This classic itinerary will allow you to discover all that western Canada has to offer, from the heart of the majestic Rockies to the bustling waterfront city of Vancouver.
Calgary
With a western heritage that sits alongside the modern architecture of this vibrant city, Calgary is home to the world famous Calgary Stampede and much more. Perhaps journey through history with a tour to the Badlands and learn the unique heritage of the native Canadians at Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. Here you can visit the site where the ancient forefathers used the jump of the plains to kill the bison by chasing them over a precipice, for more than 5,500 years.
2 nights: Fairmont Palliser
Calgary to Banff
Collect your car, leave the bright city lights of the city behind and head for the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Surrounded on all sides, Banff offers rugged beauty, unspoiled landscapes and pristine mountain ranges. It is Canada’s oldest national park and an outdoor lover’s paradise. The Fairmont Banff Springs provides luxurious comfort and personalised service for the most discerning traveller. Take to the trail, explore on horseback and enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings, highlights include Sulphur Mountain, Lake Minniwanka and the Bow River. An exciting experience has been included to the Ice Explorer where you can marvel at the Athabasca Glacier and travel along Canada’s most scenic drive, the Icefield Parkway.
2 nights: Fairmont Banff Springs
Banff to Lake Louise
This most dramatic location is the ‘jewel of the Rockies’. Located in the heart of Banff National Park, the Chateau Lake Louise is probably the most ‘famous’ resort in the Rockies. Explore this fascinating area with either casual walks around the lake to hiking into the mountain ranges or choose to explore this natural wonderland on your own.
1 night: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Lake Louise to Jasper
Head further north today to the quaint township of Jasper. Nestled in between captivating mountains and sparkling lakes, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Resort Hotel offers a choice of accommodation and is a great base from which to explore. Deep in the Alberta Rockies, peaks crown the horizon in every direction. Mountain sheep, bears, wolves, elk and mountain goats have a secure home here and can often be seen when simply driving down the road. To improve your chances of spotting a grizzly bear, opt for a hiking tour or explore the surrounding wilderness on horseback.
2 nights: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver
Journey through the clouds on board the Rocky Mountaineer and travel through scenic valleys, the coastal mountain range and the Fraser Canyon with its spectacular raging white water and dramatic landscape towards Kamloops, the gateway to the interior of British Columbia. The highlight of this route is majestic Mount Robson, which at 12, 972 feet is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Follow the route of the Fraser River, home of British Columbia’s largest salmon fishing run, view plenty of wildlife along the way, and pass by the Albreda Glacier and magnificent Pyramid Falls.
1 night: Kamloops
Vancouver
Enjoying a spectacular harbour setting and a temperate climate, this cosmopolitan city has a relaxed ambience. Day and night, it offers a host of attractions and entertainment for all the family, from the delights of Stanley Park to fascinating heritage sites such as Gastown and Chinatown. Explore unique Granville Island and allow a top rated chef to show you the wares of the PUBLIC market, a true sightseeing for your tastebuds. Another experience, not to be missed, is a flightseeing trip to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Explore the wonders of Butchart Gardens, the exciting harbour front area and an eclectic mix of shopping in the Bay Centre and Market Square.
3 nights: Fairmont Pacific Rim
From £2919 per person, twin share including accommodation as shown, 7 days car hire, Icefields Glacier Explorer tour in Banff and the Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper toVancouver in Goldleaf.