Selling Canada Winter 2024

SNOW DAYS

Outdoor adventures and invigoration in Canada's winter wonderland

A true winter wonderland.

A breathtaking winter wonderland awaits your clients with daily direct flights from London Heathrow to Calgary, Alberta. From the stunning peaks of the Canadian Rockies to charming mountain towns, your clients can relax, ski, or enjoy iconic winter experiences like dog sledding and witnessing the northern lights.

With our exclusive winter sale on now until November 30, 2024, book direct flights to Calgary and easily connect to select destinations in Canada and the U.S.

Destinations included : DEN, SEA YCD, YEG, YKA, YLW, YQQ, YVR, YXC, YXX, YYC, YYF, YYJ

Destinations included:

Travel period:

Travel period : November 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025

Explore our flight schedule at westjet.com.

*Offer terms apply. Schedule subject to change.

SELLING CANADA 2025

Fam Trip: Newfoundland

Autumn Fly-Drives

48 Hours in Edmonton

Travel Talk: Virgin Atlantic

WINTER

Accessibility

Winter in Four Cities

Winter Festivals

FRONT COVER: FORT SMITH, PIERRE EMMANUEL CHAILLON/NWT TOURISM PUBLISHED BY BMI PUBLISHING LTD, 501 THE RESIDENCE, NO.1 ALEXANDRA TERRACE, GUILDFORD, GU1 3DA • T: 020 8649 7233; E: ENQUIRIES@ BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK • W:BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK • PUBLISHER: SALLY PARKER; EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: STEVE HARTRIDGE; DESIGNERS: CAITLAN FRANCIS, EMMA NORTON & STUART CROWHURST; PRODUCTION MANAGER: CLARE HUNTER; MANAGING DIRECTOR: MATT BONNER; CEO: MARTIN STEADY • WHILST EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY, BMI PUBLISHING CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS.

Think Canada for winter thrills

I AM delighted to introduce this issue of Selling Canada, which has several pages focusing on the fabulous things you can do in Canada during the winter months.

There is a wide range of winter wonderland experiences and activities beyond the ski hills, with epic festivals in Québec City and Ottawa, to name but two.

Autumn is another great season to visit, with those amazing colours, cooler temperatures, fewer people and often lower pricing.

It was great to catch up with some of you at our successful 2024 roadshows, which took us to Leeds, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, London and Brighton.

I have been lucky to have experienced some great trips to Canada this year. First up was the Yukon in March, for the most amazing dog sledding, snowmobiling and Northern Lights chasing. Later in the year I joined an agents trip to Newfoundland and Labrador – we saw whales and dined on the freshest seafood. You can read about my trip on page 22.

Thanks to everyone who joined us on our webinar programme this year.

Check out the extensive library of webinars at canadaspecialists.co.uk.

Enjoy the features and our latest news in this issue.

Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada

DC update

NEWS FROM DESTINATION CANADA

Tourism strategy targets new opportunities

DESTINATION Canada has a new strategy that is designed to transform the tourism sector and propel Canada back into the top seven global destinations by 2030.

Called ‘A World of Opportunity’, the blueprint calls for sector-wide collaboration to increase Canada’s global competitiveness and see tourism realise its full potential as one of Canada’s biggesthitting economic drivers.

Among the main goals are achieving a greater dispersion of visitors across the country, and in all four seasons (with a

particular focus on autumn and winter), and ensuring there’s a steady pipeline of new hotels, experiences and activities to cater to the anticipated increase of visitors.

The strategy will see more investment in tourism products and experiences.

‘A World of Opportunity’ is designed to achieve a target that would see visitors to Canada increase their spend from $113 billion in 2023 to 160 billion by 2030 – a number that would inject around $450 million a day into the Canadian economy.

DC planning 2025 UK roadshows

DESTINATION Canada will again run its agent roadshows in 2025. The events will take place in Exeter (April 1), Bristol (April 2), Exeter (April 3), Norwich (May 6) and York (May 7).

“I would encourage agents to pencil the dates in their diaries,” said Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada. “Our most recent roadshows saw agents meeting

with partners that included VIA Rail Canada, Air Canada, WestJet, Rocky Mountaineer, British Columbia, Air Transat, Tourism Saskatchewan, Travel Manitoba, Tourism Nova Scotia, Travel Alberta, Banff and Lake Louise Tourism, and Tourism Sun Peaks.

“We can’t wait to take Canada on the road with us again for more takeovers in 2025.”

KEY CONTACTS: Adam Hanmer 0207 389 9985

EMAIL: Hanmer.Adam@ destinationcanada.com

TRAINING: canadaspecialist.co.uk; keepexploring.ca

Secure an eTA for Canada clients

AGENTS are reminded that all British visitors to Canada who arrive by air must be in possession of an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) which should be obtained before the purchase of air tickets.

An eTa costs C$7 (£4.60) and you should allow at least three days for it to be approved. It is valid for five years, or until the passport expires, and allows multi-entry. Travellers can only apply for one person at a time. For example, for a family of three they would need to complete and submit the form three times. Apply online at Canada.ca/ eTa. Any website charging more than C$7 is not an official government site.

UK numbers up

CANADA expects UK visitor numbers in 2025 to pass those recorded in 2019. UK arrivals are anticipated to be 881,000, which would equate to 102% of 2019 levels – and those guests will spend around $1.8 billion in Canada. Among UK residents, 44% say the greatest barrier to travel is price, according to Destination Canada’s 2024 Market Highlights Report

From Journey Behind the Falls, at the very base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, to a ride over the vibrant, teal-coloured waters of the Niagara River in the historic Whirlpool Aero Car, and the serene setting of the Butterfly Conservatory, there’s no shortage of adventure to discover at Niagara Parks.

Immerse yourself in the power of Niagara Parks Power Station + Tunnel! Experience history through the all-new audio tour of the main generator hall and The Power Station at Night, an immersive sound and light show. Witness the roar of the Horseshoe Falls as you walk the 2,200-foot Tunnel and platform with a one-of-a-kind view of this natural wonder.

Virgin Toronto

* VIRGIN Atlantic will return to Canada on March 30 2025 with direct flights between London Heathrow and Toronto Pearson International. The service will operate on a mix of aircraft including the A330neo. (See Travel Talk, page 48). virginatlantic.com

Via Rail upgrade

* CANADA’S national rail operator, Via Rail, is to upgrade its fleet after confirmation of government funding. The trains on several of VIA Rail’s routes will be replaced, completing its fleet renewal plans – but they will not be in service for several years. viarail.ca

Ice hotel has a winter warmer

* THE Hôtel de Glace, a collaboration with the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, will offer a three-course dinner on Fridays and Saturdays from January 17 to March 15, 2025, for 52 guests.

The Quėbec City attraction is the only restaurant built of snow and ice in North America. quebec-cite.com

New digital guides present classic drives

SELLING Canada has launched a Classic Canadian Itineraries digital product. The four self-drive routes include mileage pointers, images, moving pictures and video content.

The itineraries take viewers on journeys that offer snapshots of what Canada does so well: memorable scenery, cosmopolitan cities, Indigenous experiences, wildlife, regional food and more.

Discover spectacular landscapes, alpine towns and marine encounters on a drive through the Rocky Mountains on a Best of the West Rockies and British Columbia journey.

A City and Rockies drive takes you to Edmonton, Alberta, ’Canada’s Festival City’, before moving on to Jasper National Park and its nearby attractions.

Take in four of Canada’s biggest cities, Niagara Falls, the Saint Lawrence River and communities in rural Québec on a Best of the East itinerary.

And there will photo stops aplenty as you explore rugged coastlines, heritage sites, lighthouses, whales, First Nations heritage and abundant seafood on the Maritimes route.

“Self-drive is such an important part of selling Canada for travel agents so it was really important for us to bring some of our best itineraries to life,” said Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada.

“We hope agents will see these and others to come as vital sales tools as well as showing them to clients to illustrate the great range of self-drive routes across Canada open to their clients.”

Fright nights at Capilano

ONE of Vancouver’s top yearround attractions, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, annually takes Halloween to new heights with its Canyon Frights event, making it a perfect recommendation for families visiting in the autumn Each October the park transforms into a whimsical wonderland, with eerie ‘surprises’ at every turn.

The Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk offer experiences such as a giant eight-legged creature lurking along the cliffside pathways, while there are live Halloween-themed shows at the Loggers’ Grill Plaza Seasonal treats at The Cliff House Restaurant & Bar include Dracula Bite Hot Chocolate and Autumn Spice Apple Pie. capbridge.com

Destination Canada tops for silver travellers

DESTINATION Canada was voted Best Worldwide Destination (outside of the UK and Europe) at the 2024 Silver Travel Awards.

Run by Silver Travel Advisor, the awards recognise those destinations and companies that “excelled” in providing exceptional holidays and services for mature travellers.

The awards’ 20 categories are voted for by travellers in this age group.

“We are delighted to be recognised as the leading destination for over-50 travellers,” commented Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada.

“This award is an appreciation of the wide range of both escorted and self-drive touring opportunities that are available to older travellers.”

TV personality Anthea Turner (pictured below with Adam) hosted the event and shared her own travel experiences.

Silver Travel Advisor’s Marketing Manager, Marie Broadhurst, said, “Our consumer-voted categories are a genuine stamp of approval for all the winning travel companies.”

The Great Wilderness next up for BC

‘THE Great Wilderness, the second in British Columbia’s Iconic experiences brand, will be launched to UK audiences in early 2025.

The province is highlighting to road trippers the many diverse travel experiences available through seven Iconics that will be rolled out in phases.

The first, Rainforest to Rockies, launched to the market in 2024 and is billed as “a journey through ever-changing landscapes: from ocean to city, to rainforest, to fertile valleys, to desert, to crystal clear lakes, towering mountains and glaciers”.

The second pillar, The Great Wilderness, extends from the coast mountain range in the west to the Alberta border in the east and from Highway 16 in the south to the Yukon border in the north.

“Beyond Vancouver and Whistler there is a so much to showcase to travellers…the Iconics are designed to transform the way people view British Columbia,” said Maya Lange, Vice President of Global Marketing for British Columbia. hellobc.com

First Nations park’s eco badge

THE Gitdisdzu Lugyeks Marine Protected Area, commonly known as Kitasu Bay, on the central coast of British Columbia, has earned the Marine Conservation Institute’s Blue Park, an internationally recognised example of excellence in marine protection.

Around 500 kilometers north of Vancouver and managed by the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation, it is the world’s first Indigenous-led blue park.

A spokesperson said the park’s new status would help “maintain the ecological integrity of Kitasu Bay and protect fish, wildlife, ecosystems, cultural and archeological sites and the wilderness values that support opportunities for ecotourism”. coastalfirstnations.ca

Silversea sails

LUXURY cruise operator

Silversea will sail on four voyages in Canada between September and November 2026.

Timed to showcase the vibrant fall foliage, Silver Shadow will visit 10 destinations, including the Saguenay Fjord, Canada’s Atlantic coastline and cities like Charlottetown and Halifax. silversea.com

Riviera Canada

* RIVIERA Travel has an 11-day Maritime Canada trip, from May to September. Starting in

Halifax it includes Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, Saint John, St. Andrews By-TheSea, Fundy National Park, Charlottetown, Cabot Trail and Cape Breton Island. Prices from £2,799pp for a May 20 2025 departure. rivieratravel.co.uk

Cruise to Canada

HOLLAND America Line’s 2026

Canada and New England season will run from April to October on its cruise ships

Zuiderdam and Volendam.

The 1,964-guest Zuiderdam and 1,432-guest Volendam will run 18 itineraries, with the former sailing five different seven-day itineraries between Boston and Québec City. Select dates have late-night departures from Québec City or Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.

Zuiderdam’s 14-day repositioning cruises along the Atlantic Coast sail between Québec and Miami in April and October. Prices for seven-day itineraries start from £1,184pp.

Signature voyages on Volendam include a new 28-day Canada, New England and Iceland Legendary Voyage in June 2026.The ship will visit

Air Canada adds Ottawa

Sydney, Nova Scotia, before sailing east to explore seven ports in Iceland, followed by four more ports of call in Atlantic Canada.

The sailing includes overnight calls in St. John’s, Newfoundland; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Prices start from £6,439pp.

Onboard cuisine will feature Canadian favourites such as Prince Edward Island mussels and entertainment will include ‘Breton Thunder’, a Nova Scotia music experience highlighting the area’s European roots.

Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer for Holland America Line, said: “Our Canada cruises are filled with culturally rich destinations, storybook settings, the beauty of the St. Lawrence and vibrant fall foliage hollandamerica.com

AIR Canada is to introduce non-stop flights between London Heathrow and Canada’s capital in 2025. The flights to Ottawa will be operated four-times weekly, on the airline’s Dreamliner fleet, beginning March 31. The service, which will run until at least October 25, will leave Heathrow on a Monday and Thursday (departing 14.:05 and arriving,16.45) and Wednesday, and Saturday (departing 12.40 and arriving 15.20).

Air Canada will fly from Heathrow to six Canadian cities in summer 2025. aircanada.com

WestJet and Air North

WestJet and Air North, Yukon’s airline that flies to 12 destinations in remote northern communities in the Yukon and Inuvik, Northwest Territories, has a new interline agreement connecting both carriers’ networks.

Guests can now book just one ticket with a connected itinerary with single point check-in and through-checked bags for connecting itineraries. westjet.com

Vancouver island resort is the best

WICKANINNISH INN, on the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is the top resort in Canada and the USA – at least according to readers of Condé Nast Traveller.

The independent, family-owned and operated Wickaninnish Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property since 1997, promises an “immersive and rejuvenating experience.”

The resort, in the heart of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, locally inspired cuisine, and its Ancient Cedars Spa.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of our entire team, who strive every day to create unforgettable experiences for our guests while remaining committed to excellence, sustainability, and our deep connection to the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest,” said Charles McDiarmid, Maître de Maison of Wickaninnish Inn. wickinn.com

Air Transat has Canada covered

AIR Transat’s summer 2025 schedule will be released late in 2025 and is likely to include year-round direct flights from Gatwick, Manchester and Glasgow to Toronto, with Gatwick to Montréal and Dublin to Toronto continuing seasonally in the summer.

The airline has onward connections via Toronto and Montréal throughout Canada due to a joint venture with Porter Airlines.

“This offers visitors a simplified booking process that allows for a combination of Air Transat and Porter flights, with smooth connections and baggage handling directly to the final destination,” said an Air Transat spokesperson. airtransat.com

How to join

THE ELITE

Destination Canada’s select band of top-selling agents are pointing the way for those looking to become a country expert and benefit from high commission levels, says Steve Hartridge

Agents signed up to Destination Canada’s online training programme who have obtained Elite status can look forward to two forthcoming FAM trips to the country.

This select band of top-qualified agents – just 20 currently – have completed the Canada Specialist Programme (CSP) and are considered DC’s most informed agents when it comes to their depth and breadth of knowledge of Canada’s destinations and tourism products.

The Elite status tier was introduced in 2024 to recognise agents with the most revenue accrued from their Canada bookings.

“We are delighted to recognise our topselling travel agents to Canada with Elite CSP status,” commented Adam Hanmer, UK Trade Manager for Destination Canada.

“These top 20 agents will go on special VIP FAMS, to experience autumn in Ontario, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador as well as a winter trip to the Rockies. The programme will culminate with an overnight Canada training event in 2025.”

Destination Canada relaunched the 40-module CSP in 2022, with a raft of fresh content and with improved digital access.

The modules’ key features include audio

visual components, interactive questions, shareable content and the chance for agents to move up through tiers – Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Elite.

