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 CANADA - Some recommended holidays
Incredible Canada covers a vast area of land (it is the second largest single country on earth) and the distances between regions are considerable.   The landscape is diverse ranging from the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River and Niagara Falls in the south-east, to the stunning Rocky Mountains in the west, vast wheatlands in the central area and Arctic tundra in the north.   Whatever the area, the scenery is invariably magnificent.   Due to the sheer size of Canada it is probably sensible to concentrate on a particular region, or fly between centres.
 
As well as a classic holiday by train we have also selected 5 easy paced Self-Drive itineraries (scroll down for details ...)
 
 TRANS CANADA RAIL HOLIDAY: 12 nights/14 days away.  Ref.DU111
Typical Itinerary:
DAY 1-3
(Wed-Fri): Air Canada flight from London Heathrow to Toronto.   Make you own way to hotel for 3 nights at either Novotel Toronto Center (Standard) or Royal York (First Class)
DAYS 4-5 (Sat-Sun) Board The Canadian Train at Union Station which takes you smoothly past lakeside scenery & on to the wide wheatland plains & prairies of Saskatchewan & Manatoba.  2 nights on the train (L,D both days & B Sun).  Standard Berths on train are deep-cushioned seats by day which convert to upper & lower beds with privacy curtain & there are no bathroom/WC facilities; Superior (First Class) Berths are private rooms for 2 persons with upper & lower beds & private bathroom/WC facilities
DAY 6 (Mon): Continue through Alberta,with short stop in Edmonton, from where the train starts to climb through the foothills of the Rockies eventually to Jasper.   Transfer yourself for 1 night hotel at Torquin Lodge (Standard) or Jasper Park Lodge (First Class)
DAYS 7-8 (Tue-Wed): By coach southwards along the scenic Icefield Parkway & on lovely Lake Louise.   Continue on to Banff for 2 nights at either Banff Travellers Inn (Standard) or the famous Banff Springs Hotel (First Class); a 3 hour Banff sightseeing tour is included on Day 8
DAY 9 (Thu): Board the unique Rocky Mountaineer train (in 'Red Leaf' section - upgrades at a supplement to the more luxurious 'Gold Leaf' section can be requested), from which you will enjoy fabulous views on the trip to Kamloops for 1 night at the Executive Inn (Standard & First Class); (B,L)
DAYS 10-12 (Fri-Sun): The Rocky Mountaineer continues on through the coastal plains of British Columbia to Vancouver - then make your own way for 3 nights hotel at Century Plaza (Standard) or Pan Pacific (First Class)
DAY 13 (Mon): Fly back overnight to London Heathrow on Air Canada, or extend your stay in Vancouver, Hawaii on on an Alaska Cruise - details on request
GUIDE PRICE: from £1640 (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary.
Prices are seasonal and are also affected by demand for the flights (booking late may mean a more expensive air fare)
Meals are included only where shown (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner.   Flight upgrade supplements available on request.   Flights from other UK airports & on other days can be arranged, but normally at extra cost.   
 CANADA SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS
Driving in Canada could not be simpler.  The roads are well maintained, clearly sign-posted and much wider than in Britain.  Driving is on the right hand side, with a speed limit of 55kms/34 miles per hour in built up areas and 110kms/68 miles per hour on the highways.  These carefully planned self-drive itineraries ensure that you do not spend too much time driving, yet still see the real highlights of the areas you are visiting.
All the tours featured take the stress out of having to plan your routings each day.  Armed with your daily driving instructions, your automatic hire car and all your hotels pre-booked, driving becomes fun, easy and enjoyable. This will allow you more time to enjoy the spectacular scenery that surrounds you.
 
