St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino – Heritage, Golf, and Gaming in Cranbrook, British Columbia

The St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino in Cranbrook, British Columbia, is unlike any other destination in Canada. Set within the beautifully restored buildings of a former residential school, it stands today as a symbol of renewal — a place where luxury hospitality, championship golf, and Indigenous heritage come together. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the resort blends cultural meaning with relaxation, offering guests a deeply unique and inspiring experience.

A Historic Landmark Transformed

St. Eugene’s history is central to its identity. Once a residential school, the site has been carefully restored and transformed into a place of healing, pride, and opportunity. The resort is owned by the Ktunaxa Nation, which has reimagined the space as both a thriving business and a living tribute to resilience.

The Setting

Location: Nestled in the scenic Kootenay Rockies near Cranbrook, British Columbia.
Architecture: The red-brick façade and historic design have been preserved, balancing old-world elegance with modern comfort.
Atmosphere: Peaceful, reflective, and inspiring — a blend of heritage and hospitality that invites connection and rest.

Walking through its corridors, guests experience more than a resort; they encounter a story of transformation and cultural respect.

The Golf Course: Championship Play with a View

One of the resort’s main attractions is its 18-hole championship golf course, renowned for its panoramic views and pristine conditions. Designed to integrate naturally into the surrounding landscape, it offers both challenge and beauty in equal measure.

Golf Highlights

Course Design: Features rolling fairways, water hazards, and mountain vistas.
Facilities: Driving range, practice greens, and a professional clubhouse.
Experience: Suitable for all levels — from casual players to tournament professionals.
Season: Open during the warmer months, offering long daylight hours and perfect greens.

For golfers, St. Eugene provides not just a game, but an immersion in nature framed by the Rockies and the St. Mary River.

The Casino: Entertainment in a Heritage Setting

The Casino of the Rockies, located on the resort grounds, complements the tranquility of the golf course with vibrant nightlife and excitement. Despite its historic setting, it offers a contemporary gaming experience with all the amenities of a modern casino.

Casino Features

Slot Machines: Hundreds of titles ranging from classic favorites to new digital games.
Table Games: Blackjack, Roulette, and other casino standards in an elegant, intimate environment.
Hospitality: Friendly staff, comfortable seating, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Style: Modern entertainment set within heritage architecture — an aesthetic combination that’s uniquely St. Eugene.

The casino’s energy balances beautifully with the resort’s calm ambiance, giving guests the freedom to shift from relaxation to excitement effortlessly.

Dining: Local Flavors and Fine Experiences

Dining at St. Eugene is an exploration of regional flavors and refined culinary craftsmanship. The resort’s restaurants source local ingredients from British Columbia and the Kootenay region, pairing them with stunning views and warm service.

Dining Options

Signature Restaurant: Fine dining featuring locally inspired menus and elegant presentation.
Casual Venues: Relaxed lounges and bars serving comfort food, cocktails, and regional wines.
Outdoor Seating: Seasonal patios overlooking the golf course and mountains, perfect for sunsets and summer evenings.

Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual lunch after a round of golf, the cuisine celebrates both the land and its people.

Cultural Heritage and Indigenous Legacy

What truly distinguishes St. Eugene is its deep cultural dimension. The resort honors the history of the site and the Ktunaxa Nation through exhibits, storytelling, and design.

Cultural Highlights

Interpretive Displays: Visitors can learn about the Ktunaxa Nation’s traditions, language, and history.
Art and Architecture: Indigenous motifs and artwork are integrated throughout the resort.
Educational Experiences: Guests are invited to engage respectfully with the story of the land and its people.

This approach transforms a stay at St. Eugene into more than a leisure experience — it becomes an encounter with Canada’s living heritage.

The Hotel: Comfort in a Historic Setting

The St. Eugene Resort Hotel offers rooms and suites that combine the charm of the past with modern amenities. Each space reflects the building’s architectural legacy while providing contemporary comfort.

Hotel Features

Rooms & Suites: Elegant furnishings, high ceilings, and views of the mountains or golf course.
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, spa, and business facilities.
Ambience: Quiet, refined, and ideal for relaxation or reflection.
Service: Personalized attention that embodies both professionalism and warmth.

Whether visiting for a weekend getaway, a conference, or a golf retreat, guests find the perfect balance of luxury and meaning.

Events and Community

The resort’s event spaces host weddings, conferences, and cultural gatherings throughout the year. With versatile meeting rooms and outdoor venues, it’s ideal for celebrations that seek both sophistication and authenticity. St. Eugene also plays a vital role in the local community, supporting employment, culture, and tourism within the Ktunaxa Nation and the Cranbrook area.

Why St. Eugene Stands Apart

Few resorts in the world combine heritage, hospitality, and natural beauty the way St. Eugene does.

It’s a destination with a story — a historic school transformed into a place of renewal.
It offers golf, gaming, and culture in one scenic setting.
It stands as a symbol of reconciliation, blending past and future through thoughtful design and purpose.

This rare combination makes St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino a cornerstone of cultural and luxury tourism in British Columbia.

Conclusion

The St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino in Cranbrook is more than a destination — it’s a living symbol of transformation. From its championship golf course and modern casino to its historic architecture and Indigenous heritage, it unites recreation, reflection, and renewal in one unforgettable experience. Visitors come for the luxury and stay for the meaning, leaving with a deeper appreciation of both place and history.
St. Eugene is not just where guests stay — it’s where they connect with Canada’s story.