BEST SELLING CANADA SELF-DRIVE TOUR
Westoe Travel are proud that Joan Brett Elite Canada Specialists appointed by Destination Canada.
We can arrange escorted tours, self-drive and tailor made tours for you
Joan has travelled to Canada 28 times and Graeme 25 times.
Call us to discuss your dream Canada holiday
Drive from the Rocky Mountain resorts of Banff & Jasper through to the rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park on the west coast of Vancouver Island with many sightseeing tours and excursions included along the way before ending your tour in Vancouver.
Tour Highlights
- Amazing mountain scenery in the Rockies
- Whistler, Olympic village and year round resort
- Vancouver Island, home to great rainforests
- Victoria, elegant with stunning gardens
- Tofino, great for whale watching
Westbound Itinerary: Calgary to Vancouver
Also available Eastbound from Vancouver to Calgary, please contact us for a details itinerary.
Day 1 Calgary to Banff (75 miles)
Arrive at Calgary Airport, collect your car and take the short (2-hour) drive to Banff on either the Trans-Canada Highway or the more scenic 1A Highway. Once in Banff proceed to your selected hotel to check in and the remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Overnight in Banff.
Day 2 Banff Exploring
A full day to explore Banff and area. In town you’ll find lots of excitement - shopping, cafés, nightlife, museums. Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola (admission included) where you will see a panoramic view of the Bow Valley, and then take a dip in the hot mineral pools at the Upper Hot Springs. Overnight in Banff.
Day 3 Banff to Jasper (185 miles)
Take the short drive from Banff to Lake Louise. Choose the Bow Valley Parkway, beside the Bow River with an option for you to take a stop at Johnston Canyon and walk along the paved footway to either the lower or upper waterfalls before continuing to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. From Lake Louise your scenic drive takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the Icefield Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield for an Ice Explorer ride onto the glacier (included). Leaving the Athabasca Glacier, your camera should be ready to capture the majesty of the Athabasca Falls prior to your arrival into Jasper.
Day 4 Jasper (Free Day)
A free day to explore this charming mountain village, close to many terrific scenic highlights. Take a tram ride up Whistlers mountain, or visit Maligne Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the world, and enjoy a 90 minute cruise heading toward the south end of this postcard setting (Maligne Lake cruise not included). You will marvel at the magnificent shoreline with dense forest and glacial peaks rising abruptly from the water’s edge. Stopping at Spirit Island, you will have the opportunity to take your own version of the world famous photograph of the lake.
Day 5 Jasper to Wells Gray Provincial Park (195 miles)
Your drive today takes you to Wells Gray Provincial Park along the scenic Yellowhead Highway with breathtaking vistas of the steep-walled gorges and crashing falls of the North Thompson River. Overnight in Clearwater.
Day 6 Wells Gray Provincial Park to Whistler (265 miles)
Begin the day traveling via 100 mile house to the gold rush town of Cache Creek, where you stop to visit the historic Hat Creek Ranch (included), which will take you back to the days of the gold rush. Continue the journey south to Lillooet, known as the land of the Gold Rush Trail and was ‘Mile Zero’ of the Old Caribou Wagon Road during the Gold Rush Years. Now the area is home to the largest Canadian producers of the medicinal plant, Ginseng. Departing Lillooet travel the Duffey Lake Road to Whistler. On the upper elevations of the Duffey Lake Road enjoy breath-taking views of Joffee Glacier and snow capped Mount Currie that rises to a height of 2,596 meters (8,518 feet).