Agents start off on the four Foundation Modules: Welcome to Canada, Vibrant Cities, Wide Open Spaces and History and Culture, earning Bronze status when completed. Those graduating to Silver status level must navigate six Experience modules: Food and Drink, Indigenous Tourism, Wildlife Watching, Adventures and Activities, Winter Wonderland and Legendary Canada.

A ‘Retain’ section of the CSP condenses product knowledge from training into a resource which can be accessed whenever needed – for example, for an impromptu sales presentation with clients.

Currently, almost 2,250 registered CSP agents are reaping the benefits of their enhanced destination knowledge and a raft of incentives that include places on FAMS.

Thirteen modules offer a deep dive into Canada’s Provinces and Territories and agents need to complete 10 of these to progress to Gold status.

To achieve Platinum status, featuring 16 Cities and Resorts, agents must navigate 12 of these. Agents who complete the Platinum Level have access to a library of Discovery Passes, which offers a host of discounts in several Canadian destinations.

Agents who make it through to the Elite qualification will retain that status for at least two years.

The content is highly user friendly and presented in aneasy-read mobile format.

“Agents who get to grips with selling Canada coast to coast and across four seasons can look forward to healthy commissions and happy clients,” adds Hanmer.

Chris Roberts:

One Elite agent who is a “big fan” of the CSP programme is Chris Roberts, a Guernsey-based Travel Counsellor. “The CSP has helped me enormously with my knowledge and I have learnt about some places and experiences I haven’t been to. I always come away from it having learnt numerous little nuggets I can use,” he says.

“The credibility I get from having experienced many of the things that my clients will be doing, and the many first-hand tips I can offer them, gives me a commercial advantage. Moreover, Canada is one of my top-selling destinations and favourite places.

“And being an Elite agent provides me with additional opportunities to experience this wonderful country.

“ I am already signed up for next year and looking forward to being back in the Rockies after 20 years, this time in winter,” he says.

“I still get excited about every visit and I am still counting down the months until my next trip in 2025.”

Maggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers, Managing Director of Bridgnorth-based

The Travelwallet is another Elite agent who describes the CSP training and information provided as “invaluable”.

“Being an Elite Canada Specialist is a very positive thing for both myself and The Travelwallet. The training and information I accrue continually builds on my base of Canada knowledge, which in turn assists me in making some amazing adventures and itineraries for my clients.”

“I do find clients are impressed when I tell them I am a CSP Elite agent and that I try to get out to Canada twice a year to keep gaining more experience and increasing my knowledge,” she adds.

“I have the (CSP) sticker on our shop window, one by my desk and one on the Canada case that sits in the office!

“I get people calling to speak to ‘the Canada lady’ and they are not all local either, so it is a plus-plus in every way in my book.”

Maggie tries to ensure she visits Canada

at least twice a year and describes the assistance she receives as an Elite CSP from the provinces in helping to arrange these trips as “second to none”.

“I was in New Brunswick on a FAM towards the end of 2024 and organised my own fournight extension in Halifax, I loved it. It was fabulous to visit these provinces as I had not been to this area before,” Maggie enthuses.

Anneka Desrosiers

Anneka Desrosiers, Co-Director & Tailor-made Travel Consultant for X-based Southern Travel, says becoming a CSP agent a dozen years ago was a “game changer” for her.

“I had always loved Canada but getting the chance to visit on the CSP Atlantic Canada FAM was the icing on the cake. The CSP is by the far the best training programme I’ve undertaken in 14 years of travel.”

And her elevation to Elite level is helping clinch those Canada sales, she says.

“I don’t shy away from telling prospective Canada clients about my Elite status – just see my email signature! I really think it helps to point out my specialist knowledge and marks me and Southern Cross Travel out as experts, which is important when Canada offers so many holiday experiences.

“Clients need a specialist to help them decide exactly what they want to include and what will make their trip the most spectacular,” she says.

“It (CSP) has certainly helped me enhance itineraries by using up-to-date product knowledge, and giving me better information on areas such as Indigenous Tourism experiences, which for me should be an important element of a Canadian holiday.” Register here at canadaspecialist.co.uk •

Why should you become a Canada Specialist Agent?

Gain the in-depth knowledge about, and ongoing training on, Canada that will help you make the difference when talking to clients about the country.

Increase your commission through learning how to upsell and suggest add-ons

Clinch sales from second- third- and fourth-time visitors to Canada by being able to suggest complex itineraries in less visited regions of the country

Benefit from invitations to FAM trips, including exclusive VIP trips

Receive invites to other training days and benefit from other incentives

CLASSIC CANADA!

Selling Canada is delighted to announce the launch of its Class ic Canadian Itineraries online guide. Including mileage pointers, moving images and video content, the first four self-drive routes take viewers on road trips that reveal Canada's great scenery, cosmopolitan cities, Indigenous experiences, wildlife, fabulous food... and much mor e

Visit sellingtravel.co.uk/hubs/selling-canada

Discover spectacular landscapes, alpine towns and marine encounters on this self-drive through the legendary Rocky Mountains on a Best of the West Rockies and British Columbia journey.

sellingtravel.co.uk/best-of-the-west

Enjoy a City and Rockies adventure on a drive that takes you to Edmonton, Alberta’s vibrant capital and Canada’s ‘Festival City, before heading on to Jasper National Park and its nearby attractions.

sellingtravel.co.uk/jasper-edmonton

Take in four of Canada’s biggest cities, its most famous waterfall, skirt the Saint Lawrence River and pass through communities in rural Québec on our Best of the East touring suggestion

sellingtravel.co.uk/best-of-the-east

There will photo stops aplenty as you explore rugged coastlines, heritage sites, lighthouses, whales, Indigenous heritage and abundant seafood on this Maritimes route

sellingtravel.co.uk/maritimes

We will be unveiling more classic Canada self-guide routes over the coming months so agents should keep watching this space.

Alberta’s

DINOSAUR COUNTRY

Alberta is one of the world’s hotbeds for remnants of giants that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Here are six of the best things to do for a prehistoric adventure

The Dinosaur Trail

Easily accessible from Calgary, the Dinosaur Trail Loop is a 30-mile circular route located in Alberta’s ancient Badlands. From canyons carved out by glaciers and prehistoric fossil beds to striking desert hills and hoodoos the lunar, almost desolate, scenery will transport visitors to another time and place. Over 50 dinosaur species have been found, as conditions were ideal for helping preserve fossilised bones.

Alberta’s giant T-Rex

Dubbed as ‘the world’s largest dinosaur’, the toothy T-Rex looming over the centre of the town of Drumheller is impossible to miss. It stands tall at 25 metres (86 feet), more than four times larger than a real Tyrannosaurus, and weighs an impressive 65 tonnes. Open year round, dinoenthusiasts can climb the 106 steps and admire the panoramic views from the gaping jaw.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum

This museum houses one of the best and biggest fossil collections in the world; it is so comprehensive that less than one per cent is on display! Exhibits feature the remains of Albertosaurus, the first dinosaur discovered in the area in 1884, as well as five specimens that are Guinness World Record holders, including the largest marine reptile and the most complete tyrannosaurid skeleton.

T he ‘River of Death’

It was a school teacher back in 1974 who came across the first dinosaur fossil in Grande Prairie, in northwestern Alberta. Fifty years on, the discoveries keep coming, including a massive dinosaur skull that was unearthed in September 2024, which made headlines the world over. Keen fossil hunters can hike along the Pipestone Creek, or ‘River of Death’, one of the densest mass fossil sites on Earth.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

A World Heritage Site, UNESCO has described Dinosaur Provincial Park as “unmatched in terms of the number and variety of high quality specimens” – in fact, five per cent of the planet’s dinosaur bones have been discovered at the park. Now an arid landscape in eastern Alberta, 75 million years ago this was a coastal plain at the edge of a large shallow sea, where primitive mammals thrived.

The Philip J. Currie Museum

This museum, near Grande Prairie, is a world-class institute dedicated to Alberta’s palaeontologist heritage. In addition to offering a time capsule of the Cretaceous period, visitors can sign up for a lab session, join a real excavation to find out what lies buried under the surface, discover the secrets of the dinosaurs with a river float excursion or book a ‘Night at the Museum’ sleepover.

QUÉBEC joie de vivre in

Rachel McQueen, MD, Destination Canada UK, discovers jaw-dropping scenery, wildlife, great cuisine and a host of activities in Québec

“My first trip to Québec, which included a city stay in Montréal and a visit to one of the province's national parks, was one full of Québecois joie de vivre, activities and wonderful cuisine.

Montréal

I loved the feel of Montréal’s different neighbourhoods, from the Old Town to Little Italy to Chinatown to the Latin Quarter. As we moved around different pockets had their own identity and this gave the city a real charm.

We joined a walking tour, starting off at the McCord Stewart Museum which celebrates past and present life in Montréal, its history and people.

Our talk from the museum curator was heartfelt. There is a drive to tell the story of Canada’s Indigenous cultures and embrace a path towards understanding and reconciliation – but before you can have reconciliation you must first have recognition and acknowledgement and that is the story the museum is telling and providing a platform to do so.

We also did a cookery course at Time Out Market in the Centre Eaton de Montréal. Run by Ateliers & Saveurs, one of the premier culinary schools in North America, it was a lot of fun.

We spent that evening in Old Montréal, and saw the 18.00 AURA Experience at the Notre-Dame Basilica (Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal), which is an incredible immersive light show.

We went to the Old Port area on the

waterfront, with its Ferris Wheel (which is Canada’s tallest observation wheel), zipline and Montréal Science Centre. It’s a great spot for families and kids. Montréal is set up to be a festival city and on almost any weekend there is something going on. In winter, there are fireworks, Igloofest festival and a large outdoor skating rink.

From the waterfront you can head over the bridges that take you out to the city’s outlying attractions, like the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve Grand Prix circuit on Notre Dame Island, which we cycled to on a guided bike tour.

Le Mauricie National Park

Once we left Montréal we were soon among scenic countryside. It is just a two-hour drive to Le Mauricie National Park, on good roads with light traffic.

This is not one of Canada’s best-known parks but one that is well worth visiting.

The views were stunning. We were there just as the leaves were starting to turn but come high autumn it becomes a blaze of golds, yellows and reds. We visited a couple of eco-type lodges near the park, Nature Nature and 2800 du Parc.

Here you can rent a number of fabulous cabins to use as a base to enjoy activities in the park. There are places you can kayak up to and camp for the night and then move on next day.

We stayed two nights in Le Baluchon Eco Resort, a family-owned place that has benefitted from a lot of investment in recent years.

In winter there's the Igloofest festival and outdoor skating

There are various accommodation options including cottages and large, villa-style properties perfect for large families or groups of friends. There is also a working farm that supplies the restaurant with a range of produce – we had some of the most delicious food of our entire trip here.

Activities on offer include paddleboards, fat bikes and archery. We did a foraging tour with a lovely lady called Audrey, who showed us what was out there among the fields and forests just 20 minutes from the lodge. We were late in the mushroom season, but Audrey showed us what to look out for and then created a delicious pancake with flour made from foraged ‘cat tails’ (that is bull rushes to you and me).

Le Baluchon Eco Resort’s spa has an excellent range of treatments, using environmentally friendly products. There are also outdoor thermal pools, with views over the Rivière du Loup.

Sacacomie Hotel

A trip highlight was the 20-minute float plane experience we had during our stay at Sacacomie Hotel. From high above the changing colours were so impressive. We flew over Étang Baker, the famous heartshaped lake that has featured on the cover of Selling Canada.

At Sacacomie we had an amazing welcome from Gasper, one of the local guides. He took us out to see a pair of beavers – named Shilo and Charlotte –

living on site who have built a dam and their own lodge. We sat in a hide and waited for them to appear. Gasper tempted the pair with a stick of American Beech and eventually Shilo appeared, bit off a section of the branch and shuffled back into the water. There was no sign of Charlotte though – perhaps she is a beaver diva. We also used a hide to wait for a black bear to appear. We sat in near silence for almost an hour, before, quite suddenly, there he was, a beautiful bear that we were told was two and a half years old. Visitors have a good chance of seeing the bears as food is put out for them to stock up on before they go into hibernation.

Québec?

Québec has so much to offer. You can do a lot within easy driving distance of Montréal; the roads are comfortable and in less than two hours you can be in a fabulous national park. And you can take the Via Rail from Montréal. A day trip is feasible, leaving Montréal in the morning, visiting Québec City or Ottawa and travelling back to Montréal on the last service of the day. That is something for my next visit! •

Rachel’s trip was organised by Tourisme Montréal (mtl.org/en), Authentic Québec (quebecauthentique.com/en), LanaudièreMauricie (quebecauthentique.com/en) and Bonjour Québec (bonjourquebec.com/en-gb). Flights were provided by Air Transat (airtransat. com) and British Airways (ba.com).

IN MANITOBA Winter

The colder months in Manitoba bring dancing lights, joyful festivities and cosy traditions, says Stuart Forster

GO ICE FISHING: Anyone who thinks ice fishing involves standing on a breezy lake while attempting to catch tiddlers clearly hasn’t done it correctly. At Clear Lake, on the southern edge of Riding Mountain National Park, up to six guests can enjoy a convivial day pulling up catches while sheltered in an ice fishing hut equipped with a wood stove, USB ports and bathroom access. Staying in the cosy new ‘turtle shell’ huts at Indigenous-focused Turtle Village maximises fishing time.

GAZE AT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS: Northern Manitoba is renowned for the frequent clarity of its skies, one of the key requirements of viewing the Aurora Borealis. Another is solar activity, which is peaking – causing vivid displays in the night sky and winter is optimal for that. Several companies in Churchill operate tours to view and photograph the aurora. They are the ingredient that makes a meal truly

memorable in Dan’s Diner, a mobile dining room with skylights and panoramic windows.

RELAX IN A NORDIC SPA: Heated freeform pools, massage therapies, multiple styles of sauna, relaxation pavilions and – should bathers be brave enough –plunge pools enable guests visiting Manitoba’s Nordic spas to achieve a blissful balance between relaxation and invigoration. In Winnipeg that’s possible at Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature. Or, near Riding Mountain National Park there’s Klar Sø Nordic Spa, at Elkhorn Resort, which opened in 2023: tailored massage therapy, hand and foot care plus face regeneration treatments are part of its appeal.

TUCK INTO COMFORT FOOD: This prairie province is winning a name for hearty culinary offerings. In Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, Kevin’s Bistro elevates mac and cheese with the likes of maple syrup and bacon. Pierogies were long

ago introduced by Ukrainian settlers as a tasty and filling staple – adding toppings to create loaded pierogies makes them a next-level comfort food. Tipi Tacos, Bison Burgers and Bannock Pizzas are on offer at Feast Café. The Forks Market has plenty of other food outlets.

SNOWMOBILE ON LAKE WINNIPEG: Snowmobiling is a popular pastime in Manitoba, which has almost 13,000km of groomed trails for snowmobilers to explore pristine landscapes. Founded by Icelandic settlers, Gimli on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg is an hour’s drive north of the provincial capital and one of Manitoba’s top snowmobiling locations. So too is Grand Beach on the eastern shore, whose crisp snow and trails ensure fullthrottle adventure.

COSY CAMPING AT RIDING MOUNTAIN: Camping isn’t just a summer activity, particularly not in the

comfort of Parks Canada’s spacious and sturdy oTENTik and yurt accommodations. Warm showers and heated washrooms are part of the experience and firewood is supplied. The six oTENTiks and single yurt at Wasagaming Campground are available year-round, near cross-country ski and snowshoe trails and well-placed for winter equipment rental. For a more rustic adventure, stay in one of the three oTENTiks at Moon Lake, equipped with a wood stove.

