay just landed on Travel + Leisure’s best new hotels list

On Wednesday, Travel + Leisure released its highly anticipated It List: Best New Hotels of 2026, and one Banff property made its way onto the list.

The Kenrick has officially earned a spot among the best hotels in the world, and is one of only a few in Canada to make the cut. For a property tucked away in the heart of the Rockies, it’s a pretty major moment.

The hotel team shared on social media that they are honoured by the recognition, especially to be on a list that features some of the most exciting new hotels.

This is the kind of list that people in the travel world actually pay attention to, which makes the achievement feel even more meaningful.

About the Kenrick

The Kenricks’ inclusion on the Travel + Leisure list comes down to more than just location. What sets it apart from other hotels is how intentional everything feels without trying too hard.

The rooms are pretty understated in the best way. Think soft tones, natural textures, lots of light, and soft tones, where nothing feels overly staged, and it is a big part of why it stands out.

Then there is the Nora Pool, which feels more like a wellness spot you would book a day pass to than a standard hotel pool. You’ll have access to a saltwater pool, hot tubs, cold plunges, saunas, and steam rooms all in one place.

There is also an on-site café and dining options, such as the Fat Ox, which is known for serving Italian-style dishes with a twist.

Once you are there, you don’t really need to leave unless you really want to.

A stay at the Kenrick does sit on the higher end, with rooms starting around the $300 range, depending on the season and room type. It is very much positioned as a boutique stay, so you are paying for the design, the location, and those little extra details you may not receive at a typical hotel.

At the end of the day, the Kenrick feels like one of those stays that is less about having a place to sleep, and more about the experience around it.

If anything, it’s a reminder that Banff is constantly evolving, with new stays like this raising the bar for what a mountain getaway can look like.

So, if you’re planning a trip out to the Rockies anytime soon, this is a spot you’ll want to keep on your radar.

Where: 419 Banff Ave., Banff, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $300 a night

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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