Begin your day with a guided tour and discover what makes Vancouver one of the most liveable cities in the world. Visit forested Stanley Park and its series of totem poles, illustrating the stylistic differences between First Nations from around the coastal region, such as the Haida, Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth.
Walk along the waterfront of English Bay and gaze towards beautiful Kitsilano or ‘Kits’ Beach and view the nation from above in the FlyOver Canada air simulation at busy Canada Place port. Wind your way down to the Granville Island peninsula and visit bustling craft shops and food stalls within the Market Hall. Then wander through historic Chinatown and wait for the magically photogenic Gastown Steam Clock to sound its whistle.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure and choose where to further explore. Perhaps visit the playful otters at world-renowned Vancouver Aquarium, then weave back through Stanley Park. If you feel the cold creep in, step into East Van Roasters, an award-winning cafe focused on empowering women workers, to warm up with one of their stunning seasonal hot chocolates.
Wake to a morning of freedom and discover another side of the city. Through Vancouver’s abundant galleries and museums – the exceptional Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia comes quickly to mind – tap into the long-standing history of the land, while the lively backdrop of street art tells an ever-evolving story of contemporary life in Canada.
In the evening, join your group for a Gastown Foodie Tour and get to know the local scene. You’ll taste innovative cuisine across the storied pubs, restaurants and cafes of the city’s oldest neighborhood. Pair poutine, a Canadian comfort classic made of fries, rich gravy and melted cheese curds, with a frothy craft brew and sample Sicilian Tortellini with local wine. End the night feeling warmed by a wealth of good food and friendship.
Wake for breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for your onward flight to Calgary. Upon arrival, board your private coach to set off along the Trans-Canada Highway. This seemingly endless road connects all 10 provinces of the country and will take you west to the foot of the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. Check in at the storybook Fairmont Chateau overlooking picturesque Lake Louise.
Nestled between soaring peaks and the magnificent Victoria Glacier, the turquoise waters of this glacier-fed lake offer a painterly image of the quintessential Canadian landscape. Take in the view from your elegant accommodation, then enjoy dinner downstairs with your fellow travellers.
This morning, take to the hills on a snowshoe tour of this stunning region. Heading out from Lake Louise Ski Resort, you’ll view the crystalline lake from above and breathe heady mountain air among the jagged slopes of the rough-and-raw landscape.
In the afternoon, share a lovely afternoon tea with scones and sandwiches and reflect on the natural beauty of the lake seen through floor-to-ceiling windows in the Fairview Restaurant.
After breakfast this morning you’ll transfer to Banff, a popular mountain resort town. Established in 1885, the national park of the same name is Canada’s oldest and home to some of the country’s most spectacular natural features, including towering Cascade Mountain and the idyllic Vermilion Lakes.
Check in at your hotel and settle for a cosy evening.
Jump in today with an outing to scope of Banff’s best-loved landmarks and active animal life. Follow your guide to the Cave and Basin as you learn the history of the railway workers who found these ethereal hot springs – a discovery that would lead to the founding of Canada’s first national park. Sip hot drinks as you watch for moose and elk, then return to your hotel for some rest and relaxation.
Later, don your cleats and grab your poles as you take to Johnston Canyon for an evening icewalk. Through the cushioning silence and fresh scent of a snowy pine forest, make your way to the steel walkways that run between the canyon walls. Witness cascading icicles at the Lower Falls, then nibble a maple cookie and keep warm with hot cocoa as you rest before the glittering ice tower of the Upper Falls.
Today is yours for the taking – step out and explore this mountain wonderland, or live the alpine life in the Upper Hot Springs atop Sulphur Mountain. When the sun is high, you’ll head deeper into the mountains to join a thrilling helicopter tour to see the famous Three Sisters peaks from above – glide into Spray Valley and glance across its pristine waters, then circle back along the sweeping Goat Range.
Treat the evening with a nightcap, and warm up at your hotel.
This morning, take your private coach to Calgary International Airport (YYC) and fly to the Northwest Territories’ capital of Yellowknife. Upon arrival you’ll be taken to your hotel for check-in and to fit out in your warmest clothes. Once suited, follow your guide to Aurora Village for an evening beneath the stars.
Gather round the woodfire stoves of teepees glowing in the night and perch on heated seats. Then head out to the snow and look to the skies in hopes of catching the elusive Northern Lights. Hidden far from city lights, this subarctic area is the perfect spot to witness their magical, magnetic glow.
At the end of the evening, transfer back to your hotel for a restful hibernation.
Embark on a host of excursions through the northern wilderness over two days of discovery. Learn about the Indigenous history of the region and uncover fascinating stories kept within this remote landscape. See handmade artefacts at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre and wander the unusual Old Town, which still harkens back to life on the frontier.
If conditions allow, drive directly over Great Slave Lake on the Dettah Ice Road, then take to wooded trails bounding and joyful dog sledding trip. Then return to the teepee village each night, watching the heavens for every chance to see its cosmic glowing dance.
Snuggle up by the open fire and tuck into an included dinner on your choice of evening.
Optional activities:
- Guided snowshoe walk (from A$133 per person).
It’s time to bid farewell to your great northern adventure. Though the journey may end after you reach Yellowknife Airport (YZF), the grand mysteries of the Canadian wilds are sure to keep reminiscing about this once-in-a-lifetime winter wonder for years to come.
Optional activities:
- Breakfast at The Explorer Hotel (Monday through Saturday, from A$43 per person).
- Sunday brunch at The Explorer Hotel (Sundays only, from A$69 per person).