Rockies Odyssey

Once you’ve landed in Vancouver, we’ll take you to your hotel. Settle into your room and relax before enjoying a welcome dinner this evening. 

Today, you’ll experience the best of Vancouver on a fantastic half-day sightseeing tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll soak up the scenery at the vast Stanley Park, explore the trendy Granville Island, and immerse yourself in the historic neighbourhood of Gastown. 

Board the Rocky Mountaineer and take in the views from your bi-level glass-dome carriage in GoldLeaf Service. Gaze up at the Coast Mountains and pass Hell’s Gate. Follow the Thompson River on the way to Kamloops.  

Today, your rail journey heads towards the Rockies. See the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels and traverse the Kicking Horse Pass. Once in Banff National Park, head for the ‘Castle in the Rockies’, Fairmont Banff Springs.   

Discover Banff on your own terms today, as you enjoy your included Freedom of Choice activity. Choose where to dine tonight from your hotel’s selection of restaurants.

Freedom of Choice – Banff Experience

It’s Banff’s people, alpine architecture and wildlife that make it so unique, and this is your chance to hear about it all. You will also visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Head to the top of Sulphur Mountain and take in Banff from above, climbing nearly 700 metres in elevation as you are carried through the pines. Once you reach the peak, you can head off for a stroll along the boardwalk.

Freedom of Choice – Heli-Sightseeing

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Rocky Mountains. Soar past snowy peaks and jagged mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of pristine lakes and alpine meadows.

Freedom of Choice – Bow River Float Trip

Ah yes, the relaxation of the river! Spend some time floating down the Bow River, keeping your eyes peeled for any signs of cheeky wildlife on the banks. This activity is suitable for most fitness levels.

Freedom of Choice – Ice Hockey Player for a Day

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

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. 

Enjoy a Signature Experience in Banff this morning, then after a tour through the town, set out along the Trans-Canada Highway and through Banff National Park to Lake Louise. As you arrive at the hamlet of Lake Louise, you will be in awe of the unique setting. Turquoise water is bordered by a jagged mountainscape, dotted with trees. Breathe in the crisp air as you enjoy your first day in this stunning location. Choose where to dine tonight at one of the hotel’s extraordinary restaurants.

Signature Experience – Meet a Mountie

On an exciting morning in beautiful 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. 

This morning, travel to Moraine Lake (season permitting) and spend time marvelling at the glacier-fed waters. Afterwards, return to Lake Louise and relax in your luxurious accommodation set within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps delve into the Canadian wilderness with a hike, embark on a canoe ride around Lake Louise, or book a treatment at the spa (additional cost). A Signature Experience also awaits today. The evening is free for you to spend at leisure.

Signature Experience – Lake Louise Mountain Heritage Guide

On the shores of Lake Louise, join an expert Mountain Heritage Guide and learn about the area’s rich natural history. 

Join the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic stretches of road. Pause at Peyto Lake, stop at the Columbia Icefield and journey onto the Athabasca Glacier. Continuing via Athabasca Falls, your day ends in Jasper. Choose where to dine tonight. 

Today, enjoy a Freedom of Choice activity and see Jasper from a new perspective.

Freedom of Choice – Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sidecar Tour

Get your heart pumping and feel the wind in your hair as you coast through the stunning wilderness of Jasper during an exhilarating chauffeured motorcycle sidecar tour.

Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Experience with Trail Hike

Travel to the Maligne Canyon, an area rich in famous Canadian wildlife. On a trail hike, look for osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, elk, deer and bears.

Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Experience with Cruise

Across the crystal-clear waters of Maligne Lake, cruise past jagged mountain peaks to Spirit Island, a destination only accessible by boat.

Freedom of Choice – Athabasca River Rafting

This is the perfect introduction to rafting. Small rapids and calm waters ease you into the activity, and your licensed guide is around to point out areas of interest and wildlife along the way.

Freedom of Choice – Jasper SkyTram

Jasper’s peak attraction provides an unforgettable view of the Athabasca Valley and Jasper National Park. Transport on the SkyTram shuttle is included. 

Take in views of Mount Robson as you travel along the Yellowhead Highway to Sun Peaks. Upon arrival, admire the stunning mountain vistas, visit the pedestrianised village abundant with shops, cafes and restaurants, and meet the friendly locals. With free outdoor entertainment in summer, including live music, there is plenty to see. 

Follow the tracks of early gold rush pioneers through the Cariboo region, stopping at Seton and Duffey Lakes. Later, re-enter the Coast Mountains and learn why Whistler attracts so many outdoor enthusiasts. 

Delight in a fascinating Signature Experience today. This afternoon, discover more of Whistler as you set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.

Signature Experience – Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and feast on a breakfast inspired by traditional First Nations food. Explore the museum, discovering your First Nations ‘animal spirit’ with the help of your guide.

Freedom of Choice – Floatplane Sightseeing

Take an unforgettable 20-minute floatplane flight over the stunning mountains of Whistler. Fly high above the towering peaks for a captivating perspective.

Freedom of Choice – Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride

Be swept to entirely new heights on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The Cloudraker Skybridge also takes you 130 metres from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, across the Whistler Bowl.

Freedom of Choice – Tree Trek

Explore Whistler’s ancient forest on a Tree Trek through the tall pines, walking along suspension bridges and boardwalks.

Freedom of Choice – Zip Trek

For something a little more adventurous, you might like to enjoy a Zip Trek through the treetops. Slide between the canopies with ease, with wind whipping in your hair.

Freedom of Choice – Mountain Jeep Safari

Set off on a Jeep tour and see Whistler from a completely different altitude. Take in spectacular views of Whistler Village, lakes, golf courses and the peaks of the Coast Mountains. 

Travel south along the Sea to Sky Highway. Journey to Vancouver Island with BC Ferries. Continue to Chemainus, a town famous for its vibrant outdoor murals, before arriving in Victoria. 

Begin the day with a Signature Experience. Tonight, savour a special dinner with your fellow travellers.

Signature Experience – The Butchart Gardens Before Hours

Visit The Butchart Gardens before the public is granted access and enjoy breakfast in the original Butchart residence. More than 100 years in the making with a former quarry as the initial canvas, this space was transformed by Jennie Butchart into a haven overflowing with lush greenery and colourful blooms. Relish the opportunity to wander among the floral displays without the crowds. 

Your journey comes to an end today.