A Dream That Came True
Our itinerary consisted of Banff and Jasper in the Rockies and then making an overnight rail journey to Vancouver. We had a week to see and experience as much as possible and I couldn't wait!
The check in at London Heathrow was smooth and it was really lovely to meet the other people who I was going on this wonderful trip with. We were lucky enough to be upgraded to Air Canada's fabulous business class service which meant we got to experience their executive lounge before our journey, having your own little pod with a lie flat bed was a first for me and a wonderful way to arrive in Calgary feeling refreshed and raring to go- It was a very special way to start our trip.
The arrival process at Calgary airport was very smooth and we were soon greeted by our lovely guide and driver Dwaine, before we knew it we were on our way to our first destination Banff.
I absolutely loved Banff, we stayed at the gorgeous Moose hotel at the very heart of Banff- A cosy hotel within walking distance of local restaurants, cafes, bars and shops and the bonus of this property was a beautiful roof top pool which was perfect for relaxing in while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. This was a real pinch me moment and I honestly could not believe I was actually there- It was completely breath taking.
Banff itself is a popular year round resort and perfect for both skiers and sightseeing, Don't miss the dining experience 360 at the beautiful Fairmont hotel as well as the Banff Gondola- absolutely stunning views.
During our stay in Banff we visited the very popular town of lake Louise, it's around 40 minutes drive from Banff and it is worth visiting the iconic Fairmont Chateau hotel with it's stunning lakeside setting. It is a popular tourist attraction year round and it is not hard to see why- everywhere you look the scenery is beautiful. Lake Louise is a small resort and perfect to experience during your stay in Banff or as part of a Canadian road trip.
Driving in Canada is a great way to travel, roads are very good, drivers are courteous and the real bonus is getting to enjoy the passing scenery and trying to spot wildlife along the way. We even managed to spot bears on our trip- from a distance of course!!!!!
Banff does however have a shuttle bus and of course taxis are readily available should you prefer not to drive.
Our next stop on our itinerary was the charming town of Jasper, we travelled via the attraction Icefield Parkway- The journey time is just under 4 hours and is a fabulous experience and a great way to break the journey while doing something quite special and unique at the same time. On arrival we were transported in large truck like vehicles to the top of the Icefield mountains- it gets pretty cold up there so pack a hat! I then got to experience the optional glass walkway. I wasn't brave enough to look down but it was an incredible experience.
Arriving in Jasper we stayed at the beautiful Fairmont Resort which included an outdoor pool with the most amazing lakeside views- It was so special and such a unique place to stay. We even saw black and grizzly bears, it was simply amazing. The resort itself is located outside the main area of Jasper but is perfect if you love the outdoors. We met up with Dwaine who had been our driver and tour guide for the first part of our trip for a fun evening and a farewell dinner at one of the pubs in Japer.
The next morning we made our way to the station in Jasper ready for our overnight train journey to Vibrant Vancouver- Our final destination on this amazing trip.
We arrived at the station and boarded our Via rail train and located our cosy sleep cabins which we had been allocated for this overnight journey, the cabins themselves had a chair which convert to a bed and you have your own toilet and sink facilities. We enjoyed delicious dining, stunning views in the glass domed carriage and the freedom to move around between carriages- we even enjoyed a game of bingo! There's something quite special about retiring back to your cosy cabin, snuggling down and watching the mountainous back drop as you drift off to sleep. We arrived in Vancouver after enjoying a gorgeous breakfast on the train, collected our luggage and was soon on our way ready to explore the city of Vancouver and everything it had to offer.
I knew I would this city but it really did surpass all of my expectations, it has it all! Endless sightseeing we enjoyed a trip to Granville Island where we visited the local market and took a boat trip to look for seals, we visited the Capilano suspension bridge, the gondola at grouse mountain, stunning Stanley park, a lovely beachside lunch, a visit to the steam clock in Gastown and so much more. We even got to experience a fabulous recommendation from the locals of a teppanyaki meal which was not only delicious but a great night out too and so much fun. We spent an evening in Yaletown which again is a popular place to visit, full of vibrant bars and eateries. We stayed at the Sheraton wall centre hotel, perfect location being minutes on foot from restaurants, shops and attractions. This hotel is a modern hotel with floor to ceiling windows showcasing views of this city.
On our final day in Vancouver we visited the Simulator "Fly Over Canada" which was fun and unique followed by a fabulous sea plane trip from Canada place harbourside where we were able to enjoy birds eye views of this inspiring city and a perfect way to end such an incredible trip.
Canada- Wow is all I can say and Thank You for making so many dreams come true in one trip. You have stolen my heart and I cannot wait to visit again.
Whether you are travelling with friends, family, as a couple or a solo holiday- I would whole heartily recommend you visit and I would absolutely love to help plan and book your Canadian adventure trip.
Canada has a wealth of dining options, endless attractions, beautiful beaches, friendly people and great shopping- but the real wow factor for me is the jaw dropping stunning scenery and the wildlife- You must go and experience it for yourself.