The Grand Tour of Western Canada

Today, you’re bound for the northern tip of the North American continent, where you’ll soon touch down in the bustling Canadian city of Vancouver. You'll fly from your selected airport, with connecting flights along the way.

Upon arrival, you'll pass through immigration, collect your luggage, and make your way to the arrivals hall. Here, just outside the hall at Vancouver airport, you'll follow the signs to the car rental office. The pick-up time for your hire car is detailed on your voucher*.

Once you’ve picked up your car, it’s a short drive to your hotel, conveniently situated in Vancouver’s city centre. Thanks to the hotel’s central location, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore the charming local streets and tempting eateries—just before it’s time to retire for the night.

You’ll need to collect your Parks Canada Discovery Pass from the hotel reception today. This pass grants you entry to the national parks and lets you skip the long queues at the entrance. Admission to Parks Canada national parks is free from June19th to September 7th, 2026. As a result, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass will not be issued to travellers during this period.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 12 km / 15 mins.

There is the option to upgrade your hire car. Please reach out to your travel specialist if you’d like more information.

*Should you wish to collect your car only when you leave Vancouver to begin your road trip, simply enquire with your travel specialist.

Today, it’s time to fully immerse yourself in the delights of this charming city, and how you spend the day is entirely up to you. Vancouver is truly in a league of its own – a vibrant metropolis set right on the edge of the great outdoors, with urban energy that feels perfectly relaxed and inviting.

But where should you begin? One of the easiest ways to see Vancouver’s highlights is by hopping on one of the city’s classic hop-on hop-off buses. Alternatively, you can make the most of the excellent public transport, or simply explore on foot or by bike.

We highly recommend a visit to the city’s lush green oasis, which you can spot from many a street corner: Stanley Park. Enjoy a walk or a cycle along the Vancouver Seawall, where you’ll be treated to views of majestic trees, the sea, Vancouver’s skyline, and the iconic floatplanes taking off and landing nearby. In Stanley Park, keep an eye out for the famous totem poles, dating back to the 1880s, with their intricate carvings and vibrant colours telling stories of the First Nations peoples and their achievements.

In Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, Gastown, you can wander along cobbled streets and discover hidden gems. Here, you’ll find the famous Gastown Steam Clock, built in 1977. It’s one of only a handful of steam-powered clocks in the world that’s still in full working order, entertaining passers-by with a resounding whistle each hour.

If you’re curious to sample Canadian cuisine, head to the bustling public market on Granville Island, a favourite among locals too. The small island is a hive of creativity, with many local artists performing and selling their work. Take some time for a drink at one of the waterside cafés and soak up the views across the ocean and Vancouver’s skyline. We suggest visiting during shop opening hours in the daytime; eateries here generally close earlier in the evening.

If you’re after an adrenaline rush, make your way to one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions – the Capilano Suspension Bridge, just outside the city. At 137 metres long and suspended an impressive 70 metres above the forest floor, it’s an unforgettable experience. With almost 1.2 million visitors each year, we recommend booking your ticket to the park in advance. Your ticket also includes complimentary return shuttle service from a designated pick-up point in downtown Vancouver.

Begin your day in Vancouver with an early breakfast, pack up the car, and set off on the first leg of your self-drive tour. Make sure the car is fuelled up and your snack supplies are well stocked before heading towards the city of Kelowna, stopping wherever you fancy along the way.

We highly recommend taking a break after about an hour and a half of driving at the charming little beach in Harrison Hot Springs. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee, and if you’re visiting in the warm summer months, you can take a refreshing dip in Harrison Lake.

From here, continue on to Kelowna, a city located at the southern end of British Columbia in the Okanagan Valley – a renowned wine region, ranked among the top three wine producers in the country.

Upon arrival in this sun-soaked city, you’ll quickly sense the holiday atmosphere in the air. Why not round off your day with a chilled glass of locally produced ice wine while taking in the views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding vineyards in the Cultural District?

