Iconic Rail Journeys Part 1: Rocky Mountaineer

One of the six iconic rail journeys in the world, a trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is without doubt an unforgettable railway tour of a lifetime. As you cross the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies during daylight, passing glistening snow-capped peaks and deep blue glacier fed lakes that reflect the sky above and their mountain surrounding; cascading waterfalls and soaring forests, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife – bears, moose and mountain sheep. And enjoy the on-board food and service as you swap stories with your fellow travellers. A journey on the Rocky Mountaineer is a perfect addition to an Alaskan cruise or tour of western Canada to make the ultimate holiday experience.
 
 
From cosmopolitan city centres to the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Rocky Mountaineer’s rail routes offer you the most jaw-dropping sights Western Canada has to offer. And if “see everything” is on your list, you’re in luck. Plan to start and end your journey from the same place and then get ready to take it all in. Combining two or more routes in a Circle Journey gives you the most days onboard the train.
 

SilverLeaf

SilverLeaf
 
Carving through the Canadian Rockies onboard our luxury coach, you'll come face to face with magnificent scenery that's so perfect, you might just ask to be pinched. Hot gourmet breakfasts and lunches served at your spacious seat means you won't have to miss a moment of the splendour out your window. Nor will you miss a moment of the latest captivating yarn or historical tidbit from your onboard Host.

GoldLeaf

GoldLeaf
 
Imagine soaking up Canada's soul-stirring landscape from a bi-level glass-dome luxury coach while nibbling on gourmet meals created by Executive Chefs. Sound like a dream come true? It is. GoldLeaf service is the best of the best: you’ll receive a refreshing welcome aboard toast, hot gourmet breakfasts and lunches, morning scones and afternoon wine and cheese, complimentary beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and gourmet snacks, complimentary baggage delivery to your hotel, sit in a custom-designed bi-level dome coach with meal service below and seating up top and have access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform.
 
Sounding good? Here’s a taster of one of our favourite Rocky Mountaineer journeys, First Passage to the West:

VANCOUVER | KAMLOOPS | LAKE LOUISE / BANFF
 
Travel through the legendary Spiral Tunnels and pass by Craigellachie, the spot where the last spike on the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven. This is the only passenger rail service on this historic route, celebrated for connecting Canada from East to West. Traverse the Continental Divide and be inspired by spectacular mountains and dramatic canyons. If you’re a history buff, this route is for you.
 
Day 1: Depart at 07.30am and travel from Vancouver to Kamloops in British Columbia’s interior.
Pass through the fertile Fraser Valley and the scenic Fraser Canyon. At Hell’s Gate, see water pass through the walls of the narrowest point of the canyon. Follow the Thompson River to the city of Kamloops. Overnight in Kamloops hotel. (Meals included: breakfast, lunch)
 
Day 2: Kamloops to Banff or Lake Louise
Depart at 06.25am and continue your journey east to the Canadian Rockies. Travel through ranchlands to Shuswap Lake. Pass Craigellachie, where the “last spike” was driven completing the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885, on to Rogers Pass with its tunnels, glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Cross the Continental Divide into Banff National Park, through the unique Spiral Tunnels. End your tour this evening (Meals included: breakfast, lunch).
 
If you want to incorporate the Rocky Mountaineer into a longer holiday, we have some great options and fantastic offers! Take a look at our Journey through the Clouds Explorer and First Passage to the West Highlights. Alternatively, call our Canada experts on 0161 888 5632.

Posted on 12th September 2017

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