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Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies
14 DAYS FROM £1439
and the Rockies" and it lived up to everything we have come to expect from
an Archers Direct Tours.
Everything went like clockwork, organised by the expertise of Archers
and the Tour Guide ,Peter.
We spent two days exploring Toronto and the Niagara Falls and then off on a
3 days train journey across Canada to Jasper. This was an unforgetable
experience through the vast and magnificent open spaces of Canada capped off
by excellent cuisine.
From Jasper we were then treated to the wonders of the Rocky Mountains in
all their glory, Lake Louise , Maligne Lake and Spirit Island to name but
three . The scenery blew us away, the Columbia Icefields are something else,
the like of which we have never seen. The Whistler Mountaineer took us on a
rail jouney up into the Blackcomb Mountains .It just got better.
The tour ended in the city of Vancouver which has something for all from the
scenic Stanley Park and Marineland , designer shops in Robson Street and a
romantic evening diner cruise .
It was a truly wonderful experince and one that will be with us forever.
I have attatched a couple photos from the tour.
Thanks for a great holiday, we are now planning the next one.
This was definitely a holiday of a lifetime, a life enhancing experience and fantastic memories not to mention very impressive 'postcard like' photos, all some 130 of them!
Without going into every detail, as that would take a whole essay, we were so very glad we went for this holiday. Even though we were the youngest couple (in our late 20s) while most other guys were our parents/grandparents' age it didn't really matter too much as we were all part of a team which was hosted by our team leader or Tour Director Linda Brown. Linda made it so much more special than it would other wise already have been, we felt like part of a family or a big school trip for grown ups, didn't have to worry about anything just be up on time and return to the meeting destination on time that is all you have to remember. Linda sorted everything else out so thank you so much!
I will be honest I had my reservations on the first jet lagged day when I found out it was a very early morning start the next day and that the holiday would involve much travel by coach. I will admit it I had a little whine to my partner worrying about my travel sickness and my bad back, don't ask why I didn't think of that before booking. Anyway it turns out it's a good thing I did book it because you soon get used to the early mornings and late evening returns I swear!
It makes life so exciting to know you will stay in a different destination everyday or every other day, you become really organized with your packing and efficient. You plan to take travel sickness pills on time and they work so you have no sickness! Always carry drinking water bottles and for me pretzel nibbles for the journey. I did my back stretches every day and experienced no pain mainly thanks to the amazingly comfortable coach we had, the driver was brilliant and it really was a luxury coach so soft after several hours of sitting, the air conditioning and tinted but always clean windows made such a difference (not to mention our own name tags above our seats, thanks Linda!).
I wasn't going to go into the details, but I felt these bits were important because it's what makes a good tour an excellent one. Linda made sure we had plenty of stops and not just anywhere what would otherwise have been a really long coach journey we got to see several highlights along the way. We all thought we'd get to see more mountains on the train though, just to warn you on this train trip you don't, but it doesn't matter the food was out of this world on the train and we all got really fat just because of those meals!
Also you get more than plenty mountains once you arrive in Jasper. Jasper is really magical and so is the whole of Alberta. Ooh go on the raft drip it's not scary at all, it was fun even for the much older guys! I really really recommend the helicopter ride, I didn't realise I'd be scared until we got up to 10k feet and there was some turbulence (which is normal) I will admit I was sweating and a bit terrified but I am so very glad I did it. There is no view like it seeing the mountaintops and lakes from that far up, worth every penny. In fact we went for most of the excursions, which you have to pay if they are optional but you only live once and we had no regrets.
I'm not telling the story in chronological order, just getting a bit excited about the memories, Niagara Falls was stunning and we have such stunning photos they make me so happy to look at them all. I loved the CN tower; I can forgive the busy waiter who mixed up my order, as the views of Toronto were stunning in the sun set. All the wildlife we saw in Alberta, and to those people who choose to get out of their vehicles to take a snap at the wildlife 1) its dangerous 2) inconsiderate to the animal and others so you can take really amazing photos from the vehicle like I did. Even managed to see a little black bear that came out to say hello at Jasper!
By the way nothing happens at Kamloops it's just a stop off over night so don't get your hopes up but the plus point was there was air conditioning in our hotel and a swimming pool which I recommend to use after long journeys.
Oh just remembered if you are vegetarian you may be a minority in Canada so always stress to the waiter no meat because there were times I got what I assumed vegetarian dish with bits of bacon or something, so just watch out.