Today’s driving distance: approximately 400 km / 4.5 hours

Rolling valleys and vineyards mark the transition as you head towards snow-capped mountain peaks and deep forests, which await you on today’s drive from Kelowna to the town of Revelstoke.

We recommend making your way to Revelstoke after breakfast, giving you the rest of the day to explore Mount Revelstoke National Park, which sits right on the edge of the town.

Mount Revelstoke National Park is the only national park in Canada where you can drive right up to the mountaintop. You’ll do this via the stunning Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Please note that the road is not accessible for vehicles longer than 7.9 metres and is typically open from late May to early October, depending on snow conditions.

The Meadows in the Sky Parkway rewards you with magnificent viewpoints and wildflower meadows that burst into vivid colours throughout August. You can also set off along popular walking trails such as the 'Giant Cedars Nature Trail', where you’ll wander among 500-year-old cedar trees, and the 'Skunk Cabbage Nature Trail', which takes you through a lush, bird-filled wetland.

You’ll be staying just outside the main town, surrounded by beautiful scenery with views over Three Valley Lake. To the east of the lake lies the small ghost town of 3 Valley Gap, home to a collection of historic buildings from the late 19th century—a time when the gold rush drew thousands of hopeful prospectors to the area (admission ticket purchased locally).

Today’s driving distance: approx. 176 km / 2 hrs 15 min.

With Revelstoke fading in your rear-view mirror, you will bid farewell to one national park and head towards not just one, but three national parks today: Glacier, Yoho, and Banff. It’s worth setting off early so you’ll have plenty of time for stops along the way.

About a 40 minutes’ drive from Revelstoke, you’ll reach the first gem of the day: Glacier National Park. This park is a paradise for hikers, who come here seeking beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, and a wealth of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for cougars, grizzly bears, lynxes, and majestic eagles.

Continuing onwards to Yoho National Park, your route will take you via Rogers Pass – the highest point along the Trans-Canada Highway. You can stop off at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre and learn about the remarkable feat of engineering that enabled the railway to traverse the rugged Selkirk Mountains at the end of the 19th century – a crucial milestone in establishing the transcontinental railway.

From Rogers Pass, the journey leads you to Yoho National Park – the smallest of the national parks in the Canadian Rockies, but no less spectacular.
Be sure to visit the iconic Emerald Lake, the total embodiment of Canadian wilderness with its emerald-green waters framed by snow-capped peaks, forested shores, and the charming log hideaway of Emerald Lake Lodge. It’s hard to imagine scenery more striking than this!

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the delightful mountain town of Banff, nestled in the Bow Valley at the heart of Banff National Park. Enjoy a leisurely wander among the town’s boutique shops, restaurants, wine bars, and breweries.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 305 km / 3.5 hrs.

Please note that today you will leave British Columbia behind and enter the province of Alberta. You’ll also be crossing into a new time zone: Alberta is one hour ahead of British Columbia.

You will have the day at your own pace in Banff National Park, where there are excellent opportunities to combine outdoor adventures and relaxation. With Banff as your base, you’re perfectly placed to discover the area’s outstanding natural beauty, right on your doorstep. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll from the centre of town or want to make sure you see the area’s main highlights, there’s something for everyone. Head to the Banff Visitor Centre to find walking routes suitable for your level.

Explore the surrounding area on foot or by bike. Just nearby you’ll find the thundering Bow River and the impressive Bow Falls. For breathtaking views, take a ride on the famous Banff Gondola, which whisks you 700 metres up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in just 8 minutes. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable panoramic views over the Bow Valley, the town of Banff, and no fewer than six mountain ranges.

Banff National Park is packed with natural wonders well worth visiting. Among the most popular are Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. These iconic highlights are especially busy in peak season from May to October, and advance reservations for transport to Moraine Lake are required. While you can park at Lake Louise, spaces are limited, so we recommend arriving early in the morning or later in the evening, when you’ll have a better chance of securing a parking spot. Please also note that Moraine Lake opens on June 1st*.

