Is there anything better than kicking your feet up by the fire after a day of adventuring?

The Lodge at Valley Ridge is nestled in Calgary’s northwest community of Valley Ridge—a community fondly known to many long-time Calgarians as Happy Valley, and familiar to others as the gateway to the Rockies.

The Lodge—as many residents and family members affectionately call it—draws inspiration from the iconic architecture and scenery of the mountains. With broad timber beams, soaring vaulted ceilings and images of mountain vistas adorning the walls, The Lodge at Valley Ridge can feel more like a cosy après ski hideaway than a retirement community. And for good reason: the unassuming cosiness of The Lodge immediately evokes the feeling of a treasured family retreat, where the team makes each day special through their hospitality.

“Residents love the casual, comfortable vibe here,” says Hillary, Community Relations Manager at The Lodge. “The spaces are welcoming and cosy, and there’s no air of formality or pretence—residents can just be themselves; they love to socialize with each other, but at the same time, they feel at ease just doing their own thing too—having a coffee in the lounge while reading the paper, or sharing a laugh together over happy hour.” Hillary continues, “The relaxed atmosphere really feels like you’re on vacation, but with all the comforts of home right here.”

Arlene, Kathleen, and Minnie all moved into The Lodge around the same time last year, and became fast friends in an instant. The three share a love of crafting, and attending social events in the community.

“When I first toured The Lodge, I immediately got the feeling ‘this is a happy place. This could be my happy place!’” says Kathleen, “People are laughing, and draw you in with an easy smile. Now that I’m settled in, I feel totally relaxed—I go about my day with no worries at all.”

“I felt lonely after my husband passed away. It was tough for me to reach out to my loved ones to ask for support—I didn’t want impose on them,” says Minnie. “I promised myself when I arrived that I wouldn’t just sit in my suite. The employees and my fellow residents are so friendly, and everyone welcomed me into the community right away. It’s like a big family here—we all truly care about each other. Coming to The Lodge is the best decision I’ve ever made.”

“My husband and I enjoy the fitness classes; we love the social events—and the food is next level!” Arlene elaborates, “The Lodge became our community instantly, and the people here have become a part of our lives—it’s such a special place where everyone is welcome to be who they are.”

Glen Stirrett, General Manager at The Lodge at Valley Ridge, brings a wealth of experience from his background in hotel management, including overseeing operations at the Jasper Park Lodge before joining United. He understands how authentic hospitality enhances the resident experience: “The team truly comes together to create an immersive environment. —You’ll often find them singing alongside residents at karaoke, rehearsing for a talent show, or simply enjoying quality time with each other,” Glen shares. “People feel at ease here because they’re surrounded by a supportive community that genuinely loves to create connections with everyone, no matter who they are.”

Stop by The Lodge at Valley Ridge to start on your path to adventure—we’ll stoke the fire for you.