Rocky Mountain Highlights

Straddling the border of both Alberta and British Columbia, the mighty Rocky Mountains present a fearsome barrier to your journey west. Intrepidly you will ascend into them from Calgary, experiencing the vastness of the Canadian wilderness along with the mesmerising spectacles of its most iconic national parks. Included in the itinerary is a memorable journey on the famed Rocky Mountaineer, possibly one of the world’s most spectacular rail adventures.

MEAL PLAN → Room only accommodation Day 1 to Day 5 and Day 8 to Day 10, breakfast and lunch is included onboard the Rocky Mountaineer on Day 6 and 7.

ACCOMMODATION → Three to four star hotels throughout, full details available on request.

TOUR INCLUDES → Accommodation, coach transfers Day 2 and 4, rail transfers Day 6 and 7 and sightseeing as described. The Rocky Mountaineer is available in two classes, RedLeaf and GoldLeaf. Please call for details.

GRATUITIES → Tipping is common practice in Canada. We recommend between 10-15% for waiting staff, barmen and guides and smaller amounts for doormen and porters.

NB → Transfers are not included on this itinerary unless otherwise stated. The Rocky Mountain Highlights is an independent journey. The day trip from Banff to Jasper on Day 4 is fully escorted and assistance and commentary is available on the Rocky Mountaineer. Elsewhere, assistance is available locally or over the telephone from our representatives.

DAY 1 - LONDON TO CALGARY
Upon arrival in Calgary, make your own way to your downtown accommodation.

DAY 2 -CALGARY TO BANFF
Make your own way to the station from where you will depart by coach to Banff for a two night stay surrounded by Canada’s oldest national park. Whilst in Banff you are free to explore at leisure, perhaps ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a stunning 360˚ view of the area (extra cost).

DAY 4 BANFF TO JASPER
An epic full day exploration by coach will take you through some of Canada’s most magnificent natural scenery. The drive first takes you through Banff National Park, stopping to admire the vivid turquoise waters of beautiful Lake Louise. The lake’s colour derives from rock flour suspended in glacial melt water, which combined with the fabulous setting ensure it is always a photographic delight. Travel on along the dramatic Icefields Parkway, stopping for a thrilling ride across the Athabasca Glacier onboard the unique Ice Explorer. The journey continues on into equally spectacular Jasper National Park, a fearsome landscape of snowcapped peaks and endless forests. Stop for the next two nights in the resort town of Jasper, with the whole of the next day free to explore the surrounding national park (approx. 185 miles).

DAY 6 -JASPER TO KAMLOOPS
Having made your own way to the station, your spectacular voyage continues aboard the famous Rocky Mountaineer train, allowing you to recline in comfort as the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide rolls sedately past. Highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies, Pyramid Falls and the climb over Yellowhead Pass. The train stops overnight in Kamloops, where you will disembark to spend the night in a local hotel.

DAY 7 KAMLOOPS TO LONDON
The train departs this morning for the final journey west to the attractive harbourside city of Vancouver. Witness captivating changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests to the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley. Your journey finishes here in Vancouver. Make your own way to the airport for your onward flight. Alternatively, perhaps extend your tour with a few nights in Vancouver or explore out from the city to beautiful Vancouver Island.

NB → This tour is also available in reverse, please call for details.