Deep in the heart of the Kootenays, Revelstoke is an idyllic skiing city with stunning mountain views and laid-back vibes. It isn’t as popular as other cities in the region, so it also benefits from low tourism numbers and a more local feel. If you live in Canada and are looking for a GORGEOUS staycation, Revelstoke is the place to be.
Fewer tourists mean fewer crowds – but it also makes researching the destination a bit more difficult. Revelstoke is small in population but sprawls across the banks of a wide river, so getting around isn’t exactly easy.
This is exactly why I have curated this guide. I’ve consulted locals, travel experts, and drawn on my own personal experience to bring you the best places to stay in and around Revelstoke. Whether you want stunning scenery, epic skiing experiences, or simply somewhere to relax for a few days – I’ve got you sorted!
Traveling the Trans-Canada Highway is an absolute treat for the senses. Revelstoke accommodation options range from boutique hotel-feeling apartments in downtown Revelstoke to Resorts on the mountain and log cabins on the lake. Having your accommodation sussed means you can focus on great restaurants and all that fresh pow!
So let’s rip into Revelstoke!
Photo: @amandaadraper
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Revelstoke?
- Revelstoke Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Revelstoke
- Revelstoke’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Revelstoke
- What To Pack For Revelstoke
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Revelstoke
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Revelstoke?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Revelstoke is deceptively big when you consider how far it stretches along the side of the river. That being said, if you’re bringing your own car, it’s pretty easy to navigate. If you’re in a hurry and don’t mind which neighborhood you end up in, these are my top three overall accommodation picks.
Sutton Place Hotel | Best Hotel in Revelstoke
As the only five-star hotel in Revelstoke, Sutton Place is the perfect choice for those looking to splurge on a luxury vacation! It has an outdoor pool that can be used during the summer, but this hotel truly shines in the winter season.
Located right in the heart of the Revelstoke mountain resort, staying here gives you unparalleled access to the slopes. Then you can relax and restore in the spa center and the hot tub once you’re done.
Pines Motel | Best Motel in Revelstoke
This is, without a doubt, my top pick for families heading to the region! Spacious, with modern amenities, it is the perfect blend of local charm and convenience. You’ll be within walking distance to the local shops where you can source your own snacks or food to cook in the kitchenette.
There’s also a BBQ area outside and you can find delicious food at the restaurants nearby, too. Revelstoke hotels are fabulous but this off the beaten path is a lovely accommodation option in Sicamous. Just an hour’s drive from Revelstoke, this wee town is an excellent option if you’re a bit more intrepid than the “Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort” type.
Revelstoke Lakehouse | Best Airbnb in Revelstoke
This home nestled near the lake in the valley is only four minutes from the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and is the perfect Revelstoke Retreat. There are five bedrooms so there’s plenty of room if you’re traveling with your family – or your friends! You can enjoy delicious food and devour the panoramic mountain and lake views after using the homely kitchen.
Soak away your day on the mountain in the hot tub under the trees and the stars, enjoying spectacular views regardless of the hour.
City Centre
Revelstoke is a pretty small city, so you’ll find all the main attractions around the City Centre. If this is your first time in the region, the City Centre is a great base for exploring further afield.
Sicamous
Stretching along the Eagle River as it flows into Lake Shuswap, Sicamous is an idyllic little city less than an hour away from Revelstoke. For those on a budget, it offers cheaper accommodation and dining options – without having to compromise on quality.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort
Visiting in the winter? You’ll want to base yourself in the south of the city – close to Revelstoke Mountain Resort! The only ski resort in the city, it offers free skiing, ski and snowboard lessons and unbeatable aprés-ski facilities.
Revelstoke’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
There are two main tourist areas in Revelstoke – plus a few smaller surrounding villages. Keep reading to learn more about the best places to stay in and around Revelstoke, as well as tips on the best accommodation and activities in each! Backpacking Canada is an epic experience and Revelstoke is a real gem.
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1. City Centre – Overall Best Place to Stay in Revelstoke
- COOLEST thing to do in City Centre: drive all the way up to the peak of Mount Revelstoke – or hike if you have the stamina!
- BEST place to visit in City Centre: visit the Revelstoke Dam for some great photo opportunities overlooking the city and river.
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski
Revelstoke is a pretty small city, so you’ll find all the main attractions around the City Centre. If this is your first time in the region, the City Centre is a great base for exploring further afield. Even if you don’t have a car, there are plenty of fantastic tour companies offering excursions deep into the National Park.
