Canada is the world's second-largest country, stretching north to Cape Columbia on Ellesmere Island, south to Lake Erie, and across six time zones from Newfoundland to the Pacific seaboard. Renowned for its physical beauty, Canada has a vast and widely varied terrain.
From the beaches of the west coast to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, to bustling metropolitan cities or quiet provincial towns with warm people, there is something to offer almost any visitor. For the mountain adventurer, the peaks of the Rockies offer many opportunities for skiing, hiking, cycling and climbing. Those who want a relaxing stay along the beach can find a sunny spot along the Pacific coast or at one of the many large lakes across the country.
Travelers looking for world-class cities can visit Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver, and those with a taste for the small town life can visit any number of villages in the Maritime provinces or in Quebec where you may even sample some freshly tapped maple syrup!
Montreal, Quebec
Upon arrival Montreal transfer independently to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the second largest French-speaking city after Paris. Walk down lively St. Catherine Street with its numerous shops and cafés. Sample the fine cuisine and exuberant nightlife! Overnight in Montreal.
On this 3 hour sightseeing tour of Montreal, you will see numerous highlights, such as the Notre Dame Basilica, the financial and residential districts, historic Old Montreal, the charming Latin Quarter and much more. You will visit the Olympic Complex, travel through the campus of McGill University and savour the panoramic views from an observation point on top of Mont Royal.
This tour will take you back over 350 years to the historic landmark of the French regime. Quebec City is the only city in North America with city walls and gates. Discover the historical treasures and wonderful 'joie de vivre' atmosphere of Quebec. You will be charmed by the old world atmosphere of Quebec City with its narrow streets, steep hills and numerous historical treasures on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Tour includes a stop at Montmorency Falls, higher than Niagara Falls.
Situated north of Montreal, in the heart of the Laurentians, is Mount Tremblant. This four season international destination is rated the #1 ski resort in North America. Tremblant and its surrounding region is a sparkling irresistible blend of French Canadian Flair, joie de vivre and European charm. Ride on the exciting Express Gondola and admire the beauty from a distance. Escape into nature along many hiking trails of the Ecozone, stroll through the alpine village's pedestrian walks or embark on an excursion over the sparkling waters of Lac Tremblant. The authentic warm-hearted village of Mont-Tremblant offers numerous activities all-year round. The pedestrian village at Tremblant resort is a great place to visit for shopping or to take in one of the special events planned during the year. (Walking tour of village included.) Award winner for four years in a row for best Resort in Eastern North America. You will experience an unforgettable adventure and mountains of fun.
Depart for your onward destination.
Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise
Upon arrival at Calgary International Airport transfer to Banff by coach. Savor the beauty of the Canadian Rockies as we pass by the resorts of Kananaskis and Canmore. Your day is free to explore the Banff Town ship.
Your tour of Banff this morning shall take you through the town of Banff and its surroundings. Among the highlights visit to the Hoodoos - shaped by centuries of wind, Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive, which overlooks the splendor of the Bow River Valley, and the Cave and Basin, where Banff's history began. Also included is your Gondola ride to the summit of the Sulphur Mountain where you could have spectacular views of Banff.
Traveling through the scenic Bow Valley parkway, we stop at the most famous landmark of the Canadian Rockies The Mesmerizing Lake Louise showcased by the Victoria glacier. Stroll around the Majestic Chateau Lake Louise before traveling on one of the most picturesque highways - The Ice Field Parkway, offering a myriad of ever-changing mountain wilderness. Stop at the Columbian Ice filed for a ride on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier before arriving at your hotel in Jasper.
Jasper offers a variety of incredible opportunities for sightseeing. Your sightseeing tour of Jasper features a visit to the Pyramid and Patricia Lakes, Maligne Canyon with its narrow gorge and limestone walls falling 50 meters below. It also includes a visit to the Jasper's oldest attraction - The Maligne Lake. A one and half-hour boat cruise (seasonal) will take you past the glacier studded mountain peaks to world famous Spirit Island unsurpassed for the scenery it affords.
Steeped in history and fabulous panoramas, your journey once again on the stunning Ice Fields Parkway shall bring you to Lake Louise. At Lake Louise, where the Victoria Glacier reflects on the water, you have time to sit back and enjoy the picture-perfect setting or walk on one of the many hiking paths near the lake.
Your morning at leisure at one of the most stunning places in the Canadian Rockies. Afternoon proceed to Calgary.