SNOWSHOE

IN RIDING MOUNTAIN

NATIONAL PARK: A three-hour drive northwest of Winnipeg, the forests, wetlands and grasslands of this beautiful national park sprawl for more than 1,100 square miles, providing habitat for an array of wildlife, including bison, elk and moose. The park has as many as 26 snowshoeing trails of varying difficulty levels. Considered easy, the 4.2km Brûlé Trail is a circular route near Wasagaming and the Lake Katherine picnic

area. By contrast, the Tilson Lake to Gunn Lake trail offers a challenging all-day route.

EXPERIENCE THE FESTIVAL DU

VOYAGEUR’S JOIE DE VIVRE: This 10-day celebration of Manitoba’s Francophone heritage and culture takes place in Saint Boniface’s Whittier Park, on the opposite bank of Red River to Winnipeg. The 2025 edition of Western Canada’s largest Francophone event will be held from February 14 to 23. The festival line-up includes fiddling, jigging, beard growing and pea soup-making contests, as well as snow sculpting, music and dance. Five stages host family-friendly activities close to Fort Gibraltar, a recreation of the North West Company’s historic trading post.

SKI AT ASESSIPPI SKI AREA AND RESORT: Manitoba’s largest ski resort is a four-hour drive northwest of Winnipeg. The gentle slopes and availability of lessons make Asessippi ideal for youngsters,

inexperienced skiers and people looking to enjoy easy skiing and boarding. Its flood-lit slopes facilitate descents after nightfall and there’s a broad selection of accommodation. Activities such as snow biking and snowshoeing offer alternatives to skiing and there’s a tube park for snow tubing, during which people slide downhill enjoying the comfort of an inflated inner tube.

SKATE AT THE FORKS: Long a meeting place for First Nations peoples and later a location for fur trading, The Forks is at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers near Winnipeg’s Downtown. Hire skates to join locals on the Winter Park’s artificially cooled Plaza Skating Rink, where skating is possible into the springtime. Skate or play hockey on the Olympic-size rink by the CN Stage. Explore the Nestaweya River Trail with fellow skaters. Afterwards, pop into the nearby Forks Market or Canadian Museum of Human Rights.  •

BOn the road HOME FROM HOME

Marcus Leach and his family explore the highways and byways of Atlantic Canada in an RV, which proves to be the perfect vehicle for a memorable and immersive road trip

ear’ comes the excited cry from my five-year-old daughter, Dorothy.

Her words put us all on high alert as we gaze ahead on the country road we’ve been driving our RV along for the past half an hour, during which time Dorothy has been our chief animal spotter.

And there, no more than 100 metres ahead of us is not just one bear but three; a mother and her two young cubs lazing on the verge.

We slow down in an attempt not to startle them, wanting to savour this moment for as long as possible, only for the three of them to look up at us and slink off into the thick undergrowth. Gone but definitely never to be forgotten – as will be the case with so many of the experiences we have had exploring the Maritimes region of Canada.

Perfect for RVing

Having never previously been to Canada and wanting to make the most of our four weeks away as a family, we decided that the most practical and cost effective way to travel around would be by doing an RV road trip. Factor in a pre-booked itinerary that included all of our campground reservations and we had the perfect schedule to ensure we could focus on immersing ourselves in

the culture and landscapes of what for us was a new country.

After a thorough and comprehensive run through of how each aspect of the RV works from the team at Fraserway Rentals, we set off from Halifax, Nova Scotia, full of excitement for the journey ahead, quickly adjusting to driving on the right-hand side of the road in a vehicle that weighs six and a half tonnes.

Thankfully, other road users are very accommodating and by the time we arrive at Peggy’s Cove we are at ease and loving the freedom of being on the highway.

There are over 160 lighthouses in Nova Scotia, but there are few as impressive, both in terms of structure and location, as the one to be found on the wave-washed boulders that tumble into the ocean in the village of Peggy’s Cove.

The village itself is typical of Canada’s east coast, with colourful wooden houses perched along the narrow inlet and harbour where fishing boats bobbed in the water.

The small but perfectly located King Neptune Campground is our first overnight stop, where we learn that check-in at sites in Canada is as simple as providing passports and vehicle registration before being directed to your pitch. For us this was an oceanfront

spot with our own fire pit, something nearly all campgrounds offer, allowing us to end the day in true North American style: watching the sunset over the water while making s’mores on a crackling fire.

The opening week sees us take in much of Nova Scotia’s coastline, which is dotted with more of those quaint villages with bright-coloured buildings.

Fresh seafood abounds and lobster dinners become our speciality, the crustaceans freshly caught in Maritime waters.

It is only as we head deeper into the itinerary that we begin to see a different side to the region. Our days become filled with walks through swathes of verdant

“Nova Scotia’s history is brought to life by a handful of towns and villages that have been recreated”

green forests that make up several of the national parks here, often ending in swims at waterfalls and cascading rivers.

We are hopeful of seeing a moose, the most quintessential of Canada’s animals, venture down for a drink.

Of all the parks we visit there is one that stands out from the rest – Cape Breton.

Here, the mountains meet the sea and river canyons carve through ancient plateaus edged by rust-coloured cliffs. Dramatic headlands jut into the ocean and it is a place where moose and coyotes roam.

It is for this last reason we are on high alert as we set out along the famous Skyline Trail at day break, our every step as light as possible so as not to scare any animals.

An hour passes with no sightings before, with no warning, the moment arrives.

Around a bend, there in a clearing bathed in an ethereal light, stands a majestic animal.

We stop in our tracks and lock eyes with it for a split second before it turns and crashes through the trees, leaving us wondering if it was ever there at all.

Away from the natural beauty of Nova Scotia the history of the region is brought to life by a handful of towns and villages that are presented as if still in the 1800s.

These living museums, of which the Fortress of Louisbourg and Sherbrooke Village were the best, offer a fascinating insight into how life once was, the myriad of characters we meet whilst exploring the historical reconstructions adding to the authenticity of the experience.

We leave Louisbourg with freshly baked bread from a traditional bakery and coat hooks forged in the fire by the blacksmith.

Arriving back in Halifax we reflect on an adventure that will live long in the memory, one that leaves us longing to come back and explore more of this enchanting country.

While the eastern side of Canada doesn’t have the vast mountains found out west, it does have a striking and rugged coastline, with picture-perfect villages, expansive parks, vibrant cultures and an intriguing history.

It’s a destination that has everything you could possibly want for a family-trip.

Living is easy in an RV

“The question we get asked the most is ‘How did you all get on living in an RV?’’.

“Most who ask this presume the vehicle has a relatively small living space, but ours was not only well built and cleverly designed but spacious and with an extendable side that could be put out when at campgrounds.

“It had everything you would find in a house, including an en-suite bathroom, kitchen and dining area and we never felt cramped or in need of extra room.

“With a permanent double bed at the back, as well as another that could be left set up above the driver’s cab – which is where the children slept at night and made a den during the day – we never had to worry about making beds or breaking them down in the morning.

The whole process of going from driving the RV to setting it up at the campgrounds was simple and quick and the kids loved the sense of adventure that came with being on the road in our ‘home on wheels’.”

* Marcus Leach’s trip to Canada was booked and organised by the Caravan and Motorhome Club.

AN ICONIC COVERED BRIDGE IN NEW BRUNSWICK

STOP TO TAKE IN THE SCENERY

MARCUS AND FAMILY ON THE SKYLINE TRAIL

CANADA by RV

With its abundance of wide-open spaces, nature and varied scenery, Canada offers inspiring terrain for an RV driving holiday, says

Motorhomes are known in North America as recreational vehicles, a term commonly abbreviated to ‘RV’, and offer holidaymakers a great option for exploring the country at their own pace.

Stuart Forster

it can be an economical way of exploring Canada, especially for larger families, as accommodation and transportation are wrapped into one package,” she adds.

“Canada is perfect for RVing – you can’t get a bigger outdoors than Canada,” says Kathryn Munro, Head of Sales and Marketing at CanaDream. “To enjoy Canada you really should travel around...you get a better sense of the country, the people and the landscape from an RV. Waking up to lake views, mountain vistas and surrounded by nature is truly inspirational.”

The sentiment is echoed by Tracy Thompson, International Sales and Marketing Manager at Cruise America.

“Canada is perfect for RVing, with its wideopen roads, fabulous campsites, awesome wildlife and great outdoors.

“The beauty of RV travel is the freedom and flexibility it offers. There are no rigid rules or set timetables for travelling by RV and

Western Canada is particularly popular for RV holidays. For example, the route between Calgary and Vancouver enables travellers to experience the scenery of the Canadian Rockies in Banff and Glacier National Park in British Columbia’s interior. An RV is also ideal for experiencing the wildness and ruggedness of Vancouver Island.

Popular RV routes

“Ontario is also extremely popular, including Toronto, Niagara Falls and Algonquin Provincial Park,” adds Thompson.

One-way rentals that return an RV in a different place to the pick-up location, can incur an additional charge – however, one-way relocations offer holidaymakers opportunities to reduce that cost.

“We work with all the major tour operators that offer RV holidays in Canada, so smaller

travel agents can use their preferred suppliers to access our rates and availability and to make bookings,” says Thompson. CanaDream offers net rates on its B2B portal and its API functionality includes live bookings, training and staff fam trips.

Munro invites agents to reach out to CanaDream for assistance. “We are very much invested in our trade partners and work with key Canada specialists, as they are all very engaged in the country, have experienced teams to sell and represent our product and brand in the right way.”

Useful planning tips

When it comes to planning RV trips, Munro suggests prospective holidaymakers check out the CanaDream blog and talk to a Canada specialist tour operator about the various types of motorhomes available, their sleeping arrangements, the likely route and trip distance and inclusions for the price.

Beyond viewing sample itineraries, information and tips in the Cruise America Tourbook, Thompson offers a couple of handy tips. “If travelling between May and September we would suggest making campground reservations for the really popular national and provincial parks.

“And using the tourism websites for each province is a great place to start.” cruiseamericaspecialist.com canadream.com; cruiseamerica.com •

FAMILY FUN IN AN RV

Summer in

SUN PEAKS

The perfect add-on to a western Canada roadtrip, Sun Peaks in British Columbia is a hive of activity in the summer months, says Stuart Forster

Why sell it

Sun Peaks is a beautiful mountain village with an Alpine feel in central British Columbia. It’s a great option for people looking to take a break from the road during a self-drive trip in western Canada. There is a wide range of accommodation, with attractive options for road trippers on a budget, as well as those seeking more comfort and a little luxury.

It’s a place to embrace nature, breathe in the pine-scented air and relax.

Who to sell to

Active holidaymakers and lovers of mountain scenery are likely to appreciate spending time in Sun Peaks. Bikers of all abilities are drawn to the region, which is the birthplace of freeride mountain biking. Sun Peaks’ own lift-access bike park has over 83km of trails with nearly 600m elevation.

The resort’s scenic 18-hole golf course has obvious appeal to golfers, whilst the purpose-built village offers a relaxed welcome for all. Families of all ages can be assured it meets their requirements.

What to sell

Alpine yoga, disc golf and fly fishing are among the many activities accessible to visitors during the summertime.

Sun Peaks Bike Park, which spans Mount Tod, Sundance Mountain and the other trails, ensures plenty of enjoyment for bikers. There’s also a wealth of hiking routes and two and four hour guided tours on offer. Trail rides are also possible on horseback and lessons make horse-riding accessible to beginners. Youngsters over the age of five can spend time with draft horses and carriage rides are one of numerous activities with multi-generational appeal.

Water-based activities, including stand-up paddleboarding and canoeing, are possible on nearby lakes.

The compact, pedestrianised village has plenty of lodging options, from comfortable hotel rooms to well-appointed townhouses. Much of the accommodation is only a short walk to the chair lifts and the golf course, and the village’s dining options mean there’s no need to drive to restaurants.

How to sell

Sun Peaks makes for a great base to spend a few days and offers the option of excursions to the well-regarded wineries of Kelowna Valley or making a day trip to the spectacular waterfalls of Wells Gray Provincial Park. As well as making a stop-off on a road trip between Calgary and Vancouver, staying for two or three days can add variety and offer value for money.

When to sell

Whilst Sun Peaks (the second largest ski area in Canada) is an icon during the winter months, it transforms through the seasons and welcomes guests year-round. Outside of the ski season, the ideal time to visit is during summertime (July-September) when the alpine wildflowers are most prominent and the temperature is mild . sunpeaksresort.com •

ICouple ra c e back to NEWFOUNDLAND

After dashing across Canada courtesy of the BBC, Cathie Rowe and Tricia Sail returned to enjoy the scenic wonders and warm hospitality on offer in Newfoundland and Labrador at their own pace, writes Steve Hartridge

t didn’t take too long after winning the third series of the BBC’s Race Across the World in 2022 for Cathie Rowe and Tricia Sail to decide they wanted to return to Canada.

“Canada is so diverse, both culturally and geographically, and every province we travelled through felt like its own country,” says Cathie.

“Wherever we looked, we saw vastness. The mountains in British Columbia and Alberta were towering over the still-frozen lakes, with fingers of snow creeping down the mountain sides. The air was so fresh, I felt rejuvenated just being outside. We knew we would go back.”

The friends’ time in the TV spotlight saw them make their way across all but two of the country’s provinces and territories, but it is Newfoundland and Labrador that will always hold special memories for the pair as this is where, on the top of Cape Spear on Canada’s most easterly point of land, they discovered they had won the ‘race’.

So, it was appropriate that a second trip in summer 2024 saw them return to the Atlantic province, taking advantage of WestJet’s direct service between Gatwick and St. John’s.

Cathie says a big factor that helped the pair cross the finishing line first in RATW was the help and assistance they received along the way, but particularly in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Overwhelming emotions

“My husband has family in Toronto and I had visited the city and Niagara Falls previously so I already knew that Canadians are very friendly and generous, and this was again demonstrated by the help that we received, particularly at the end of the race,” she says.

“Near the end, when we had just found out that we were not going to make it to the finish line that evening, a gentleman called Dean collected us from a gas station and took us home to his wife, Terri-Lynne.

“They contacted everyone they knew to try to get us a lift to St. John’s for the following morning, but nobody was going that way, so, at 05.00, with a packed breakfast and hot coffee, Dean drove us

there, a road trip of four hours – and the rest is, well, history!”

Cathie admits that returning to Newfoundland and retracing some of their steps at times left them a little “overwhelmed at the enormity of their achievements”, but describes being back as regular tourists as “fantastic”.

“For starters, having our phones with us this time made it easy to navigate, she laughs (the TV show prohibits these).

“My experience of driving there is that it is very easy – and I only found myself on the wrong side of the road once,” she laughs.

However, Cathie’s advice to agents is to plan those driving days carefully as the distance between towns and attractions can be lengthy.

“Our journey from St. John’s to Grand Falls-Windsor saw us travel around 420 kilometres and it took around four and a half hours. Then, it was another 150 kilometres – that was just under two hours’ driving – to Twillingate.”

POINT AMOUR LIGHTHOUSE, LABRADOR

CATHIE’S ZIPLINE ADVENTURE

“The following day, we drove 200 kilometres, about two and a half hours, to New-Wes-Valley for a wonderful kayak and glamping adventure. Then down to Bay Bulls was a four-hour journey, covering 344 kilometres, with a short hop of 43 kilometres on to Ferryland. The last leg back to St. John’s took us just over an hour to drive the 77 kilometres.”

Fabulous highlights

Cathie says Newfoundland and Labrador presented many highlights.

“Our memorable moments included the Exploits River Zip Line adventure we did in Grand Falls-Windsor. The series of lines zigzag the beautiful Exploits River. This is a brilliant recommendation for families who love activities with an adrenaline rush.