In particular, I think the City Centre is your best bet for visiting during the warmer season! This is where you’ll get the quickest access to watersports and hiking trails, as the city center winds along the banks of the Columbia River. In the evenings, this is also where you can find the best bars and restaurants in town.
Glacier House Resort | Best Resort in City Center
Glacier House Resort is the epitome of a ski resort holiday if ever I saw one. Indoor swimming pool to stretch out after a day on the slopes AND a hot tub?? That’s hot. You’re just 20 minutes from the ski fields and there are plenty of summer activities around too – think canoeing, mountain biking – the works!
There’s a lush fireplace to sit in front of which is pretty essential as far as a Revelstoke accommodation option if you ask me! There’s a nice simple breakfast available to make it easy to get up and get going hassle-free, no matter your activity of the day.
Ramada by Wyndham Revelstoke | Best Hotel in City Center
If you’re looking for a three-star hotel in Revelstoke with all the bells and whistles then look no further than Ramada by Wyndham Revelstoke. With a hot tub and indoor swimming pool, this Revelstoke hotel is a real holiday with a restaurant and a bar onsite to boot!
With free wifi and a fitness center, you can park up here for a while. Digital nomads with a snow passion, eat your heart out at Ramada by Wyndham Revelstoke.
The Burrow | Best Airbnb in City Center
This two-bedroom apartment in downtown Revelstoke is the perfect mix of cozy and bright and newly built. You’ll have garden views and mountain views as well as little luxuries like your own kitchen well stocked with modern amenities.
The hosts are welcoming and will happily provide you with inside tips on hikes and things to do in the area. They’ve even been known to let your pet join you on vacation – just ask!
Things to See and Do in City Center
- Revelstoke has two excellent museums – the Revelstoke Museum, with exhibits about the city’s history, and the Railway Museum (which is my personal favorite).
- Drive the Trans-Canada Highway and get clued up on the wonderful wildlife and nature with this audio tour.
- Newbie to hiking and mountain sports? Selkirk Mountain Experience have a variety of excursions on offer to get you started on the right foot.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Sicamous – Best Place to Stay near Revelstoke on a Budget
- COOLEST thing to do in Sicamous: rent a canoe (or a boat if you want to chill out) and explore the calm waters of Lake Shuswap.
- BEST place to visit in Sicamous: Sicamous Beach Park is the perfect spot for soaking up the atmosphere and admiring the view.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Stretching along the Eagle River as it flows into Lake Shuswap, Sicamous is an idyllic little city less than an hour away from Revelstoke. For those on a budget, it offers cheaper accommodation and dining options – without having to compromise on quality. If you’re bringing your own car and plan on traveling around the region, Sicamous is a worthy alternative.
It’s also a great spot for visiting during the summer! Lake Shuswap has plenty of water sports facilities available on its banks, and the budget-friendly canoes make this a popular choice with families. What’s more, it’s even less touristy than Revelstoke, so you’ll get an authentic, rural British Columbia experience.
Best Western Sicamous Inn | Best Budget Hotel in Sicamous
Sometimes, you really just need a hotel – but what if you don’t want to break the bank? Thankfully, the four-star Best Western Sicamous Inn combines comfort with great prices on rooms.
It has an indoor pool – meaning you can enjoy a dip regardless of the weather – and a complimentary breakfast is included. Central Sicamous attractions, like the D’Dutchmen Dairy, are only a few minute’s walk away.
Pines Motel | Best Motel in Sicamous
This is, without a doubt, my top pick for families heading to the region! Spacious, with modern amenities, it is the perfect blend of local charm and convenience. You’ll be within walking distance to the local shops where you can source your own snacks or food to cook in the kitchenette.
There’s also a bbq area outside and you can find delicious food at the restaurants nearby, too. Revelstoke hotels are fabulous but this off the beaten path is a lovely accommodation option.
Owlhead Creek | Best Airbnb in Sicamous
Need something a bit smaller? This is another adorable little cabin that is ideal for both solo travelers and adventurous couples. There’s a small deck at the front with views of the lake and surrounding forests.
It also has a small barbecue if you’re visiting in the summer. Into hiking? The trail outside the property takes you to an awe-inspiring waterfall.
Things to See and Do in Sicamous
- If you’re traveling between Sicamous and Revelstoke, stop off at the Enchanted Forest and check out the fairy tale sculptures – perfect for families!
