TRACKS THROUGH THE HIGH ROCKIES

Known for the world’s largest Rodeo show, the annual Calgary Stampede, Calgary is also the gateway to the iconic Rockies, where you will find pretty alpine lakes, diverse wildlife and some impressive snow-capped peaks. This city is big on equestrian sports and the 20^th-century show-jumping complex, Spruce Meadows, is worth a visit if you are into horse racing. Spend your arrival night at Hotel Le Germain, which is located in downtown and is close to attractions like the Calgary Tower and the bustling Stephen Avenue walk. If you love a good craft beer, be sure to check out the Big Rock Brewery, where you can embark on an informative brewery tour. 

Collect your car when you leave Calgary and head towards Banff in the heart of the Rockies. Visit the dramatic Hoodoo rock formations which have been shaped by centuries of wind, then head to the viewpoint at the Surprise Corner for incomparable views of Bow River and its waterfalls. Why not take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain to enjoy the 360-degree vistas from the top of this postcard-perfect area? You’ll be staying at Moose Hotels and Suites which is just a minute’s walk from downtown and has the feel of an alpine lodge.

Driving from Banff to Jasper, you will journey along one of the world’s most scenic roads – the Icefields Parkway – and with the freedom of your own vehicle, you can stop as frequently as you wish to take photographs or simply drink in the views. Don’t miss the dazzling shoreline of iconic Lake Louise and keep an eye out for local wildlife – the landscapes are rich with elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black and brown bears.

The pretty town of Jasper is set against a mountain backdrop, including the iconic Mt Edith Cavell, and Jasper National Park. You’ll be staying at The Crimson, which sits right by Jasper National Park, natural adventure playground with a host of activities from adrenaline-fuelled ice-climbing to biking and gentle hiking. You will drop off your car in Jasper before your Rocky Mountaineer experience.

From stunning Jasper to cosmopolitan Vancouver you’ll enjoy an exciting ride onboard the Rocky Mountaineer with a flipbook of mountain and lake scenes, and lush greenery whirling by outside your window. This classic rail experience is a must-do for not only train enthusiasts but for anyone who wants to experience some of Canada’s most exquisite locations in one smooth, comfortable journey.

The Gold Leaf experience offers a prime viewing location in the form of a luxury bi-level glass-dome carriage and gourmet a la carte meals complemented by a wide selection of beverages... The train driver will slow down to give you the chance to watch and photograph some of the local wildlife, including bears and moose. You will stay overnight in Kamloops. 

This beautiful city often tops lists of the world’s most liveable cities, and it’s easy to see why, with its stunning waterfront setting, vibrant shops and markets, inviting green leafy spaces and buzzing, cosmopolitan vibe. Vancouver’s top attractions include a plethora of downtown shops and restaurants plus Stanley Park, a green oasis that is much-loved by locals and visitors alike - don’t miss the colourful First Nations totem poles. You’ll be staying at The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver which offers fine dining and has a delectable seafood menu, its own wine merchant and silk tapestries in the rooms.