Alberta, British Columbia & The Rockies

These neighbouring Provinces contain some of the most iconic sights and experiences that Canada has to offer. From dynamic Vancouver in British Columbia to the mighty peaks of the awesome Rocky Mountains.

Alberta

For proof of Alberta’s amazing nature credentials head west to Jasper and Banff, two of the world’s oldest national parks. Despite their wild and rugged terrain, they remain untrammelled and easily accessible. On everyone’s bucket list is the panoramic and unforgettable Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield – travel east to the dinosaur-encrusted Badlands around Drumheller, south to the Crypt Lake trail in Waterton Lakes National Park, and north to spot bison in the vast, empty northern parklands. In the centre of the province, the wheat blows and the cattle roam; here you’ll find historic ranches, sacred native sights and the eerie landscape of the hoodoos. Alberta’s cities are of patchier interest; there are living people older than Calgary and Edmonton’s downtown. But what these metropolises lack in history they make up for with their spirit: Calgary has become unexpectedly cool, with top museums and cocktail bars, while Edmonton’s fringe theatre festival is the world’s second largest.

British Columbia

Visitors to Canada’s neighbouring provinces of British Columbia (BC) and Alberta should pack a long list of superlatives to deploy here; the words ‘wow,’ ‘amazing’ and ‘spectacular’ will only go so far. Luckily, it’s not too hard to wax lyrical about the mighty mountains, deep forests and dramatic coastlines here that instantly lower heart rates to tranquil levels. But there’s much more to British Columbia (BC) than nature. Cosmopolitan Vancouver fuses cuisines and cultures from Asia and beyond, while mid-sized cities such as Victoria and Kelowna are increasingly creating their own vibrant scenes. Wherever you head, the great outdoors will always call. Don’t just point your camera at it: BC is unbeatable for life-enhancing skiing, kayaking and hiking experiences that can make this the trip of a lifetime.

The Rockies

You’ve seen pictures of the Canadian Rockies – dazzling peaks, lush alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, virgin forest, towering waterfalls and wildlife galore. Discover a network of protected national and provincial mountain parks on the Alberta-BC border. Feed your wanderlust in Jasper and national parks and Kananaskis Country, where you can hike, bike, ski, skate, dogsled, paddle, golf, raft and fish your way through some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. After a full day of adventures, relax and rejuvenate while enjoying all the alpine towns of Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper have to offer. Prepare to have your breath taken away!

Prince Rupert Skeena

Jasper

Lake Louise

Cariboo

Vancouver Island

Sunshine Coast

Tofino

Ucluelet Victoria

Calgary Banff

Okanagan Valley

Highlights

• Rocky Mountains

The most iconic mountain range in North America has to be seen to be believed. • Vancouver

Voted one of the top cities in the world to live in. A coastal city surrounded by mountains, its downtown area offers beaches, a harbourfront and even a rainforest. – See Page 8. • Lake Louise

This iconic mountain lake is famous for it’s blue glacial waters – See Page 19.

So many are seduced by Canada’s third largest city, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, the beautiful Gulf Islands, and the snow-capped Coast Mountains. In fact almost every street you look down in Vancouver gives unforgettable views. It has a mild climate, making it a year round destination.

Neighbourhood Villages

Downtown is just the start of Vancouver. Walk or hop on public transit and within minutes you’ll be hanging with the locals in one of the city’s many diverse and distinctive ‘hoods. Whether discovering the coffee shops of Commercial Dr or the hipster haunts of Main St, the indie bars and restaurants of Gastown or the heritage-house beachfronts and browsable stores of Kitsilano, you’ll find this city perfect for easy-access urban exploration. Just be sure to chat to the locals wherever you go: they might seem shy or aloof at first, but Vancouverites love talking up their town.

Creative Culture

As the city awaits its long-anticipated new Vancouver Art Gallery building, there’s already a rich and ever-spreading canvas of cultural action to dive into around the city. Dig deeply and you’ll uncover a diverse grassroots scene that operates like a locavore movement for culture lovers. Mingle with the regulars at eclectic festivals, sparkling theatrical events, toe-tapping live music, waterfront Shakespeare shows and a camera-ready menagerie of public art – as well as the city’s independent galleries and a huge, party-like open-house art crawl that lures locals and visitors to East Vancouver every November. Vancouver is known as “Hollywood North” due to its booming film industry. It is the 3rd largest film production area, just behind Los Angeles and New York. Films such as Fifty Shades of Grey, Deadpool and Twilight New Moon were all filmed in the city.

Outdoor Wonderland

Those snow-dusted mountains that are peeking at you from between downtown’s glass towers? They’re less than 30 minutes away by car. The city’s North Shore nature doorstep offers snow sports, mountain biking and leisurely rainforest viewing, while the city itself is studded with sandy beaches, forest trails, kayaking routes, seawall bike lanes and Canada’s urban green-space jewel, the mighty and highly beloved Stanley Park.

Cruise Terminal

The downtown area is home to the fourth largest cruise ship terminal in the world, known as Canada Place. This terminal can hold up to 4 luxury cruise ships at one time. A popular add on to our holidays is a cruise to Alaska, we offer sailings to Alaska late April through to September.