End your day in true Canadian style with a soak in the natural hot springs at Banff Upper Hot Springs. Just imagine rounding off an active day with a dip in 37–40°C warm mineral water, soaking up views of Rundle and Cascade Mountains. Parking is available within walking distance, and tickets for the hot springs can be purchased locally at the reception.

*You can book the excursion when reserving your tour. Should you wish to use other providers or the national park’s shuttle service, you will need to book your own tickets once these become available. For further details, please refer to our practical information.

Make sure to leave Banff with plenty of time to fully savour today’s spectacular drive between Banff and Jasper National Park. The route follows one of the world’s most breathtaking roads: the Icefields Parkway. Officially known as Highway 93 North, it’s named after the largest glacier in the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefields. Stretching for 230 km, the Icefields Parkway runs almost parallel to the glacier, carving its way through the heart of the Rockies. Be sure to stop at one of the route’s most stunning spots, Peyto Lake. From the car park, it’s about a 15-minute walk to a truly iconic viewpoint over the lake.

And that’s not all. Today promises an excursion right into the heart of these incredible glacier landscapes. Around 2.5 hours’ drive from Banff, you’ll arrive at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where your adventure begins (allow extra time for breaks along the way).

Just as you’re enjoying the glacial scenery from the comfort of your car, it’s time to wrap up warm and step out onto the Athabasca Glacier itself*. Don’t worry – the drive up to the glacier is left to the experts. Your guide will ensure you reach your destination safely in an all-terrain vehicle known as an "Ice Explorer", departing from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre with your fellow adventurers. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the fascinating geological processes that shaped the area, and you’ll have the chance to step out onto the ancient ice, formed over 400 years ago. Standing on the Athabasca Glacier, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains – it’s a moment you won’t forget.

Before or after your excursion, you can venture out onto the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk, where you’ll be able to gaze straight down to the valley floor some 280 metres below.

From the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, the final stretch of your journey today takes you just under 100 km to another highlight – Jasper National Park.

Your accommodation is in Jasper, a welcoming mountain town set within the national park. After arriving, it’s time to unwind and enjoy the cosy atmosphere of this charming alpine town.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 290 km / 3.5 hours.

*Athabasca Glacier excursion: Please check your voucher for the exact meeting time and place. Exchange your voucher inside the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre – we recommend arriving about one hour before your excursion starts. Warm clothing is advised.

We recommend filling your petrol tank before leaving Banff.

You will have most of the day free to explore Jasper National Park at your own pace before enjoying a truly special encounter with nature on a dusk safari this evening. 

Among the park’s many highlights is the breathtaking Maligne Lake, renowned for its dazzling azure waters framed by soaring peaks and glaciers. Maligne Lake is a popular spot in the summer months, so we recommend visiting earlier in the day. The drive from Jasper’s main town to Maligne Lake is just under 48 km, and there are plenty of interesting stops along the way. En route, you can marvel at the Rocky Mountains’ deepest gorge, Maligne Canyon, as well as the unique Medicine Lake.

Jasper is said to be one of the most wildlife-rich parks in the Canadian Rockies. Tonight, you might be lucky enough to witness this up close, as you head out at twilight with a small group*. You’ll be picked up in a minivan either from your hotel or a nearby one, and then taken into the surrounding wilderness to look for the stars of the night: bears, moose, eagles, and mountain goats. While you keep a keen eye out for wildlife, a local guide, whose knowledge of the park is second to none, will show you hidden spots that few travellers ever discover. Although there’s never a guarantee of animal sightings, you’re certain to return with unforgettable memories. After roughly three hours, you’ll be dropped back at the meeting point, ready to return to your hotel.

*Evening safari excursion in Jasper: For the meeting time and place, please check your voucher.

Today, you’ll be heading south-west towards Clearwater – a drive of roughly 3.5 hours. Your journey from Jasper takes you along yet another scenic route, the Yellowhead Highway.