Day 7 Whistler (Free Day)
This charming alpine resort is nestled between world-renowned Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Enjoy an extensive range of summer activities from golf on one of the 4 championship designer golf courses, water activities on any of the 5 lakes or numerous rivers, to mountain top dining. Or just relax and enjoy some of the many fine café’s and restaurants in this European inspired alpine village. Experience the beauty of Whistler Blackcomb’s alpine environment via the newly opened Peak Adventure on Whistler Mountain. Take the Whistler Gondola to Whistler Mountain’s sub-alpine and then rise to over 7,000 feet via Whistler’s premier open chairlift. At the top of the Peak Chair, guests will be treated to unbelievable views of glaciers, extinct volcanoes, snowcapped peaks and more. Overnight in Whistler
Day 8 Whistler to Parksville (70 miles + ferry)
Depart Whistler at your own leisure along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Horseshoe Bay. Highlights along the way include the cascading Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock where climbers from all over the globe migrate to climb the granite cliffs. At Horsehoe Bay, sail for 1 hr 45 min on BC Ferries (Ferry Toll Included) to Vancouver Island. This scenic cruise takes you through fjord like waters with mountains blanketed with virgin forests and glaciated peaks. Overnight in Parksville.
Day 9 Parksville to Tofino (140 miles)
Depart Parksville for Tofino on the rugged West Coast. En-route, picture stops should be made at Cathedral Grove to enjoy the splendour of 800 year old Douglas Fir and Cedar as well as the Mars Water-Bombers at Sproat Lake, the world’s two largest water-bombers used for the sole purpose of putting out forest fires. After the Mars Water-Bombers drive through the majestic Sutton Pass and the Sawtooth Range of the Cascade Mountains to arrive in Tofino around mid afternoon for a 2 night stay.
Day 10 Tofino (Whale Watching
You may wish to walk along the famed Long Beach, with its miles of pristine sandy beach and pounding surf, or explore the rain forests on a selection of well groomed trails. Mid afternoon enjoy a 3 hour whale watch cruise (included) through the Clayoquot Sound, revealing sensational scenery and wildlife such as Gray Whales, Sea Lions, Porpoises and Killer Whales. The area is also known for its variety of birds, including tufted puffins and resident bald eagles.
Day 11 Tofino to Victoria (195 miles)
Travel back to the East Coast of Vancouver Island and head south to Victoria. En-route stops should be made at the artist community of Chemainus, where you can admire the giant murals which adorn the exterior walls throughout the town and Duncan the “City of Totems”. If time permits visit the Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village which provides you with an insight into the lives of the northwest coast people (seasonal hours - admission not included). Overnight in Victoria.
Day 12 Victoria (free day)
Today is free to explore Victoria, with its turn of the century architecture, British traditions such as high tea and shops full of woolens and china. Admission is included to the Butchart Gardens with its 50 acre display of magnificent colour. Overnight in Victoria.
Day 13 Victoria to Vancouver (45 miles + ferry)
Leaving Victoria drive north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a 90 minute ferry ride (cost included) back to the mainland. On board BC ferries enjoy the scenery of the Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia. On arrival at the port of Tsawwassen continue on to downtown Vancouver and check in for your 3 night stay.
Day 14 Vancouver
Today, experience Grouse Mountain Skyride (included) and Capilano Canyon and Suspension Bridge (included) at your own leisure. Be sure to see such sights as, Chinatown, Historical Gastown, the markets of Granville Island, and the famous shopping district of Robson Street.
Day 15 Vancouver (Free Day)
The day is free to discover the coastal city of Vancouver. Canada’s third largest metropolitan centre, Vancouver is a busy port with a multi-cultural ambiance. The spectacular setting invites you outdoors; explore the restaurants, shopping, galleries and museums, nightlife, entertainment and more.
Day 16 Vancouver
Your tour ends with the check out of your hotel and the return your car to the Airport rental office.
TOUR BONUS
As an added bonus this tour includes a GyPSy Guide – a tour guide in your car!
GyPSy Guide is a small device that plugs into your car stereo and as you arrive at points along your route it automatically plays a commentary.
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Eastbound
DAY 1 ARRIVE VANCOUVER
On arrival in Vancouver a private transfer is included.