- Are your kids a bit more adventurous? Skytrek Adventure Park is just across the road, offering adrenaline-pumping zip lines and climbing walls.
- Red Barn Art Centre always has community events on where you can check out crafts from local artisans.
3. Revelstoke Mountain Resort – Where to Stay in Revelstoke for Winter Sports
- COOLEST thing to do Revelstoke Mountain Resort: Revelstoke Mountain Resort is the place to be during the winter, with slopes to suit all levels.
- BEST place to visit Revelstoke Mountain Resort: sit back and take in the view at Williamson Lake and the surrounding campground.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Visiting in the winter? You’ll want to base yourself in the south of the city – close to Revelstoke Mountain Resort! The only ski resort in the city, it offers free skiing, ski and snowboard lessons and unbeatable aprés-ski facilities. There are plenty of chairlifts dotted around the neighborhood, so you’re never more than ten minutes away from the piste.
South Revelstoke is also convenient for quick visits as the airport is a mere ten-minute walk from the ski resort. You’ll notice in the winter that this is a much livelier neighborhood than the City Centre, with plenty of bars letting you unwind after a long day of hitting the slopes.
Sutton Place Hotel | Best Hotel in Revelstoke Mountain Resort
This isn’t just the only five-star hotel in Revelstoke – it’s also the best-rated accommodation right in the heart of the mountain resort area! With an outdoor pool and ski hire facilities, it’s easy to see why so many guests opt to splash out on Sutton Place Hotel.
Let’s take a moment to adore the small extras Sutton Place Hotel delivers. Guests are given complimentary cheese and wine on arrival, plus additional goodies throughout their stay. Yummy.
Revelstoke House Luxury Log House | Best Lodge in Revelstoke Mountain Resort
Glamping tents are fabulous and all the rage but give me a classic Log Cabin and I’m happy. Especially when I can fit all my friends with me too! If you’re hunting out Revelstoke accommodation options, look no further amigos, there’s even a hot tub.
With all the regular amenities like free wifi, a big family-friendly dining room with breathtaking views, and private bathrooms for everyone… You won’t miss having an indoor pool I swear, shove off your hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort in favor of this log cabin. Live a little!
Revelstoke Lakehouse | Best Airbnb in Revelstoke Mountain Resort
This home nestled near the lake in the valley is only four minutes from the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and is the perfect Revelstoke Retreat. There are five bedrooms so there’s plenty of room if you’re traveling with your family – or your friends! You can enjoy delicious food and devour the panoramic mountain and lake views after using the homely kitchen.
Soak away your day’s skiing adventure in the hot tub under the trees and the stars, enjoying spectacular views regardless of the hour.
Things to See and Do in Revelstoke Mountain Resort
- Go on a trip to nearby Greenslide – this laid-back spot by the side of the river is the starting point for many hiking trails into the mountains.
- Take to the skies with Heli Canada Adventures. Alongside stunning viewpoints of the region, you can try heli-skiing from one of their choppers.
- Revelstoke Ski Touring let you take a guided tour of the best slopes in the mountain resort – ideal for beginners and families.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Revelstoke
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Revelstoke and where to stay.
What To Pack For Revelstoke
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Revelstoke
You want to revel in Revelstoke, not sweat where your luggage is. Book yourself some good travel insurance before you travel and live easy knowing it’s sussed.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Revelstoke?
Revelstoke is a true hidden gem in the heart of some of the most beautiful scenery in British Columbia! It has a more authentic culture than some of the larger tourist towns and is surrounded by hectares of unspoiled scenery. From the Monashee Mountains to the lakes and rivers and valleys, there are spectacular views EVERYWHERE.
I don’t like to play favourites, and my top overall neighborhood pick really depends on what time of year you are visiting. The City Centre is perfect for lakeside activities, making it ideal for summer and fall vacations. If you stay here the Ramada by Wyndham Revelstoke is a great option.
If you’re looking for something a bit more intrepid, book a stay at the Revelstoke Lakehouse. You can cook your own delicious food in this log cabin, or head out to one of the great restaurants nearby. The best of both worlds!
I hope this guide has helped you figure out your Revelstoke accommodation options for your upcoming trip to the Mount Revelstoke National Park area. Wherever you stay, I’m sure you’ll have a magical trip, any adventure through the Trans-Canada Highway will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Did I miss anything? Have you been to Revelstoke and think there’s something to add? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to chat.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Canada.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Canada instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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