01892 779900
Tour the Canadian Rockies by coach and see the world-renowned beauty of this region for yourself. Start with an exploration of Vancouver and Victoria, then journey into the heart of the Rockies, stopping in Sun Peaks, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff and Kamloops with plenty of time to admire the sprawling landscapes. You'll also enjoy a journey aboard the renowned Rocky Mountaineer, taking in unrivalled views of this incredible part of the world.
Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your downtown hotel. Your day is at leisure to relax or start exploring Vancouver, a modern, multicultural metropolis at the edge of rugged wilderness. This evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception.
Stay: Vancouver, Empire Landmark Hotel.
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Vancouver including the Waterfront, Gastown and Stanley Park. Then join a ferry cruise across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island. Visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens then continue to Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia.
Two Night Stay: Victoria, Royal Scot Suite Hotel. BD
Before the British began exploration of North America with the voyage of Captain James Cook in 1776, the Victoria area was home to several communities of Coast Salish peoples, including the Songhees. Enjoy a full day at leisure in Victoria and perhaps take a whale watching cruise or a horse-drawn carriage tour of the inner harbour and surrounds. A visit to ivy-clad The Fairmont Empress is a must! Here you can indulge in their famous English High Tea. Dinner is at leisure this evening, so you can explore and enjoy the many restaurants, cafés and pubs. B
Relax on a leisurely ferry ride as you return to the mainland this morning and head east into the heart of British Columbia. Travel through the broad Fraser Valley and enjoy a drive through the Cascade Mountain Range. Late afternoon arrive in the resort village of Sun Peaks, tucked into the rolling mountains of British Columbia's interior. The area is renowned for its virgin forests, cool alpine meadows, high mountain lakes and crystal-clear streams.
Stay: Sun Peaks, Hearthstone Lodge. BD
Today your journey follows the famous Yellowhead Highway. Pass Mt Robson, which at 3,954 metres, is the highest point in the Canadian Rockies. This afternoon, cross into the province of Alberta and arrive in Jasper National Park, our gateway to the Canadian Rockies.
Stay: Jasper, Jasper Inn. BD
This morning travel along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. Have your camera ready today as the heavily glaciated terrain offers exceptional views. The parkway is also known for its wildlife viewing so keep a lookout for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and black bears. Marvel at the vivid colours of Peyto Lake and travel past the alpine meadows of Sunwapta Pass. Stop at the giant Columbia Icefield for an unforgettable ride in a specially-designed Ice Explorer onto the 300 metre-thick Athabasca Glacier. Later, stop at Lake Louise, the Jewel of the Rockies. The beautiful turquoise colour of the lake with the backdrop of the Victoria Glacier will take your breath away.
Stay: Lake Louise, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. BD
This morning visit tranquil Moraine Lake, a glacially-fed lake nestled below mountains in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Afterwards, drive the short distance to Banff.
Two Night Stay: Banff, Banff International Hotel. BD
Today is yours to spend at leisure in Banff. Perhaps take a ride on the Banff Gondola on the shoulder of Sulphur Mountain and enjoy an incredible view of the Canadian Rockies. Or visit The Fairmont Banff Springs, a designated historic site and a landmark of the Rockies. Alternatively join a wildlife safari to view and learn more about the local fauna (all at own expense). Tonight is free to spend an evening in downtown Banff, exploring the many restaurants and bars. B
Board the Rocky Mountaineer Train this morning and relax in the comfort of RedLeaf Seating as you cross the Continental Divide and descend through the Spiral Tunnels, a spectacular engineering feat. Then enter Rogers Pass, with its tunnels, snowsheds and glistening glaciers. Continue along the South Thompson River before arriving in Kamloops in the Thompson Okanagan region. Mounts Peter and Paul overlook the city, which is spread over and around mountains and rivers. Parks are everywhere, and within the city there are picturesque river beaches. Kamloops is also famed for having some of the best sunsets in the country. Tonight you may wish to take advantage of the opportunity to experience the entertaining Two River Junction Dinner and Musical Revue or the Canadian Lumberjack Show and dinner (own expense).
Stay: Kamloops, hotel as assigned by Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. CBL
Rejoining the Rocky Mountaineer, continue your westward journey towards the Pacific Ocean. See the thundering waters of Hell's Gate before entering Fraser Canyon. View the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains, overlooking the vibrant city of Vancouver. Late afternoon, arrive in Vancouver, once voted the world's most liveable city in a study that assessed categories including culture, environment and infrastructure.
Stay: Vancouver, Empire Landmark Hotel. CBLD
Transfer to the airport after breakfast for your flight home. B
For details and prices of 2012 schedules please email info@awwt.co.uk or telephone (01892) 779900