“For those not so keen on throwing themselves off wooden platforms, three kilometres upriver is the Salmonid Interpretation Centre, where in the summer salmon can be seen jumping up the Salmon Ladder Fishway to migrate upstream,” she adds.

Street in St. John’s. It involves a shot of Screech rum, flambé bologna, a close encounter with a codfish, a personalised certificate and a photo opportunity –definitely adults only for this one!”.

Cathie adds: ”One of the first things we noticed about St. John’s is how colourful it is. Many of the houses are brightly painted and are dotted amongst the hillsides of the city. They are known locally as ‘Jellybean houses’. St. John’s has a lovely relaxed atmosphere and once you travel outside the city there is a real sense of community in the smaller villages, with a lot of music and singing.

“Accents here have a definite Irish lilt to them, layered with English and French influences, and there is certainly a good craic to be had.”

“Now connected to the UK by a WestJet flight, Newfoundland and Labrador is the perfect destination to either start or end your Canadian adventure”

The pair also enjoyed their kayaking and glamping experience in New-Wes-Valley with Homestead Adventures. “This was wonderful, and again an ideal suggestion for families,” Cathie adds.

“The boat tours are also very enjoyable, and the coastline is spectacular and home to thousands of sea birds.

“However, we were too early in the season to see the whales and the icebergs.” (Ed: April to August are the months to spot them together.)

In Twillingate, the friends got to enjoy a particular form of Newfoundland hospitality, the ‘Kitchen Party’.

“Essentially, a singer hosts guests in their own lounge and performs songs while snacks like homemade cookies and fresh lemonade are served. We saw a duo, whose song lyrics told of their experiences of growing up and living in the province. They were heartfelt and came with a toetapping melody,” Cathie enthuses.

“A particular favourite memory though would have to be the ‘Screeching In’ ceremony at Christian’s Bar on Water

But probably the most moving moment arrived when Cathie and Tricia found themselves back at Cape Spear.

“That was emotional and special – and with no backpacks this time either! We stood in silence for a while, just absorbing the sounds of the waves below, with the birds circling above, taking it all in,” she recalls.

Good connections

Now connected to the UK by that (fivehour) WestJet flight, Newfoundland and Labrador is an easy hop across the Atlantic and should be on the wish list of all Canada-bound Brits, Cathie recommends.

“It really is the perfect destination to either start or end your Canadian adventure,” Cathie suggests.

“Depending on the season, spending a few days in Twillingate looking for Icebergs and humpback whales while puffins fly overhead provides a perfect contrast to the big cities to the east and west.

“Alternatively, after the culture and business focus of Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal or Québec City, why not stride out along one of the many hiking trails in the rugged beauty of St. John’s, just a short flight away from the UK,” she says.

Cathie and Tricia enjoyed a jam-packed week, but still feel there is so more to explore in Newfoundland and Labrador.“I am sure that we will be back!” Cathie says. •

CATHIE GETS READY TO ZIP LINE

TRICIA KAYAKING IN NEW-WES-VALLEY

BARRETT & MACKAY PHOTO

COLOURFUL ST. JOHNS

‘Come from away’

FOR A FIRST-CLASS TRIP

Adam Hanmer joins agents on a four-province FAM in Canada’s Maritime provinces for a week of unbeatable scenery, wildlife and warm hospitality

Kissing a frozen cod is not something you get to do on most agent FAM trips but if you go to Newfoundland and Labrador it just has to be done!

For getting “Screeched-In” is an initiation to become an honorary Newfoundlander, the local way of welcoming ‘Come from Away’ folk to the province. We also donned a Sou’wester hat and drank a sizeable shot of rum (screech) to “pass the test”.

Newfoundland and Labrador is known as “The rock” for its tough rugged landscape – but those who live there are some of the warmest people you will find anywhere. Their accents are a fascinating mix of Canadian, Irish and West Country English – and the destination is now just five hours’ flying time from London via WestJet’s London Gatwick–St. Johns service.

And St. Johns is where our trip started, with a hike up to the Cabot Tower for a view over the city and the famous narrows harbour entrance. For me, the charm of St. Johns is found in its pubs and restaurants where there is always fresh seafood, local beer and top live music.

An excursion to Cape Spear, the most easterly point of North America, is also a must do.

Whale watching

Up the coast, the cute village of Trinity is another gem. We spent two days here in homely historic houses, which allowed us to host a “kitchen party”.

A highlight was whale watching with Kris from Sea of Whales, in his rib. It was a calm day as we headed out in search of minke and humpback whales. It was the end of the season but we spotted a minke whale, a feeding frenzy of giant tuna, a baby puffin and an eagle.

A scenic short flight took us back to Halifax, Nova Scotia, to meet with the wider group of agents. First Class Holidays, Destination Canada, Air Canada and the four maritime provinces teamed up for an epic Canada Fest 2025 FAM trip. Twenty-Five agents were split into four groups with the others heading to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

TO ‘THE ROCK’

Newfoundland sayings

‘Arse on dat’ Having a lot of aesthetic appeal.

‘Come from away’ Someone who isn’t from Newfoundland.

‘God love your cotton socks’ Thank you.

‘Got me drove’

You’re/they’re annoying me.

Got to get me moose b’y I have to go moose hunting.

Hard ticket. Someone who causes trouble.

Lard Tunderin’. Used to express exasperation.

I dies at you. You’re funny

Agents on those other trips had similar daring tales of scenic hikes, friendly locals, sea fishing, fab food, kayaking, beer and wine tasting.

We had an extra 24 hours in Halifax and enjoyed a Halifax Hoppa Tour of the harbour, visited the Citadel – which affords great views –and had a fun perfume mixing experience. Agents should recommend Atlantic Canada as it is so close, has beautiful scenery, historic sites, great food, wildlife experiences and provides the warmest of Canadian welcomes.

Book it with... First Class Holidays

Newfoundland and Labrador Explorer is a 15-day self-drive itinerary that takes in St. John’s, Trinity, Twillingate, Rocky Harbour, L’Anse au Clair, St Anthony, Cow Head and Gander. Departing June 7 2025, it is priced from £3,199pp and includes flights, car rental and 13 nights’ accommodation. fcholidays.com

WELCOME

CAPE SPEAR HISTORIC SITE

ON A MISSION TO SPOT WHALES

“WE’VE BEEN ‘SCREECHED IN’”

TAKING OFF Toronto is

Virgin Atlantic’s new daily service between London Heathrow and Toronto Pearson begins on March 30, 2025, which will make the Ontario city even more of an enticing city break, says Peter Ellegard

Toronto is city that rarely stands still and both first-time and repeat visitors will find plenty to entertain them. Below are some suggestions for a stay and play break.

Ice and easy

Winter 2025/26 will see ice skating on a figure-of-eight trail along The Bentway and an outdoor skating rink open at the Evergreen Brick Works (DecemberFebruary), while the fountain at Nathan Phillips Square will again transform into an outdoor ice rink (December-March).

Physical attractions

One of Toronto’s newest attractions is the downtown iARTS Museum, which displays a series of larger-than-life art installations and murals to create 3D illusions. Visitors can place themselves in a giant bowl of noodles or swing on a wrecking ball like pop star Miley Cyrus.

Coming in 2025 in the Entertainment District is Flyover, an immersive experience where guests’ seats lift, dip and turn in front of a 23-metre, wrap-around screen with wind, mist and other effects to make them feel like they are soaring over landscapes.

Rooms with a view

Among Toronto’s new hotels, the TOOR Hotel is a 33-storey lifestyle hotel and residence with 232 guestrooms and suites in the Garden District. The first such property by Canadian hotelier Sukhdev Toor, it will be followed by three more boutique TOOR Hotel collection properties in Toronto over the next five years.

Opening in spring 2025, the Nobu Hotel Toronto will offer 36 suites, a private lounge, wellness facility and two-level Nobu Restaurant in one of two 45-storey residential towers above the historic Pilkington Glass Factory in the vibrant Entertainment District. The hotel will sit at the top of the west tower, giving panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline. Also opening in early 2025, the 138-room Andaz Toronto-Yorkville will occupy several floors of 85-storey skyscraper The One, a luxury mixed-use tower that will be the tallest building in Canada and Toronto’s second-tallest structure after the CN Tower.

Offers not to pass up

The Toronto Museum Pass includes admission to seven popular museums in the city – the Aga Khan Museum, Bata Shoe Museum, Gardiner Museum, Little Canada, Ontario Science Centre, Royal Ontario Museum and Textile Museum of Canada.

The pass is available as one-day or threeday options with discounts for children and seniors, offering savings of more than 40%.

The new Toronto Brew Pass features 23 of Toronto’s craft breweries, available for tastings over one, three or seven days. Participating breweries include Bellwoods Brewery and Steam Whistle Brewing, in the historic John Street Roundhouse.

It’s coming home

Toronto is one of 16 host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is planning to organise a series of fan events “to showcase its multicultural identity through its neighbourhoods, with a theme of “The World in a City”. destinationtoronto.com •

DOWNTOWN TORONTO

TORONTO WILL HOST SIX WORLD CUP GAMES

Highlights in SASKATCHEWAN

Vast stretches of prairie and intriguing villages and cities set Saskatchewan apart, says Jo Reeder

GET YOUR CULTURAL FIX AT WANUSKEWIN HERITAGE PARK:

Discover the history of the Indigenous people of the Northern Plains at Canada’s longest operating archaeological site, known as a place that promised peace and harmony. They came here to hunt bison, gather plants and perform ceremonies. Around 200,000 artifacts have been uncovered over the years, including teeth, bones, tools, pottery and seeds. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the Wanuskewin culture and view bison along designated prairie trails. Located 5km north of Saskatoon, this should feature on any Saskatchewan itinerary.

STAY AT DAKOTA DUNES RESORT:

Visitors looking for an authentic travel experience should book a stay at this resort located on Indigenous Whitecap Dakota Territory. Designed, built and operated by members of the Whitecap First Nation, it offers 155 rooms, indoor pool, fitness area

and a farm-to-table restaurant. Surrounded by sand dunes, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities alongside traditional Dakota programmes. This includes Pow Wow dance performances, cultural familiarisation workshops and Bannock baking around the campfire, with fascinating stories told by a member of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.

TAKE TO THE WATER: In the heart of Saskatchewan, Thompson’s Resort sits beside Otter Lake. Stay at one of the 35 lodges or glamp on a nearby island. Go in search of Indigenous rock paintings on a boat tour or rent a canoe. It’s easy to switch off surrounded by wildlife and a vast network of waterways. It’s also the departure point to visit five outpost camps, day fly-out lakes and Twin Falls Lodge, an all-inclusive, fly-in fishing destination located in the beautiful Boreal forest of Northern Saskatchewan.

MEET THE MOUNTIES: An iconic sight in Canada, Mounties are an integral

part of the country’s history. Learn all about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the RCMP Heritage Centre in Regina. Formed in 1873, the heritage centre retraces history with a combination of traditional exhibits, live events and virtual reality experiences. Six exhibits and a driving simulator transport visitors through the “March of the Mounties”, showing the evolution from a frontier police service to today’s modern-day Mounties.

GO UNDERGROUND: Once home to gangsters and rumrunners, Moose Jaw is a must-visit when in Saskatchewan. The town was transformed from a sleepy ghost town into a thriving prairie city where the plucky pioneer spirit prevailed. Take three immersive underground journeys at the Tunnels of Moose Jaw. Chicago Connection takes visitors back to 1929 and the Prohibition-era bootleggers, at Passage to Fortune clients experience the life of a Chinese immigrant working at an

underground laundry and Bunker 24’s backdrop is a 1950s Cold War bunker telling the story of Canada’s growth.

SADDLE UP: Horses and cattle ranching are an intrinsic part of Saskatchewan. In the southwest, visitors can explore the wide-open spaces and Cypress Hills by horseback. Live the life of a cowboy at Historic Reesor Ranch, home to six generations of the Reesor family. Stay at this authentic working ranch, enjoy guided trail rides and join wranglers as they herd cattle the way it’s been done for over 100 years. When darkness falls, head to the Ranch Hall Grill for cowboy poetry around the campfire.

FIND YOUR INNER COWBOY AT LA

REATA RANCH: In the Saskatchewan River valley on the shores of Lake Diefenbaker, explore 5,000 acres of canyons, vast rivers, open prairie landscapes and sandy beaches on horseback. Take daily rides with the resident rancher to help round

up the cattle. Or fish or swim in the lake. At the end of the day recount cowboy stories and socialise over a game of darts in La Reata Saloon.

HIKE, SWIM, SLEEP: In the forested north of Saskatchewan sits Prince Albert National Park. Escape to the wilderness in an RV or camp in this pristine forest idyll. Choose from 17 hiking trails that offer short walks, day hikes and multi-day tours into verdant landscapes. Families are well catered for in the resort village of Waskesiu, with restaurants, accommodation and countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Keen wildlife photographers can tour scenic driving routes and go in search of bison, elk, bears, deer and foxes.

VISIT ONE OF THE QUIETEST PLACES ON EARTH: Outdoor adventures abound at Grasslands National Park. Spanning 730 square kilometres of prairie landscape, the park is known for its striking

badlands formations and expansive grasslands. It’s also a designated Dark Sky Preserve. Discover natural wonders and hunt for dinosaur fossils as you explore remnants of a mass extinction boundary. With options to camp, hike or drive through the park – the 20km Ecodrive Scenic Tour is a popular route – keen photographers can snap wild vistas.

CYPRESS HILLS INTERPROVINCIAL PARK: This forested plateau on the border between Saskatchewan and Alberta rises 1,392m above sea level and is the province’s highest geographical point. Walk amongst wildflowers, get lost in white spruce forests or watch the sunset from the Conglomerate Cliffs. Thrill-seekers can zipline across the forest canopy whilst history buffs should head to the Fort Walsh National Historic Site to hear stories of the lawless days of rotgut whiskey runners and Canada’s role in the aftermath of the Battle of the Little Bighorn.  •

A-Z OF A CANADIAN Winte r

With its evocative snowy landscapes offering a host of pursuits, seasonal festivals and cities, towns and villages literally sparkling with festive cheer, Canada offers at least 26 reasons for a winter visit, says Stuart Forster

A is for Adrenaline

Winter throws up a host of adrenalineinducing activities, such as snowmobiling, fat biking and snowkiting. Helicopter rides and zip lines over Niagara Falls, ice caving near Lake Superior and ice climbing in the Bow Valley, Alberta, are also popular. More surprisingly, surfing is possible in the waters of Nova Scotia and off Vancouver. Then there’s ‘skijoring’, where skiers are pulled behind horses. See this in Yukon and Alberta.

B is for Blue Skies

No, not ‘Bears’ for this letter as by winter most black and grizzlies have hunkered down for their hibernation while polar bears are miles from view out hunting on the frozen seas. Instead, think Canada’s crisp blue skies and plenty of sunshine – no interminable drab, grey days here – that brings opportunities to embrace winter by spending time outdoors and snapping some stunning photos.

C is for Cross-Country Skiing

The image of skiers and snowboarders weaving downhill has become synonymous with winter sports while the abundance and accessibility of cross-country skiing is often overlooked by UK travellers. It’s a hugely popular activity in Canada (and much

easier on the knees), and is a great way of combining cardiovascular exercise with viewing winter landscapes and socialising. Numerous trails wend through a winterscape in most provinces and territories across the country, including in the Okanagan Valley, Ontario, which attracts elite athletes with its early season snow, Mount Washington on Vancouver Island and Prince Albert National Park in Saskatchewan.