About an hour out of Jasper, you’ll spot a mountain peak on the horizon that’s sure to draw your gaze above all else: Mount Robson – the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. If you fancy a memorable break, a stop at Mount Robson Café is well worth it. Pause here to savour a peaceful moment with a phenomenal view of this majestic peak.

Roughly 3.5 hours from Jasper, you’ll reach the town of Clearwater, right on the edge of Wells Gray Provincial Park. In Clearwater itself, you’ll find the Wells Gray Provincial Visitor Centre, where you can pick up a map of the park and get advice on the various hiking trails. Some waterfalls can be reached by car, while others invite you to lace up your walking boots and set out on foot.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is especially famed for its powerful waterfalls. Prepare for a breath-taking moment when you stand before Canada’s fourth highest waterfall, Helmcken Falls, which plunges 141 metres into a canyon, trailing a shimmering mist in its wake (approx. 45 minutes from Clearwater).

The park offers many other highlights, too; for example, Spahats Creek Falls, canoe trips on Clearwater or Azure Lake, whitewater rafting, and guided horseback tours. The park is also home to plenty of black bears, which are most likely to be spotted – for instance, by the roadside along Clearwater Valley Road – in May and June, as well as in autumn when they’re foraging for berries, fruit, and bark.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 320 km / 3.5 hours.

We recommend leaving Jasper with a full tank of fuel.

*Please note that today you’ll be leaving Alberta and entering the province of British Columbia. You’ll also be crossing into a different time zone: British Columbia is one hour behind Alberta.

You can comfortably spend part of your morning exploring Wells Gray Provincial Park, as today’s drive to your next overnight stop, the charming mountain village of Sun Peaks, is just under 1.5 hours away.

How you spend your day is entirely up to you: you might choose to soak in the natural beauty of Wells Gray, or set off straight towards Sun Peaks.

Sun Peaks is best known as Canada’s second-largest ski resort, but this delightful mountain town has plenty to offer during the warmer summer months too. The quaint streets come to life with bustling markets and outdoor concerts, and come evening, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many local eateries.

Sun Peaks is a brilliant spot for walking in the rolling hills that burst into colour with wildflowers—typically in July, when the annual Alpine Blossom Festival is celebrated. There’s also a range of activities you can book locally, including open-air yoga sessions, paddleboarding, golf, spa treatments, fly fishing, and more.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 135 km / 1.5 hours

Please note that there is no petrol station in Sun Peaks. The nearest place to fill up is Kamloops, about a 40-minute drive away.

Today, your journey will continue towards the legendary Olympic city of Whistler. The most scenic and shortest route takes you via Cache Creek and Lillooet, allowing you to retrace the steps of the historic gold rush. Less than an hour’s drive from Sun Peaks brings you to the western-style town of Kamloops. Here, follow the Trans-Canada Hwy. 1 West in the direction of Cache Creek.

The gold rush town of Cache Creek was a pivotal hub during the gold fever of the 1860s. Here, you can visit one of the town’s historic landmarks, Historic Hat Creek Ranch, which stands on the original Cariboo Wagon Route trading trail. This area has been home to Shuswap Indigenous people, fur traders, gold prospectors, ranchers, and settlers throughout history, and at the ranch’s authentic surroundings, you’ll truly sense the spirit of the past.

Following an insightful stop in Cache Creek, your journey continues along Cariboo Highway and Hwy 99, following historic footsteps to Lillooet—one of North America’s largest towns during the 1860s. The town was famously called “Mile Zero” – the start of the original Cariboo Wagon Road, which, over 150 years ago, bustled with mules, horses, camels, and prospectors chasing their fortunes.

Lillooet, perched by the Fraser River, was an epicentre of the Fraser River Gold Rush and forms part of the legendary Gold Rush Trail. From Lillooet, the route takes you along the breathtaking stretch of Highway 99, also known as Duffey Lake Road.

