Day 1: 15 December: Arrive Vancouver
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers this evening.
Day 2: 16 December: Vancouver
Embark on a sightseeing tour of beautiful Vancouver this morning, where you'll be introduced to the city's must-see attractions, including the cobblestone streets of historic Gastown, vibrant Chinatown, and the vast Stanley Park. You'll also stop by Granville Island, the bustling heart of Vancouver's cultural scene. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to explore at leisure.
Signature Experience – Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Immerse yourself in the magic of the festive season as you wander through Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, which is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland for the Canyon Lights display. Walk across the illuminated suspension bridge and admire the mesmerising glittering lights that are scattered throughout the rainforest.
Day 3: 17 December: Vancouver, Whistler
Travel north along the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler and learn why this spectacular alpine town attracts so many outdoor enthusiasts. Settle into your luxurious accommodation for the night, Fairmont Chateau Whistler. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 4: 18 December: Whistler, Vancouver, VIA Rail
Today begins with a memorable Signature Experience. Afterwards, travel back to Vancouver and head to the railway station for your overnight VIA Rail journey to Jasper National Park. Dinner is served on board your train.
Signature Experience – Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and feast on a breakfast inspired by traditional First Nations cuisine. Explore the museum, discovering your First Nations animal spirit with the help of your guide.
Day 5: 19 December: VIA Rail, Jasper
Your journey continues this morning along the railway. Sights set on Jasper, watch as the snowy Canadian Rockies pass by your window. Once at your lodge, become familiar with the beauty of Jasper National Park. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of your lodge’s restaurants.
Day 6: 20 December: Jasper
Choose how you want to explore Jasper National Park today with a range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer.
Freedom of Choice – Winter Wildlife Tour
In winter, everything appears to be even more beautiful. Set off into the frozen wilderness of Jasper National Park with a guide and observe the region’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Freedom of Choice – Jasper Planetarium Experience
Being the world’s largest dark sky reserve, Jasper is the perfect place for an astronomy tour. Spend an evening with local experts in a heated dome theatre and gaze through the outdoor telescope.
Freedom of Choice – Maligne Canyon Icewalk
The deepest canyon in Jasper National Park is best seen from the frozen floor. See ice caves, fossils, and waterfalls frozen in a dive of over 30 metres.
Freedom of Choice – Snowshoeing Tour
Strap on your snowshoes and join your experienced guide as you travel through some of the most inspiring winter scenery in the Rockies.
Day 7: 21 December: Jasper, Lake Louise
Leaving Jasper, you’ll journey through the Rocky Mountains and along the Icefields Parkway (weather permitting), before heading to Lake Louise.
Day 8: 22 December: Lake Louise
Enjoy a Signature Experience, then continue to soak up the wintry atmosphere of this special place with the afternoon at leisure. You might like to use the time to curl up by the fireplace and watch the snowy landscapes outside. Or perhaps venture outdoors and choose from one of the resort’s many activities on offer, which are available at an extra cost. Choose from your hotel's exceptional collection of restaurants for dinner this evening.
Signature Experience – Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Glide through a winter wonderland on a horse-drawn sleigh ride along a frozen lakeside trail at Lake Louise. Snuggle under a warm blanket as the crisp mountain air fills your lungs, and take in the breathtaking beauty of snow-draped forests and towering peaks all around you.
Day 9: 23 December: Lake Louise, Banff
Today, continue your journey to Banff. Enjoy a ride on the Banff Gondola and take in sweeping mountain views across Banff National Park. Later, a Signature Experience awaits.
Signature Experience – Meet a Mountie
In spectacular Banff National Park, you’ll have the chance to meet one of Canada’s renowned Mounties and hear tales from the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Day 10: 24 December: Banff
Embark on your preferred sightseeing activity and immerse yourself in the beauty of this winter wonderland.
Freedom of Choice – Dog Sledding Tour
When it comes to snow activities, dog sledding is at the top of many peoples’ lists. Experience the thrill as a passenger, or if you’re feeling daring, give your guide a helping hand (additional expense).
Freedom of Choice – Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Stroll along a series of steel paths built into the walls of Banff’s Johnston Canyon and be left spellbound by the stunning scenery of frozen waterfalls and icy forest trails.
Freedom of Choice – Banff Locals, Lakes & Gems
Join this exclusive small-group tour and venture off the beaten path to discover Banff National Park’s hidden gems. You’ll also enjoy more time to explore Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lake and the stunning Lake Minnewanka.
Freedom of Choice – Hockey Player Experience
When in Canada, it’s only fitting that you experience a day in the life of an ice hockey player. Get to know the Canmore Eagles as you tour their dressing rooms, try on their gear and step onto the ice.
Freedom of Choice – Fairmont Spa Entry
Harking back to the hot spring that first called travellers some 100 years ago, soothe your tired muscles in the mineral pool and pulsating waterfalls at Fairmont Banff Springs.
Day 11: 25 December: Christmas in Banff
Wake to a fairytale white Christmas in Banff. Whether you choose to relax in your hotel or enjoy the great outdoors, today promises to be an unforgettable Christmas. Round off the festivities with a celebratory drink and sensational Christmas dinner this evening.
Day 12: 26 December: Banff, Depart Calgary
Following breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Calgary for your onward flight.