CAR HIRE
In all the self-drive itineraries featured, an Intermediate car is included.  The car is fully inclusive of unlimited mileage, LDW, up to one million dollar third party liability insurance, airport taxes and all state and provincial taxes, where applicable.  We have selected a car type which we believe would be suitable for the amount of travelling involved. However should you wish to up-grade to a larger vehicle, for a supplement, we would be happy to assist you.
 MOUNTAIN HIGHLIGHTS: 7 nights/8 days - Calgary to Vancouver.  Ref.AC37
Accommodation throughout is in standard grade hotels
Typical Itinerary:
DAY 1: Arrive Calgary

On arrival at Calgary International Airport make you way to the rental station to pick up your hire car, before making your way to your downtown hotel. On arrival you will receive your personalised documentation kit and road book. The remainder of the day is at leasure to create your own urban adventure in the Stampede City and form your first impressions of Western Canada.  Overnight Calgary Holiday Inn Downtown or similar
DAY 2: Calgary – Banff
(80 miles)
Leaving Calgary behind, set your sights today on the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Feel the majesty of these mountains as you first travel through the foothills and then enter Banff National Park where the craggy peaks loom larger the closer you get. After you have arrived in the bustling town of Banff, the remainder of the day is free to explore its charms.  Overnight Banff Ptarmigan Inn or similar 
DAY 3: Banff National Park

The entire day is free to tour Banff and the surrounding area. We suggest a visit to the Luxton Museum, a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain or a stroll through town admiring the many shops. You may also try river rafting on the Bow River or take a boat tour on beautiful Lake Minnewanka.   Overnight Banff Ptarmigan Inn or similar 
DAY 4: Banff – Jasper
(175 miles)
Drive to Jasper via the spectacular Icefields Parkway, said to be one of the most
scenic routes in the world. We suggest stops at Lake Louise and Peyto Lake enroute. Lake Louise is aptly named the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’. Victoria Glacier reflects on the shimmering Lake making the turquoise colour glisten in the bright sun. Take time to sit back and enjoy a truly picture perfect setting. Time permitting a visit to Maligne Canyon should not be missed. This is one of the most spectacular gorges in the Rockies, with sheer limestone walls, which plunge to depths of over 50 metres. At the Columbia Icefield, we strongly suggest you take a ‘snocoach’ ride onto the massive glacier and experience the thrill of walking on centuries-old glacial ice. After this exciting experience return to the road for the final stretch to the resort town of Jasper.   Overnight Jasper: Lobstick Lodge or similar
DAY 5: Jasper – Sun Peaks
(242 miles)
The Yellowhead Highway will take you on a route first explored by trappers and traders. You will see Mount Terry Fox as well as Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies, often shrouded by clouds. If time permits, we suggest exploring Wells Gray Provincial Park, a nature reserve priding itself on the untamed and pristine state of its wilderness. Continue to Sun Peaks, a year-round resort catering to families as well as sports enthusiasts.  Overnight Sun Peaks Sundance Lodge or similar
DAY 6: Sun Peaks - Vancouver
(250 miles)
Driving past Kamloops today, you will traverse the stunning, sagebrush-covered ranch lands along the South Thompson River. This is still the land of vast herds of cattle and cowboys on horseback. Entering between the towering rock walls of the Fraser Canyon, you will be amazed at the whitewater rapids of the Fraser River gushing far below. Over 750,000 litres of water surge through the 34-metre Hells Gate gorge every minute and a gondola ride over this part of the canyon is sure to impress. Further downstream, the lush Fraser Valley opens up into the maritime
basin characteristic of the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia as you approach Vancouver, Canada’s Gateway to the Pacific. Overnight Marriott Residence Inn or similar
DAY 7: Vancouver

Enjoy an entire day exploring Vancouver’s many attractions. Visit Chinatown, which keeps alive traditions of Chinese community with various colourful markets, restaurants and craft shops. See Gastown, which is one of the city’s historic neighbourhoods of old warehouses which have been turned into shops and cafes. Travel out to the Capilano Suspension Bridge where you can get a taste of the mountains and cross the 450 feet bridge of cedar-plank, which hangs 230 feet above the rushing river. Alternatively, you may wish to spend the day on famous Robson Street, with its vast array of shops, malls, restaurants, bars and chic cafes. Overnight : Marriott Residence Inn or similar 
DAY 8: End of Tour