D is for Dog Sledding

Dog sledding has long been a method used by Indigenous peoples to traverse snowy, icebound winter landscapes. In the 19th century this environmentally friendly form of transport was utilised to deliver mail to northern outposts, so is well embedded in Canadian heritage. Today, visitors can experience what it’s like to interact with teams of dogs and swish across the countryside during tours that last from a couple of hours to multi-day adventures. The experiences include Pourvoirie du Lac Beauport, just 15 minutes from Québec City.

E is for Eating Well

The growth of the farm-to-fork movement collaborations between chefs and artisanal food producers and the value placed on local and regional produce means that there’s a

variety of healthy culinary treats for visitors to sample across the country. Held during February, the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl is a winter food festival celebrating the heritage of the lobster fishing industry. Other events that provide gastronomes with reasons to travel in winter include Winterlicious, a popular food festival in Toronto, and the Vancouver Dine Out Festival.

F is for Festive

Canada is an unbeatable destination for winter holidays before, during or after the festive season. As the New Year gets underway several of the major cities host festivals that keep spirits high, including the oldest and daddy of them all, the Carnaval

GREAT SKIING IN WHISTLER

LIGHTS OF THE NORTH, MANITOBA

DOG SLEDS IN SAINT-ALEXISDES-MONTS, QUEBEC

ZIPINE AT NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO

de Québec in Québec City. Winterlude, in the Ottawa region, is held over three weekends and has something for everyone. Montréal hosts the Igloofest electronic dance music festival and the multifaceted Montréal en Lumière. Manitoba’s Francophone heritage and its modern culture, is celebrated at Winnipeg’s Festival du Voyageur.

G is for Glaciers

Canada is dotted with dozens of glaciers yet many are in locations reachable only by the most intrepid explorers. One of the most accessible is North America’s largest, the Columbia Icefield, which straddles the Banff and Jasper National Parks. Its extremities, known as toes, form six named glaciers: these are the Athabasca, Castleguard,

Columbia, Dome, Stutfield and Saskatchewan glaciers. Driving the Icefields Parkway, which remains open throughout the winter, offers stupendous views of the region.

H is for Heli-skiing

Off-piste skiers may be tempted to try heliskiing, a thrilling way to experience virgin powder that involves being transported to the starting point by helicopter.

The ride presents impressive backcountry views while the descent often sees groups having slopes to themselves. Heli-ski accommodation is usually ultra-exclusive, providing travel agents opportunities to maximise commissions. Local operators offer heli-skiing in British Columbia, “the home of heli-skiing”, and Alberta.

I is for Ice

For some genuine ice times, overnight at the Hôtel de Glace, the ice hotel near Québec City. Ice sculptures are the stars at festivals such as Winterlude in Ottawa, Chiseled, an ice carving competition in Edmonton, and Ice Magic in Banff and Lake Louise. In Jasper National Park strap crampons to your boots and join a guide as you take on towering walls of iridescent blue ice in Mailgne Canyon, or join a tour and explore Canada’s ice roads in the Northwest Territories – you can even ride on the ice in a limousine!

J is for Jigging Rods

Ice fishing is a popular winter pastime and anglers frequently head home with a bountiful haul of trout, northern pike, grayling, walleye and other fish. Jigging rods are a popular type of kit while augers are essential for drilling through the thick ice. Guided fishing trips are a way for newcomers to learn what to do at an ideal location. Experience an overnight ice fishing adventure on Lake Nipissing, in Northeastern Ontario, Tobin Lake, Saskatchewan, or Lake Of Two Mountains, near Montréal, Québec. Local operators will help you obtain the necessary licences required.

K is for Knitwear

Winter the time for donning warm and comfortable knitwear, indoors and out. Practical as well as stylish, people look good while snapping winter selfies in snow pants (or salopettes), bobble hats and beanie (or tuques as they are termed in Canada).

To take the right clothing, pre-trip planning is essential. “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing,” wrote outdoors expert and author Alfred Wainwright. That phrase has become part of the Canadian national psyche.

With the right gear and layers, staying warm and dry is easy.

COLUMBIA ICEFIELD, ALBERTA

HOTEL DE GLACE, QUÉBEC CITY

WINTER FUN ON THE ICE

L is for Lodges

Log cabins are historically associated with frontier life in Canada, offering welcome shelter and warmth in the depth of winter. The techniques once used to construct cabins are now employed to build rustic lodges offering home-style comforts in rural locations. Sitting in front of a crackling fire after a day of activity in the fresh air of the backwoods is difficult to beat. Staying at the likes of Purcell Mountain Lodge in B.C., Smoothstone Lodge in Saskatchewan and Fairmont Chateau Montebello in Québec will please travellers looking for that quintessential Canadian winter experience.

M is for Mummering

The tradition of mummering, which has seen a resurgence of popularity in recent years, is associated with the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It sees people dress up in colourful, whacky costumes going from house to house. Perhaps carrying a hobby horse or a noise-making ‘ugly stick’ fashioned from a broomstick, a mummer covers their face and masks their voice and body shape. The idea is that they are greeted by hosts who try to guess their identity.

The tradition is celebrated during the Mummers Festival in St. John’s in December, which culminates in a parade attracting hundreds of participants.

N is for Northern Lights

Canada is one of the most reliable places in the world for viewing the Northern Lights. The phenomenon is visible in locations across the country, thanks to its northern latitude, low levels of light pollution and climate conditions that frequently result in optimal viewing conditions due to little or no or low cloud cover.

Much of Canada’s Yukon territory extends

into the Arctic Circle, which, alongside its low population densities and swathes of pristine wilderness, makes it one of the best places to see the aurora. You can also see the aurora in British Columbia, Alberta, Québec and Newfoundland and Labrador.

The 11-year cycle of solar activity, which causes the aurora borealis to dance in the sky, is set to peak between now and 2026–and this ‘solar maximum’ is the ideal time to see the Northern Lights.

O is for Outdoor Recreation

Canada offers oodles of opportunities for travellers to appreciate the joys of outdoor recreation during winter. Beyond the abundance of skiing and snowboarding, snow tubing is an easy way of descending slopes across the country. Snowshoeing is a fun way of exploring, with guided tours a way for first-timers to gain instruction and have confidence in what they are doing. Group tours are also a good way for first-timers to learn how to handle a snowmobile and have fun scooting across the landscape. Several UK operators offer snowmobile experiences in popular snowmobiling destinations with extensive trail systems, such as MontTremblant, Québec, and Muskoka, Ontario.

“Ice hockey fans look forward to the autumn because early October sees the return of the National Hockey League (NHL)”

P is for Powder

Experienced skiers and snowboarders will go that extra mile – or several thousand in the case of UK travellers –  to experience the famous ‘Champagne Powder’ that settles on the slopes of resorts in British Columbia such as Fernie, Kicking Horse and Revelstoke. Many snow sports aficionados rate the snow as the best in the world. Light and dry, it’s a joy to fizz through the powder-like snow on the way downhill. Many skiers rate the gliding experience as less taxing than being out on wet snow, which is heavier, meaning that a day’s skiing can be all the more enjoyable.

Q is for Quietude

We can all benefit from a little peace and quiet, ‘me time’ to read, think or work things out in our personal space in a place where being calm and peaceful is more possible. Winter in Canada can offer some soul-

AURORA HUNTING WITH NORTHSTAR ADVENTURES, YUKON

SNOWSHOE ADVENTURE IS AVAILABLE IN MANY

NAMUSHKA LODGE, YELLOWKNIFE, YUKON

soothing experiences, with cosy lodges, boutique accommodation and upscale hotels all options as places to stay.

More adventurous types might like the idea of winter camping to embrace nature and the seasonal landscape in Parks Canada’s oTENTik tents, available in national parks such as Point Pelee, Ontario, and Riding Mountain, Manitoba.

R is for Road Trips

Road trips are not just for summer as vast swathes of Canada remain accessible in winter. Driving offers opportunities to pause en route for sightseeing and winter activities in a variety of locations, while stops in towns and villages bring opportunities to engage with local residents and pick up regional treats, adding an element of authenticity that travellers will remember. The Irish Loop in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Badlands of Alberta and the Chemin du Roy between Montréal and Québec City are among the beautiful road trips on offer in winter.

S is for Snow

Seasonal gastronomy, dazzling sunshine and outdoor activities are all reasons to travel to Canada in winter, but the real star of the season and the main reason the country is one of the globe’s winter wonderlands is snow. The Canadian Rockies are known for

Champagne powder snow that is light, dry, and fluffy and winter sports enthusiasts can look forward to virtually guaranteed snow between late November and early May.

T is for Tobogganing

The term toboggan comes from the Mi’kmaq First Nation’s word for “sledge”. It was adopted by French-speaking Canadiens before entering English dictionaries.

Long before scrolling through social media feeds provided entertainment on winter nights, sliding down hills in toboggans did. Canada’s most famous run is perhaps the Au 1884 toboggan slide, named after its inaugural year, in Québec City. But tobogganing and sledding is popular across the country at locations such as Whistler Olympic Park, Calgary’s WinSport Canada Olympic Park and Halifax’s Citadel Hill.

U is for Unparalleled

Canada offers unparalleled winter scenery and hospitality. Frozen lakes set amid snowstrewn landscapes and mountains quilted with white present beautiful backdrops for holiday snaps. Many of the national and provincial parks remain accessible during winter, offering travellers unique adventures. Canada’s renowned hospitality also guarantees plenty of winter warmth, with locals usually willing to offer personal

insights into, and tips about, local attractions. And, it is often said, “People make places”.

V is for Valentine’s Day

Consider a romantic break in Canada to celebrate togetherness on Valentine’s Day. Agents should recommend the idea by suggesting a city break in Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Calgary or Winnipeg.

Across the country, hotel prices are typically at their lowest from January into March, as are visitor numbers, making it a good time of the year to visit museums, galleries and other attractions.

And Valentine’s Day might also be the day to splurge on a special meal, perhaps at one of Canada’s Michelin-star restaurants in Vancouver, Toronto or Montréal.

CHOOSE WINTER FOR AN INDIGENOUS EXPERIENCE

WARMING

KLUANE NATIONAL PARK, YUKON

W is for Warming Up

That feeling of warming up in front of a fireplace after spending time outdoors is one of the joys of winter. Visitors to Canada can also warm themselves on Banff and Lake Louise’s Hot Chocolate Trail, along which more than 20 cafés and restaurants serve warm drinks with a festive twist. Hot chocolate trails exist in Niagara Falls and on Prince Edward Island, while the Ontario city of Barrie has a Cocao Trail in February. Spending time in a spa is also an enjoyable way of warming up. In recent years several chic but affordable spas have opened across the country. Winnipeg’s Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature is one of the places where combining bathing and viewing the Northern Lights is a possibility.

X is for Xmas Markets

The Distillery Winter Village in Toronto’s Distillery District is family-friendly and has a towering illuminated tree. And Canada has some enchanting Christmas markets away from the country’s major cities. An alternative to Europe’s well-known markets, they are ideal for picking up artisanal gifts and sampling seasonal cuisine – often with a local twist. Kitchener, which has a strong German heritage, hosts a Christkindl Market. Longueuil, on the opposite bank of the St.

Lawrence River to Montréal, has attractive stalls in wood huts. Kelowna Winter Street Market is another market with a convivial vibe, as is the Banff Christmas Market, with music and an al fresco fire lounge.

Y is for YVR, YYZ, YUL etc.

Major airports are allocated a three-letter code by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Those in Canada often begin with Y, which indicates whether or not there’s a weather station at or near the airport. For example, Montréal–Trudeau International Airport’s code is YUL, Toronto Pearson Airport’s is YYZ and Vancouver International Airport has YVR. All are set up to cope with winter conditions, with excellent de-icing and snow-clearing equipment.

Z is for Zamboni

Zamboni is the name given to vehicles that resurface ice rinks. It’s used to clean, polish, and wet the ice and can remove up to 2,500 pounds of snow. They are a common sight at ice hockey matches in Canada, taking to the ice during breaks between periods of play. North America’s top teams compete in the National Hockey League (NHL), whose regular season runs from October into April. Canada has seven NHL teams: Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Montréal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks and Winnipeg Jets. Attending a game at any level is a great way to experience Canada’s national winter sport and appreciate the passions it engenders. •

BOTA BOTA SPA, MONTRÉAL

FAIRYTALE LAKE LOUISE IN WINTER

ICE SKATING IN MONTREAL

Winter stay in

VANCOUVER

A natural add-on to a ski break or wider British Columbia road trip, a Vancouver city stay makes perfect sense, says Charlotte Flach

Why sell it

A Vancouver city stay should be part of every ski or winter package to British Columbia.

Abundant with the wonders of nature just on its doorstep, Vancouver is surrounded by the Coast Mountains and on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, creating the perfect nature/ city combination.

During the festive season the city is the home of bucket list activities such as the Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Snowshoe Fondue and the Light Walk at Grouse Mountain.

Thanks to a mild climate, Vancouver is a year-round destination and most of the product offerings can be experienced in the winter months.

Who to sell to

Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the city’s diverse food scene, especially during Dine Out Vancouver Festival, which runs for three weeks annually from mid-January to early February. Over 380 restaurants, wineries and craft breweries participate each year in Canada’s largest celebration of food and drink. The rest of the year, visitors can sample delicacies on a food tour of Granville Island Market or seek out a Michelin star restaurant with new additions featured in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Vancouver! Vancouver’s compact, walkable downtown

means you can stroll across the city in less than 45 minutes, making it easy to explore the unique neighbourhoods. Or visitors can take in the sights on a Hop On Hop Off bus tour. Families will enjoy a visit to Stanley Park, a 1,001-acre temperate rainforest. The ninekilometre seawall around the park is great for cycling tours or walking. In the heart of the park you’ll find the Vancouver Aquarium, which is stocked with tropical marine life.

When to sell

December through March is winter in Vancouver, but the mild temperatures

allow for outdoor exploration. However, you can still find snow by heading to the North Shore to Grouse Mountain, the Peak of Vancouver. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding and tubing or whizz across the ice on skates, join a snowshoe tour, or sample a fondue experience in the chalet.

How to sell

Vancouver offers a safe cosmopolitan city experience that is an ideal addition to a preof post- ski holiday for clients flying in and out of Vancouver International Airport. They can enjoy three or four days in the buzzing city, getting a shopping or culinary fix, before heading off to shred the slopes of British Columbia’s ski resorts or seek out the dark skies of the Yukon for the chance to experience the Northern Lights. The Vancouver Specialist Program provides an immersive experience into the life and allure of Vancouver. Through this comprehensive training, you’ll explore the city’s rich art, culture, and outdoor adventures, gaining insights that will help you offer clients an expert view of what a trip to Vancouver can deliver.

VancouverSpecialist.ca •

A CITY SURROUNDED BY WATER

In Vancouver

GREEN CITY: Stanley Park, a 1,001-acre temperate rainforest, has over 27 kilometres of trails and is great for cycling. Circuiting the nine-kilometre trail will take about one hour. Learn about local indigenous history with a visit to the story poles at Brockton Point.

SKATES ON: Lace up your skates at Robson Square in the heart of the city after an evening at the Vancouver Art Gallery or shopping on Robson Street. Or, take a quick 12-minute Seabus ride across to the North Shore and enjoy skating at the Shipyards in Lonsdale Quay, admiring the Vancouver skyline at night from across the water.

LIGHT UP: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is home to its renowned aerial walkway, as well as newer attractions including treetop adventures and Cliffwalk, with views of the Capilano river. Throughout the winter months, Capilano offers Fright Nights, Canyon Lights, and Love Lights, creating a glittering rainforest walk.