Seaplanes

Experience the unforgettable sights of Vancouver and British Columbia by seaplane. Capture an exciting aerial tour of Vancouver, while flying overtop forested Stanley Park, sparkling English Bay, and Vancouver’s cruise ship capital – Canada Place. Admire the majestic Lions Peaks, capture the City skyline view and the breathtaking scenes of the North Shore. Soar high above the rugged landscape of the Coastal Mountains, where you’ll see ice-blue glaciers and waterfalls, and have the opportunity to land on a glacierfed lake.

The largest populated landmass between western North America and New Zealand – around 500km long and 100km wide – Vancouver Island is studded with colourful, quirky communities, many founded on logging or fishing and featuring the word ‘Port’ in their names.

You’ll find a wide range of attractions, experiences and activities that feel many miles from the bustle of mainland Vancouver. Which reminds us: to make a good impression, don’t mistakenly refer to the place as ‘Victoria Island.’ While the history-wrapped BC capital Victoria is the arrival point for many, it shouldn’t be the only place you visit here.

Victoria

With a population approaching 380,000, long-touted as North America’s most English city with its double-decker buses, horse-drawn carriages, formal gardens and tearooms. Thankfully, the theme park version of old-fashioned England is changing. Fuelled by an increasingly younger, more cosmopolitan demographic, a quiet revolution has seen tourist pubs, eateries and stores transformed into the kind of brightly painted bohemian shops, coffee bars and innovative restaurants that would make any city proud. It’s worth seeking out these enclaves on foot, but activity fans should also hop on their bikes: Victoria has more cycle routes than any other Canadian city. Once you’ve finished pedalling, there’s BC’s best museum, a park fringed by a windswept seafront and outdoor activities from kayaking to whale-watching. The area is also home to exhilarating scenery with an ocean or mountain view around every corner. Whether your taste runs to golfing, hiking, biking and fishing, or you’re more the shopping, dining and theatre type, Victoria has it covered. No visit to Victoria is complete without a trip the famous Butchart Gardens, which attracts over 1 million each year and is now a National Historic Site of Canada. The gardens started as a vision Jennie Butchart had of turning her backyard which was a former quarry into Gardens, now at 55 acres and to this day is still family run. Every Friday and Saturday evening throughout July and August the gardens offer a spectacular fireworks display.

My Canada Trips Staff Pick

By Laura

Vancouver Island Self-Drive

After trips to Atlantic, Eastern Canada and the Rockies I really didn’t think it could get any better – until my selfdrive on Vancouver Island. The main highlights of my week on the Island were the capital Victoria, which has a laid back relaxed feel with a stunning Inner Harbour, a stay at Campbell River offering views over the Inside Passage, fishing and whale watching trips and finally a stay in Tofino. With no less than 6 beaches, a rainforest, walking/hiking trails, bear and whale watching tours and water based activities you will not be short of things to do and see in Tofino.

Set on the west coast of Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim, Tofino and Ucluelet attract over 1 million visitors a year. Whether it’s adrenaline you’re after or peace and tranquillity, there’s something for everyone! Separated by the Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino and Ucluelet are 30 minutes from one another by car on the same coastline!

Most of the pristine beaches are shared by both, but each has its own local vibe, offering something different. Winter months offer fantastic storm watching, in the spring months the whales return and the season kicks off with the Pacific Rim Whale festival. Summer months are the busiest months, and whilst the beaches aren’t crowded they are busy, the local markets are lively, the fishing is superb and the sun shines. In the autumn months the bears are crowded along the creeks and rivers feeding on the returning spawning salmon. The Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island is a magical place and many call it a true energy point!

In the autumn months the bears are crowded along the creeks and rivers feeding on the returning spawning salmon

The Pacific Rim National Park is one of the most stunning national parks in Canada, an otherworldly realm of misty rainforests, ancient cedars and 20km of postcard beaches. The West Coast Trail is strictly for the rugged wilderness trekkers – 75km of challenge that can take up to eight days to complete.

Tofino

The stunning beauty and ecological diversity of Tofino’s location in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the source of all activities. Imagine, all in one place, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, bear watching, bird watching, camping, hiking, storm-watching and First Nations cultural touring. Surfing is big here, and Tofino regularly gets named the best surf town in North America. For all this glamour, Tofino remains the rough-and tumble frontier town it has always been - easy going, outgoing, enterprising, unpretentious and resolutely friendly. Yet it also boasts swank beachfront resorts, excellent restaurants and a dynamic arts scene rooted in nature and First Nations culture.

Tofino

Ucluelet

Pronounce it "Yew-Kloo-Let." In the language of the Aboriginal Nuu-chahnulth, it means "safe harbour." The unpretentious, outgoing people who live here call it "Ukee" and visitors are invited to do the same. That's the sort of easygoing place Ukee is. Ukee folk like to chat to strangers, walk them to their destinations, show them where to eat and introduce local legends like Oyster Jim, prime mover in creating the Wild Pacific Trail. The Wild Pacific Trail is a gentle walk that delivers 8.5km of eye-popping coastal panoramas to hikers.

The locals are also happy to help visitors choose their passions from Ukee's incredible selection of things to do. Hard to believe a small village can offer so many big experiences.

