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Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
14 DAYS FROM £1796

This holiday has departures available between: 20th Apr 2009 to 12th Oct 2009
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A classic rail journey across Canada's heartland, with an exploration of the Canadian Rockies and time to visit Vancouver and Victoria.

Holiday highlights

Toronto
Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist cruise
VIA Rail® Canadian Train In Silver & Blue (first) class, Toronto to Jasper
Jasper National Park
Jasper Orientation tour
Columbia Icefield Snowcoach ride
Lake Louise
Banff National Park
Yoho National Park
Glacier National Park
Vancouver City tour

Your Price Includes

Flights: UK - Toronto; Vancouver - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Accommodation on board the 'Canadian' train in private bedrooms (upper and lower berths) with toilet facilities (shower room separate)
Meals on tour 3 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), 2 dinners (D)
Professional tour director on tour and local representative's assistance at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airports and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option not available

Holiday Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - Toronto.
Fly to Toronto where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 2: Toronto - Niagara Falls - Toronto - VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
We begin the day with an included sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls, one of the world's most amazing natural wonders. Our included sightseeing will offer you spectacular views of the waterfalls from scenic points on the rim of the gorge and from the decks of the Maid of the Mist, where you will experience the thundering columns of water up close! We then return to Toronto with time for dinner before transferring to Union Station for a late evening departure on the 'Canadian', VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada's heartland.
Note: The operation of the Maid of the Mist cruise is subject to favourable conditions which exist from May to the end of October. When unfavourable conditions exist, a walking tour of the scenic tunnels will be offered.
For your convenience, baggage that will not be needed during the train journey will be checked through to Jasper.

DAY 3: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
Today watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever changing Canadian landscape and travel over the full length of the Canadian National Railway's breathtaking mainline. Pass sparkling lakes and sun-dappled forests while enjoying the many great onboard features at your disposal. Your first class 'Silver and Blue' rail cars are refurbished Art Deco cars from the 1950's. Try the observation dome for unparalleled views of the Canadian countryside, or pass the time in one of the comfortable lounges. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train - Winnipeg. Included sightseeing.
An early arrival into Winnipeg, Manitoba's capital, allows you to see a city rich in history and culture on your included city sightseeing tour. In the early afternoon we continue our journey through Manitoba's prairies and into Saskatchewan. (B, D)

DAY 5: VIA Rail® - Jasper. Included orientation tour.
You can enjoy a leisurely breakfast before the train arrives in Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, set on the North Saskatchewan River. After a short break continue your train journey into the very heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll arrive at the beautiful mountain resort of Jasper early in the afternoon. End the day with a short tour to experience Jasper's unspoiled beauty. The rest of the evening is free for you to enjoy the ambience of this delightful mountain setting. (B, L)

DAY 6: Jasper.
Begin the day with an optional excursion to Maligne Lake, where you embark on a narrated cruise. On the return journey, stop to view Maligne Canyon. With free time this evening you might take a hike along the trails and watch for elk.
Note: The excursion to Maligne Lake is weather permitting.

DAY 7: Jasper - Columbia Icefield - Banff.
We journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield for an exciting snowcoach ride on the 1200-foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. We then continue down the Icefield Parkway to the lively mountain resort of Banff for two nights.
Note: Unfavourable weather conditions may affect the availability of the Columbia Icefield snowcoach excursion.

DAY 8: Banff.
For a memorable and spectacular start to the day, why not take our optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies? In the afternoon join our optional excursion to Sulphur Mountain for a thrilling gondola ride, complete with panoramic views of Banff's spectacular scenery and a stop at sparkling Bow Falls. And how about rounding off a superb day by joining our lively optional dinner show, 'Oh Canada Eh?!'

DAY 9: Banff - Lake Louise - Kamloops.
This morning we leave Banff National Park and travel to Lake Louise, its azure blue waters mirroring the surrounding mountains and glaciers, before proceeding over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where Precambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago, when Swiss guides were brought to the area. Late this afternoon arrive at the cattle ranching centre of Kamloops.

