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Best of the Rockies

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Marvel at the wonders of the Canadian landscape on this rail escape.

8 days From £4,295 per person
This is an independent non-escorted holiday

2023 Tour code: QBR23

About the tour

The majesty of the Canadian Rockies awaits on this round-trip through western Canada. Soak up the stylish coastal city of Vancouver before embarking upon two unforgettable rail journeys through mountain peaks, dense pine forests and vast, expansive plains on the Rocky Mountaineer and The Canadian.

Highlights

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What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - London and Vancouver

Fly from London to the coastal city of Vancouver and check into your hotel for the night. You're free to spend your day in Vancouver however you please. If you have the energy to explore after your flight, this trendy coastal city offers plenty to occupy your time.

You could explore the cobbled streets and independent boutiques of the historic Gastown District, or take a wander in Stanley Park to admire the intricately carved First Nations totem poles. You could also spend your time exploring the city's bar and restaurant scene to find the perfect meal to begin your holiday.

Day 2 - The Rocky Mountaineer to Kamloops

Board the Rocky Mountaineer this morning for a scenic journey to Kamloops. Admire the breathtaking scenery as you're whisked east through the Coastal Mountains to the Fraser River, learning more about the region with detailed onboard commentary throughout your journey.

Scenic highlights include the rushing waters of Hell's Gate deep in the Fraser Canyon, the steep slopes leading into the Thompson River, and the expansive Kamloops Lake. The train arrives in Kamloops in the evening, where you check into your hotel for the night before exploring the city at your own pace.

Day 3 - The Rocky Mountaineer to Banff

Leaving your hotel this morning, reboard the Rocky Mountaineer to continue your breathtaking journey through the Canadian Rockies. Highlights of today's route include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon and the Spiral Tunnels.

After crossing the Continental Divide, the train arrives in Banff in the evening. Check into your hotel for two nights, and perhaps head out for a bite to eat in this laid back mountain town, a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Day 4 - Banff

Get to the heart of Banff National Park with a sightseeing tour, incorporating some of the most stunning natural attractions the landscape has to offer. Your tour takes you to the Hoodoos, Tunnel Mountain Drive and the Cave and Basin.

The afternoon is yours to discover Banff. You could perhaps explore the area further using the many walking trails available, take the cable car up Sulphur Mountain for fantastic views over the surrounding area or take a dip in Banff Upper Hot Springs, one of the area's original attractions for 19th-century tourists.

Day 5 - Jasper

Today takes you from Banff to Jasper by way of the Icefields Parkway, a scenic two-lane road that travels through the magnificent scenery of Banff and Jasper National Parks.

A stop at the Columbia Icefield allows you to take an all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle onto the massive Athabasca Glacier to learn more about the geology of this striking natural wonder. Afterwards, make a brief stop in Lake Louise where you have time to snap a photo of the lake's glistening blue waters before arriving in the resort of Jasper to spend the night.

Day 6 - The Canadian

Transfer to the train station this morning to board The Canadian, for a memorable journey to Vancouver.

Settle into your Sleeper Plus cabin and prepare for your overnight journey west, taking in stunning scenery as it speeds past your window. All meals are included while on board, including a sumptuous three-course dinner, and you also have access to the Skyline Car, which contains a library and a drinks lounge.

You can also spend time relaxing in the comfortable armchairs of the Bullet Lounge, admiring views over dramatic mountainscapes and inland plains alike from specially designed panoramic windows.

Day 7 - Vancouver

The train arrives in Vancouver in the morning. After checking into your hotel, head out into the city for a final day of sightseeing.

Included in your tour price is admission to FlyOver Canada, a thrilling virtual journey across Canada aboard the latest in-flight ride technology that introduces you to the country's most famous sights.

The Top of Vancouver is a great option for an end-of-holiday meal. Located just below the observation deck of the Vancouver Lookout, the restaurant revolves once every hour, ensuring you enjoy 360-degree views across the city skyline as you dine.

Day 8 - Vancouver to London

Your holiday comes to an end as you return to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow.

Additional information

Please Note

Cabins purchased on VIA rail for a single traveller are Cabins for 1. For upgrade options, ask your rail specialist for details.

Pricing Plans

Superior Accommodations

Hotels include Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Rimrock Resort Banff, and Sawridge Hotel Jasper (or similar). VIA Rail accommodations are Sleeper Plus class in a private cabin. Meals are included aboard the train along with exclusive access to lounges and observation cars. Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is in SilverLeaf service and includes travel in a single-level dome car featuring panoramic views and hot meal service at your seat.

Deluxe Accommodations

Hotels include Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Banff Springs, and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (or similar). VIA Rail accommodations are in Sleeper Plus class in a private cabin. Meals are included aboard the train along with exclusive access to lounges and observation cars. Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is in GoldLeaf service and includes travel in a bi-level dome car featuring panoramic views on the upper level and an elegant private dining room to take breakfast and lunch.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Trains

The Canadian Train
The Rocky Mountaineer