WOW FACTOR /
BESPOKE
BESPOKE BEAUTY Unwind, dine, and connect onboard Canada’s decadent Rocky Mountaineer. BY A M I E E W H I T E B E A Z L E Y
I ARRIVED BEFORE DAYBREAK AT THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN STATION IN BANFF, ALBERTA, CANADA. During an early fall morning in the mountains, guests gathered inside the train station until a light approached in the distance. With its bells ringing, a custom-designed navy blue, whiteand-gold, bi-level glass-domed train emerged through the morning mist. Rocky Mountaineer had arrived to take us on a journey through the Canadian Rockies. We're set to follow the “First Passage to the West” route from Banff to Vancouver, the only passenger rail service along the historic Canadian Pacific track, which connected British Columbia to the rest of Canada more than 130 years ago. Stepping onto the upper level of the train and into GoldLeaf Service, we settled into oversized leather seats and were given warm hand towels, coffee, and pastries to kick off the journey. 22
U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S
Considered a signature of Rocky Mountaineer, the train's glass domes allow jaw-dropping, panoramic views. As such, a new surprise appeared around every corner—craggy peaks, powerful waterfalls, and wildlife, seemingly unaware of our passing. The rivers were a stunning turquoise blue, similar to Lake Louise and Banff, and the trees were at their peak of autumn colors. They dazzled with a vibrant mix of gold and red, contrasting with the blue sky and new fallen snow on surrounding summits. Not long after we pulled out of Banff, we were escorted downstairs to the first floor and an elegant dining room. Culinary offerings on Rocky Mountaineer is an event in and of itself—a throwback to the days of romantic train travel. While sitting with other travelers, we enjoyed a freshly prepared breakfast and three-course lunch as dramatic scenery passed outside the windows. In the GoldLeaf Service dining room, food is prepared by Michelin-trained chefs,