DAY 10: Kamloops - Vancouver. Included sightseeing.
We continue west along Kamloops Lake, and then follow the mighty Fraser River to Vancouver, spectacularly set on the Burrard Inlet. Upon arrival in Vancouver, our included sightseeing tour will introduce you to many of the city's major sights, including Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown and the harbour.

DAY 11: Vancouver.
Today, why not come along on an optional excursion to Vancouver Island and the charming seaside city of Victoria, with its restored buildings, immaculate gardens and flowers. The excursion includes a visit to renowned Butchart Gardens. The short ferry ride through the Gulf Islands, with their Mediterranean-like climate, to Victoria is a treat.

DAY 12: Vancouver.
Another full day at leisure, perhaps join an optional excursion to the world-famous Whistler resort and Shannon Falls or a short trip to the Capilano Suspension Bridge - 230 feet above the river. Back in Vancouver step into the timeless beauty of the Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, tucked behind a high white wall in the heart of bustling Chinatown, or dive into another world at the Vancouver Aquarium.

DAY 13: Vancouver - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.

Maximum elevation on this tour is 7,500 ft.

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Accommodation on Tour

Toronto: Best Western Primrose; Jasper: Maligne Lodge; Banff: Swiss Village Inn; Kamloops: Executive Inn; Vancouver: Sandman Hotel Downtown.

On Board The 'Canadian'

Travel in style aboard the 'Canadian' in their 'Silver and Blue' first class service. On board are the Bullet Lounge, domed observation car, the cosy Mural Lounge and a dining car. Your overnight accommodation is a private room (includes toilet facilities) which converts from seating during the day to upper and lower berths. Showers are only available at the end of each carriage. All your meals are included. Please pack an overnight bag as the remainder of your luggage is packed away for the duration of the rail journey.

Note: Please note that Via Rail operates a no smoking policy.

Trains

  • The 'Canadian'
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    VIA Rail®, The Canadian

    VIA Rail® Canada
    Via Rail® is Canada's public railway network operating trains throughout Canada, over a network stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from the Great Lakes to Hudson Bay.

    The Canadian
    The Canadian is VIA Rail's flagship train, which retraces the historic western transcontinental route, as the enchanting lakes and forests of Ontario give way to the prairies of big-sky country through to the majestic Rockies. The train is scheduled to ensure daylight viewing of the Rockies.
    Silver & Blue Class
    All our customers travel in Silver and Blue Class award winning first class bedrooms. Located at the rear of the train, leading to the acclaimed Park Car reserved for Silver and Blue class passengers.
    The Park Car has wrap around windows enclosing the Bullet Lounge. Above is the scenic dome offering 360-degree viewing, that affords some of the best photographic opportunities ever.
    Dining: Whether for breakfast, lunch or for the evening sittings, an enticing menu is freshly prepared by the on board chef, featuring soups and salads, hot entrées and desserts. In the Mural Lounge the bar serves a wide selection of drinks.
    Accommodation: By day a private room for two, with armchairs, a large picture window, small closet, hand basin and separate toilet. At night the bedroom converts to upper and lower beds. A separate shower room is located at the end of each carriage. Shower kit (including towels) is provided. We recommend customers take a lightweight dressing gown for when stepping out of the shower.
    Luggage: Please pack an overnight bag for the train, including any necessities, as the remainder of your luggage is packed away for the duration of the rail journey.
    General: In response to public demand, VIA Rail® operate a no smoking policy.

Holiday Extensions

  • Aerial view of Waikiki
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    Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £505

    A resort in a beautiful setting on the island paradise of Oahu - the perfect place for a few days relaxation at the end of your tour.
    On day 13 fly to Honolulu (via San Francisco) and transfer to your hotel, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, for the next seven nights. On day 20 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home via San Francisco.

  • Vancouver
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    Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £90

    Discover the pleasures of the hub of Canada's West Coast, one of the most exciting, vibrant cities in North America.
    On day 13 remain at your hotel, the Sandman Hotel Downtown for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 15 for your overnight flight home.