Vancouver was lovely, strangely enough the one day we had to ourselves to do what we wanted (as we were always on excursions) we suddenly felt tired and lazy. We're the sort of people that need someone to take the lead and organise the day for us, so this was an ideal holiday and in my view worth the money. Vancouver English Bay beach is really lovely we spent our last few hours of the holiday there in the sunshine before departure.
This has made us really want to carry on traveling and exploring, I'm sure that if you go you will absolutely be in love with the beautiful sights, I've missed a lot of the other highlights as there were more but the best way is to go yourselves and experience it, and take lots and lots of photos!
Neither my husband nor myself had been on a touring before and it is fair to say that we approached it with a certain amount of trepidation. How fortunate we were to have Mr Peter McLearn as our tour director.
Being a 'more mature couple' we were anxious about having a young representative who simply rattled off a pre-rehearsed script and who had little genuine interest in the people on tour. Peter was none of these. Being of more mature years himself, he was quickly able to strike up an excellent rapport with everyone.
Peter has a wonderful sense of humour, one that appeals to all personalities. As a result, there was never a dull moment on the tour! His caring nature and genuine interest in the needs and wishes of his 'charges' was apparent on many occasions. Right at the start of our tour, Peter emphasised the importance of leaving on time. It surely is a testament to his ability as a tour director that we were never late to leave anywhere!!
We have had a wonderful and memorable holiday and firmly believe that much of the enjoyment was down to the skills and experience of Peter McLearn.
We would both like to commend Archers Direct for realising that more mature tour directors have so much to offer, through a vast wealth of experience.
Niagara Falls trip and the CN tower in Toronto were breath taking. The VIA rail's 'different' sleeping was a fun experience. The scenery was just amazing and the food was excellent. Jasper and Banff were lovely although I did think that someone might have ordered some good weather for us. Vancouver wow, that was a lovely place and the excursions were well worth doing. We would have been very disappointed if we had not been to the Capilano suspension bridge and Grouse mountain and the trip to Victoria and the Butchart Gardens were wonderful.
Our tour director Mel Brand was tremendous and a credit to your company. Nothing was too much trouble for him and it was just like having another member of a fantastic group of people with us. We all got along so well even to the point of somebody saying to one of our group 'Are all you people related to one another'. There always has to be one down side to any up bits. In Kamloops the hotel bar shut at 8.30 on a Friday night. I know we had early starts but come on.
I would recommend this Archers tour to any one wanting to see as much of Canada in one go as they can.
Canada was somewhere we had always wanted to travel to and we were not disappointed. From the busy cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the absolute beauty of the Rockies it was a very memorable trip.
We really enjoyed the travel on the Canadian rail where we met new friends not only from England but from various parts of the USA. Niagara Falls is one of the most amazing sights, the power of all that water. Whilst in the Rockies we were fortunate to see brown bears, elk and a wolf. To experience the trip to the Columbia icefield also was something special. Our last trip whilst in Vancouver was to Vancouver Island where we saw the fabulous Butchart Gardens.
All in all a really wonderful holiday, one which we will never forget and hopefully we will be able to return there again in the future.
It was a wonderful experience with some great and awesome sightseeing excursions such as Niagara falls and the maid of the mist cruise, Butchart Gardens (out of this world) and the Columbia Icefield.
All the hotels where we stayed were clean, comfortable and we were well looked after, which also applied to the train. The professional tour director Sue Hartlieb was very competent at her job, she was very communicative and nothing was ever too much trouble, whether on the train, at the hotels or on the coach which for a first time long distance traveller I found reassuring.
Many thanks for a fantastic holiday.
I would like to express my thanks for the excellent service that your company provided. The tour guide was extremely helpful and both he and the many coach drivers were very professional and knowledgeable about the terrain that we were passing through, the wildlife that we saw and the history and culture of this vast country. Our accommodation was very comfortable and the itinerary proved both varied and interesting.
The train journey across Canada with VIA rail was something not to be missed and gave one a taste for more. The extension stay in Whistler and the journey on the Whistler Express, for the six of us who chose that option, provided to be the jewel in the crown of a perfect holiday experience.
I kept two journals of drawings and writings to compliment the photographs taken on the holiday. On this occasion, because so many people requested a copy, I published an account of the journey. Copies now reside in Australia, Canada, USA and many parts of Britain. The letters received from fellow travellers indicate how much they all enjoyed this trip. The letters from friends, who have not yet been to Canada, reveal how much the account has awakened their interest in making such a trip.