After you have returned your hire car, check in at Vancouver International Airport for your departure flight 
GUIDE PRICES: from £555 (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary
Prices are seasonal and may also be affected by demand - flights are NOT included
 CANADA GREAT PARKS: 13 nights/14 days - Vancouver Circular Route. Ref.AC50
Accommodation throughout is in standard grade hotels.    Note: Park entrance fees area extra and are paid locally.
Typical Itinerary:
DAY 1: Vancouver

On arrival into Vancouver International Airport make your way to the rental station to pick up your hire car, before making your way to your downtown hotel. upon check-in you will receive your personalised road book. The remainder of the day is free to relax. Overnight Vancouver Century Plaza Hotel or similar
DAY 2: Vancouver
An entire day to tour Vancouver and the surrounding area. We suggest a visit to the Mac Millan Planetarium, Chinatown, Gastown, Granville Island, Grouse Mountain and Stanley Park. Overnight Vancouver Century Plaza Hotel or similar
DAY 3: Vancouver – Penticton
(245 miles)
Take a scenic drive to Penticton in the Okanagan Valley known for its lush orchards, beaches and hot, dry climate. Overnight : Ramada Inn & Suites or similar
DAY 4: Penticton – Revelstoke
(161 miles)
The morning is at leisure to enjoy the Okanagan Valley. Then drive past spectacular waterfalls, towering peaks and beautiful lakes en route to the Revelstoke area. Overnight Sandman Inn or similar
DAYS 5/6: Revelstoke – Banff (173 miles)
Take a leisurely scenic drive across to Banff, which will be your home for two days. We suggest you take a small detour and visit Lake Louise, the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’. Relax late afternoon in Banff. Next day take the whole day to discover the surrounding area and possibly partake in some of the abundance of activities on offer. Two nights Banff Rocky Mountain Resort or similar 
DAYS 7/8: Banff – Jasper
(176 miles) 
Take your time today to drive along the spectacular Icefields Parkway enroute to Jasper National Park where you will spend 2 nights.  We suggest a stop at Peyto Lake, and a 'snocoach' ride on the Columbia Icefield.  For your free day in Jasper you might like to take a Maligne Lake boat cruise, visit Miette Hot Springs or ride on the Jasper tramway.  Two nights Sawridge Lodge or similar
DAYS 9/10: Jasper – 100 Mile House
(289 miles)
The Yellowhead Highway leads past the highest peak in the Rockies, Mount Robson, and into vast forest areas. Continue along the Thompson River towards your destination for the next 2 days, 100 Mile House.   On your free day you can make use of the wealth of outdoor activities available including swimming, hiking an trail riding.  Two nights 108 Resort or similar

DAYS 11/12: 100 Mile House – Whistler (186 miles)
A scenic drive south to the edge of Garibaldi Provincial Park and the popular year round resort of Whistler for another 2 night stay. On the free day there is time to discover the beauty of Whistler with an extensive range of outdoor activities available , whilst Whistler town itself offers fashionable shopping and dining possibilities.  Two nights Coast Whistler Resort or similar.
DAY 13: Whistler – Vancouver
(77 miles)
Plenty of time to dwell in the Whistler area before taking the short, scenic drive to vibrant and spectacular Vancouver.  Overnight Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel or similar
DAY 14: End of Tour

After you have returned your hire car, check in for your onward flights.
GUIDE PRICE: from £899 (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary.
Prices are seasonal and may also be affected by demand - flights are NOT included
 WILDLIFE ADVENTURE: 8 nights/9 days - Vancouver Circular Route.  Ref. AC52
Accommodation throughout is in standard grade hotels.    Note: Park entrance fees area extra and are paid locally.
Typical Itinerary:
DAY 1:  Arrive Vancouver

