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Where Mountain Dreams Become Reality
I had been to Vancouver and Whistler in the Winter to Ski, but I was excited to be touring the Rockies- the tour boasted a seamless blend of world-class rail, iconic landscapes, and some of the country’s most prestigious hotels, unfolding from the Pacific Coast to the heart of the Rocky Mountains all guided by our host APT.
Arrival and clearing customs was so easy and quick compared to Canada’s neighbour to the South- from landing to being greeted by our guide took less than 30 minutes. Whisked from the airport and ushered into the city where ocean, forest, and skyline coexist in perfect harmony. The Fairmont Waterfront sets the tone -refined luxury, contemporary, and perfectly positioned along the harbour, perfect for the start or finish of an Alaskan Cruise or City Stay. After a stroll in search of a strong coffee, a short drive to Grouse Mountain gave us our first look at Grizzly bears, followed by crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge – one of BC’s main attractions.
Vancouver is renowned for being an active city – next morning we headed to Stanley Park, 400 hectares of walking trails, rainforests, beaches all with waterfront views of the city. Next stop Granville Island Public Market for lunch -an indoor market featuring a fascinating assortment of colourful food, produce stores and farmers stalls, all fresh from the ocean, the oven or the field. Market Artisans showcase locally made, handcrafted products and the very finest in unique goods. The afternoon we spent in Gastown, the oldest part of the city with unique stores and the obligatory photo with the Steam Clock.
Totem Poles in Stanley Park
All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer
Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer in Gold Class feels like Business Class all the way.
As the train glides inland, the scenery evolves in spectacular fashion-emerald fields give way to forested canyons, roaring rivers, and dramatic mountain walls.
Highlights such as Hell’s Gate and the Thompson River pass by in cinematic grandeur, best enjoyed from the comfort of your heated seat as attentive hosts ensure every detail is flawless.
The highlight of the day – spotting a Moose staring at us from the banks of the river – a rare sight indeed! By evening, we arrive in Kamloops, wrapped in the quiet beauty of British Columbia’s interior.
Refined Luxury in Gold Class on the Rocky Mountaineer
Into the Canadian Rockies
The second day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is nothing short of majestic.
Snow-capped peaks rise higher as the train follows the North Thompson River, weaving through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains.
The moment Mount Robson appears as we are dining on our 3 course lunch – the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, unforgettable.
Entering Jasper National Park feels like stepping into an untouched wilderness, where nature reigns supreme.
The evening is spent at the elegant Jasper Park Lodge, surrounded by alpine serenity and we were lucky enough to see Natures Miracle the Northern lights – what a welcome to the Rockies.
Lucky to witness the Northern Lights in Jasper
Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise
Morning light filters through the Rockies as we set off along the Icefields Parkway, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful drives on Earth. Each curve reveals glaciers, waterfalls, and dramatic alpine vistas.
The journey culminates at Lake Louise, where the turquoise waters shimmer beneath the Victoria Glacier.
Our stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise places us at the very edge of this natural masterpiece a setting so serene it feels almost unreal.
Perfect mirror image at Lake Louise – view from Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Banff: A Castle in the Mountains
Traveling onward to Banff is a visual feast, punctuated by iconic sights such as Bow Falls and Surprise Corner. Arrival at the Fairmont Banff Springs is nothing short of grand. Rising from the forest like a storybook castle, this historic hotel offers timeless elegance amid soaring peaks and winding rivers.
Today is devoted to the refined pleasures of Banff. Wander the charming streets, learn about the region’s wildlife and heritage, or simply indulge whether that means a leisurely lunch, boutique shopping, or quiet moments soaking in the mountain air.
Banff’s effortless blend of adventure and sophistication is captivating. Seeing the surrounding mountains by Helicopter was a highlight of the trip – included as a Freedom of Choice option with APT.
Flying over Banff in a helicopter was a highlight of the trip
From Gold Rush Trails to Whistler
Tracing historic Gold Rush routes through the Cariboo region, we descend into the Thompson River Valley before arriving in Whistler. Known globally for its style and scenery, Whistler offers a vibrant yet refined mountain resort experience. The Westin Resort and Spa provides a luxurious base from which to enjoy it all, all suites include a kitchen and plenty of space to unwind in this bustling resort.
Although known primarily for its Skiing (host of the Winter Olympics in 2010) there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the summer months – E-bike trails, walking tours and for the more adventurous ZipTrek Eco Tours, ziplines and canopy walks providing stunning mountain views and high-adrenaline fun for various ages, accessible via lifts on Whistler Blackcomb.
Meeting a Mounty and finding out more about their role in Canada’s law enforcement
Sea to Sky to Victoria
One of Canada’s most breathtaking drives unfolds along the Sea to Sky Highway, where mountains plunge dramatically into the Pacific. A scenic ferry crossing delivers us to Vancouver Island and the elegant city of Victoria.
With its British heritage, manicured gardens, and relaxed coastal charm, Victoria feels both timeless and indulgent.
Our waterfront hotel – Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort offers the perfect vantage point to soak in the city’s beauty.
A visit to Victoria isn’t complete without admiring the elegant British Columbia Parliament Buildings, where historic grandeur meets one of Canada’s most picturesque waterfront settings
Final thoughts
On our final morning one of the tour favourites – breakfast at the Butchart Gardens followed by early entry before the crowds – a world-renowned 55-acre floral display garden transformed from an abandoned limestone quarry – featuring spectacular themed gardens and recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada for its beauty and horticultural innovation.
Victoria invites lingering- a harbour walk, one last moment of calm. As we depart for home, the memories remain: glass-domed train cars, glacier-fed lakes, grand hotels, and landscapes so vast and beautiful they feel almost cinematic.
This is Canada at its most luxurious- immersive, elegant, and utterly unforgettable.
Written by Dominique Orange following her recent journey through Canada.
Dominique Orange
Bursting with colour and beautifully landscaped terraces, the Sunken Garden is a tranquil escape and one of the most photographed highlights of Butchart Gardens