'Feedback' is a buzzword in the education world that I am most familiar with, but I wondered if feedback, in the form of a copy of my account of this tour, might offer you a window on the world of the traveller. This might prove helpful when planning and marketing similar experience for others to enjoy. Long may you continue to offer such excellent tours.
Our holiday plans were aimed at my wife's birthday on October 8 th and our Ruby Anniversary on Oct 10 th, and we could not have picked a better way of celebrating than our Cosmos holiday. Please accept our thanks for a wonderful time, and an equally wonderful tour, and please pass our personal thanks to Sue and also to Sue's friend and our coach driver Carol Leitch, who should be congratulated for all the work she did and the standard of her driving. They were lovely ladies with lovely personalities.
Our tour groups have exchanged addresses and personal details and some have been in touch already, so who knows what might develop from new friendships. Once again many thanks.
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 2 breakfasts (B), 3 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 a two night stay.
DAY 2: Toronto. Included sightseeing to Niagara Falls.
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 and the rest of the day is yours to explore Ontario's capital and Canada's largest city. World-class shopping abounds in the hundreds of establishments of the Underground City, miles of connected paths with shops and restaurants. Tonight's optional outing combines dinner with the spectacular sight of Toronto's lights from the CN Tower.
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.
DAY 3: Toronto - VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
Transfer to Union Station for an early morning departure on the 'Canadian', VIA Rail's premier trans-continental train. You will spend the next two days and nights on this classic trip across Canada's heartland. Your first-class 'Silver and Blue' rail cars are refurbished Art Deco cars from the 1950s. Try the observation dome for unparalleled views of the Canadian countryside, as you roll past Ontario's landscapes or pass the time in one of the comfortable lounges. All meals are included, and you won't want to miss any of them, as the chef offers a tempting array of soups, salads, entrees and desserts. (L,D)
Note: For your convenience, baggage that will not be needed during the train journey will be checked through to Jasper. Checked baggage will not be accessible during the journey. Plan to pack an overnight case with necessities for the train portion of the tour, including any medication, glasses and any other important items.
DAY 4: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
Your scenic rail journey continues past sparkling lakes and sun-dappled forests as you enter Manitoba, arriving at Winnipeg in the early evening. Tonight relax in your private bedroom as the 'Canadian' continues across the prairies of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. (B, L, 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 a two night stay.
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 Vancouver airport for your overnight flight to the UK.
DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 7,500 ft.
Check prices and availability for this holiday
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.
Accommodation on Tour
Toronto: Best Western Primrose; Jasper: Lobstic Lodge; Banff: Swiss Village Inn; Kamloops: Ramada Inn Kamloops; Vancouver: Quality Hotel Downtown.
Trains
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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 offers 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 arm-chairs, 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 conveniently located in each sleeping carriage. Shower kit (including towels) is provided. We recommend customers take a lightweight dressing gown for when stepping out of the shower.
Luggage: A luggage car is available for the luggage that you won't need during your journey.
General: In response to public demand the VIA Rail operate a no smoking policy.
Holiday Extensions
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View Holiday PhotosGrand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £460
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. -
View Holiday PhotosGrand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £89
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 Quality Hotel Downtown for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 15 for your overnight flight home. -
Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £199
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: Quality Hotel Downtown.
Accommodation on Extensions
Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £460
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View Holiday PhotosSheraton Princess Kaiulani
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; regular evening poolside entertainment (high season); laundry; room service; concierge; lifts.
Prices includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; clock radio; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; mini-fridge; safe (daily charge).
Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £89
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View Holiday PhotosQuality Hotel Downtown
Centrally located, this Santa Fe inspired hotel offers guests comfort, friendly service and accessibility to many attractions.
Location: Situated in downtown Vancouver close to Stanley Park, Granville Island, Yaletown and Kitsilano, plus superb shopping and restaurants.
Facilities: Restaurant; bar; fitness centre and swimming pool.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; TV; telephone; hairdryer; tea/coffee making facilities.
Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £199
Hotels
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Listel Whistler
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
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Whistler Mountaineer
The Quintessential Canadian West Coast Experience
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 £49 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: Will be checked at the Vancouver and Whistler train stations and transported by ground transportation. 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.
View My Holiday Photos
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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All
prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement,
Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme. |
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