Vancouver, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff
Enjoy a relaxing, scenic journey to Jasper aboard VIA Rail's legendary transcontinental - The Canadian departing in the evening. Relax as you travel through one of the most spectacular landscapes of B.C and Alberta on your route to Jasper.
Your Journey continues through rolling plateaus into the snowy peaks of the Monashee and Caribou Mountains. Pass by Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 3954 meters (12,972 ft), before entering Jasper National Park. Arrive Jasper in the afternoon and check in at your hotel.
Nestled in the wilderness of the Jasper National Park Jasper is the largest and most northerly of the mountain parks. Its beauty and history is set amid some of the most rugged peaks in the Rockies. Explore the natural attractions of Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake and Maligne Lake on this tour. At Maligne Canyon, stroll along the 50 meter walls while learning about its unique underground water system. Discover the mystery of the disappearing lake and board a 90 minute interpretive boat cruise (Seasonal Operates June to September only) on the serene waters of Maligne Lake to the world famous Spirit Island.
Awesome scenery as you continue on the most scenic drives in North America - The Ice Field parkway. This is home for Black and Grizzly bears, elk, moose, mountain goats and sheep, so keep your cameras ready! Visit the Columbia Ice field, a series of glaciers 325 square kilometers with solid ice upto 350meters deep. The Ice Field is the largest sub-polar body of ice in North America. Experience in the icy slopes of the Athabascan Glacier during your ride on an Ice Explorer. Continue your journey to Lake Louise.
Begin your journey from beautiful Lake Louise and learn about the natural forces that have shaped the appearance of the lakes and streams found in this area of the Rocky Mountains. Start at Moraine Lake & then cross the Great Divide to experience Yoho National Park, the Spiral Tunnels and Takakkaw Falls before proceeding to Banff. (Yoho National Park tour is seasonal and shall operate between June - September)
Your tour in the morning takes you through the town of Banff and its environs. Among the highlights visit to the Hoodoos - shaped by centuries of wind, Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive, which overlooks the splendor of the Bow River Valley, and the Cave and Basin, where Banff's history began. A stop is made at Sulphur Mountain, where time is allowed for a gondola ride to its summit.
Transfer to Calgary Airport for your flight to onward destination.
This tour offers scenic vistas of Banff and Jasper National Parks - Mountains, Lakes, Waterfalls & Canyons, walking on the glaciers, journeying the mountaintop in a cable car, cruising the Lakes & sudden wild life viewing of this beautiful land shall keep you coming again and again.
Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Quesnel, Whistler, Vancouver
Upon arrival at Calgary International Airport transfer to Banff by coach. Savor the beauty of the Canadian Rockies as we pass by the resorts of Kananaskis and Canmore. Your day is free to explore the Banff Town ship.
Your tour of Banff this morning shall take you through the town of Banff and its surroundings. Among the highlights visit to the Hoodoos - shaped by centuries of wind, Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive, which overlooks the splendor of the Bow River Valley, and the Cave and Basin, where Banff's history began. The highlight of this tour is your included visit in the Banff Gondola to the summit of the Sulphur Mountain where you could have spectacular views of Banff and the 6 mountain Ranges.
Explore the natural attractions of Lake Louise and Yoho National Park. With our experienced driver cum guide journey along the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon where time is provided for a short walk along the canyon. Learn about Castle Mountain while on your way to lunch. At Lake Louise, the "Jewel of the Canadian Rockies" you'll have time to stroll the shores and photograph the famous Victoria Glacier. In the afternoon see the incredibly blue Moraine Lake before crossing the Great Divide for a stop at the Spiral Tunnels viewpoint, where three lines of railway are laid at different elevations to cross the Kicking Horse River on four bridges. Marvel at Emerald Lake and then relax and wander around the trails at Takakkaw Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Canada. Arrive at your hotel in Lake Louise in the mid afternoon. (The Yoho Park tour is seasonal and operates between June - September only)
Travel by the rivers of Banff and Jasper National Parks in the luxury of your motor coach. Journey from Lake Louise shadowing the Great Divide to explore the natural viewpoints of Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake. Continue alongside the Mistaya River to the Bill Hill and the Columbia Icefield. Enjoy a ride on an all-terrain Ice Explorer on the Athabascan glacier. Continue alongside the Sunwapta River to the Athabasca Falls and thereon to Jasper.