KEEP SCORE: Watching professional local hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks, play at Rogers Arena is a must in the winter months. Even those who aren’t hockey fans will enjoy the atmosphere on the team’s home ice. Their season runs from October to May.

ORDER UP: In 2022 Vancouver received its inaugural MICHELIN Guide. As of 2024 the city now has 10 one-star restaurants and 76 restaurants featured overall. For more culinary delights, Granville Island Public Market is a must-visit for local produce, gourmet treats, and international cuisine. Insider tip: Travel via Aqua Bus to experience the beauty of False Creek.

WINTER WELLNESS

Embrace Canada’s wellness offerings in winter to relax, rejuvenate, boost immunity and slip into a more tranquil zone. April Waterston suggests six unique options

Fairmont

Lake Louise, Alberta

In Summer 2025, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise expects to open its new state-of-the-art ecofriendly Thermal Wellness Facility as part of the resort’s recent renovations. Expect a sequence of vitality pools, saunas built with sustainable wood, a dedicated hydrotherapy room and nourishing food and drink options produced from locally sourced ingredients. chateau-lake-louise.com

Scandinave Spa, MontTremblant Québec

Embrace the silence with a digital detox at the Wi-Fi-free Scadinave Spa Mont-Tremblant in Québec. Surrounded by the Laurentian Forest and overlooking the Diable River, guests can root themselves in nature while journeying through cycles of hot, cold and relaxation installations, said to improve sleep quality, stimulate immunity and support mental health scandinave.com/mont-tremblant

Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, Yukon

De-stress from everyday pressures in one of Eclipse Nordic Hot Spring’s relaxation rooms. On a sunny day the Meditation Solarium is ideal for sunbathing in every season. Outside, the Japaneseinspired Eclipse pool and onsen feature soothing sights and sounds of cascading waterfalls. In darker months, there’s a good chance the northern lights will appear. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca

Grail Springs, Ontario

An easy 2.5-hour drive away from Toronto and Ottowa lies Grail Springs, a spa retreat in Bancroft, Ontario. Unwind with daily yoga, evening meditations, guided hikes, an outdoor hot/cold water circuit, workshops and more. Or experience true tranquility with an array of unique treatments including immune-boost therapies, energy work, vibroacoustics and spiritual guidance. grailsprings.com

Halcyon Hot Springs, BC

Guests can soak in the healing qualities of the mineral-rich hot springs – known as ‘great medicine water’ by the First Nations – at Halcyon Hot Springs Resort. On the shores of the Arrow Lakes, north of Nakusp in British Columbia, the pools vary in temperature from the hottest pools at 41°C/107°F to 29°C/85°F. The pools’ unique high lithium content is said to have antidepressant properties. halcyon-hotsprings.com

Mysa Spa, Prince Edward Island

Mysa is inspired by an ancient Scandinavian ritual that alternates hot and cold exposure with rest. Guests can choose from a menu of treatments including a hot eucalyptus steam bath or barrel sauna, a cold plunge bucket or Nordic bath, and a restful break by the outdoor wood fireplace or mezzanine meditation. Rinse and repeat. mysanordicspa.com

Winter Invictus is a

GAME CHANGER

As Whistler and Vancouver prepare to host the first-ever winter Invictus Games, Sasha Wood takes a look at the accessible sports and adapted facilities that make the twin destinations attractive for mobility impaired travellers

As joint hosts of the Winter Paralympics 2010, Whistler and Vancouver have long been champions of providing suitable accessible facilities for those with both physical and mental disabilities.

With such a line-up of world-class facilities designed to host big mixed-abilities events, the two British Columbia destinations have been chosen to stage the next Invictus Games from February 8-16 2025.

The brainchild event of Prince Harry will include a winter sports element for the first time, with up to 550 wounded ex-service athletes from around 25 nations expected.

Headlining the ‘new’ winter sports, and showcasing the mountain resort of Whistler’s adaptive facilities and venues, will be Alpine Skiing and Snowboard, Nordic Skiing, Biathlon, Skeleton and Wheelchair Curling.

The Invictus Games 2025 will be held on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Lil’wat Nations and Invictus Games 2025 organisers say they are working closely with Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action to ensure Indigenous protocols are respected in all aspects of the Games.

Freedom of travel; access for all

The main artery through Whistler Village, known as “The Stroll”, is flat and car-free with covered arcade routes all accessed via ramps. Moreover, street-level access to shops and hotels, washrooms, and accessible transport are all resort requirements.

The freedom of travel, outdoor adventure and group sports can be all the more rewarding for people with disabilities – and someone who knows that better than anyone is Scottish television presenter, Invictus Games ambassador and medallist JJ Chalmers, who endured a long rehabilitation after being injured in a bomb blast in Afghanistan during his time in the British marines.

“I know personally the transformational

power of The Invictus Games,” he says. “It was the moment of catalyst in my recovery that not only benefited me physically and mentally but also helped me transition out of the armed forces and into my new profession.”

Whistler’s gondola’s have been designed with accessibility in mind too, with the Sliding Centre adapted for all abilities to enjoy the bobsleigh and slides. The resort’s adapted trails are perfect for those with impaired mobility who like to get out and explore.

The paved Valley Trail, for example, leads to Lost Valley Park with an accessible forest offshoot by Fitzsimmons Creek that’s level, well compacted and wide enough for wheelchairs.

Similarly, although some restrictions apply, a lot of Whistler’s regular activities are available to those in a wheelchair, including bungee jumping, bobsleigh and ATV riding.

Likewise, Vancouver’s accessible venues are well placed to host the Invictus’ Games sports of indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair curling.

First-rate adapted facilities waiting for visitors coming to the Games include the Rogers Arena in downtown, home to city ice hockey team the Vancouver Canucks.

A TRAIL FOR ALL VISITORS

WHISTLER’S ACCESSIBLE SKI SLOPES

Fun and games in

A WINTER WONDERLAND

With Christmas lights, spectacular festivals, ice-skating on frozen canals and wildlife-watching opportunities, Canada’s cities offer plenty of reasons for a warming winter visit, says Peter Ellegard

OTTAWA, ONTARIO

While Winterlude is Ottawa’s most famous winter event, there is much more for visitors to in the nation’s capital during the year’s coldest months.

When the ice is thick enough – typically from January to late February or March – the Rideau Canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink, turning into the Rideau Canal Skateway. Thousands of skaters take to the 7.8km canal every day, often rewarding themselves after with warming Beavertail pastries and hot drinks.

The Skateway also hosts the Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival in February. The event sees international teams’ race dragon boats fitted with skates using speciallyadapted paddles.

Then step back in time to experience Christmas traditions of yesteryear in the Vintage Village of Lights, held in November and December at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, and browse more than 50 wooden stalls in the Ottawa Christmas Market in Lansdowne, spanning 25 days over six weeks from late November until early January.

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Enjoying Canada’s mildest winter temperatures, Victoria has few frosts and little snow, making it the perfect seasonal getaway for those who don’t like it too cold.

Throughout December, Lights of Wonder transforms downtown Victoria’s Centennial Square into a free-entry holiday wonderland, with light exhibits, interactive light tunnels, a 40-foot tree and live entertainment and snacks.

Butchart Gardens’ 55 acres of floral displays are open year round and winter is a great time to visit, with few crowds and the indoor Spring Prelude garden from mid-January to mid-March. The gardens are lit with colourful displays during December and early January, accompanied by Christmas carols and a brass band.

Winter is also a good time to go whale watching from Victoria, looking for orcas and humpback whales as well as other marine species such as seals, sea lions and sea otters, particularly around Race Rocks Ecological Preserve. Back on land, enjoy the seasonal light displays around Victoria’s Inner Harbour and the Parliament Buildings on foot or in a horse-drawn carriage.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC

Montréal comes alive when snow and ice cloak the city. From late November to March, the city becomes one of Canada’s premier ‘festival cities’, with events that showcase art, theatre, music and Québecois culture.

Luminatherapie features interactive art and sound installations along Sainte-Catherine Street West in the Quartier des Spectacles from dusk until 23.00 each day, with video projections onto building facades.

One of several city festive markets, the Great Christmas Market runs from the last week of November until New Year’s Eve in downtown’s Place des Festivals. Meanwhile, Christmas in the Park sees trees in downtown and Plateau neighbourhood parks festooned with lights, with live music, food, hot chocolate and mulled wine on offer.

Igloofest livens up the Old Port in January and February with weekend electronic music gigs.

February sees one of the world’s largest winter festivals, Montréal en Lumiere, which attracts more than 800,000 visitors. It combines performing arts, gastronomy, a Ferris wheel, skating and ice slides, climaxing with Nuit Blanche, an all-night celebration of art and culture.

During Poutine Week in February, sample different versions of Québec’s renowned signature comfort dish of French fries and gravy topped with cheese curds at numerous restaurants.

WHITEHORSE, YUKON

For a cool winter destination, Whitehorse is hard to beat and especially so for those looking to embrace winter and make the most of the snowy weather.

Visitors can experience mushing on half-day, overnight or multi-day dog sledding trips along snowy trails, across frozen rivers and through deserted valleys.

Watch the professionals in action in the annual Yukon Quest sled dog race, comprising three races that start in Whitehorse at the beginning of February and travel between 100 and 450 miles across frozen wilderness.

Among other winter sports on offer are snowshoeing, ice fishing, fat biking and snowmobiling.

Those looking for a more hair-raising experience can take part in the annual Hair Freezing Contest at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs just outside Whitehorse. The unusual events appears in the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest hair freezing competition for the 288 people who took part in April 2020. Contestants dip their heads in the hot springs water then let their hair, beards, eyebrows and even eyelashes freeze into weird shapes in temperatures below -20°C.

Celebrate Whitehorse’s frontier spirit at the two-weeklong Sourdough Rendezvous Festival in February, with events including chainsaw chucking, axe throwing, pancake eating and entertainment from can-can dancers.

ARCTICWILD.ET

WINTER FESTIVALS

Whether it is horse-drawn sleigh rides, Christmas concerts, ice sculptures, snow castles or even the Niagara Falls lit up by festive lights, Canada’s winter festivals cover all the seasonal icons

Winterlude, Ottawa

Taking place over the first three weekends of February, Winterlude has snowballed since its start in 1979. There is something for everyone, from snow and ice sculpture carving to skating and a horse race on the Rideau Canal Skateway, tube sliding and other activities in the Snowflake Kingdom winter playground, a bed race and the Waiters and Waitresses on Ice Challenge. ottawatourism.ca/en/see-and-do/

Winter Festival of Lights, Niagara

Falls

Canada’s largest illumination festival takes place over 51 nights between mid-November and early January, with three million lights, giant displays and trees wrapped in lights along the Niagara Parkway. The lights bring Niagara’s Horseshoe Falls to life each night, while fireworks light up the sky on weekends and nightly from December 27. wfol.com

Québec City Winter Carnaval

Join Carnaval’s Bonhomme, the redhatted snowman with a traditional arrow sash, for 10 days of fun from late January to early February. The world’s largest winter carnival, which celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2025, features the Ice Palace of Bonhomme made entirely from ice, night parades, musical evenings and a laser tag game at the Citadelle de Québec. carnaval.qc.ca

Snowkings’

Castle Festival, Yellowknife

A giant castle built from snow and ice is the centrepiece for the month-long festivities each March. The Snowcastle, which takes volunteers two months to build in temperatures as low as -30°C, hosts Snowbuddy’s Winter Garden for youngsters, concerts, shows, ice carving contests, films and art exhibits, and ends each day by transforming into a dance club. snowking.ca

Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg

Centred on Parc du Voyageur in Winnipeg’s French quarter, SaintBoniface, the festival spans 10 days in late February and has been running for 55 years. Outdoor activities include historical interpretations at Fort Gibraltar, a children’s playground, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice and snow sculpting, wood carving, a winter trading camp, snowshoeing and concerts. heho.ca

Jasper in January

Festival organisers say that despite the wildfires that hit Jasper in summer 2024, the annual January jamboree will be taking place in 2025 as the Rockies town looks to tourism to help its recovery. The two-week festival has activities such as ice climbing, pond hockey, ice skating, skiing, a curling competition, horse-drawn sleigh rides, comedy shows, a street party and fireworks. jasper.travel/january

FIRST AMONG equals

From coast to coast, authentic Indigenous owned and operated experiences offer visitors the chance to get to know the history and culture of Canada’s ‘Original’ peoples, writes Steve Hartridge

Tourism businesses operated and owned by Indigenous communities make up one of the fastest growing sectors of Canada’s tourism industry.

Growth has been rapid since 2014 and today across the country, from Yukon to Prince Edward Island, there are around 1,900 unique experiences.

They offer visitors the chance to get to know the history, heritage and culture of Indigenous groups and their role in modern-day Canada.

The organisation tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry and ensuring member organisations are ready for international guests is the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), which is recognised as a global leader in Indigenous tourism development.

In addition, most provinces and territories also have their own regional association that oversee the development of Indigenous tourism operations.

“ITAC recognises that more travellers are interested in exploring the culture of Indigenous peoples and since 2014 we have strived to support and strengthen Indigenous tourism experiences throughout Canada,” said Keith Henry, ITAC’s President and CEO.

To ensure Indigenous tourism products are suitable for overseas visitors, ITAC has created a programme called ‘Original Original’ that profers a stamp of excellence to those who meet the required standards – and the process to obtain this is a rigorous one, explains Ryan Rogers, ITAC’s Communications Manager.

“The Original Original stamp reassures visitors that they can expect a quality tourism experience. It identifies

businesses that have been assessed for quality and authenticity and have met three key criteria: that they are at least 51% Indigenous owned, are a business that embraces the values of Indigenous tourism, and are able to bring to market an export ready product.

“Once they pass, they can use the mark for marketing and on their website. Moreover, the mark inspires consumer confidence and helps travellers better identify genuine Indigenous tourism experiences,” adds Rogers.

The icon for the Original Original mark is two letter Os, one set within the other, which represents both the world and the cycle of life. At the centre of these circles is a fire symbol with a single flame divided into three parts, a distinction that represents each of the three groups of Indigenous Peoples in Canada: First Nation, Metis and Inuit.

Regions across Canada are working with Indigenous communities to preserve and present aspects of the area’s “Original” peoples. For example, in British Columbia the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority

(GVHA), together with Xwsepsәm Nation and Songhees Nation, has launched a collaborative’ ‘placemaking project’ to install Lәkwәŋәn artworks in downtown Victoria, aimed at “connecting residents and visitors to the area’s rich First Nations’ culture”.

Authentic experiences

Below is a selection of Indigenous owned products that travel agents can recommend with confidence.

Ahous Adventures, an eco and cultural tour company in Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia (BC), is owned and operated by the Ahousaht Nation. Its excursions include bear viewing and whale watching tours and a 90-minute boat ride to hot springs, where you get exclusive access to the waters that spring from the mountains and fill up little rock pools. Guests are accompanied by an Indigenous guide.

Knight Inlet Lodge is a fly-in wildlife viewing lodge in the Great Bear Rainforest in BC that is a partnership of five First Nations. The floating lodge is positioned for grizzly bear viewing and offers seasonal bear and maritime watching tours along with lodging and top cuisine. The bear population near the lodge is present year-round but peaks in the fall during the salmon run.

At Squamish Lil’at Cultural Centre in Whistler, BC, the signature tour, ‘What we Treasure’, is delivered by Cultural Ambassadors who share their own stories and first-hand cultural experiences. The tour is designed to connect visitors to

A SMUDGING CEREMONY INVOLVES THE BURNING OF ONE OR MORE MEDICINES

artifacts and hear stories that give an overview of the past and present way of life of the Squamish and Lil’wat.