Hotel for 2 nights: Standard - Rosedale on Robson Deluxe Suite; Superior - Sheraton Wall Centre; Deluxe -Sutton Place
DAY 2 VANCOUVER (FREE DAY)
Today is a free day to enjoy the city. We highly recommend taking the Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour which take will take you from sea level to 4,100 feet above Vancouver on the Grouse Mountain Skyride for breathtaking views of the city, the ocean and surrounding mountains. The tour also includes a visit the Grizzly Bear & Grey Wolf Refuge and Capilano Suspension Bridge and Treetops Adventure.
DAY 3 VANCOUVER - VICTORIA
Depart Vancouver this morning and cruise across Georgia Strait. Arriving on Vancouver Island, tour the Butchart Gardens (admission included). A two-hour stop allows time to enjoy these magnificent gardens. Tour scenic Ocean Drive, Uplands, Oak Bay, University of Victoria as well as the Victoria City before being taken to your hotel.
Hotel for 2 nights: Standard - Chateau Victoria; Superior - Inn at Laurel Point; Deluxe - Magnolia Hotel & Spa
DAY 4 VICTORIA (WHALE WATCHING)
This morning depart on an exhilarating round trip of 50 to 80 kilometres aboard the Orca Spirit, a 50 foot, 45 passenger covered boat, in search of orcas, minke whales, grey whales, porpoises, harbour seals and other marine wildlife. The afternoon is free to explore Victoria.
DAY 5 VICTORIA - VANCOUVER (FLOATPLANE*)
Around midday depart Victoria Harbour by floatplane for an unforgettable trip over the Gulf Islands into downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour.
Overnight in Vancouver. Hotels as day 1.
*Due to space and weight limitations on the floatplane, luggage is restricted to 25lbs per person. We suggest that you pack an overnight pack for the Victoria portion of your itinerary; your Vancouver hotel will be able to store luggage until you check in again. Transfers to & from the floatplane terminals are not included.
DAY 6 VANCOUVER - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER - WHISTLER
Depart Vancouver this morning aboard the Rocky Mountaineer to Whistler and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Howe Sound and the Coastal Mountain Range. Highlights along the way include the cascading Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock where climbers from all over the globe migrate to climb the granite cliff s. Upon arrival in Whistler you will be transferred to your hotel.
Hotel allocated by Rocky Mountaineer
DAY 7 WHISTLER - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER - QUESNEL
Early this morning depart on the Rocky Mountaineer train through Caribou Country to Quesnel. This rail journey takes you along the historic Caribou Goldrush Trail. Highlights along the way include towering views of the Fraser Canyon, Anderson and Seton Lakes. Upon arrival into Quesnel you will be transferred to your overnight accommodation. (B,L)
Hotel: allocated by Rocky Mountaineer.
DAY 8 QUESNEL - ROCKY MOUNTAINEER - JASPER
This morning, re-board the Rocky Mountaineer for your continuing journey to Jasper. Your route today follows the famous Fraser River. Keep your eyes open for grizzly bears, moose, beaver and osprey! You will pass Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres this is the Rockies’ highest peak. Crossing into the province of Alberta, you will arrive by early evening in the peaceful alpine town of Jasper. (B, L)
Hotel for 2 nights: Standard - Jasper Park Lodge Group - Moderate Hotel; Superior - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Fairmont Room; Deluxe - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Deluxe Room.
DAY 9 JASPER - FREE DAY
This morning go to the Avis Depot in Jasper to collect your rental car. The day is then free for your to explore this charming mountain village close to many terrific scenic highlights. Jasper National Park was established in 1907 and is the largest national park in the Rockies. With over 4,000 acres of alpine forests, white-water rivers, hot springs, soaring mountain peaks and tranquil river valleys there’s little chance you’ll see it all! Perhaps you’ll visit the limestone gorge of Maligne Canyon or volcanic Medicine Lake, named by tribal elders who believed its waters had healing powers. Admire the breath-taking beauty of glacially fed Maligne Lake and perhaps cruise to Spirit Island.
