CANADIAN ROCKIES & VANCOUVER ISLAND

Introduction

On this wonderful 14-day self-drive adventure, travel from Vancouver to Calgary, exploring the array of natural wonders along the way. Exceptional scenery is guaranteed - from wildlife abundant national parks and emerald lakes to gorgeous mountain towns and glacial valleys dwarfed my imposing snow-capped mountains. There will be plenty of opportunity to personalise your holiday, with a choice of activities in each major destination and an innumerable choice for immersive stops on your journey. 

Day-by-Day

Day 1 & 2: Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver where two-nights are afforded in this dynamic and culturally rich city before your self-drive journey begins on the third day. 

Day 3 & 4: Victoria - Vancouver Island

Leaving Vancouver, head south towards the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal for the 90-minute journey across the Strait of Georgia. Continue your idyllic journey by road until you reach Victoria, with the rest of the day at leisure in this charming city. The following morning, you’ll have a choice of two excursions to occupy the day. Either explore the breathtaking gardens of Butchart or embark upon a culinary experience savouring the local cuisine of Western Canada.

Day 5 & 6: Tofino

Heading towards the Pacific Rim National Park, travel along the rugged western coast of Vancouver Island, with recommended en-route stops at Duncan city and the artisan community of Chemainus. Travel through the Sutton Pass and the Sawtooth Range of the Cascade mountains before arriving in Tofino in the late afternoon. Personalise the following day with a choice of excursions ranging from whale-watching cruises, bear-watching or sampling the exceptional food scene of Tofino on a culinary tour. 

Day 7 & 8: Whistler

On one of the most spectacular routes of the itinerary, travel from Tofino to Whistler. A myriad of delights awaits you on the journey with stops at Cathedral Grove and Sproat Lake highly recommended. Take the ferry across to Horseshoe Bay and continue along the scenic Sea-to-Sky highway to Whistler, making the small detours to the cascading water of Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock along the way. The charming alpine town of Whistler will amaze with its beauty and a cable-car ride to the peak of Whistler Mountain the following day is the best way to experience its extraordinary landscapes.

Day 9: Clearwater

Drive along the upper elevations of the Duffey Lake Road where the majestic beauty of the Joffre Glacier and the snow-capped Mount Currue will unfold before your eyes. Stop at the gold rush town of Cache Creek before completing the unrushed journey to Clearwater. 

Day 10 & 11: Jasper

Set out for Jasper along the Yellowhead Highway, a road renowned for its plethora of natural gems. Stop at the North Thompson River to take in the vista of the crashing falls and the steep-walled gorges and further along the route, marvel at the wonder of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies – the majestic Mount Robson. After a relaxing evening in the quaint mountain village of Jasper, choose between three excursions for the following day. Take a guided nature walk through the surrounding verdant hills; raft on the Athabasca River or take a cruise on the peaceful waters of Maligne Lake. 

Day 12 & 13: Banff

Travel through the spine of the Rockies along the Icefields Parkway. Hike on a glacier before standing upon the elevated glass platform at the Glacier Skywalk, which roughly marks the half-way point to Banff.  There are a plethora of options the following day to experience the beauty of the Banff National Park. Horse-ride, hike, cruise, take a cable-car to the top of Sulphur Mountain or even canoe on the serene Bow River.

Day 14: Departure

Make the final journey to Calgary, ready for departure. 

Prices

From £2,789 per person

Truly Individual Holiday Includes:

• International flights from the UK in Economy
• 13 nights accommodation
• Car hire in a mid-sized vehicle
• Return ferry to Vancouver Island
• 6 Sightseeing Experiences

Price based on two people sharing accommodation. Any element of this holiday can be tailor-made to suit you. Simply enquire below!