zVancouver to the Rockies + Rocky Mountaineer

On arrival, you’ll be greeted and escorted to the historic Fairmont Hotel in the heart of the city. Meet your fellow travelers this evening at our Welcome Dinner. Meals D

A 90-minute ferry crossing brings you to Victoria on the tip of Vancouver Island. With its coastal setting and blend of Victorian and modern architecture, this provincial capital is a delight to explore with our guide on foot and by sea. Sample the fine wines and spirits at de Vine Vineyards and then check in to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, our luxury seafront resort. Tonight, you’ll sit down to an elegant 3-course dinner. Meals B+D

The waters off Vancouver Island are the best place on Earth to spot Orcas in the wild and this morning’s whale watching expedition in our maneuverable Zodiacs promises an unforgettable adventure! Back on land, our tour of world-famous Butchart Gardens is highlighted by a picnic lunch, a delightful way to truly appreciate all the beauty of this 100-year-old landmark. Meals B+L

For more than a century, the highly regarded Royal BC Museum has enthralled visitors with carefully curated exhibits that plumb the natural wonders and cultural history of British Columbia – from its First Nations heritage to provincial life in the 19th century. By special arrangement, our tour includes a special behind-the-scenes visit into the museum’s working areas where you’ll meet curators, researchers and exhibiting artists. Then ride the ferry back to Vancouver and explore the city on a guided walk. Overnight at the luxurious Fairmont Hotel. Meals B

Board the Rocky Mountaineer to begin your 2-day all-daylight Journey through the Clouds. Enjoy unparalleled vistas from your seat in the upper level of the glass-dome rail car or step out to the unique outdoor viewing platform. Enjoy an a la carte breakfast and lunch as we make our way from the lush the Fraser Valley into the forests and winding river canyons of the Cascade Mountains. The rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and a chance to see moose, bear and bald eagles highlight today’s journey. At the end of the day, you’ll step off in Kamloops to spend the night at the comfortable DoubleTree by Hilton. Meals B+L

Reboard the Rocky Mountaineer this morning and sit down to breakfast as our adventure continues north and east into the mighty Canadian Rockies. With 360° views through the glass dome, you’re perfectly situated for the day’s scenic splendors including majestic Mount Robson; at 12,972 feet, this snow-capped peak is the highest point in the Canadian Rockies. You’ll also see Pyramid Falls, and climb through the spectacular Yellowhead Pass into Jasper National Park. On arrival in the Park, you’ll be escorted to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, our luxury 700-acre lake-front resort. Meals B+L

This morning is free to enjoy our luxury resort. Go on a canoe ride across the tranquil waters of Lac Beauvert or play a round of golf on Canada’s #1 course. In the afternoon, a guided nature walk affords great views of Angel Glacier and the imposing north face of Mt. Edith Cavell. Then thrill to the beauty of Medicine Lake and cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island – one of Canada’s most iconic sights. A wildlife tour in the early evening is the best time to see native species like bear, elk, wolf and moose. You’ll also stop at Maligne Canyon and walk along the gorge to see the Lower Falls. Meals B+D

Journey along the Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Falls, surrounded by towering conifers and a backdrop of rugged peaks. At the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center, you can enjoy the exhibits or walk the trail to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. A guided adventure on to the glacier itself is also available. Continue into the scenic Kicking Horse River Valley to behold the beauty of a glacier-fed lake. Then check in to the Rimrock Resort where your guestroom offers views of the deeply forested valley. Meals B

This morning we take you to Lake Louise, cradled by steep forested slopes that give way to vistas of Victoria Glacier. In the beautiful alpine Valley of the Ten Peaks, you’ll stop along the shores of Moraine Lake for a nature walk. Both here and at Lake Louise, you’ll have ample time to take in the scenery and fresh mountain air. Or you might rent a canoe to explore a bit on your own. This evening’s float trip on the gentle Bow River offers awe-inspiring views of Mt. Rundle. With our expert river guide, you’ll also have a chance to espy some of the native wildlife like beaver, elk and osprey. Meals B+L

Spread across 2,564 square miles, Banff is home to a variety of mammals including elk, cougar, wolverine, grizzlies and other species. This morning’s guided walk offers a chance to spot this native wildlife as you delight in captivating views of mountains and lakes. End your morning with a visit to the lovely Cascade Gardens. The afternoon is free to enjoy the sublime setting of your resort. Soak in the nearby Hot Springs, ride the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, or join an available heli-tour over Mt. Assiniboine. Gather for our farewell dinner this evening. Meals B+D

This morning, we’ll take you to the Calgary Airport for your afternoon flight. Meals B