Peaks & panoramas: A passage through the Rockies

Begin your luxury escape with complimentary airport lounge access before your flight to Calgary. On arrival, you’ll be met for a scenic private transfer through the rolling foothills of Alberta to the enchanting resort town of Banff, in the shadows of the towering Rockies. Settle into your premium accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure.

The following day, a full-day curated tour introduces you to Banff’s most iconic natural wonders. Ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for sweeping alpine vistas, then cruise across the glacial waters of Lake Minnewanka, as your guide unveils the region’s rich natural history. Highlights also include Bow Falls, the otherworldly Hoodoos, and the scenic Surprise Corner. A light lunch is included.

Stay: Elk & Avenue (SilverLeaf) or Banff Royal Canadian Lodge (GoldLeaf)

This morning, board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer for a luxurious rail journey through the heart of the Canadian wilderness. Settle into your elegant carriage as you glide past snow-capped summits, emerald lakes and vast alpine forests. The day’s highlights include the Continental Divide, the feat of engineering that is the Spiral Tunnels, dramatic Kicking Horse Canyon and the sweeping vistas of Rogers Pass. Indulge in chef-prepared breakfasts and lunches served at your seat, paired with impeccable service and panoramic views. Arrive in Kamloops by evening, where you’ll enjoy an overnight stay.

Stay: Kamloops Hotel

Continue your rail journey in comfort and style as the Rocky Mountaineer winds its way towards the remote beauty of Jasper. Today’s route takes you through the Cariboo and Monashee mountain ranges, tracing the glistening waters of the Fraser River. Gaze out at vast forests and tranquil lakes, with possible sightings of moose and eagles. En route, you’ll pass the majestic Mount Robson – the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies – and cross the historic Yellowhead Pass. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Jasper, a peaceful mountain haven wrapped in national park splendour.

Stay: The Crimson Jasper (Silverleaf) or Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (Goldleaf)

Today, immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Jasper National Park. Led by a local expert, your small-group wildlife tour provides exclusive insight into the park’s ecosystems and inhabitants. Seek out elk, deer, mountain goats and perhaps even bears, all within their pristine natural habitats. With minimal walking and scenic stops throughout, this relaxed and enriching tour is ideal for capturing the spirit of Canada’s wilderness.

Stay: The Crimson Jasper (SilverLeaf) or Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (GoldLeaf)

Today, journey along the world-famous Icefields Parkway, an extraordinary scenic drive regarded as one of the finest in the world. Highlights include the mirror-like Bow Lake and the thunderous cascades of Athabasca Falls. At the mighty Columbia Icefield, you’ll board an all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle for a once-in-a-lifetime journey across the Athabasca Glacier, followed by a walk on the breathtaking Glacier Skywalk – a glass-bottomed platform suspended high above the valley floor. A gourmet buffet lunch is included before continuing south to Calgary.

Stay: Hotel Arts (SilverLeaf) or Le Germain Hotel (GoldLeaf)

Spend your final morning at leisure exploring Calgary’s dynamic cityscape. Perhaps browse the boutique shops of the East Village, ascend the Calgary Tower for skyline views, or indulge in a premium steak lunch featuring Alberta’s finest beef. In the evening, you’ll be privately transferred to the airport for your overnight return flight to the UK, arriving on Day 8.