Fringing the coastline from Langdale in the south to Lund in the north, is British Columbia’s best kept secret – the Sunshine Coast. Separated from the Lower Mainland by the Coast Mountains and the Strait of Georgia it has an independent, island-like mentality that belies the fact it’s just a short hop by ferry or plane from Metro Vancouver.

It’s a pacific paradise of quirky waterfront shops, friendly people and an easy-going lifestyle. From strolling the endless kilometres of windswept seashore to sailing up Princess Louisa Inlet, visitors find it hard to shake the inescapable feeling that they’re in on a secret the rest of the travelling world has yet to discover.

Sunshine Coast Communities

The region’s dozen or so oceanside villages exude a charming atmosphere, with their artisan shops, inviting restaurants, farmers markets and all round breath-taking views. Explore the harbour side landing in Gibsons with its eclectic mix of local wares, then drive 15 minutes north to laid-back Roberts Creek. Here you can revisit the 60s in funky shops and galleries. Hop in the car for another 15 minutes to reach Sechelt, the region’s largest community and a central gateway to all things outdoorsy and artsy. Revel in a glowing sunset from the flowing beach at nearby Davis Bay. Further up the coast, retreat to the small but delightful Halfmoon Bay, or discover the secrets of Secret Cove, a popular summer spot. Continue to the community of Egmont to view the awesome Skookumchuck Rapids. Another quick ferry ride from Egmont to Saltery Bay leads to the historic town site of Powell River. Here you can enjoy great diving spots, the Powell Forest Canoe Route and the Sunshine Coast Trail. At the end of the road is Lund, a small, peaceful coastal village that is a haven for boaters. From here, water taxi to the white sand beaches of Savary Island.

Outdoor Activities

In an area dedicated to the pursuit of sports, two stand out: kayaking and mountain biking. Welcome to paddling nirvana. Natural wonders abound here in Howe Sound. There are miles of protected waterways – bordered by mountains rising dramatically from the ocean, as well as clusters of small islands, which provide ideal picnicking areas. The coast also offers many channels, inlets and sounds teeming with wildlife and nooks to explore. Highlight trips include kayaking around Keats Island and the Paisley Group. The Sunshine Coast also offers hundreds of kilometres of mountain bike trails for riders of all abilities. Experience everything from cross-country and intense downhills, to free ride routes with ladder bridges and skinnies.

Highlights

Skookumchuck Narrows

Twice daily, nature puts on a show as the tide changes and the flow of saltwater switches, reversing the direction and power of these incredibly turbulent rapids. The difference in water levels between one side of the rapids and the other sometimes exceeds 9 ft in height, with 200 billion gallons of water flowing through the Skookumchuck Narrows connecting Sechelt and Jervis Inlets. The Sechelt Rapids are famous for their spectacular whirlpools and, for their attraction to extreme kayakers and divers. “Skook”, as it is affectionately named, is one of the great whitewater wonders of the world, attracting thrillseekers from across the globe.

Garibaldi Lake

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Whistler, you will not be disappointed by what it has to offer. Whether you are looking to relax and unwind or are keen to go exploring and get back to nature, there is something for everyone – in Whistler, each day can be filled with a new adventure.

Whistler has so much to offer; from snow covered mountains to the record breaking Peak 2 Peak gondola, fine dining to horseback riding, ziplining to an outdoor Scandinave Spa, bear viewing to helicopter tours, Whistler covers it all and there is something for everyone! ‘The Village’ is the central neighbourhood of Whistler which is located at the base of both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Completely pedestrianised, you only need to take short stroll along the stone walkway to find all of the creature comforts you need, as well as a lot of luxuries you may even treat yourself to. For those staying in the Village North and Upper Village, if you do not feel like walking, many of the hotels offer frequent shuttles taking you straight to the heart of the Village. Whistler Village is a place where locals and visitors seamlessly mingle throughout the year. The village is never empty, with people shopping and renting skis and bikes, kids exploring the playgrounds or ice-skating. There are also plenty of people-watching opportunities from many of the sunny patios and restaurants. If this wasn’t enough reason to visit Whistler, depending on the season you visit, you might just be lucky enough to catch some of the wonderful events held throughout the year, including free open air concerts, street entertainment and markets. Why visit Whistler on your trip to Canada? There is always something to see and do and the sights and sounds change with the seasons, making every visit new and exciting. If you ask those who have already visited Whistler many will tell you about the special energy felt in this beautiful town – an energy that only people in a beautiful place, having a wonderful time can create – you can feel it every time you walk the Stroll; the smiles on everyone’s faces say it all.

Inside Passage Ferry & Skeena

Gliding quietly past the dense spruce forests of the British Columbia coastline and along the shores of Alaska’s Inside Passage, a fleet of ferries carries passengers and vehicles along the Alaska Marine Highway System – an interconnected network of communities accessible by sea.

For locals, the 3,500-mile Alaska Marine Highway System is a handy way to get from town to town when the roads are impassable (or non-existent). For visitors, it’s a convenient and thrifty way to see the Pacific coastline without the pricey trappings or set schedules of a fancy cruise ship. You can walk on or bring a car; stay on board and view the passing show, or hop on and off at whim; bunk down in a private cabin or sleep on deck under the stars. The 15 hour journey through northern British Columbia and southern Alaska from Port Hardy and Prince Rupert winds past hundreds of islands, inlets and fjords and has become famous for its rich marine life and glacier-capped mountains. Watch out for orcas, seals, dolphins, whales and bald eagles. At times the channel between islands and mainland narrows so much you can feel the spray from the glacier fed waterfalls. This route is ideal for those who want to get on and off the ferry when they please, staying for a few hours or several days in each port of call.

