The Overlook
The Overlook's elegant tea service has become a cherished tradition at Ridgeview Manor, offering a refined afternoon respite with unparalleled views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks. The space's floor-to-ceiling windows, plush seating, and hand-painted botanical murals create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. A grand piano provides live classical music on weekends, while the china service features custom pieces created by Canadian ceramic artists specifically for Ridgeview Manor.
Winter opening times
Served daily, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Last seating at 4:00 PM. Advance reservations required.
Summer opening times
Served daily, 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM. Last seating at 4:30 PM. Terrace seating available, weather permitting. Advance reservations required.
Pastry Chef Marie Claire Bennett, trained at Le Cordon Bleu Paris and previously with London's most prestigious hotels, oversees our afternoon tea program. Her approach combines traditional European techniques with Canadian influences, resulting in unique and delightful creations. Each morning, Chef Bennett and her team begin preparing the day's offerings, from mixing scone dough to hand-piping intricate decorations on petit fours and fashioning chocolate garnishes that mimic the surrounding landscape.
The classic three-tiered service features house-made scones with clotted cream and mountain berry preserves, delicate finger sandwiches with locally sourced fillings such as cold-smoked trout and Alberta beef tenderloin with horseradish cream, and an array of exquisite pastries that change with the seasons. Winter offerings might include spiced maple éclairs and snowflake-decorated macarons, while summer brings lavender-infused shortbread and wild blueberry tartlets. Our tea sommelier has curated a selection of over 30 premium loose-leaf teas from around the world, including exclusive high-mountain blends and rare single-estate selections.
The Overlook offers regular and champagne tea services, with the latter featuring premium Canadian sparkling wine or traditional French champagne. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan afternoon tea experiences that maintain the elegance and variety of the traditional service.