Also in BC, two nations have combined to offer one tour. Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours and Klahoose Coastal Adventures run grizzly bear viewing tours out of Campbell River (August-October).

Metis Crossing, about 90 minutes northeast of Edmonton, Alberta, launched in 2020 and regularly adds new attractions. Conceived and operated by Metis, Vision Hopes and Dreams Wildlife Park stands on the original lots of the Metis, along the North Saskatchewan river, which was one of their original trading routes.

Attractions include elk, bison and horses, a 40-room boutique lodge, star gazing pods – guests stay overnight to see Northern Lights – and a Beavers, Bison and People package which starts in Edmonton and travels to Elk Island National Park before reaching Metis Crossing. Cultural experiences including a walking tour with elders, beadwork and winter snowshoeing.

Located in Ste Genevieve, just outside Winnipeg, Manitoba, Borealis Beading shares Metis culture through the artwork of beading. The experience includes twoneedle beading, finger weaving, quilting and learning about the cultural significance of beading to the Metis.

Operating the vast Albanol-Mistassini-and Waconichi Wildlife Reserve in Woconichi Lake, Quebec, Nibiischii Corporation blends Indigenous conservation values

“To ensure Indigenous tourism products are fit for overseas visitors, ITAC has created a programme called ‘Original Original’ that profers a stamp of excellence”

with a commitment to sharing the cultural traditions of the Cree Nation of Mistissini.

Three-, four- and five-night packages are offered and new for 2025 is snowshoeing, star gazing, storytelling, cultural experiences such as moose hide tanning, yoga and a ‘polar dip and sauna’.

Preserving traditions

At the Musée Huron-Wendat near Québec City the mandate is to teach the history, culture and arts of the Huron-Wendat people as well as other Indigenous nations through craft workshops, guided and audio tours and themed workshops.

The Site d’Interprétation Micmac des Gespeg in Gaspé, Québec, includes a replica of an historical camp and an interpretive site that allows visitors to explore the world of Mi’gmaq through four seasons. Described as a ‘place of exchange’, it promotes the preservation of Mi’gmaq traditions.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is a National Historic Site that in Cree roughly means “Being at peace with oneself”. A historical

site for over 6,000 years, visitors today can relive the stories of the people who came to hunt bison, gather food and medicines and escape the winter weather. There’s an interpretive experience and overnight accommodation at the outdoor Tipi Village, in four 18-foot Plains Cree style tipis.

Take a walk through 30 centuries of Mi’kmaq culture at Metepenagiag Heritage Park to experience a connection to one of New Brunswick’s oldest continuously operated inhabited communities. The Metepenagiag Interpretive Centre explains the cultural significance of the community through storytelling handed down through generations, then Mi’kmaw guides lead visitors to a firepit to hear more stories from tribe elders.

Wikwemikong Tourism on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, offers guided tours that introduce visitors to Anishinaabe culture. These include guided hikes, paddling tours storytelling and culinary experiences.

The annual Wikwemkoong Cultural Festival and Pow Wow is one of the most popular events on the island

On Baffin Island, Nunavut, local Inuit guides from Arctic Bay Adventures share their deep knowledge of the land and the sea as well as their culture in a multi-day experience that sees guests camping in a tent or igloo at the floe edge. Wildlife opportunities include narwhal whales, seals, birds and possibly even polar bears. They will also meet elders, dog sled and maybe even see the northern lights.

Situated in the centre of Gros Morne National Park, Gros Morne Adventures’ beachfront property is a base guests use for hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding and Zodiac adventures. It is common to see eagles and other wildlife on tours in Bonne Bay, Newfoundland. The company also offers an Indigenous cultural tour. •

WILD GROS MORNE, NEWFOUNDLAND WAPUSK ADVENTURES, MANITOBA

NEW BRUNSWICK

Kayak the world’s highest tides, sip unique craft ales, or take the road trip of your life. Charlotte Flach explores the diversity of New Brunswick

Kayak the rocks: Head over to The Hopewell Rocks Park to experience ‘the highest tidal paddling experience on earth’. During the tour sea kayakers will discover the sea stacks at the giant “flowerpot” rock formations, as they steer their vessel through the small tunnels and narrow passageways of the Bay of Fundy’s giant tides. Baymount Outdoor Adventures offers this two-hour experience between June and September, with a rare opportunity in mid-August to paddle in the midst of tens of thousands of migratory shorebirds. Baymountadventures.com

Explore endless coastline: The Bay of Fundy has thousands of miles of coastline ready for exploration. To feel the full effect of the highest tides in the world, return at low tide to stroll along the ocean floor and view the full extent of the magnificent rock formations. There’s over 5,500km of pristine and rugged coastline to explore – perfect for taking in the marvels of nature. The Acadian Shore is known for the

warmest salted water in Canada, with endless sand dunes and sandy beaches. tourismnewbrunswick.ca/outdoor-adventures

Go exploring: Hit the road in a campervan or an RV to best explore Canada’s vast landscapes. New Brunswick has eight suggested road trip routes, which take in the best food, friendly villages, buzzing cities, and breathtaking landscapes at the road-tripper’s own pace. Trips include the famous Fundy Coast or Acadian Shore routes, Hops and Harvest for craft beer enthusiasts, or historic riverside communities along the Saint John River. Hub City favours avant-garde foodies and urban explorers. tourismnewbrunswick.ca/roadtrips

Immerse yourself in culture: Although best known for its abundant nature, New Brunswick has a multifaceted cultural fabric made up of Indigenous peoples, French influences, and its British, Scottish and Irish settlers. Cross- cultural influences have grown with Italian, Greek, Lebanese, Asian, Indian, Pakistani, Syrian

and African Canadian communities established over the past century in the major cities. There are a multitude of festivals and events annually, such as the Harvest Music Festival and New Brunswick spirit festivals, Canada’s oldest whisky and spirits festival.

tourismnewbrunswick.ca/our-roots

Marvel at the wildlife: Wildlife watching is a bucket list experience in Canada, and New Brunswick is home to some of the best whale-watching in the world. Rare species like the endangered North Atlantic right whale come to give birth, feed, and rest in The Bay of Fundy. There are also finbacks (the second largest whale in the world), humpbacks, minkes, porpoises, seals, and seabirds. Sailing vessels are guided by experts who have the utmost respect for the wildlife.

tourismnewbrunswick.ca/whale-watching

Hike through nature: Mountains, parks, rivers, and waterfalls are around every turn in New Brunswick. The

Fundy Trail Provincial Park is a paradise for hikers, with plenty of lookout points. The trail connects the four top natural attractions for a region collectively called the Fundy Coastal Drive. There’s also Mount Carleton provincial park, home to more animal species than any other part of the province; and Kouchibouguac for stargazing and constellation spotting after the sun goes down. parcsnbparks.info/en/parks/35/ fundy-trail-provincial-park

Discover vibrant cities: Galleries, museums, spas, shopping malls and family-friendly attractions of all kinds make New Brunswick’s cities of Saint John, the only city on the Bay of Fundy, Fredericton, the Capital City and Moncton, the Hub of the Maritimes, infinitely exciting. The vibe is often laid-back, with a good mixture of indoor and outdoor fun to keep the whole family busy. Shopping and restaurants range from the traditional local favourites to distinctive and trendy new offerings. tourismnewbrunswick.ca/cities-regions

Sample the freshest seafood: New Brunswick is renowned for its plentiful seafood. The town of Shediac is considered the Lobster Capital of the World due to its giant specimens, and thousands of visitors flock to sample the crustaceans. Taking farm to table to the next level, everything from oysters to salmon have a short journey from sea to plate, making the seafood some of the freshest travellers will taste.

tourismnewbrunswick.ca/food-and-drink Brew up a storm: New Brunswick is home to a staggering 50 plus craft breweries, and also has the highest concentration of microbreweries in Atlantic Canada. Ales, lagers, and Pilsners are crafted by brewmasters, often using just a few ingredients and especially locally-sourced products like wild blueberries or maple syrup. These microbrewery brands are often inspired by local folklore and housed in unusual locations such as a historic community church or former auto garage. tourismnewbrunswick.ca/breweries

Scope out unique stays: Why stay in a ‘normal’ hotel when there are so many unique properties on offer? Mangata Mactaquac features a-frame cabins nestled in the woods directly beside Mactaquac Provincial Park, while Balsam Ridge Forest Domes sit tucked among the treetops, just a 35-minute drive from the city of Moncton. Or spend the night in one of Creekside RnR’s Mirror Cabins which allow guests to view the resident nature up close by way of its twoway mirrors.

tourismnewbrunswick.ca/accommodation

Light up: The Pays de la Sagouine enchanting Lumina Night Walk is inspired by Acadian culture, stories and the region’s iconic landscapes. This 60-90-minute light and sound experience happens after nightfall along a 1.5-km footpath in the woods near the Pays de la Sagouine, and is inclusive of all in both English and French. The whole family is invited to discover the Lumina experience from mid-May to mid-October. sagouine.com/en/lumina •

Wild Th ings

Bella Falk heads to Manitoba for a roll call of the state’s wildlife and discovers five big reasons to suggests the prairie province

Gravel patters against the underside of our bus as we roll through Riding Mountain National Park under murky skies. I lean into the window, scanning the dense forest for a glimpse of movement.

“The odds of seeing a moose are slim,” admits our guide, Pat Rousseau. “We haven’t seen any inside the park in 18 months.”

It isn’t an encouraging start to what’s been billed as ‘Canada’s Big Five Safari’, a chance to see five of the country’s most impressive and sought-after mammals – moose, black bear, bison, beluga whale and polar bear –

on a one-week journey with Frontiers North Adventures through the prairie province of Manitoba. I’ve never seen any of these animals, so to fall at the first hurdle feels like a poor omen.

My disappointment level increases as the clouds break open, blurring the windows with slick raindrops. I’m anticipating heading back to the hotel when our driver, Nikita, brakes abruptly. “Moose at nine o’clock! No! Two moose!”

Ahead stand a female and her yearling son, his temples beginning to sprout those majestic wide antlers.

MAJESTIC POLAR BEARS

BELLA’S “THREE BEARS”

BELLA FALK

With zero visibility through the glass we pile out into the downpour, jacketless and drenched within seconds but delighted to glimpse this elusive first on our roll call of Canadian icons.

I began my search in Manitoba’s capital. Winnipeg – or ‘Winterpeg’, as it’s nicknamed – is, apparently, the world’s second coldest city after Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia and can be snow-covered for almost half the year.

Winnipeg is one of Canada’s underrated cities but is a great suggestion for a winter break that includes snowshoeing, White Christmas vibes, or skating on one of the world’s longest ice rinks, the frozen Assiniboine River.

However, I’m visiting in August, and Winnipeg is basking in 28C sunshine. As we leave the city, the endless prairie stretches towards the horizon in a patchwork of ripening golds and greens.

We are met by a guide at the entrance to Riding Mountain National Park, 260 kilometres west of the city.

Pat, a retired wildlife biologist, is a twinkly character with a cloud of snowy curls, a cotton-wool moustache and a library of tales from his days as a park ranger.

“I’ve been in 100 dens to sedate and fit trackers on bears,” he rasps in a gravelly voice. “Getting them back in afterwards

is like trying to put spaghetti through a keyhole. Nothing fits.”

But I’m confident Pat’s the man to locate at least one of Riding Mountain’s estimated 1,000 black bears (number two on our Big Five list) but for most of the day our search proves fruitless.

“Plains bison were driven almost to extinction in Canada in the 19th century, but small herds have been reintroduced in the last decade. Today, Riding Mountain is home to 52 adults and a handful of gambolling calves”

We see beavers, wild turkeys, deer and even a tiny snowshoe leveret, but the bears are playing hard to get.

It’s not until we’re en route to dinner that Nikita finally yells, ‘Get ready! Bears up ahead!’ I grab my camera, and deliver a drive-by shooting through the glass as the mother and her two cubs vanish into the thick undergrowth.

Bison, North America’s largest land mammal, are easier to spot. Driven almost to extinction in Canada in the 19th century, small herds of plains bison have been reintroduced in the last decade or so and today Riding Mountain is home to 52 adults and a handful of gambolling calves, protected in a 300-hectare enclosure.

Entirely unfazed by our bus they graze in a waving sea of yellow goldenrod and purple aster while we take turns to snap them from the open door – getting out is not an option when you’re just 20 metres from a 900kg hunk of beefy muscle.

Winter on ice

With three of Manitoba’s Big Five ticked off, it’s time to fly north, 1,000 kilometres over Manitoba’s vast plains, to Churchill.

This former fur trading port on the shore of Hudson Bay is home to 900 residents and, depending on the time of year, up to 4,000 beluga whales and hundreds of polar bears.

Around three months hence – November – it will be peak season, when the world’s largest land carnivores gather around the bay waiting for the sea to freeze so they can head out to hunt seals.

They spend the winter on the ice, returning when it melts to spend summer on land. We’re told there should be

BIRDLIFE IN WINNIPEG

BISON ARE BACK IN MANITOBA

BELUGAS ON A WHALE WATCHING TOUR RIDING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

“A male polar bear stands and shakes from nose to tail, sending sparkling spray into the air; one of the world’s most fearsome predators behaving just like a giant cuddly dog”

bears about, but since it’s hot they won’t be active, hence their nickname ‘Lazy Bears’.

“Bear safety” is crucial in Churchill. There’s a 24/7 patrol and the town’s residents keep their doors unlocked in case you run into one and need a quick escape route.

Problem bears are chased a way with firecrackers; persistent offenders are caught

and sent to ‘Polar Bear Jail’ until they can be released far from town.

We set out to look for them, trading our bus for a ‘Tundra Buggy’, a huge researchstation-meets-train-carriage with tyres taller than a person. Despite its size, the buggy’s electric motor makes only a gentle hum as we bump and rattle along the trail.

“Welcome to the world’s largest golf cart,” jokes Jim, our jovial driver. “It’s like a reverse zoo. We’re in the cage and the animals can come look at us.”

The full set

In winter the tundra is a gleaming icescape and one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.

Aurora tours take place in February and March, with an almost 100% success rate; you can also dine out on the frozen bay or go dogsledding behind a team of huskies.

But today the landscape is a summer explosion, carpeted with pink fireweed, fluffy white willow and lime green sandwort, and we spot a ptarmigan, snow geese, a silver fox and a lone caribou.

We also optimistically call out several white rocks that turn out not to be bears. “Those are boulder bears,” Jim tells us, supportively.

The next morning we swap wheels for a boat and cruise into the bay to meet the belugas. It’s another glorious day and the

sea is glassy calm – and this time those splashes of white aren’t waves but dozens of whales surfacing to breathe.

Every summer they arrive in their thousands to breed and unlike the bears they’re “friendly”, gliding like ghosts underneath our vessel and peering up at the intruders with curious eyes.

Danae, our guide, drops a hydrophone into the deep so we can hear their chatter, the squeaks and clicks that earned them the title of “Canaries of the Sea”.

And just when I’m thinking “four out of five ain’t bad”, someone spots him – not a “boulder bear” but the real thing, cooling off at the water’s edge.

A male polar bear stands and shakes from nose to tail, sending sparkling spray into the air; one of the world’s most fearsome predators behaving just like a giant cuddly dog. The collective noun for polar bears is “celebration”, and now I’ve seen all of Manitoba’s promised Big Five, the tag fits. It really does. •

Book it with...First Class Holidays

A seven-night Canada’s Big Five Safari holiday costs from £8,466pp, including economy flights from London, accommodation, wildlife drives, return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill, Tundra Buggy Adventure, boat tour to see belugas, transfers, tours, guide and all meals. fcholidays.com

BEAR ESSENTIALS ON A PHOTOGRAPHC SAFARI

SEE THE NORTHEN LIGHTS IN MANITOBA

MOOSE CROSSING

BELLA FALK

BELLA FALK

BELLA FALK

Autumn

TAKE A LEAF OF ABSENCE

There’s no better time than the third season of the year to enjoy a driving trip in Canada. Peter Ellegard suggests three colourful routes that any client will fall for

Ontario’s Great Lakes

A round-trip Ontario fly-drive from Toronto can take in three of Canada’s Great Lakes – Ontario, Superior and Huron – on a trip that will be framed by vibrant autumn foliage colours.