VIA Skeena Train

A region rich in first nations culture and history. Passengers on this two-day, 1,160km journey are treated to spectacular views of the Jasper National Park and the rugged Canadian Rockies, the hauntingly beautiful Pacific Coast, and the rustic settlements, farms and sawmills dotting the lake-studded landscape. The train stops overnight in Prince George and then winds through the Yellowhead Pass, across British Columbia’s interior plateau and long the mighty Skeena River. Choose the wide seats, attentive service and picture windows of Economy Class, or upgrade to Touring Class to enjoy sweeping views from the extra-large panoramic windows of the Panorama car. You will also benefit from exclusive access to the domed observatory car and a complimentary selection of hot and cold meals.

Skeena – a region rich in first nations culture and history

Okanagan Valley

Located in southern British Columbia, Canada – the Okanagan Valley is one of the warmest regions in Canada. The Okanagan includes the cities of Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon and Osoyoos. During the summer months, visitors are offered countless sandy beaches, hot sun and a variety of outdoor and water activities.

Okanagan Lake provides the valley not only with excellent swimming but is also a spectacular backdrop to the golf courses and Okanagan wineries and popular ski resorts located in the rolling hills of this wine valley. In fact it’s hard to know which harvest is growing faster in this fertile land: tourists or fruit. The 180km-long Valley is home to orchards of peaches and apricots and scores of excellent wineries whose vines spread across the terraced hills, soaking up Canada’s sunniest weather. The valley has provided a summertime escape for generations of Canadians who frolic in the string of lakes linking the Okanagan’s towns. Osoyoos, near the US border, is almost arid but things become greener heading north. Central Kelowna is a fast-growing city that’s a heady mix of lakeside beauty and fun. In July and August the entire valley is as overburdened as a grapevine before harvest; the best times to visit are late spring and early fall, when the crowds lessen. Snowy winters also make nearby Big White resort an attraction for skiers and snowboarders.

Highlights

Kootenay National Park

Established in 1920 as part of an agreement to build a new road across the Rockies, Kootenay National Park is a place of unique contrasts, from icy mountain rivers to steamy hot springs. The Kootenay Rockies, protected within the park, are British Columbia’s answer to Alberta’s world famous Rocky Mountains and hold the same UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Big and beautiful, but less crowded, Kootenay Rockies are famous for incredible ski resorts, jaw dropping scenery, natural hot springs, abundant wildlife and championship golf courses.

The Cariboo Region

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is a big region. It stretches from near the Alberta border all the way west to the Pacific Ocean. Over 600 km (375 miles) wide, people who come in search of wide-open spaces are never disappointed. Diverse in scenery, rich in history and full of adventure, this is British Columbia’s real west.

Visit real working ranches and ride over rolling rangeland. Fish the provinces best freshwater lakes and secluded saltwater inlets. British Columbia’s wild history comes to life with rodeos, heritage villages and historic First Nations communities. In the 1800s miners from all over the world rushed to the Cariboo Chilcotin. The small towns boomed into cities almost overnight with men eager to strike it rich in the gold fields. Gold fever had hit British Columbia and with it came a legendary era of saloons, cowboys and Wild West frontier adventure. Eventually, the gold rush died out. With it went the miners and the bustling cities soon turned into empty buildings. Today, the legends and ghost towns have been faithfully brought back to life in towns like Barkerville but the frontier adventure is still alive and well.

British Columbia’s wild history comes to life in the Cariboo Region

Jasper

Mount Edith Cavell and lake

Spanning over 11,000 square kilometres, from just south of Grande Cache, to the northern tip of Banff National Park, Jasper is the biggest of all the national parks in the Canadian Rockies. It is home to some incredible features including Alberta’s tallest mountain, Maligne Lake – the biggest glacial-fed lake in the Rockies – and diverse animal species including wolverines, elk and bighorn sheep.

At the heart of this national park is the town of Jasper, a laid-back alpine community where the locals welcome you as they would long-lost friends. Inside the town you’ll find restaurants, hotels, bars and shops; perfect for those who enjoy their home comforts, great food and some retail therapy. For those looking to ‘get back to nature’ but are not quite ready to jump into a sleeping bag, surrounding the town are luxurious mountain resorts that offer fine dining and touring options that will allow you to explore the beautiful wilderness of Jasper National Park. Jasper has so much to offer including biking, fishing, hiking, spectacular walking in summer, amazing powder skiing in winter and an abundance of wildlife and sightseeing year-round. Jasper will delight and amaze all of those who visit. Maligne Lake

Icefields Parkway

Following the spine of the Canadian Rockies, view a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged snowy peaks, and over 100 glaciers. If you are taking a self drive be sure to allow set aside an entire day to spend in the majesty of Canada's two most famous National Parks, Banff and Jasper.

