Heritage Chalet Haesler Sr in the Canadian Rockies

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Edelweiss Village. This Swiss-style chalet, once home to legendary mountaineer Haesler Sr., offers a rare chance to experience the legacy of the Swiss Guides who pioneered adventure tourism in the Canadian Rockies. Perfect for heritage enthusiasts, the meticulously restored chalet blends historic charm with modern comforts, inviting you to relive the golden era of mountain exploration.

• Historic Swiss-Style Chalet
• Legacy of Pioneer Swiss Guides
• Picturesque Setting & Beautiful Mountain Views
• Proximity to Scenic Hiking Trails & National Parks
• Perfect Blend of Heritage & Modern Comforts
• Easy Access to Town

Built in 1911-12, this 1004 sq. ft chalet weaves a mosaic of rich histories: mountaineering, tourism, architecture, Swiss immigration, Canada’s multiculturalism, and the legacy of the legendary Swiss mountain guides hired by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR).

Main Floor

• Living Room: cozy seating
• Kitchen: fully equipped + dining room (note: there is no oven in the chalet but stove tops are available)

1st Floor

• Primary Bedroom: king bed
• Second Bedroom: queen bed
• Third Bedroom: queen bed
• Full Bathroom

LOCAL FAVOURITES

Food & Drink (less than 5 km away)

• The Wolf's Den: A guest favorite in Golden, this cozy mountain-style restaurant serves hearty comfort food and locally inspired dishes in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
• Eleven22: Upscale dining spot offering a fusion of flavours, including seafood dishes and inventive pasta specials.
• Island Restaurant: Located on a small island on the Columbia River, this restaurant features outdoor patios with scenic views and serves international and Canadian dishes.
• Ethos Cafe: Ideal for breakfast and coffee break before exploring the heritage trails and historical sites of Edelweiss Village.

Summer Activities

• Hiking: Wander through the scenic trails of Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, and the nearby Columbia Wetlands, a glimpse into the natural beauty the Swiss Guides once explored and cherished.
• Mountain Biking: Enjoy over 185 km of trails, ranging from gentle paths to challenging downhill slopes. These trails reflect the adventurous spirit of the Swiss mountain culture embedded in Edelweiss Village.
• Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Kicking Horse River, with options for all skill levels.

Winter Activities

• Skiing & Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, renowned for its deep powder and challenging terrain.
• Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the groomed trails around Golden and national parks.
• Heli-Skiing: Pioneered in the 1960s in Golden's Bugaboos Mountains, heli-skiing was quickly embraced by Swiss guides, making the Bugaboos the birthplace of this thrilling experience.



About Haesler Sr

Christian Haesler Sr. was one of the first Swiss guides hired by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1899, alongside Eduard Feuz Sr. Both hailed from Interlaken, Switzerland and were pivotal in establishing European-style mountain guiding in the Canadian Rockies. Haesler Sr.'s expertise and pioneering spirit led to numerous first ascents and the development of safe climbing techniques. His contributions significantly shaped the early mountaineering culture in Canada, leaving a lasting legacy that is honoured through the Haesler Chalet in Edelweiss Village.



EDELWEISS VILLAGE + RESORT HIGHLIGHTS

Welcome to Edelweiss Village + Resort, nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Canadian Rockies in Golden, British Columbia. Our meticulously restored Swiss chalets offer a unique blend of heritage and modern comforts, providing an unforgettable stay for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.

• Heritage & Preservation: Meticulously restored chalets preserving the unique heritage of the Swiss Edelweiss Village, established in 1911 for the Swiss Guides and their families.
• Prime Location: Situated adjacent to the northern boundary of Golden, our resort serves as a gateway to iconic national parks like Yoho, Glacier, and Kootenay. Enjoy easy access to the Golden Skybridge and Adventure Park for thrilling activities, world-class skiing at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, and diverse recreational opportunities in the surrounding area.
• Charming Accommodations: Stay in our beautifully renovated Swiss chalets, rich in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes. It is ideal for European family vacations or group getaways with friends, providing a cozy retreat with all modern amenities.
• Unique Experiences: Explore forest trails, enjoy the local arts scene, and relax in the serene environment of our village.
• Sustainable Tourism: Emphasis on eco-friendly initiatives, preserving the heritage of the Swiss Village while embracing modern sustainability practices.

Book your stay at Edelweiss Village + Resort and immerse yourself in the alpine legacy and unparalleled natural beauty of Golden, BC.

Please note that construction is in progress on the property and may continue through the end of September. All efforts will be made to keep noise between 8 AM and 8 PM.

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
• Sauna is newly available on-site for guests! It is located in the main plaza, adjacent to the parking spaces.
• This chalet now features central air conditioning for added year-round comfort.
• Parking: up to 4 cars can be parked in front of the chalet. Many additional parking options are also available nearby
• Pets: not allowed
• Smoking: strictly prohibited
• Notes:
• Edelweiss Village has recently undergone extensive preservation and renovation to preserve its historical significance and expand its facilities.
• Please note that this is not a ski-in/ski-out property, but its location provides guests with easy and ample access to backcountry and cross-country skiing.
• This chalet may be multi-level and is located on a hillside with stairs. Guests with limited mobility should take this into consideration.

• BBQ: Available on-site for guest use
• Fire Pit: Please note that the fire pit is currently unavailable — outdoor fires are not permitted until further notice.

Please note that to provide host and guest liability and damage protection, you will receive a secure link upon booking to complete a virtual check-in through a guest portal. A pre-authorization of $600 will be held on your credit card 7 days ahead of check-in, through to check-out.

BC Provincial Registration number: H039152702