Winter Retreat
Winter Package
VANCOUVER | JASPER | BANFF | LAKE LOUISE | CALGARY
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as you travel to the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Surrounded by ginormous snow-capped mountains, you’ll skate, sled and snowshoe your way around charming Banff and Lake Louise in this spectacular winter tour.
Tour available in reverse.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
Day 1 : Vancouver to Jasper (Rail)
This afternoon (12pm), check in at Pacific Central Station and board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ for the famous train journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Step back in time to the days of classic rail travel, riding in the original stainless steel ‘streamliner’ railcars made famous by the ‘Canadian’ in the 1950s. Each has been restored with air conditioning, a café car, lounge car, and access to the dome car.
Day 2 : Arrive Jasper (Rail)
Arrive in Jasper at 8.00am and transfer to your hotel. The day is free to explore this unique alpine community. (breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail).
Day 3 : Jasper (Maligne Canyon Ice Walk)
Experience the wonders of Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 50m gorge. Certified guides will lead groups of no more than 12 along the frozen canyon floor and its ice-clad limestone walls. Super soles and winter boots will keep you warm and secure as you explore this wonderland of rock and ice. Please note: The ice walk tour normally operates beginning-December - end-April.
Day 4 : Jasper to Banff
Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Banff. This spectacular drive through glacier country features massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad-reaching valleys. Banff is situated in Banff National Park, this charming town has much to offer including winter walks, ice skating, world-class shopping, and unique dining.
Day 5 : Discover Banff & Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride
A morning tour of the Banff area will take you to many of Banff’s landmarks and historical places. This will also be one of your best chances to see wildlife while in the park. Photo opportunities and short walks to viewpoints with your guide are abundant on this tour. This afternoon make your own way to the stables, a short walk away from downtown. Your tour in a horse drawn sleigh will manifest the magic of winter.
Day 6 : Winter Adventurer - A guided tour to Lake Louise
This is a full day of exploring and activity. You will be led on a guided sightseeing tour to Lake Louise. You will also have free time to explore the lake on foot or on snowshoes, relax in the chateau or rent ice skates on your own. You’ll be returned to your hotel late afternoon.
Day 7 : Afternoon Snowshoeing to Paint Pots Tour
In the afternoon, snowshoe on an easy trail winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within the National Park. Along the way you will hear stories of Banff’s indigenous people, explorers and fur traders who lived in and travelled through the Rockies. After this crisp winter walk, enjoy a uniquely Canadian treat: hot maple taffy poured into snow to make a sweet frozen dessert.
Day 8 : Banff to Calgary
Today, transfer to Calgary Airport or downtown Calgary. We will arrange a transfer to suit your flight schedule.