With many stunning view points, lakes, waterfalls and glaciers you will want to stop off many times along the way for a stroll and photo opportunities. Make a stop at Athabasca Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Alberta, located just outside of the Jasper Townsite. Among the most powerful and breathtaking falls in the Rocky Mountains, the Athabasca River thunders through a narrow gorge where the walls have been smoothed and potholed by the sheer force of the rushing water carrying sand and rock. Take in the Weeping Wall, Peyto Lake and the Crowfoot Glacier before joining the Trans Canada Highway near Lake Louise where a stop will be made to view the lake and famous Chateau, then continue on the Trans-Canada Highway, passing fortress formations of Castle and Protection Mountains to arrive in to Banff late afternoon/early evening. On this drive or tour it is not uncommon to view wildlife in abundance, mainly Bears, wolves, big horn sheep and elk.

Columbia Icefields

The Columbia Icefield Centre is located on the boundary of Banff and Jasper National Parks. One of the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle, it covers an area of nearly 325 square kilometres. The continuous accumulation of snow feeds eight major glaciers including the Athabasca, Dome, and Stutfield, all visible from the Icefields Parkway. The Columbia Icefield is a true "continental divide," for its meltwater feeds streams and rivers that pour into the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans. Facing the Columbia Icefield Visitors Centre lies the Athabasca Glacier - a tongue of ice 6 kilometres long and one kilometre wide descending almost to road level. We recommend taking an Ice Explorer ride on to the Glacier for an Ice adventure and also take in the popular Glacier Skywalk.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise, known as the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’, is what makes Banff National Park the phenomenon it is – an awe-inspiring natural feature that is impossible to describe. Standing next to the serene, implausibly turquoise lake, the natural world feels (and is) tantalizingly close with a surrounding amphitheater of finely chiseled mountains that hoist Victoria Glacier up for all to see.

Famous for its teahouses, grizzly bears, hiking trails and some of the most spectacular sights in the Rockies – one that has captured the imaginations of mountaineers, artists and visitors for more than a century. For the more adventurous visit Lake Louise in the winter and enjoy endless winter wonderland activities such as skiing, ice walks, ice skating, sleigh ride. Perhaps even indulge in hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows whilst taking in the majestic scenery on a snowy evening.

My Canada Trips Staff Pick

By Tegan

The Rockies and Lake Louise

The drive from Jasper to Banff via Lake Louise is one of the most scenic transfer/tours I have ever taken in all my years of travel. The drive along the Icefield Parkway was stunning, I had to remember at times to put the camera down, look out and take it all in. Surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, lakes (frozen in May/early June) and an abundance of wildlife. We spotted a Black Bear, Stag and big Horned Sheep on this drive. We stopped off at many places along the way, making sure we took in the scenery and plenty photo opportunities, in particular Lake Louise – one of the world’s most photographed lakes which was breathtaking and had it’s beautiful blue, green and turquoise colours gleaming.

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies near the south eastern border of Banff National Park – Canada’s first national park, Banff caters to intrepid explorers who prefer to end their day’s in a nice hotel rather than roughing it at the campgrounds (though there are plenty of those too).

Nestled high (almost 1,500 metres above sea level) in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a town that makes you feel at home and exhilarated with wonder all at the same time. There is no other place in the world where you can find a vibrant community of artists, athletes, families, outdoor enthusiasts, restauranteurs and hoteliers nestled in a 6,641km2 national park. This is a town that truly celebrates its heritage, lives and breathes mountain culture and never takes its backyard for granted. Wander 15 minutes in any direction and you are in wild country, full of bears, elks and wolves. Opportunities for adventure abound, so pick your sport: Ski down Mount Norquay, hike to the massive, free standing limestone pillars known as the Hoodoos, “scramble” up the face of the Stoney Squaw Mountain or bike along Healy Creek. Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a bird’s eye view of six mountain ranges. The Banff Gondola is located just five minutes from the Town of Banff, on the shoulder of Sulphur Mountain. The 360 degrees view from the upper gondola terminal, view-decks and Summit Ridge Interpretive Boardwalk offer the very best vantage point in the area. No trip is complete without a visit to the famous Upper Hot Springs, set at 5,200ft this is Canada’s largest operational Hot Spring.

Calgary & Stampede

Alberta’s largest city, Calgary is home to over a million people. Situated where the prairies end and the foothills begin, it’s the eastern gateway to the Rocky Mountains (just a 90 minute drive) and an important centre of trade and tourism for the western prairies.

A vibrant and rapidly growing city, Calgary surprises with its beauty, great eateries, nightlife beyond honky-tonk and a very long, worthwhile to-do list. Once known to forsake quality for quantity, it’s a trend that’s changing with fantastic results. Community activists in emerging neighbourhoods like Inglewood and Kensington are finally waking up and smelling the single-origin home-roasted coffee, with new bars, boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues exhibiting more colour and experimentation. The city that to non-Calgarians long served as a somewhat bland business centre or a functional springboard has become cool. And we mustn’t forget – Calgary throws one of Canada’s biggest parties, the Calgary Stampede. During your time in the city don’t miss out on a trip up Calgary Tower and head out on a popular foodie tour. Don’t miss out a visit to Heritage Park, Canada’s largest living history museum complete with steam trips, horse drawn wagon rides, heritage buildings and stories from the 1860s right through to the 1950s.