On arrival into Vancouver make your way to the car hire depot. Upon collection of your car drive to your downtown hotel. On check in you will receive your personalised documentation kit. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore this wonderful city.  Overnight Best Western Downtown or similar
DAY 2:  Vancouver – Victoria
(43 Miles)
Taking a ferry cruise across the Strait of Georgia will transport you past the rugged coastline and tranquil beaches of the Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. This afternoon enjoy an included 3 hour whale watching trip - launch into the Pacific aboard a zodiac powerboat to seek out whales (Orca, Minke and Grey), seals, porpoises, and other marine life.  Overnight Executive House Hotel or similar
DAY 3:  Victoria – Tofino
(193 miles) 
Today witness a panorama of scenic beauty unfold before you. Venture into true wildlife territory, and perhaps even glimpse bears, deer, wolves, and cougars at the Pacific Rim National Park. Overnight  Schooner Motel or similar
DAY 4:  Tofino
Take part in an exciting 3 hour whale watching expedition.   A search for the Pacific Grey whale, sea lions and puffins will hopefully be rewarded in the Clayoquout Sound.  Later you are free to explore the rugged coastline and the b=network of hiking trails.  Overnight Schooner Motel or similar
DAY 5:  Tofino –
Campbell River (180 miles)
A spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island with opportunities to visit Home Lake |Caves, Cathedral Grove, native rock paintings at Sproat Lake and the pretty falls at Little Qualicum Fall Provincial Park.  Overnight Ramada Campbell River or similar
DAY p5:  Campbell River 

