Alberta & the Rockies

As the gateway to the dramatic Rocky Mountains, the province of Alberta is an adventure lover’s playground. There is no better way to enjoy these majestic crags than on board the Rocky Mountaineer. This iconic rail experience takes you through the remarkable mountains to the scenic coast. You can also embark on a self-drive tour along the Icefields Parkway which connects Banff (Canada’s oldest national park) to Jasper, another national park defined by snow-capped peaks and glassy lakes. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world.

In winter Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise turn into ski resorts but when it starts to get warmer and the ice thaws, the mountains are reflected onto the water which looks so perfectly natural you’d think it were reflected by a mirror. One of the most iconic spots to capture landscapes like this in photograph is at the brilliant-blue Moraine Lake in Banff National Park.

The start of the summer in Alberta also signals the beginning of the infamous Calgary Stampede, where you can experience the world’s largest rodeo show, along with festivals and exhibitions. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws in huge crowds. 

Head to the epic landscapes of Manitoba to experience one of the best places to see polar bears in this spectacular natural habitat, while other wild inhabitants of the area include Arctic foxes, beluga whales and colourful birds.