My Canada Trips Staff Pick

By Kelsey

The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth

For a real Canadian experience I can highly recommend adding on the Calgary Stampede package to your trip. It is “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”. The Stampede is an annual 10 day rodeo, exhibition and festival in July that attracts over one million visitors. The city and locals all embrace this event which includes the rodeo, chuckwagon racing, a parade, concerts and much much more. You will need to book early as hotels sell out very quickly for Calgary’s biggest annual event!

Suggested Itineraries

Lakes & Lodges

A superb 14-day self-drive holiday featuring the lakes & lodges of western Canada. Spend 3 nights in cosmopolitan Vancouver before picking up your hire car and travelling to Tyax Lodge, Lac Le Jeune, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Moraine Lake Lodge and Emerald Lake Lodge before ending your trip with a 2-night stay in Banff, the heart of the Rockies.

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver. Private transfer to your downtown hotel

Day 2 Spend today at your leisure sightseeing in Vancouver. Take in Granville Island, Coal harbour, Stanley Park and a sunset at English Bay Day 3 Discover Vancouver. Why not speak to one our Canada Experts for recommendations of pre-bookable excursions Day 4 Pick up your car hire this morning and traverse to Gold Bridge for 2 nights at Tyax Lodge Day 5 A full day to explore Gold Bridge and the surrounding area. Tyax offers a wide array of activities for all ages

Day 6 Return through Lillooet, turn east along Highway 99 toward Cache Creek. From here travel a short distance to your overnight accommodation at Lac Le Jeune Resort, located in a stunning wilderness.

Day 7 Today, follow the Thompson River to the snowy peaks of the Monashee Mountains. View Pyramid Falls and the Albreda Icefields; then on to the resort town of Jasper, for a 2 night stay

Day 8 Explore this charming mountain village close to many terrific scenic highlights

Day 9

This morning depart on the scenic Icefields Parkway that takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. View a never-ending procession of mountains, jagged peaks, glaciers and pristine lakes before arriving at Moraine Lake Lodge Day 10 A short drive today through majestic mountain passes into Yoho National Park for your 2 night stay at Emerald Lake Lodge

Day 11 Relax and enjoy the views and facilities on offer at Emerald Lake Lodge

Day 12

Day 13 Enjoy the leisurely drive to Banff. Choose the Bow Valley Parkway, beside the Bow River, with an option for you to take a stop at Johnston Canyon before continuing to Banff A full day to explore Banff. Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola (included) where you will see a panoramic view of the Bow Valley

Day 14 Drive to Calgary today and drop off your hire car before your overnight flight to the UK

Ultimate West

A fantastic 21-day fly-drive road trip which showcases the very best of Western Canada. From the wine growing region of the Okanagan Valley to the resort towns of the majestic Rocky Mountains, cosmopolitan Vancouver to whale watching in Tofino, with a ride on a real Glacier and a stay in an historic lodge hotel in between, this trip really lives up to its name.

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver, transfer to your downtown hotel Day 2 Explore Vancouver with your Hop on Hop off pass Day 3 Travel into the Okanagan region; famous for its orchards & vineyards

Day 4 Kelowna Westside Story Wine Tour

Day 5 Scenic drive taking in waterfalls,peaks and lakes before arriving at Emerald Lake Lodge Day 6 Relax and explore the activities at Emerald Lake Lodge Day 7 Leisurely drive to Banff Day 8 Explore Banff, take gondola ride & relax in the Upper Hot Springs Day 9 Traverse via Lake Louise & the Icefields Parkway to Jasper Day 10 Sightsee Jasper before an evening Wildlife tour Day 11 Drive the scenic Yellowhead Highway to Alpine Meadows Resort Day 12 Depart Clearwater for Tyax Wilderness Lodge along the Cariboo Highway Day 13 Enjoy Tyax Wilderness Resort Day 14 Head to Whistler for your 2-night stay

Day 15 Explore Whistler with the Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride

Day 16 Travel the Sea to Sky Highway to Horseshoe Bay for a ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island Day 17 Coastal Bear Watching Tour from Tofino

Day 18 Leave the Pacific Rim for Victoria

Day 19 Morning Whale Watching tour and the afternoon at your leisure

Day 20 Depart Victoria to Vancouver

Day 21 Fly Vancouver to UK

Suggested Itineraries

Canadian Gold Rush

Enjoy a wonderful 12-day trip to Canada, including a stay in Vancouver and a rail trip through the majestic Rocky Mountains. The highlight of this trip is a luxurious 3-day rail journey on the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer train as you wind your way in style and comfort from Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, taking in Lake Louise and scenic Banff on the way. A spectacular 15-day west coast Canada self drive road trip that features the cosmopolitan Vancouver, the wilderness of Knight Inlet Lodge and the rugged coastline of Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park. Knight Inlet Lodge, is not accessible by road, so you’ll fly in by floatplane from Campbell River. Bring your camera - you’ll be going on a bear watching and wildlife viewing tour in search of the grizzly bears that frequent this area.