Nestled in the wilderness of the Jasper National Park Jasper is the largest and most northerly of the mountain parks. Its beauty and history is set amid some of the most rugged peaks in the Rockies. Explore the natural attractions of Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake and Maligne Lake on this tour. At Maligne Canyon, stroll along the 50 meter walls while learning about its unique underground water system. Discover the mystery of the disappearing lake and board a 90 minute interpretive boat cruise (Seasonal) on the serene waters of Maligne Lake to the world famous Spirit Island.
Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the mountain resort of Jasper in the Canadian Rockies to the charming rural town of Quesnel, gateway to the North Cariboo. Pass through the Rocky Mountain Trench with the steep Rocky and Cariboo Mountains either side, and onto the rolling hills and vast forests of British Columbia's northern interior, home to abundant wildlife. Highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Yellowhead Pass, Moose Lake and the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife found in this unspoiled wilderness region. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer passes through the town of Prince George and follows the Fraser River into Quesnel, your overnight destination.
Your journey continues south today to the four-season resort of Whistler. Enjoy breathtaking and varied scenery, from the desert-like conditions of the Fraser Canyon, and the Cariboo Plateau with its rolling hills and vast ranchlands, to the river canyons and lush farmland of the Pemberton Valley. Highlights include sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon and Deep Creek Bridge, one the highest railway bridges in the world and the shorelines of Anderson Lake and glacial fed Seton Lake. Your rail journey ends today on arrival in the resort town of Whistler, host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games alpine events.
Spend the morning in this year round mountain resort town. Browse the various shops filled with local artists wares and unique finds, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenic views of the mountains at one of Whistlers many cafes or restaurants. Optionally take a Gondola ride and enjoy the spectacular panorama that Whistler has to offer. In the Afternoon journey on the Sea to Sky Highway for your tour ending at Vancouver.
Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, Hallifax
Arrive at the historic Quebec City, the heart of French Canada and a World Heritage Site. Rest of the day free to explore this historic Old Town and view the Chateau Frontenac.
Tour Canada's only walled city, crowned by the great turrets of the Chateau Frontenac. Until the British victory of 1759, Old Quebec was the center of New France and is one of the best-preserved cities in North America. Within the walls reside the Place d'Armes; the Laval Seminary; the star-plan Citadelle, with grand vistas from its bastions; and ancient Place Royale. Also see the stone houses crowding the narrow streets of Lower Town by the St. Lawrence River. Quebec is the heart of maple country, so perhaps a visit to a traditional sugar shack and a sample of maple sugar candy will make your day.
Your rail journey to Montreal this morning is under four hours, and takes you into rural Ontario, with maple forests and pasturelands, crossing into Quebec at Coteau where the rail line joins the Toronto-Montreal line. Upon arrival at the Central station transfer independently to your hotel.
Montreal offers a number of unique attractions. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of this city taking in more than 200 points of interest, including a stop at the Notre Dame Basilica, residential and financial districts, Old Montreal, French Quarter, outside view of Olympic Site, McGill University and a panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mt. Royal. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy Montreal.
Located on the Ottawa River about 200 Km west of Montreal, Ottawa is also one of the most diverse cities in the world, offering everything from world-class sporting events and shopping adventure to museum and family activities. Ottawa is a unique mix of old and new, history and technology, excitement and relaxation. Among the many historic sights in Ottawa are the Canadian War Museum, Parliament Hill, Museum of Civilization, Rideau Hall, RCMP Museum and Stables, National Aviation Museum, Royal Canadian Mint, National Gallery, Byward Market, Rideau Canal, Dow's Lake, Experimental Farm, Museum of Nature.
Enjoy another full day at leisure in cosmopolitan Montreal. Later this evening, your Canada Train travel experience continues aboard Via Rail's The Ocean for Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Your train travel experience continues this morning with the beautiful scenery of the Baie Des Chaleurs. Enjoy spectacular views of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia as train turns arrives Halifax by mid-afternoon. Upon arrival Halifax and transfer to your hotel independently.
Join your kilted guide for a delightful day trip to Nova Scotia's famed 'South Shore'. Begin your day meandering along the rugged Atlantic shoreline hearing tales of fishing, rum running, and the pirates of 'Oak Island'. Your first stop is Mahone Bay, one of New Scotland's most colorful villages, and home of the 'three spires'. Next on to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you may choose a visit to the Fisheries Museum or a Lunenburg Walking Tour, and then, possibly, lunch at one of Lunenburg's many waterfront restaurants. Your last stop before returning to Halifax is Peggy's Cove: mail a letter in the only lighthouse in North America with a post office, or just enjoy this fishing village built on solid granite rock.
Transfer independently to Halifax International Airport for your flight to your onward destination.