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Western Journey
Travel past peaks and alpine towns to a coastal city on a scenic ride from Calgary to Vancouver.



This fully guided, eight-day coach tour is a firm favourite for first-time visitors to Western Canada, and it’s easy to see why. Starting in Calgary, Alberta and finishing in Vancouver, British Columbia, you’ll travel through the Rocky Mountains and across some of the region’s most impressive landscapes without needing to plan a thing. Along the way, you’ll explore Banff and Yoho National Parks, stop off in laid-back Canmore, spend time in the mountain village of Whistler, and roll into vibrant Vancouver on an itinerary packed with variety. The pace is just right: structured enough to see the big sights, but with free time for optional adventures and go-slow afternoons. With a welcoming group, a comfy seat, and someone else behind the wheel, it’s a brilliant way to get your bearings and experience some of the best bits of Western Canada.
Itinerary overview
Day 1
Calgary
You’ll arrive in Calgary and make your way to your hotel in the city centre. There’s no rush today. Once you’ve checked in, what remains of the day is yours. You might fancy a short wander, a bite to eat, or just a chance to unwind after your flight. Your tour director will be in touch by late afternoon to say hello and go over what’s ahead. Overnight at Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown (or similar).

Day 2
Canmore
After breakfast, you’ll join your fellow travellers for a guided tour of Calgary, where gleaming towers meet prairie history. You’ll see the Calgary Tower, Fort Calgary, and the bustling commercial district before setting off by coach for the mountains. The journey to Canmore takes around 90 minutes, passing through the foothills as the Rockies rise dramatically in the distance. Before arriving, you’ll dip into Banff National Park to admire Bow Falls, Tunnel Mountain, and the fairytale-like Banff Springs Hotel. You’ll reach Canmore by late afternoon and settle in for two nights. Overnight at Coast Canmore Hotel or Pocaterra Resort & Spa (or similar).

Day 3
Banff National Park
Today is entirely yours to decide what to do. You might take it slow with a stroll through Banff Avenue’s shops and cafés or join an optional full-day excursion to the Columbia Icefield. If you choose the excursion, your day begins with a visit to the exquisite Lake Louise, followed by a journey along the Icefields Parkway. This scenic drive is a highlight of the region, with its soaring peaks and hanging glaciers. At the Columbia Icefield, you’ll board a specially designed vehicle and head right onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier. You’ll return to Canmore in the late afternoon. Overnight at Coast Canmore Hotel or Pocaterra Resort & Spa (or similar).

Day 4
Kamloops
Today’s journey along the Trans-Canada Highway is one of the longest on the tour, but also one of the most scenic. You’ll spend around seven hours on the road, crossing from Alberta into British Columbia through Kicking Horse Pass. This high mountain pass sits on the Continental Divide and has long been a key route through the Rockies, first for the railway and now for cross-country travellers. The climb is steep in places, offering wide-open views of the surrounding peaks. From there, the road winds through Yoho and Glacier National Parks, where thick forests, deep valleys, and fast-moving rivers stretch out in every direction. You’ll carry on through the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges, passing quiet valleys along the way. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Kamloops and settle in for the night. Overnight at Prestige Kamloops or Quality Inn Kamloops or Prestige Aberdeen (or similar).

Day 5
Whistler
After breakfast, you’ll set off towards Whistler. The drive takes around five and a half hours and comes with a noticeable shift in scenery, as dry ranch land gives way to coastal mountains. You’ll arrive with plenty of time to explore the alpine village, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you might opt for a floatplane tour over Garibaldi Provincial Park, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of volcanic peaks and sparkling alpine lakes. The rest of the day is yours to soak up the mountain air and enjoy the relaxed village vibe. A favourite for outdoor lovers, Whistler is all about crisp air, alpine views, and easy access to nature. But even if you’re not hitting the trails, there’s plenty to enjoy in the village itself. Overnight at The Listel Hotel Whistler or Aava Whistler (or similar).

Day 6
Vancouver
This morning, you’ll travel along the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway. The drive takes around two hours, but you may wish it were longer, with its panoramic views of fjords, waterfalls, and forested cliffs. Once in Vancouver, you’ll take a guided city tour. Highlights include Stanley Park, the totem poles at Prospect Point, English Bay, Chinatown, and the historic cobbled streets of Gastown. The afternoon is yours to discover more of what this coastal city has to offer, perhaps returning to your favourite places from the tour. Overnight at Sandman Hotel City Centre or Sandman Suites on Davie (or similar).

Day 7
Vancouver
You’ll have the whole day to enjoy Vancouver at your own pace. You could browse the boutiques on Robson Street, sample fresh food at Granville Island Market, or relax in Stanley Park. If you’re up for something more active, you might ride the gondola up Grouse Mountain or take an optional full-day trip to Victoria. That tour includes a scenic ferry crossing, time to explore the provincial capital’s harbour and historic buildings, and a visit to the world-famous Butchart Gardens before returning to Vancouver for the evening. Overnight at Sandman Hotel City Centre or Sandman Suites on Davie (or similar).

Day 8
Vancouver & departure
It’s time to pack up and say goodbye. You’ll make your own way to Vancouver International Airport in time for your return flight.

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