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver and transfer to your hotel

Day 2 Sightsee Vancouver at your leisure with you Hop on Hop off Sightseeing pass. Take in Coal Harbour, Gas Town, Stanley Park, English Bay and Granville Island

Day 3 Continue to explore coastal Vancouver its sights. Perhaps even ask one of our Canada Experts to recommend an optional excursion

Day 4

Transfer to the rail station and join Rocky Mountaineer for a 3 day trip through the Rockies. Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to the alpine resort town of Whistler Day 5 Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer to the charming rural town of Quesnel, gateway to the North Cariboo

Day 6 Your journey continues eastwards today to the majestic Canadian Rockies and Jasper National Park

Day 7 This morning you have the Maligne Lake & Guided walk tour followed by an evening Wildlife Discovery tour

Day 8 Today we travel the famous Icefields Parkway, considered one of the most scenic highways in the world, as we travel to Lake Louise. Enjoy the wildlife, pristine lakes, and breathtaking mountain peaks along the world famous Icefields Parkway before arriving at the spectacular Lake Louise

Day 9 Check-out from your Lake Louise hotel and transfer to Banff for a final 3 nights in the Rockies

Day 10 Discover Banff and its Wildife with Gondola out. Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure Day 11 Spend your final day in Banff taking in the sights and/or shopping for any last minute gifts Day 12 Transfer from Banff to Calgary for your overnight flight to UK

Vancouver, Bears & Whales

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver. Private transfer to your downtown hotel

Day 2 Use your Hop on Hop off Vancouver 24 hour Sighseeing Pass to take in some of the city’s best sights. Highlights include English Bay, Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown.

Day 3 Depart Vancouver and drive along the Sea to Sky highway to Whistler. This is a beautiful drive with many viewing points along the way

Day 4

Day 5 Explore Whistler; take a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola (included), enjoy endless hikes and trails, add on a helicopter ride for a birds eye view of the mountain rangers, glaciers and lakes Depart Whistler for Horseshoe Bay and sail for 1 hr 45 min on BC Ferries (ferry toll included) to Vancouver Island. Traverse to Campbell River for your overnight stay

Day 6 Scenic floatplane transfer to Knight Inlet Lodge for your wildlife adventure. You’ll be going on a bear watching and wildlife viewing tour

Day 7 Enjoy an extra Bear Viewing trip, interpretive hike of Kwalate River Valley and interpretive forest walk in the Glencove area

Day 8 Early morning Bear Viewing opportunity before your return floatplane journey to Campbell River. Continue on to the Pacific Rim for your 3 night stay in Tofino

Day 9 Today enjoy a Whale Watch cruise or a Bear Viewing Cruise Day 10 You may wish to walk along the famed Long Beach or explore the rainforests on a selection of well groomed trails Day 11 Traverse to Victoria & relax at the Inner Harbour Day 12 Enjoy a whale watching cruise this morning in search of orcas Day 13 Depart Victoria for Vancouver, via a stop at Butchart Gardens before continuing on to BC Ferries from Swartz Bay (included) The day is yours to discover the coastal city of Vancouver Day 15 Overnight flight from Vancouver to the UK

Suggested Itineraries

Canada & Alaska Sojourn Classic Rockies & BC

An exceptional itinerary offering best of Canada. Fly to Toronto and take in the magnificent Niagara Falls before heading to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, visiting Banff and Jasper, before embarking on a 2 day trip on the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer in luxurious GoldLeaf Service from Jasper to Vancouver. In Vancouver, join Holland America Line for a breathtaking 7-night Alaska cruise. This itinerary has everything you would want from a holiday in Western Canada – taking in the truly magnificent Canadian Rockies by luxury rail onboard Rocky Mountaineer in GoldLeaf Service, as well as the best of Vancouver. Then head west to the charming coastal capital of Victoria. You’re certain to fall in love with this incredible landscape of mountains, lakes, glaciers and scenic towns.

Day 1 Fly UK to Toronto Day 2 Explore Toronto at leisure and take a ride up the CN tower

Day 3 Niagara Falls full day tour inc cruise, lunch, winery tour with tasting

Day 4 Fly to Calgary, transfer to Banff

Day 5 Discover Banff & its Wildlife tour, afternoon at leisure Day 6 Scenic Icefields Parkway tour to Jasper inc Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk Day 7 Maligne Lake & Guided walk tour Day 8 Rocky Mountaineer, Jasper to Kamloops Day 9 Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops to Vancouver

Day 10 Use your Hop on Hop off Sightseeing Pass to take in English Bay, Stanley Park,

Day 11 Day at leisure to continue sightseeing or pre-book an optional tour to Victoria or Whistler

Day 12 Board your Alaska Cruise

Day 13 Cruise the Inside Passage

Day 14 Juneau Day 15 Skagway

Day 16 Glacier Bay Cruising

Day 17 Ketchikan

Day 18 Cruise the Inside Passage

Day 20 Overnight flight from Vancouver to the UK Day 1 Fly UK to Calgary, coach transfer to Banff

Day 2 Enjoy Banff this morning at your leisure before your afternoon sightseeing tour, where you will visit the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies,” Lake Louise and the world renowned Moraine Lake. Both lakes are a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Day 3 A day at leisure to enjoy Banff. Ask one of our Canada Experts for optional excursion that we can pre-book in Banff for you

