01892 779900
Discover World Heritage-listed sites and incredible scenery in style on this journey into the heart of the Rockies. Begin by exploring the sights of Vancouver, then step aboard the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer, bound for the alpine villages of Kamloops, Banff, Jasper, Sun Peaks and Whistler. You'll have plenty of time to absorb the crisp mountain air, snow-capped peaks and lush landscapes as you journey through, before rounding out your holiday with time to explore the charming city of Victoria.
Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for an informal and friendly Welcome Reception.
Two Night Stay: Vancouver, The Fairmont Waterfront with spectacular views.
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Vancouver, including the Waterfront, historic Gastown and Stanley Park, named one of the top 10 greatest public spaces in the world. The remainder of the day is yours to explore. Perhaps head to Chinatown, stroll around Granville Island or head to Robson Street, the best place to sit and watch the locals stroll by. B
Board the Rocky Mountaineer Train and relax in GoldLeaf Seating as you travel this famous railroad. Pass through the fertile fields of the Fraser Valley and view the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains before entering Fraser Canyon. See the thundering waters of Hell's Gate and follow the Thompson River to historic Kamloops, gateway to the interior of British Columbia. You might like to take in an optional dinner show tonight in Kamloops (own expense).
Stay: Kamloops, hotel assigned by Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. Kamloops has limited accommodation (two or three-star hotels). BLD
Rejoining the Rocky Mountaineer, journey through vast ranchlands along the South Thompson River to Shuswap Lake. The Kicking Horse River leads you to Kicking Horse Pass, the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels and over the Continental Divide to Banff National Park.
Two Night Stay: Banff, The Fairmont Banff Springs, the Castle in the Rockies. BL
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Banff and the surrounding area this morning, then join your selected Freedom of Choice touring activity. Whether it be a wilderness experience, an interpretive nature hike, a round of golf at The Fairmont Banff Springs, a scenic helicopter flight over the region, a float trip down the Bow River, or a boat cruise around majestic Lake Minnewanka - the choice is yours! BD
Travel on the Icefields Parkway, one of the world's great scenic drives, along a chain of massive icefields straddling the Continental Divide. At the giant Columbia Icefield, take a ride in an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier and stand on ice that once fell as snow some 400 years ago. This afternoon, arrive in Jasper National Park, a fairytale mountain retreat surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Tonight enjoy a Dine Around Dinner at one of The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge's four restaurants.
Stay: Jasper, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. BD
Re-enter the province of British Columbia and follow the famous Yellowhead Highway. Pass Mt Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and arrive in the alpine village of Sun Peaks.
Stay: Sun Peaks, Delta Sun Peaks Resort. BD
Follow the tracks of the early gold rush pioneers through the rugged Cariboo region. Featuring remote coastal inlets, the dry grassland expanse of the Chilcotin Plateau and the interior rainforest of the Cariboo Mountains, the Cariboo is home to an incredibly diverse range of fish and wildlife. Continue to the ski resort of Whistler, an adventure playground for skiers and mountain bike riders throughout the year. After dinner, spend free time exploring Whistler by night, a bustling village alive with pubs, bars, music and shopping.
Stay: Whistler, Westin Resort & Spa. BD
Absorb the scenery of the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway, stopping at stunning Shannon Falls on the way. Returning to the coast, board a ferry for a scenic cruise through the Georgia Strait. Arrive on Vancouver Island and continue to Victoria.
Two Night Stay: Victoria, Delta Ocean Pointe. B
Join your selected touring activity this morning. Choose from a whale watching tour, salmon fishing, a seaplane flight, a guided tour of the town, a horse-drawn carriage ride around the streets of Victoria or a delicious traditional high tea at The Fairmont Empress Hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Butchart Gardens, established in 1904 by Jennie Butchart and maintained by generations of the Butchart family since. BD
Take the ferry to Vancouver and transfer to the airport for your flight home. B
For details and prices of 2012 schedules please email info@awwt.co.uk or telephone (01892) 779900