Winter Escapades

Day 1 - Fly to Vancouver

Transfer from Vancouver Airport to your downtown hotel. Spend this evening at your leisure.

Day 2 - Explore Vancouver

Today we have included a 3.5 hour city tour of Vancouver. 

Prepare to experience the unique history and unfolding splendour as you tour through the modern streets of Vancouver. Drive by the most renowned sights and learn how Vancouver became the city it is today. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean and framed by British Columbia's imposing mountains, it's easy to fall in love with this astonishing city. Drive through historic neighbourhoods such as Gastown, Chinatown, scenic English Bay and the picturesque Vancouver Harbour. Stops in Stanley Park feature Indigenous Peoples' Totem Poles, spectacular views of the mountains and the Lions Gate Bridge. Also includes the opportunity to wander through the charming farmer's market at Granville Island.

Rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 3 - Vancouver to Victoria

Today, transfer to Victoria and spend the remainder of your day at leisure, discovering the city’s coastal charm. In the winter months, wander the Inner Harbour framed by snow-dusted peaks, explore the Royal BC Museum’s fascinating exhibits, or stroll through the tranquil pathways of Beacon Hill Park. Warm up with a visit to one of the city’s inviting tea houses, browse the boutique shops along Government Street, or take in the ocean views from the scenic waterfront.

Day 4 - Victoria Downtown Food Tour

Explore Victoria's history and culinary scene on this walking tour of the British Columbian city. Follow a guide to highlights such as the Parliament Buildings, the Inner Harbor Causeway, Trounce Alley, Bastion and Market squares, Fan Tan Alley, the Harmonious Gates of Interest, and the Victoria Public Market. Along the way enjoy BC wine tasting, sweet and savory pastries, a Korean corn dog, charcuterie, Middle Eastern cuisine, locally made truffles, and macarons. Please note dishes may change due to availability.

Day 5 - Victoria to Jasper (VIA Rail)

Take the transfer back to Vancouver for your overnight train journey to Jasper. 

This evening (7:30pm), check in at the Pacific Central Station and board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ for the famous train journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Travel back in time to the days of classic rail travel. The original stainless steel ‘streamliner’ railcars (made famous by the ‘Canadian’ in the 1950s) are totally refurbished with air conditioning, a café car, lounge car, and access for all on board to the dome car.

By day, sit back in comfortable armchairs and enjoy the stretch out comfort of your very own accommodation. At night attendants will transform your quarters into cozy bunks or bedroom. Guests have access to the Park Car, always at the tail end of the train whose tapered shape gives the car its distinctive look. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee or, in the evening, complimentary hors d’oeuvres before dinner. In the Dome you’ll feel the true essence of travelling by train - where scene after memorable scene sweeps by. This evening retire to your Sleeping Car where a comfortable bed awaits you. Some of the amenities include thick towels, plump pillows, cozy down duvets and a shower kit.

Day 6 - Arrive Jasper

By the time you awake this morning the train will have just departed Kamloops to begin a day of travelling towards the Canadian Rockies and Jasper. Enjoy breakfast (included) while surrounded by dramatic scenery as you follow the banks of the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Around lunch time the ‘Canadian’ begins its passage into the Canadian Rockies with views of snow-capped peaks, Pyramid Falls and the expansive glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Pass by Mount Robson, which at 3954 metres is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in Jasper at 4.00pm and transfer to your hotel.

(Breakfast included today onboard Via Rail)

Day 7 - Jasper - Maligne Canyon Ice Walk

Experience the wonders of the Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 165 foot gorge. Certified guides will lead you along the frozen canyon floor and its ice-clad limestone walls. Super soles and winter boots will keep guests warm and secure as they explore this wonderland of rock and ice.

Day 8 - Jasper to Lake Louise

Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. This spectacular drive through glacier country will be highlighted by massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad reaching valleys. Included this evening is a wonderful 40 minute Sleigh Ride that takes place beside the lake.

Day 9 - Lake Louise to Banff

Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive to Banff via the scenic Bow Valley.

Day 10 - Banff - Snowshoeing to Paint Pots

Snowshoe on an easy trail along a bridge across the frozen Vermilion River and along the snowy path winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within the National Park. Learn about the history of the fur trade as you explore the fascinating Paint Pots, which are mineral deposits once used by First Nations people for rock painting. Along the way you will hear stories of Banff's indigenous people, explorers and fur traders who lived in and traveled through the Rockies. After this crisp winter walk, enjoy a uniquely Canadian treat: hot maple taffy poured into snow to make a sweet frozen dessert. Plus try a crazy carpet slide down the hill while it's being made - kids and adults alike love this part of the tour! This is an excellent trip for beginners as it covers a mainly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, and also suits anyone wanting a pleasant activity outdoors in the majesty of Kootenay National Park.

Day 11 - Banff to Calgary

Today take your transfer from Banff to Calgary. Spending the rest of your day at leisure to explore Calgary, speak to our experts if you wish to add on one of our Calgary Experiences. 

Day 12 - Calgary Return

Final day to explore Calgary before your transfer to Calgary Airport for your onward flight home.