Canada, Alaska, USA, Luxury Escorted Touring, Rocky Mountaineer, Lake Louise, Alaska Cruises, Whistler Canada
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154 | BEST OF CANADA, ALASKA & THE USA CANADA'S AWE-INSPIRING ROCKY MOUNTAINS Day 13. Banff. How you choose to explore World Heritage- listed Banff National Park is up to you today. You may like to take part in the Banff Experience or take a heli-flightseeing trip. Perhaps enjoy a float trip along Bow River or join a guide and go for a paddle in a canoe. You might like to spend your morning relaxing at the Willow Stream Spa or set out on a cruise on Lake Minnewanka. This evening, you'll enjoy the chance to relax with dinner at one of the superb restaurants located within your hotel. BD Day 14. Banff, Lake Louise. This morning, Meet a Mountie and hear tales of the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Afterwards, the Banff Gondola will whisk you to the top of Sulphur Mountain, from where you'll enjoy panoramic views out over six mountain ranges. Later, wander through the mountain town of Banff on a tour, before travelling to The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This evening, choose where to dine from a selection of exceptional restaurants within your hotel. Two Night Stay: Banff National Park, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in a Lakeview Room. BD Day 15. Moraine Lake, Lake Louise. Today's excursion takes you right into the heart of Banff National Park. First, you'll travel to Moraine Lake and discover that this glacier-carved lake is perhaps just as photogenic as the 'Jewel of the Rockies', Lake Louise. Then, join an expert Mountain Heritage Guide and learn about the rich natural history of the area as you take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Louise. You'll look forward to a relaxing evening left entirely free. B Day 16. Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper. Join the Icefields Parkway and wind along one of the world's most scenic stretches past lakes, rivers and mountains. After pausing to take in Peyto Lake, make a stop at the Columbia Icefield. Here, you'll board an Ice Explorer vehicle and journey right onto the Athabasca Glacier. Later, stroll along the Glacier Skywalk. Continue on via Athabasca Falls to The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, on the shores of Lac Beauvert. Two Night Stay: Jasper National Park, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. B Day 17. Jasper. Perhaps take a Harley-Davidson motorcycle sidecar tour, embark on a Maligne Valley experience, go rafting on the Athabasca River, or ride the Jasper Tramway. Other options include an interpretive nature hike or an evening wildlife discovery. Tonight, a stylish alfresco dining experience awaits by the shores of Trefoil Lake. Relax and absorb the rhythms of a group of First Nations performers while chefs transform regional produce into a gourmet barbecue dinner. BD ALPINE WONDERS & WILDLIFE Day 18. Jasper, Mt Robson, Blue River, Sun Peaks. Join the Yellowhead Highway and re-enter British Columbia, stopping to take in views of Mt Robson. On arrival in Blue River, board a custom-designed boat and skim over the waterways, watching for the grizzly and black bears that are frequently sighted here. Enjoy lunch then continue to Sun Peaks. Stay: Sun Peaks Grand Hotel. BLD Day 19. Sun Peaks, Whistler. On today's journey, you'll travel via the rural town of Lillooet, and stop at both Seton and Duffey lakes. Later, journey via the lush Coast Mountains on your way to Whistler village. Two Night Stay: The Westin Whistler Resort & Spa. BD Day 20. Whistler. For an insight into the heritage of Canada's indigenous people, you'll enjoy breakfast and a tour at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. This afternoon, select the Freedom of Choice activity that appeals to you. Take an eco-trek to Lost Lake or enjoy a floatplane flight. Alternatively, explore Whistler Mountain on a 4x4 or snowcat adventure, enjoy a mountain Jeep safari or ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Others may prefer a tree trek or a zip trek. After a fun- filled day, appreciate an evening at leisure. B VANCOUVER ISLAND Day 21. Whistler, Georgia Strait, Victoria. Ride a ferry across Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island and onto Victoria. Perhaps take a one-hour floatplane flight from Whistler to Victoria (own expense). Two Night Stay: Vancouver Island, Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa. B Day 22. Victoria, The Butchart Gardens. Visit The Butchart Gardens before the crowds and enjoy breakfast in the original Butchart residence. Later, perhaps join a whale watching cruise; take a seaplane flight; learn about the city's heritage district on a guided tour; fish for salmon; ride in a horse- drawn carriage; or delight in afternoon tea at The Fairmont Empress Hotel. BD ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE Day 23. Victoria, Vancouver, Embark Ship. Return to Vancouver and board your ship. This evening, enjoy a delightful Sail Away Dinner at the renowned Pinnacle Grill. Seven Night Cruise: Holland America Line in a Verandah Stateroom. BD Colourful facades reflect the character of New Orleans' French Quarter