Highlights
A great combination of self drive and a classic rail journey, this itinerary explores Vancouver Island, Whistler and Vancouver, before the fabulous two-day journey to Jasper at the top end of the Rockies. Pick up a second hire vehicle and explore the magnificent Icefields Parkway – arguably one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Explore the mountain towns of Jasper and Banff before flying home from Calgary.
- White water rafting; horse riding, mountain biking in the Rockies
- Relax in Banff’s Hot Springs
- Relax on the beach, and lunch at a bistro in the vineyard-filled Okanangan Valley
- Take a 4WD tour to spot black bears
- Zip line over Fitzsimmons Creek in Whistler
- Take a Whale Watching trip off Vancouver
- Cycle Stanley Park and cross the Suspension bridge in Vancouver
Itinerary
Below is a suggested itinerary for a family fly-drive in Western Canada, however, please get in touch as we can arrange completely bespoke itineraries based on your requirements.
Click here for a PDF downloadable day by day itinerary.
Day 1-2: Explore Calgary
Arrive at Calgary International Airport and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Depending on your arrival time, perhaps take a trip up the Calgary Tower for 360 degree views of the city. This evening, visit one of Calgary’s legendary restaurants such as Caesar's Steak House & Lounge or Vintage Chophouse and Tavern.
Day 3-4: Banff
Banff National Park encompasses valleys, rugged mountains, enormous glaciers, deep forests, alpine meadows and glassy turquoise lakes. Through it wander wildlife such as bears, elks, wolves and bighorn sheep. The bustling town of Banff is a base for a multitude of outdoor activities.
This afternoon, take to horseback for a trial ride, or take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for hiking trails and viewing points.
Day 6-7: Rocky Mountaineer Train
Board the famous Rocky Mountaineer this morning, travelling through the Yellowhead Pass and along the fertile route of the North Thompson River to Kamloops. As you leave the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Rockies behind, you travel through the Spiral Tunnerls, Kicking Horse Canyon and over Roger’s Pass.
Day 8-10: Vancouver
Hire bikes and cycle Stanley Park and the sea Wall. Visit Granville Island: a vibrant dining, shopping and entertainment district full of artisans creating unique gifts; a market where you can sample a host of interesting foods, and aspiring musicians perfecting their craft. Soak up the atmosphere in Chinatown with its quirky shops and markets, or take a guided walk around historic Gastown.
Day 12-14: Tofino
Your drive on Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim Highway is true wildlife territory: you may see bears, deer or wolves. Tofino is a wonderful town, here you can stroll along the pretty harbourfront, explore bohemia shops, coffee bars and restaurants, or take the hop on- hop off bus to the main sights.
Photo credits: Noel_Hendrickson, Destination BC/Tanya Goehring, Destination BC/Jordan Dyck,
Cost and pricing
Contact us for pricing for your bespoke itinerary