Enjoy a day in the 'Salmon Capital of the World', which is also the gateway to Strathcona Park, the largest on Vancouver Island and containing the 440 metre high Delta Falls.  The Park is a wildlife sanctuary which includes wonderful birdlife.  Overnight Ramada Campbell River or similar
DAYS 5/6:  Campbell River – Knight Inlet
(Floatplane ride)
Your next destination is reached by a thrilling 30 minute flight to the mouth of the Glendale River where your accommodation floats on large cedar booms.  You will then go on a bear watching and wildlife viewing tour by boat.   Overnight Knight Inlet Lodge - lunch and dinner included
DAY 8:  Knight Inlet – Vancouver (99 miles)
After enjoying your included breakfast, take the floatplane back to Campbell River to collect your hire vehicle before.  The Sunshine Coast  Highway makes for a spectacular return to Vancouver. 
Overnight Best Western Downtown or similar
DAY 9: 
End of Tour
After you have returned your hire car, check in for your onward flights.
GUIDE PRICE: from £1080 (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary.
Prices are seasonal and may also be affected by demand - flights are NOT included.
 SOUTH EASTERN HERITAGE: 12 nights/13 days - Toronto Circular Route.  Ref.AC55
Choice of accommodation - Standard or Superior grade hotels.    
Note: Park entrance fees area extra and are paid locally.
DAYS 1/2:  Toronto
Upon arrival at Toronto International Airport, make your way to the National car hire rental station. Once you have picked up your hire car drive to your downtown hotel for the evening. Upon check-in you will receive your personalised road-book. The remainder of the day is free. The next day is at leisure to explore this exciting city. The CN Tower and spectacular Skydome should be on your list of places to visit.  Overnight: Standard - Best Western Primrose or similar; Superior - Delta Chelsea Inn or similar
DAY 3:  Toronto – Kingston
(161 miles)
Drive east today, directly to Kingston, and tour Old Fort Henry or take a Thousand Islands cruise. An alternative route to Kingston passes through the quaint heritage towns of Prince Edward County.  Overnight: Standard - Days Inn or similar; Superior - Radisson Hotel or similar
DAYS 4/5:  Kingston – Montreal
(180 miles)
Today make your way to the exciting city of Montreal. En route we suggest you stop at Morrisburg, a fascinating restoration project, in pre 1867 style. Next day spend the day touring the city and experience the special ‘joie de vivre’ that exists here.  Overnight: Standard - Hotel Lord Berri or similar; Superior - Meridien Versailles or similar
DAYS 6/7:  Montreal – Quebec City
(155 miles)
En route to Quebec City, we suggest a stop at Cap-de-la-Madeleine, Canada’s national shrine to the Virgin Mary and of interest in Trois-Rivieres is the Museum of Quebec Folk Arts and Traditions. Next day enjoy a full day to discover the city and the beautiful surrounding area.  Two night choice:: Standard - Hotel Gouverneur Sainte-Foy or similar; Superior - Delta Quebec or similar
DAYS 8/9:  Quebec City – Ottawa (285 miles)
Drive along one of the many routes to Ottawa, the nation’s capital, where you will spend the next two nights. An entire day will be needed to explore this historic, colourful city. We suggest a visit to the National Gallery, the Royal Canadian Mint or a boat ride on the Ottawa River.  Two night choice:  Standard - Lord Elgin Hotel or similar; Superior - Delta Ottawa or similar
DAYS 10/11: Ottawa to Huntsville
(217 miles)
Enjoy a scenic drive today to Algonquin Provincial Park and the beautiful Muskoka region. This northern lakeland route offers some of the finest fishing in the country.    The Huntsville area offers tennis, golf, boat cruises, horseback riding and hiking trails.  A short drive away is Lions Lookout Park or Muskoka Pioneer Village.    Two night choice: : Standard - Holiday Inn Hidden Valley or similar; Superior - Deerhurst Resort or similar
DAY 12:  Huntsville – Niagara Falls
(204 miles)
Drive south and bypass Toronto en route to Niagara Falls, the "honeymoon capital of the world’. We suggest a stop in Midland at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, In Niagara Falls, take a ride up the Skylon Tower or a boat ride on the "Maid of the Mist".   Overnight: Standard -  Best Western Fallsview or similar; Superior - Renaisance Fallsview or similar
DAY 13:  End of tour
(80 miles)
Make your way back to Toronto International Airport.   After returning your hire car, check-in for your return flight.
GUIDE PRICES: (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary -
from £725 staying in Standard accommodation
from £875 staying in Superior accommodation
Prices are seasonal and may also be affected by demand - flights are NOT included
 MARITIME CHARM: 13 nights/14 days - Halifax Circular Route.  Ref.AC57
Choice of accommodation - Standard or Superior grade hotels (due to limited availability, at some locations the same hotel is used for both grades ...)   
Note: Park entrance fees area extra and are paid locally as are the ferry crossings on Days 7 and 9.
DAY 1:  Arrival Halifax
On arrival at Halifax International Airport make your way to the car depot to pick up your hire car, before making your way to your downtown hotel. On arrival you will receive your personalised documentation kit and road book. The remainder of the day is free to relax and explore this beautiful, bustling oceanside city.  Overnight: Standard - Holiday Inn Select or similar; Superior - Delta Halifax or similar
DAY 2:  Halifax
One of the world’s largest natural harbours Halifax has a proud maritime heritage as seen in its museums and restored historic buildings.  Overnight: Standard - Holiday Inn Select or similar; Superior - Delta Halifax or similar
DAY 3: Halifax – Western Shore
(85 miles)
Drive along the 'Lighthouse Route' passing picturesque Peggy’s Cove and its famous lighthouse and en route discover the rugged beauty of the Nova Scotia coastline . Overnight: Standard - Oak Island Inn (land view); Superior - Oak Island Inn (ocean view)
DAY 4:  Western Shore – Digby (100 miles)
Travel to Digby via the scenic route dotted with lakes and woodlands and which offers amazing views en route.  Overnight: Standard - Mountain Gap Inn or similar; Superior - Pines Resort or similar
DAY 5:  Digby
Explore this picture-postcard fishing port with its bustling harbour, home to the largest scallop fishing fleet in the world. Drive to the westernmost point in Nova Scotia, Brier Island where you could choose to enjoy an exciting whale and seabird cruise on the Bay of Fundy (extra cost).  Overnight: Standard - Mountain Gap Inn or similar; Superior - Pines Resort or similar
DAY 6:  Digby – Truro
(185 miles)
Enjoy a ferry ride across the Bay of Fundy, famous for having the world’s largest tides.  Travel through beautiful scenery with opportunities to visit historic landmarks en route  to Truro.  Overnight: Best Western Glengarry or similar
DAY 7:  Truro - Charlottetown
(80 miles)
Make your way to Pictou, and explore Hector Heritage Quay where the first Scottish settlers arrived in 1773.   Take the ferry to attractive Prince Edward Island, Canada's smallest province, and on to charming Charlottetown.  Overnight: Standard - Rodd Royalty Inn or similar; Superior  Delta Prince Edward or similar (continental breakfast is included at both hotels)
DAY 8:  Charlottetown
Explore Charlottetown's Victorian house, elegant squires and the harbour, all of which evoke of a colonial seaport.   You could also consider visits to Prince Edward Island National Park and to the authentuic Acadian fishing village of North Rustico.
Overnight : Standard - Rodd Royalty Inn or similar; Superior  Delta Prince Edward or similar (continental breakfast is included at both hotels)
DAY 9:  Charlottetown - Port Hastings
(120 miles)
Return to Nova Scotia  and continue through tranquill scenerary to Port Hastings, a centre for sailing, fishing, hiking and golf.  Overnight: Howard Johnson Inn or similar