Later in the day, you’ll arrive in Whistler. End your day in the charming centre of Whistler, where you can stroll amongst shops and inviting eateries.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 360 km / 4 hrs 45 mins.

The day in Whistler is entirely yours to shape, and you’ll find no shortage of things to do.

The town of Whistler itself nestles between Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains, and the best way to take it all in is from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola – the world’s longest free-span cable car. Soaring an incredible 436 metres above the ground, it carries you between the peaks in just 11 minutes. If you’re in the mood for something even more exhilarating, you can also try out one of North America’s longest zip lines.

When the snow has melted from Whistler’s slopes, the pistes transform into a true paradise for mountain bikers throughout the summer months. If you’d rather not tackle the steeper terrains, there are also plenty of scenic cycle routes set on gentler ground. Bicycles can be hired at several spots in the town. The surrounding area also offers opportunities to go kayaking, canoeing, or enjoy a bit of white-water rafting.

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, there is a myriad of hiking trails suitable for all abilities, and if you fancy a break from the great outdoors, you can always browse the town’s many shops for a change of pace.

Today, you’ll swap the mainland for the enchanting Vancouver Island.

The first stretch from Whistler treats you to another scenic drive along Highway 99 – better known as the "Sea to Sky Highway". Today, you’re travelling from the heights of the "Sky" down towards the "Sea" itself, with breathtaking views accompanying you every step of the way.

The journey to the ferry terminal at Horseshoe Bay (in northern Vancouver) takes around 1.5 hours without stops. We recommend checking the current route guidance in the morning to ensure you leave Whistler in plenty of time*.

From Horseshoe Bay, enjoy a picturesque ferry journey to Departure Bay (Nanaimo). At the beginning of the crossing, you’ll pass the southern part of the Howe Sound fjord, recognised by UNESCO’s biosphere programme. Treat yourself to a refreshment from the onboard café as you make the crossing, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Upon arrival at Departure Bay, you will continue across to the west coast of Vancouver Island – a drive of about 2.5 hours. If you fancy tasting what Canadians themselves call some of the world’s best cheeses, make a stop at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks on Morningstar Farm in Parksville.

As you head further towards Ucluelet, we recommend stretching your legs with a stroll through Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park – a magical forest of towering 800-year-old Douglas firs.

Later, you’ll arrive in the delightful coastal town of Ucluelet, perched on the rugged Pacific coastline. Spend the next few days here at the edge of Clayoquot Sound, another UNESCO biosphere reserve. Ucluelet borders the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, famed for its sweeping sandy beaches and pristine temperate rainforests.

Prepare to spend the coming days completely unwinding in these genuine, tranquil surroundings – a soothing escape from the rush of everyday life.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 280 km / 4 hours plus a 1 hour 40 minute ferry crossing

*You will sail from Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo). You will find details of the meeting time and place for your ferry departure on your voucher. Please ensure that you arrive in good time, complying with the required check-in for your ferry departure (30–60 minutes before departure).

Today is yours to spend as you wish. If you didn’t manage to visit Pacific Rim National Park Reserve yesterday, it’s well worth making the trip today to complete your journey through Canada’s incredible landscapes – from the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the wild, windswept Pacific coastline of Vancouver Island.

Pacific Rim perfectly embodies the untouched wilderness for which Vancouver Island is renowned. The National Park boasts miles of sandy beaches where the mighty Pacific crashes against rugged rocks jutting from the shore. In striking contrast, the park’s temperate rainforest invites exploration, with well-maintained walking trails winding beneath the ancient, moss-draped trees.

Whether your idea of adventure is cycling, hiking, a peaceful moment on Long Beach, surfing, or perhaps a spot of kayaking at Chesterman Beach, you’ll be sure to find something here for everyone.

North of the National Park lies the little fishing village of Tofino. Brimming with small eateries – usually run by locals and featuring seasonal produce – it’s the perfect spot to savour the authentic island lifestyle, set against a dramatic backdrop of Canadian wilderness.