Heading north from Toronto to Huntsville, make a side trip into Algonquin Provincial Park to explore its pristine beauty and paddle on one of the Muskoka region’s many lakes.

From there, take in the pine-forested cliff landscapes of Killarney, on the shores of Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay, before moving on to Timmins and Wawa, following the TransCanada Highway alongside Lake Superior’s rocky coast to Sault Ste Marie.

Stay on Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island and a destination for Indigenous culture and outdoor adventures, then head to Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula National Park, where a marine park preserves shipwrecks, via a ferry on Lake Huron.

After taking the Hornblower boat trip into the mist below Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls, journey on to quaint Niagara-on-the-Lake, stopping on the way at one of the region’s wineries, before returning to Toronto.

Atlantic Canada

Sample some of the best of Canada’s Maritimes on a circular road trip that starts in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and takes in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island (PEI).

Drive along the Lighthouse Route to UNESCOlisted heritage town Lunenburg, passing Peggy’s Cove and its lighthouse, then travel on through Kejimkujujik National Park to Digby.

From there a ferry takes you to Saint John, New Brunswick, from where the scenic Fundy Coastal Drive leads to the Bay of Fundy. Discover the world’s highest tides and walk on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks.

Cross the Confederation Bridge to PEI, following the Blue Heron Scenic Route to Charlottetown, from where you can visit Cavendish, home of Anne of Green Gables. Another ferry crossing takes you back to

Nova Scotia, to venture on to Baddeck and the spectacular Cabot Trail drive around the north of Cape Breton Island, visiting historic Louisbourg Fortress en route back to Halifax.

Kananaskis

This tiny Alberta resort 70 minutes west of Calgary in the heart of the Rocky Mountains will host global leaders for the G7 Summit in June, 2025, 23 years after it staged the G8.

For more regular guests, Kananaskis is a great base for exploring the majesty of the region.

Kananaskis Village lies on Highway 40, framed by craggy peaks. The alpine skiing events for the 1988 Winter Olympics were held at the adjacent Nakiska ski resort on Mount Allan. Highwood Pass, just to the south, is the highest paved pass in Canada.

The area around Kananskis and nearby Canmore is perfect for exploring in autumn, hiking trails through golden aspen trees alongside lakes mirroring forested mountains or riding horses across shallow rivers.

Soak in a Nordic spa and take a gondola ride from Banff or Lake Louise, looking out for wildlife including moose, elk, bighorn sheep and both grizzly and black bears.

You can also drive up to the Icefield Parkway, which reopened in late summer 2024 following its closure due to the Jasper wildfire. •

WEDGE POND, KANANASKIS

The Great Wilderness

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Step out of the ordinary into the extraordinary and rediscover a sense of adventure along The Great Wilderness in British Columbia

Why sell it

Considered to be one of the world’s last great wildernesses, British Columbia’s latest Iconic route – The Great Wilderness – in the northernmost part of the province will appeal to those looking for an opportunity to get off-the-beaten track and experience nature at its rawest.

Share space with bears, moose, caribou, elk, eagles and bison, discover the culture of Canada’s Indigenous peoples or get an adrenaline-fix with iconic adventures that combine hiking, rafting and horse riding in one of the world’s most protected regions.

The elements put on an awe-inspiring display in this part of Canada, from glaciercloaked peaks and lava-filled valleys to alpine trails and the Northern Lights. It’s here waiting.

Who to sell to

A place of epic proportions, adventure seekers can take the path less travelled and find solace in solitude in The Great Wilderness. Hike where dinosaurs once roamed and take a white-knuckle river rafting trip through a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Keen historians or those looking to understand more about the region’s rich culture and heritage can hear stories about

the Indigenous Nations whose people have nurtured this land for millennia.

Education about their way of life and wisdom helps deepen visitors’ connection to The Great Wilderness and leaves a lasting impression.

Experiences include: Gitanyow Totem Poles, Nisga’a Museum, ‘Ksan Historical Village, Hagwilget Bridges, Gitwangak Battle Hill, National Historic Site and the Indigenous Artists’ Market at Fort St. John.

What to sell

The region is vast, which means itinerary options are infinite. Natural history lovers can delight in walking where dinosaurs once roamed with a trip to the UNESCO Global Geopark in Tumbler Ridge.

Active travellers should embark on daylong or multi-day hikes to Kinuseo Falls, the Titanic and the Shipyards rock formations and the famed Cascades Hiking Trail.

The Tatshenshini-Alsek and Stikine Rivers are world-famous river rafting destinations that can’t be missed.

Head to the Nisga’a Territory to explore sacred mountains, haunting volcanic landscapes and learn more about the legacy of its people at the Interpretive Centre and museum. The Nisga’a have inhabited this land at least since the end of the last Ice Age, when ancestors say a great flood changed the world.

Catch sight of grizzly bears, go fishing in crystal clear lakes, recharge in the healing waters of natural hot springs and experience some of the deepest powder

HIKING ABOVE THE SALMON GLACIER NEAR STEWART

GRIZZLY BEAR IN FORT NELSON MUSKWA RIVER FANCY DANCERS, FORT NELSON FIRST NATION

skiing on the planet. The options to get lost and explore are endless.

How to sell

Road trippers looking for raw, unmatched beauty can drive the famed Alaska Highway, traverse British Columbia on the Yellowhead Highway and meander along the Glacier Highway where they’ll witness boundless ice fields and 20 glaciers in one trip – a once in a lifetime trip.

Take a road trip along Highway 16; choose the coast mountain range in the west, the Alberta border in the east or the Yukon border in the north.

The Great Northern Circle Route is another bucket list road trip. From rolling prairies to towering peaks, the route winds through some of the least populated and most remote areas of British Columbia. It’s a must-see on any itinerary.

Don’t miss the quintessential northern towns of Smithers, Prince George and Dawson Creek where you’ll meet the quirky locals who call this place home.

When to sell

Every season offers a different experience in The Great Wilderness. Avid mountain bikers descend in summer to compete in the Big Pig Mountain Biking Festival.

Bikers take to the extensive mountain trails to race; non-bikers can also join in with the festivities with food, drink, live music and activities for children.

Come spring, hikers explore the high alpine trails of Hudson Bay Mountain

and the backcountry Berg Lake Trail on Mount Robson, famous for its remarkable scenery. Stay a while and camp next to Muncho Lake or the Titanic and the Shipyards Trail near Tumbler Ridge.

Snow seekers shouldn’t miss the winter season where they can satisfy their need for adrenaline-packed adventures with some of the region’s best heli-skiing.

For a calmer alternative, take in iconic ski runs and deep powder in the Skeena mountains. December to March is also the best time to chase the Northern Lights along the Alaska Highway at Mile 0 in Dawson Creek, Fort Nelson or at the Northern Rockies Lodge at Muncho Lake Provincial Park.

Witness the awe-inspiring colours of nature during the fall and watch wildlife in its natural habitat. Look out for the largest gathering of bald eagles or grizzly bears feasting before hibernation. There really is something for everyone in The Great Wilderness. •

Book it with... Canada As You Like It

A 14-day Northern British Columbia’s Great Wilderness itinerary is priced from £2320 per person, including flights, car hire and accommodation. For more information about British Columbia, visit hellobc.com/the-great-wilderness canadaasyoulikeit.com

HIKING ON A GLACIER IN ATLIN PROVINCIAL PARK

Returning to Canada

“WE WERE HEARING FROM OUR TRADE PARTNERS THAT THERE IS DEMAND FOR CANADA HOLIDAYS ”

Nicki Goldsmith, Director of Global Agency Sales, Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic will return to Canada in March 2025 with the launch of a daily London Heathrow-Toronto Pearson route.

Here Nicki Goldsmith, Director of Global Agency Sales, explains why the airline has rebooted its Canada service for the first time in over a decade.

Why is 2025 the right time to resume a Virgin service to Canada?

We’re delighted to be returning to Canada. Whilst this may be our third time operating in the country, we know that now the time is right. We were hearing from our trade partners that there is demand for Canada holidays. Our network has evolved since we last operated in the country and is now set up to succeed.

Why Toronto?

The city is a lively destination with fabulous culture, stunning natural scenery and lots of adventure. We believe that Toronto will appeal to a range of different customer types: it’s perfect for a short city break but

equally it will serve as a gateway for travellers who are looking for a longer adventure. Canada truly has something to offer everyone.

Might expansion into other hubs in Canada be on the cards soon?

Never say never but for the time being we have expanded our partnership with Canadian carrier WestJet. The partnership launched in October 2024 and allows customers to travel seamlessly throughout the region, including flights to Ottawa and Winnipeg.

Does Virgin have any trade support activity planned?

We will be working really closely with our agency partners to create bespoke marketing plans that will appeal to their individual customer bases. Our mission is to be the most loved travel company, so we will always support our partners and front-line agents.

Why should agents encourage their clients to book with Virgin?

Virgin Atlantic flies one of the youngest, cleanest fleets in the sky, with the average age of our aircraft being just 6.8 years old. On the Toronto route we plan to fly our latest state-of-the-art aircraft the A330900neo. The warmth of our crew is unbeatable, and our aircraft have lots of thoughtful touches on board that truly make flying Virgin Atlantic extra special.

Do you have any fond Canada travel memories of your own?

Canada offers a great opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. Some of my favourite skiing memories have been on the slopes in Canada. The beauty and tranquility of the mountains is second to none and without a doubt the place where I am happiest.

I can’t wait for the flight to start… virginatlantic.com •

CITY LIMITS Edmonton’s expanding

Alberta’s capital is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities and is adding new restaurants and attractions to an already impressive line-up. Steve Hartridge maps out how to plan a two-day stay

Day 1: Shops and Brews

Morning: Downtown hotel options include JW Marriott, Sutton Delta Edmonton Suites and the Fairmont MacDonald. Start the day with coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Zwick’s Pretzels off 124th Street, then take the bus out to West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest retail space, with shops, restaurants, roller coasters and more. New additions include Drive, a multi-level go-karting experience.

Afternoon: Visit Edmonton’s main pedestrian streets, the 4th Street Promenade and Rice Howard Way. Continue to the downtown Arts District, which hosts the Royal Alberta Museum. Attractions include a Children’s Gallery and The Human History Hall, with both

historical and contemporary Indigenous stories in Alberta. Drop into the Art Gallery of Alberta, which also has a gallery for kids. Then head out to Fort Edmonton Park for a step back in time and to learn about four periods, 1846, 1885, 1905 and 1920. See the Indigenous Peoples Experience, an exhibit that connects visitors to First Nations and Metis stories. There is music, artwork, dancing and more and visitors are encouraged to “seek out truths lived by Indigenous peoples before and after Canada’s founding”.

Evening: Head to the Ice District, the city’s fastest growing area, to check out the Rogers Place Arena, home of the Edmonton Oilers NHL (ice hockey) team, and pick up souvenirs in the adjacent club shop. Have dinner in a brew pub or one of the many new restaurants here. Craft brew fans should head to the new “Happy Beer Street” where popular taprooms include Ale Architect, Bent Stick, Sea Change and The Monolith.

Day 2: River Valley and Old Strathcona

Morning: Rent a bike and cycle along the River Valley. Just steps from downtown, this is the largest continuous park in North America with over 160 kilometres of maintained pathways and 20 major parks. In summer it is home to cyclists and joggers whilst winter brings out cross-country skiers, snowshoers and skaters.

Afternoon: Take the historic Streetcar across the 100-year-old High Level Bridge that spans the North Saskatchewan River and leads to Old Strathcona. Stroll its historic district, where many buildings have vintage façades, and browse in one-off shops. Find collectibles at the Old Strathcona Antique Mall. Join a food

tour for tastings provided by local meat, cheese, ice cream and tea producers, and learn about Old Strathcona’s history and Indigenous heritage.

Evening: Stay in Old Strathcona and explore its funky, bohemian main thoroughfare, Whyte Avenue. Stop at Edmonton’s only cat café, Cat Cafe on Whyte, to sip specialty drinks, ACE coffee and snack on cat-themed baked goods in the company of resident cats. Then have dinner at one of the district’s many new international restaurants. Arbour is a shared plates restaurant that serves up creative dishes like Thai red curry mussels, while Marlo specializes in Mexican street food and is popular for its creative tacos.

EDMONTON OILERS FANS AT ROGERS PLACE

DOWNTOWN EDMONTON

OLD STRATHCONA

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM

CCanada’s

FINE BUNCH

anada’s reputation for winemaking has grown markedly in recent years, as has the number of estates across the country. Yet the majority of its produce is consumed domestically, meaning that many people remain unaware of its history and quality until visiting Canada.

British Columbia’s Fraser and Similkameen valleys, as well as in the Gaspereau Valley near Wolfville in Nova Scotia.

In fact, Canadian wine production dates back to the 17th century and the Grand Pré region of Nova Scotia. Today, Canada’s varied landscapes mean terroirs and microclimates suitable for growing a broad range of grape varietals, from fruit-first, characterful reds in British Columbia’s sunny Okanagan Valley to the sparkling wines of Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley to intense and sweet icewines produced in the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, the province that produces seven-tenths of all Canadian wine.

Visiting in autumn brings opportunities to see rich colours and grapes hanging heavy on vines in the vineyards of Québec’s Eastern Townships, on the Île d’Orléans near Québec City, in

Pairings with good food, attending festivals and estate visits are ways for travellers to appreciate Canada’s best wines, says Stuart Forster

Autumn is the principal harvest season and several winefocused events, include the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival, centred in Penticton, over two October weekends.

Canada’s largest wine festival, the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival, is held in St. Catherine’s at the end of September. Live music, activities such as group yoga and a grand parade help ensure its appeal beyond a wine-drinking niche.

The Halifax International Wine Festival takes place in November while the Vancouver International Wine Festival is a large-scale event that begins in late February and continues into early March. Visiting either one can be combined

with a city break and exploring nearby regions at a time of year when museums and galleries are traditionally quieter.

Travellers may be surprised to see bunches of grapes hanging on vines deep into the winter in the Okanagan Valley and on the strip of land between Lake Eerie and Lake Ontario, whose estates produce the majority of Canada’s icewine.

The grapes are only harvested when temperatures fall below -8°C (17°F). Pressing them releases a single drop of the concentrated juice used to produce flavourful dessert wines.

Tours of the Peller Estate at Niagara-onthe-Lake explain icewine production and let guests step inside the frigid Icewine Room. Inniskillin Wines is another populasr producer offering explanatory icewine tours.

Over three weekends in January, the Niagara Icewine Festival is ideal for combining wine tastings with low-season sightseeing. The Cool as Ice Gala, held at Niagara Parks Power Station, pairs icewine with offerings from top chefs.

OKANAGAN VALLEY

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

SALT SPRING ISLAND

ICE WINE, ONTARIO

Visit sellingtravel.co.uk/hubs

From the Yukon’s glittering gold rush history to the remote coastal communities of Atlantic Canada to the French flare of Québec, Canada is a vast and diverse country that tempts visitors with its endless wilderness, cosmopolitan cities and year-round festivities. Not sure where to start? Let us inspire you with our dedicated Canada hub…