In August 2010, my partner and I travelled to Canada to explore the majestic Rocky Mountains, a trip we have wanted to do for many years. The spectacular scenery and abundance of memorable experiences we had on this trip will last a lifetime.
Our first stop was Vancouver, a very picturesque and great walking city offering a wide range of activities. We enjoyed Stanley Park, the Capilano Suspension bridge and Grouse Mountain which offered amazing views over Vancouver to name a few.
From Vancouver we boarded the Rocky Mountaineer, heralded as one of the world’s great rail journeys. On the “Journey Through the Clouds” route to Jasper, we experienced stunning scenery from the fresh green pastures, meandering rivers and rolling hills on day one to the majestic snow capped mountains and glacier filled rivers as we headed into the Rocky Mountains on day two. We enjoyed the journey in Gold Leaf. This service is recommended due to the open glass domed ceiling, the more spacious viewing areas and the delicious meals served on board in the separate dining car.
Arriving into Jasper our adventure in the Rocky Mountains began. We experienced snow capped mountains, glacier lakes, spectacular waterfalls and had some close but safe encounters with a grizzly bear, moose, elk and a myriad of cute and mischievous squirrels throughout the week. Our base in Jasper was the beautiful Jasper Park Lodge located just outside of town on a sprawling property with a golf course and peaceful lake setting.
One of the many highlights in Jasper was the trip up the tramway to the top of a mountain. The 360 degree panoramic views were extraordinary, with majestic peaks in every direction.
Heading on from Jasper we drove the incredible Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Lake Louise. As recommended, we allowed a full day so we could take in and appreciate all the lakes, waterfalls, mountains and expansive scenery. Some highlights were the amazing Athabasca falls, the Columbia Icefield and a helicopter flight to get a bird’s eye view of the Rockies which was an amazing experience.
Our next stop was Lake Louise where we stayed at the charming Post Hotel, only a short 5 minute drive from the lake. Lake Louise delivers, it is every bit as beautiful as the many pictures you would have seen of this iconic place. We took a half day hike took up into the Plain of Six Glaciers with a panoramic view over the surrounding mountains and where you can even enjoy a well earned drink and a snack at the Mountain Tea House. We also visited Lake Moraine and marvelled at its famous 7 peaks.
From Lake Louise we drove to the charming and famous village of Banff. Banff offers an abundance of great restaurants, cafes, shops, museums and galleries as well as being a perfect base to explore the surrounding mountain area. Here we stayed at the contemporary Rimrock Hotel which has stunning mountain views and is in a great location adjacent to the sky rail and the famous therapeutic hot springs which are highly recommended after a full day of hiking or shopping!!!
Our next stop was the charming city of Victoria back in British Columbia where we stayed at the tranquil Brentwood Bay Lodge which is approximately drive 25 minutes from Victoria. It offers an idyllic bay setting only minutes from the famous Butchart Gardens which are a must do activity for any visitor.Even if you don’t think you are a garden buff, it would be difficult not to appreciate the sheer magnitude, beauty, and design of these incredible gardens.
Our journey then continued to Princess Royal Island in remote British Columbia and the exquisite and exclusive King Pacific Lodge. Accessed only by boat or sea plane, this Lodge offers eco wilderness experiences such as salmon fishing, wildlife tours, whale watching, hiking and heli tours to explore more remote locations.
Our adventure was extended beyond what we expected when heavy fog grounded us at the Lodge for an additional 2 nights. This is one place you definitely don't mind being stranded. We had to rebook all out return travel plans but thankfully we had Travel Insurance...
Yes the Canadian Rockies and British Columbia were everything we expected and more and I would highly recommend this as a destination to anyone. I look forward to planning your trip to Canada and sharing more of this adventure with you...