DAY 10: 
Port Hastings - Ingonish Beach (155 miles)
Drive along the magnificent north shore of Cape Breton Island.  The heavily forested Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to moose, deer, lynx, bears and beavers.  Overnight: Keltic Lodge or similar
DAYS 11/12:  Ingonish Beach – Sydney
(90 miles)
Continue your drive along the Cabot Trail passing charming maritime communities including At Ann's which has the Nova Scotia Gaelic College of Arts and Culture.   Arrive Sydney where you will stay for 2 nights.  Historic Sydney was originally known as Spanish Bay and on your free day here there is an opportunity to make an excursion to delightful Baddeck which has   Two night choice: Standard - Best Western North Star Inn or similar; Superior - Delta Sydney or similar
DAY 13:  Sydney – Liscombe Mills
(170 miles)
Explore the eastern part of Cape Breton Island and maybe  tour the Fortress of Louisbourg. The site is one of the historically most significant locations in all North America. Children and adults alike enjoy touring the reconstructed buildings, and interactive demonstrations by the costumed staff.  Overnight : Liscombe Lodge or similar
DAY 14:  Liscombe Mills - Halifax
(110 miles)
Follow scenic Marine Drive back to Halifax airport for your onward flight.
PRICES EXCLUDE: Park fees and ferry crossings 
GUIDE PRICES: (per person based on 2 persons sharing a room) - Email us if you have a specific departure date in mind and we will get back with a precise price and details of any modifications to the itinerary -
from £799 staying in Standard accommodation
from £985 staying in Superior accommodation
Prices are seasonal and may also be affected by demand - flights are NOT included
PRICES: CANADA SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS
PRICES INCLUDE: 
 ~ Accommodation for duration of tour on a room only basis (unless otherwise stated)
 ~ A comprehensive self-drive kit with daily driving instructions
 ~ Intermediate car hire, fully inclusive of unlimited mileage, LDW, C$1 million 3rd party insurance & taxes where applicable
 ~ Toll Free phone assistance
PRICES EXCLUDE:
 ~ Airfares and airport transfers
 ~ Sightseeing – tours mentioned are purely suggestions and not included in the tour price (unless otherwise stated)
 ~ Park entrance fees (unless otherwise stated)
 ~ Vehicle security deposit
 ~ Personal Accident and Personal Protection insurance
 FURTHER INFORMATION
  • Return to Holiday Regions Summary
  • Click for details of TRAVEL INSURANCE
  • For visa and health information see the 'Links' on our Terms & Conditions page
  • All our chosen holidays, and the prices shown, are subject to availability at the time of booking.   In some instances flight schedules may alter, and the itinerary may have to be modified to suit
  • All the holidays are organised by ATOL-bonded operators for whom we act as agents (see Terms & Conditions)
  • If you would like to vary any of our suggested holidays, click here for a Tailor-Made Quote
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