Day 4 Travel on board the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Kamloops. Your journey takes you through a spectacular array of scenery as you travel between the glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies

Day 5 Continue west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey, you will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade mountains

Day 6 Use your Vancouver Hop on Hop off Sightseeing Pass to take in English Bay, Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown

Day 7 Depart Vancouver this morning for your trip to Victoria & Butchart Gardens

Day 8 Whale Watching tour from Victoria this morning. This coastal excursion is an exhilarating round trip of 50 to 80 kilometres in search of Orcas, minke whales, grey whales, porpoises, harbour seals and other marine wildlife

Day 9 Explore Victoria, famous for its English style architecture and Inner Harbour

Day 10 Traverse back to Vancouver for your 2 night stay

Day 11 Spend today at your leisure taking in the very best of Vancouver

Day 12 Scenic drive from coastal Vancouver along the Sea to Sky highway to the alpine resort of Whistler. Afternoon at your leisure Day 13 Today is at your leisure to explore Canada’s most famous mountain resort of Whistler

Day 14 Transfer from your hotel in Whistler to Vancouver airport for your overnight flight to the UK

Suggested Itineraries

Northern BC & Rockies Explorer

A terrific 17 day rail holiday experience through Canada’s Northern British Columbia on the famous Skeena route and the Rockies, including a stay in Victoria and Vancouver. If this wasn’t enough experience the Inside Passage on a ferry cruise from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert. The Inside Passage & Rockies are a paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver. Transfer to Whistler (included) Day 2 Explore Whistler with your Peak 2 Peak Gondola pass Day 3 Enjoy Whistler, with endless walks, lakes and activities on offer you will not be short of things to do Day 4 Coach transfer from Whistler to Vancouver this morning before taking the afternoon VIA Rail to Jasper (1 dinner included)

Day 5 Travel towards the Canadian Rockies and Jasper. Enjoy breakfast while surrounded by dramatic scenery as you follow the banks of the Northern Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains

Day 6 Travel by coach today to Banff via one of the most scenic highways in North America - the Icefields Parkway

Day 7 This morning, tour the town of Banff and its environs. Among the highlights are visits to the the Hoodoos (shaped by centuries of wind) & Bow Valley Viewpoint, Surprise Corner, Bow Falls, Lake Minnewanka and Bankhead. Afternoon at your leisure

Day 8 Spend today at your leisure. Ask on of our Canada Experts

Day 9 Express coach this afternoon from Banff to Jasper Day 10 Discover Jasper at your leisure, perhaps add on a wildlife tour or aerial tramway ride

Day 11 Embark on a journey with VIA Rail ‘Skeena’ across British Columbia’s Cariboo Region to the waters of the Pacific Ocean and Prince George

Day 12 Continuing west, the train follows the Skeena River and meanders through spectacular canyons and open valleys in the presence of ever present mountain ridges, ending in Prince Rupert

Day 13

Sail to Vancouver Island through a maze of enchanting islands, relishing the ever-changing vistas of deep fjords, densely forested shorelines, massive iceflows and jagged inlets Day 14 This morning depart on a scheduled flight to Vancouver Day 15 Spend today at your leisure taking in the best of Vancouver

Rockies & Rainforests

Discover snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and dense rainforests; ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views and on the surface of the Athabasca glacier for the thrill of a lifetime. Stay in pretty mountain villages, lakeside resorts and on the Pacific coast with its crashing rollers. Watch for whales as you cruise on Clayoquot Sound and for bear, elk and mountain sheep.

Day 1 Fly UK to Vancouver, transfer to your downtown hotel

Day 2 Discover the coastal city of Vancouver. The spectacular setting invites you outdoors; experience Grouse Mountain Skyride (included) and Capilano Suspension Bridge (included) at your own leisure.

Day 3

Pick up your car hire this morning and south to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal for a 90 min Ferry ride (ferry toll included) to Swartz Bay. On-board BC Ferries enjoy the scenery of the Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia. From Swartz Bay continue onto the charming city of Victoria. Day 4 Today is free to explore Victoria. Admission is included to the Butchart Gardens with its over 50 acre display of magnificent colour Day 5 Travel to the rugged West Coast of Vancouver Island and head to Pacific Rim National Park for a 2 night stay in Ucluelet or Tofino Day 6 Enjoy either a whale or Bear Viewing cruise Day 7 Depart for journey to Parksville. En-route stop to take in the Mars WaterBombers at Sproat Lake Day 8 From Departure Bay sail on BC Ferries to Horseshoe Bay and traverse along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler Day 9 Experience the beauty of Whistler’s alpine environment with a scenic ride on the Peak2Peak Gondola

Day 10 Travel north today to Wells Gray Provincial Park Day 11 A full day to enjoy all the wonders Wells Gray has to offer

Day 12

Set out for Jasper along the scenic Yellowhead Highway and take in the breathtaking vistas of the steep-walled gorges and crashing falls of the North Thompson River Day 13 Jasper offers many terrific scenic highlights to explore

Day 14

Your scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway today takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. View a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged peaks, over 100 glaciers and pristine emerald coloured lakes Day 15 A full day to explore Banff and the surrounding area Day 16 Drive from Banff to Calgary for your overnight flight to the UK