From both Ucluelet and Tofino, you’ll have your pick of excursions, with opportunities to spot Vancouver Island’s thriving population of black bears, as well as orcas and humpback whales. It’s not unusual to see black bears along the west coast at low tide, foraging for their favourite delicacy: crab.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 40 km

Today, you’ll head south to the bustling city of Victoria on Vancouver Island. Along the way, you might like to stop off in Coombs to visit the local Old Country Market. As well as offering delicious local produce, this market is famous for its goats, who roam and graze on the grassy roof above the stalls.

You could also make a stop in Chemainus, a true artists’ haven where colourful murals adorn many buildings, and a charming town centre is dotted with quaint shops and cosy eateries clustered around Willow Street.

Once you arrive in Victoria, you can settle into your hotel or, if you wish, head straight into the heart of the city to start exploring.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is named in honour of Queen Victoria. The city was established in 1843 as a British trading post, and its colonial heritage is especially evident in its beautifully preserved historic architecture, which characterises the city centre.

Today’s driving distance: approximately 290 km / 3 hrs 45 mins

Victoria is not only the capital of British Columbia – it’s affectionately known as Canada’s brunch capital. Did you say brunch capital? Yes, that’s right. Head out to one of the city’s many brunch spots and set yourself up for the day’s adventures with a delicious start.

Getting around the city is a breeze whether you’re driving, hopping on a bus, or taking a taxi – and there’s also a slightly more unusual kind of taxi: those that glide across the water. You’ll easily spot the yellow and green mini-ferries from the shore – these so-called pickle boats are as much a part of daily life as taxis on dry land. And if you visit on the right day, you might even catch them performing their ‘Water Ballet’ – a much-loved tradition since 1990.

We highly recommend spending some time at the charming harbour area, where you’ll find, among other highlights, the Parliament Buildings and the grand Fairmont Empress hotel – the perfect place to treat yourself to Empress Tea and a lavish cake stand.

You could also pay a visit to the stunning Butchart Gardens, located about a 20 minutes’ drive from downtown. Open since 1904, Butchart Gardens is renowned as one of Canada’s most famous floral displays.

If you want to round off your Canadian adventure with something truly special, why not add a whale watching tour from Victoria? Between May and October, you’ve got a good chance of spotting humpback whales and orcas.

Today, it’s time to return to the mainland, where you’ll spend your final night in Vancouver.

Be sure to leave Victoria in good time so you arrive for your ferry departure from Swartz Bay (Victoria) to Tsawwassen Bay (southern Vancouver)*. The crossing takes around 1.5 hours.

Upon arrival in Tsawwassen Bay, there’s just under 40 km to your hotel in Vancouver. The afternoon in Vancouver is yours to spend as you choose. Will you finish off your tour with a spot of shopping, a delicious meal, or something else entirely?

Today’s driving distance: approximately 75 km / 1 hr 15 mins + 1.5 hrs ferry crossing

*You’ll be sailing from Swartz Bay (Victoria) to Tsawwassen Bay (southern Vancouver). Details of your meeting time and place for the ferry departure can be found on your voucher. Please ensure that you arrive in good time, adhering to the latest check-in regulations for your ferry departure (30–60 mins beforehand).

It’s time to leave Canada after a memorable tour filled with beautiful experiences.

You’ll check out of your hotel and drive to Vancouver Airport, depending on the time of your return flight. Remember to return your hire car first – your car hire voucher will specify exactly where and by what time you must hand it back at the latest*. The process is straightforward, and once you’re done, simply take your luggage into the airport. You’ll then fly back to Europe with one or more connecting flights along the way.

If you’d like to extend your stay in Canada or combine your tour with a visit to a major US city, you’ll continue on to your chosen destination.

*It is your own responsibility to arrive at the airport on time, even if the designated car return time is close to your flight’s departure. Take the car return time as the absolute latest – but it’s best to hand it back a little earlier.

Today’s driving distance: approx. 12 km / 15 min

You will return home after an unforgettable encounter with western Canada.