DAY 10 JASPER - LAKE LOUISE (130 MILES)
This morning depart on the scenic drive that takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. You view a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged peaks, over 100 glaciers and pristine emerald colour lakes. Along the way see such sights as the Columbia Icefield and take an Ice Explorer ride out onto the glacier (included). Also watch for the Sarbach Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, with the Bow Glacier providing the backdrop, and Crowfoot Glacier before your arrival into Lake Louise. (Please note: Mountain lakes in this region will be frozen through to mid June).
Hotel: Standard - Deer Lodge; Superior – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - Fairmont Room; Deluxe - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - Deluxe Mountain View Room.
DAY 11 LAKE LOUISE - EMERALD LAKE (40 MILES)
A short drive today through Majestic Mountain passes into Yoho National Park. This 1313 sq. km (507 sq. miles) National Park is filled with gem coloured glacial lakes and waterfalls, snow-covered peaks and dense forests of western red cedar and western hemlock.
Hotel: Emerald Lake Lodge.
Emerald Lake Lodge is built of hand-hewn timber and featuring massive stone fireplaces is located on the shores of Emerald Lake. Since its construction in the early 20th Century, the Canadian government has
permitted no further development in the area and the setting is truly breath-taking, pure idyllic isolation and even your mobile will refuse to work here. The historic main lodge houses two restaurants, one is a
summer only bistro whilst the main restaurant offers year round fine dining and an extensive wine list, games and reading rooms, and a quiet lounge – ideal for a relaxing drink. Accommodation is in chalet-style
buildings dotted throughout the grounds, and to preserve the tranquillity there’s no TV in the rooms and vehicles are not permitted within the boundaries of the resort. A shuttle runs from the main parking area to the Lodge building.
DAY 12 EMERALD LAKE - BANFF (70 MILES)
Enjoy the leisurely drive from Field and Lake Louise to Banff. At Lake Louise take the lovely Bow Valley Parkway, a low-speed, two-lane undivided roadway with numerous scenic outlooks and pullouts. Be sure to stop for a quick nature walk at Johnston Canyon, where you can stand in the spray of a roaring mountain waterfall. This rest of the day is free to explore Banff and area.
Hotel for 2 nights: Standard - Irwin’s Mountain Inn; Superior - Banff Caribou Lodge; Deluxe - Fairmont Banff Springs - Deluxe Room
DAY13 BANFF
A full day to explore Banff and area, in town you’ll find lots of things to do - shopping, cafés, nightlife, museums. Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola (included) where you will see a panoramic view of the Bow Valley, and then take a dip in the hot mineral pools at the Upper Hot Springs.
DAY 14 BANFF - CALGARY (75 MILES)
Drive to Calgary today. En-route, you may wish to stop at the historic Cochrane Ranch (admission not included) before dropping off your rental car at the Calgary Airport or downtown location, where your tour ends.
Tour also available in reverse direction from Calgary to Vancouver
TOUR BONUS
As an added bonus this tour includes a GyPSy Guide – a tour guide in your car!
GyPSy Guide is a small device that plugs
into your car stereo and as you arrive at points along your route it automatically plays a commentary.
CALL FOR PRICES
Operated by 1st Class Holidays
For these tours Westoe Travel act as agents for 1st Class Holidays ATOL number 5421.
1st Class Holidays Terms and Conditions apply
All passengers must have a valid passport for this tour. Depending on the country issuing your passport, a visa may also be required. More information can be found at the Identity & Passport Service
Canada
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
For more information
Canada ETA Information
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We advise customers take travel insurance for all bookings
Call Just Travel Cover 0800 2942972 quoting reference L4746 for best prices or
Click here for Holiday Insurance or
Call Holiday Extras 0800 0833551 quoting reference L4746 for best prices
All passengers must have a valid passport for this tour. Depending on the country issuing your passport, a visa may also be required. More information can be found at the Identity & Passport Service
Identity and Passport service
Customers should ensure that they are fit enough to travel, please check with your General Practitioner and www.fco.gov.uk/travel and www.nathnac.org
The latest advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office about travelling abroad
Foreign and commonwealth office
We strongly advise that you check the latest advice from the Foreign and commonwealth office about travelling abroad both before booking and before travelling
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