  • Scenic wonders with the Whistler Mountaineer
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    Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £249

    On the morning of day 13, board the Whistler Mountaineer Northbound for a three-hour journey to Whistler. Enjoy the early morning views of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park as the train hugs the scenic waterfront. An early afternoon arrival at the alpine resort of Whistler, nestled at the base of the breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain for the next two nights.
    On day 15 board the Whistler Mountaineer Southbound for your return journey to Vancouver. Cross over the pinnacle of Brandywine Falls before descending a steep gradient through the Cheakamus Canyon, where the river below tumbles through a craggy gorge. Early evening arrival into Vancouver for your overnight stay. On day 16 included transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
    Your hotels: Whistler: Listel Hotel; Vancouver: Sandman Hotel Downtown.

Accommodation on Extensions

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £505

  • Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
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    Sheraton Princess Kaiulani DiamondDiamondDiamond

    The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel offers a glimpse of Hawaii's royal past in the heart of Waikiki Beach. Once home to Hawaii's Princess Victoria Kawekiu Lunalilo Kalaninuiahilapalapa Ka'iulani, the hotel houses historic photographs of the princess and the royal monarchy throughout the property.

    Location: Next door to the International Marketplace and King's Village. Across Kalakaua Avenue with its wonderful array of shops and restaurants, with easy access to 3 sister hotels and famous Waikiki Beach. A short walk left along the beachfront (ideal for sunset) will take you to Kapiolani Park then on to Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium.
    Facilities: Swimming pool with free chairs and sunbeds; restaurant; bar with pool service; free pool and beach towels; shop; internet access; lounge; laundry; room service; concierge; lifts.
    Prices includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; clock radio; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; minifridge; safe (daily charge).

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £90

  • The Sandman Hotel Downtown
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    Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver DiamondDiamondDiamond

    This hotel offers friendly service and an excellent location in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

    Location: Just minutes away from Robson Street, Pacific Centre Mall and the Yaletown district with its fashionable shops and bistros, as well as the cobblestone charm of historic Gastown.
    Facilities: Indoor swimming pool; health club; whirlpool; restaurant; lounge; gift shop.
    Price includes: Room with private facilities; TV; air-conditioning; tea/coffee-maker; telephone with voicemail.

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £249

Hotels

  • Listel Whistler DiamondDiamondDiamond

    Located in the truly world class year round resort of Whistler, the Listel Whistler offers guests everything for a comfortable stay, within stepping distance of all that the resort has to offer.

    Location: Centrally located in Whistler Village, the hotel is a short walk from world class shopping, restaurants, pubs and activities, including a golf course and the Whistler Mountain Gondola.
    Facilities: Bistro & Wine Bar with secluded cigar room; heated outdoor swimming pool; outdoor open-air jacuzzi; sauna; laundry and valet service.
    Price includes: Room with private facilities; small fridge; cable TV; clock/radio; coffee/tea-making facilities; phones; iron/ironing board; in-room safes; hairdryer.

Trains

  • Whistler Mountaineer passing Howe Sound
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    Whistler Mountaineer

    The Whistler Mountaineer takes a three hour premier journey that links two world-class destinations - Vancouver and Whistler - in British Columbia. Our prices are based on Coast Classic service, however we highly recommend that you upgrade to Glacier Dome service as it is truly worth the £59 per person supplement. All guests will have access to the open-air observation car, offering fresh air and unrestricted views of the spectacular scenery.

    Coast Classic Experience: Each rail car has panoramic views through picture windows, assigned, spacious, comfortable reclining seats with extended legroom, service and interpretative commentary by knowledgeable and friendly Onboard Attendants. The carriages are fully-air-conditioned.
    Meals: Light meal and beverage service will be provided.
    Luggage: Bags will be checked at the Vancouver and Whistler train stations and taken by ground transportation to your destination. You should carry on board with you any essentials needed for your journey.
    General: Whistler Mountaineer operates a no smoking policy.

    Upgrade to the Glacier Dome Experience:
    Each rail car has panoramic 360 views from full length dome windows, custom-designed single-level dome coach, plus upgraded meal service and complimentary beverages.