Samesun Banff - Hostel

The breakfast was decent, and happy hour at the bar from 4 to 6 pm is a nice extra. It’s only a 5-10 minute walk to the city center along a road lined with souvenir shops. Our spacious 8-bed dorm matched the photos. It was clean, and the bathroom had recently been renovated. The bed was wide and the mattress comfortable. Just be aware the bunks can creak when someone climbs to the upper one, and you can hear footsteps from upstairs. Great value for money overall.

The staff were welcoming and helpful when I arrived. The hostel is clean and well managed, about a five-minute walk from Banff town. There’s a bus stop right beside it, with service to the Banff Gondola. I’d choose it again on my next visit.

The room was basic, nothing special, but clean and quiet, with bunk beds shared with five others. As a big guy I found it cramped, and banged my head on the bed frame getting in. Mental note: wear a helmet next time! Haha. Breakfast was decent and filling, with boiled eggs, fruit, grains, juice, coffee, and pancakes. I was in Banff for a family get-together at my brother’s house, which had no room left, so I stayed a couple blocks away at Samesun. It brought back memories of living in Banff decades ago. The international crowd was chill and hip, and the staff were friendly, relaxed, and helpful. My stress seemed to melt away as soon as I walked in. There’s a cool little bar I had to check out. I chatted with the bartender and another guest, both Aussies, and we solved a few world problems over a couple of pints. I’d stay again without hesitation.

Since the hostel is downtown, food and shops, along with pretty much everything else you need, are easy to reach. It’s a great budget place to stay. Bring earplugs since people may snore, and an eye mask in case guests arrive late at night. Breakfast is simple and healthy, depending on what you like. They had fruit, cereal, eggs, and coffee. I usually spent the day exploring and returned at night for dinner. I preferred eating out in the evenings because the hostel bar can get busy quickly, and there are plenty of food options nearby.