Majesty of the Rockies Including Gold Leaf on The Rocky Mountaineer Train

13 night tour - Starting in Vancouver, British Columbia - Vancouver, British Columbia.

A Gold Escorted Tour with Insight Vacations.

Insight Vacations Gold Escorted journeys offer the ultimate in luxury touring with each itinerary carefully crafted to ensure the finest hotels, epicurean delights and absolute comfort. Enjoy VIP return private UK airport transfers, luxury hotels, Gold leaf service on Rocky Mountaineer, business class legroom and complimentary WiFi and water onboard luxury motorcoaches.

Testify to the supreme majesty of Western Canada and Alaska by road, rail and sea. The first part of your incredible journey is via luxury, escorted touring through historic towns, verdant National Parks, sophisticated resorts and wineries. Then you have the option to sit spellbound aboard Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf viewing car, for one of the world’s most romantic of train rides. To complete this trinity of touring, embark on a classic cruise through the islands of the Inside Passage to the glacial waters of Alaska.

Immerse yourself in the majesty of the Canadian West, while enjoying two-night stays in Victoria, Banff and Jasper. 

This tour is also available with an Alaskan cruise option after the tour, for more details please call us.

2016 Guaranteed departure dates:
May 01st, 15th & 29th
June 12th
July 10th & 31st
August 28th
September 18th
 
TO BOOK THIS TOUR: CALL US ON FREEPHONE 0800 0336 335 OR EMAIL US RESERVATIONS@PURELYTRAVELGROUP.CO.UK
View Itinerary Details

Day 1: Vibrant Vancouver

Enjoy your complimentary private V.I.P. door-to-door transfer to your UK departure airport. Welcome to Canada's vibrant port city of Vancouver. On arrival at Vancouver International Airport, transfer to your luxury downtown hotel in the heart of the city's premier shopping and entertainment district. At 6.00 pm, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception with drinks and a light meal.

Hotel: Four Season, Vancouver

Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Victoria - putting the British into British Columbia

Experience the best of Vancouver during your exclusive sightseeing tour. Explore historic Gastown, Chinatown, the eclectic community of English Bay and view the famous totem poles in Stanley Park. Now board your ferry in the exclusive Seawest Lounge; relax and enjoy scenic coastal views all the way to Victoria. On arrival, an orientation tour introduces you to the Inner Harbour, the ornate Parliament Buildings and Bastion Square.

Hotel: Grand Pacific, Victoria

Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Exploring Victoria

Begin the day with breakfast at Butchart Gardens. After a brief talk by a representative, there is ample time to explore the 55 acres of exquisite floral displays, meandering paths and spectacular views which have delighted visitors for over one hundred years. Perhaps embark on an optional whale-watching cruise this afternoon.

Hotel: Grand Pacific, Victoria

Full Breakfast

Day 4: The Ultimate Resort of Whistler

Journey across the Strait of Georgia back to the mainland. Travel to Whistler and join a guided walking tour of the lively European-esque village and learn about this Olympic venue. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. The Highlight Dinner tonight is a gastronomic experience, made with only the best local ingredients and served at one of your resort's fine restaurants.]

Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Full Breakfast, Highlight Dinner

Day 5: On to the Napa Valley of the North

Travel into the lush Okanagan Valley region, known for producing some of the best fruit and hybrid wines in the world. Tonight's accommodation is at the fabulous Sparkling Hill Resort, offering breathtaking views over Lake Okanagan. Sparkling Hill is the first resort in the world to integrate 3.5 million Swarovski crystal elements into every part of its design. In the evening, enjoy an elegant dinner, complemented by local wines.

Hotel: Sparkling Hill Resort

Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: The Three Exquisite National Parks

Journey through three of Canada's most breathtaking National Parks: Mount Revelstoke, Glacier and Yoho. Stop at the Spiral Tunnels viewpoint and pass by the spectacular Natural Bridge spanning the Kicking Horse River en route to Emerald Lake, one of Canada's most outstanding wilderness settings. Built of hand-hewn timber and featuring massive stone fireplaces, your destination is the beautiful Emerald Lake Lodge. After dinner, savour a liqueur at the hotel before stargazing under the night sky and roasting s'mores (a traditional campfire treat) by a lakeside bonfire.

Hotel: Emerald Lake Lodge

Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

The morning is yours to relax in the peaceful setting of Emerald Lake before departing for another great icon of the Canadian Rockies, Moraine Lake. An easy walk around the Moraine Lake shoreline is the best way to appreciate the beauty of this famous alpine lake. A flat, easy trail weaves its way through shoreline trees and offers extraordinary views of the Ten Peaks, a series of encircling summits all over 10,000 feet (3,048 metres). Hike up the Rock Pile for an alternative view of the turquoise waters and nearby Tower of Babel. Then drive to Lake Louise and the iconic property The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for your stay.

Hotel: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Full Breakfast

Day 8: The Unspoiled Wilderness of Banff National Park

Enjoy an interpretive talk along the shore of Lake Louise also known as the 'Jewel of the Rockies' and learn about the history and geography of the area. The rest of the morning is yours to do as you please. Take a canoe out on the lake, take a hike to Lake Agnes and the historic teahouse or just relax and take in the beauty of the lake, surrounded by dense green forest and crowned by the glistening Victoria Glacier. In the afternoon, head out for the popular resort city of Banff to enjoy an orientation tour including Banff viewpoints, landmarks and historic places and ride aboard the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. In the evening, you are offered a selection of restaurants for your dining pleasure.

Hotel: The Fairmont Banff Springs

Full Breakfast, Dine-Around

Day 9: Banff at Leisure

Today is entirely at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities, browse the shops along Banff Avenue or join an optional helicopter tour flying over the Canadian Rockies.

Hotel: The Fairmont Banff Springs

Full Breakfast

Day 10: Along the Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park

Motor along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway and witness amazing scenes such as the Crowfoot Glacier and Columbia Icefield, North America's largest sub-polar ice pack. At the Athabasca Glacier, climb aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer for a guided tour over steep grades, snow and ice as you ascend part way up the glacier. Your home for the night is at the beautiful Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, in the heart of Jasper National Park – an alpine wonderland of immense forests, bejewelled lakes, soaring waterfalls, soothing mineral hot springs, rugged glaciers, colourful meadows and majestic mountains. At night, enjoy a Highlight Dinner with your Tour Director and travelling companions. After dinner, enjoy a fun and interactive wildlife talk by a wildlife expert. Learn about some of the park's most interesting residents including elk, moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, grizzly bear, black bear, beaver and caribou.

Hotel: The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Full Breakfast, Highlight Dinner

Day 11: Jasper National Park and Iconic Maligne Lake

In the morning, embark on a private, narrated cruise on the serene waters of iconic Maligne Lake, one of the jewels of the Canadian Rockies. Stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites of the Canadian Rockies. Then, join your Tour Director for an informative walk at Maligne Canyon, one of the most beautiful gorges in the Canadian Rockies. Stroll along the canyon's trail, past beautiful waterfalls, astounding rock formations and learn about the underground river system. The rest of the day is yours to do as you wish.

Hotel: The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Full Breakfast

Day 12: Rocky Mountaineer

Enjoy Gold Leaf Service as you journey through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean. Your carraige has two levels - take in dazzling vistas upstairs from the glass-topped dome coach, and enjoy gournet meals downstairs prepared by talented onboard chefs.   View spectacular scenery as the train crosses the continental dvide back to British Columbia.  

On arrival in the Kamloops your bags will be waiting in your room

Hotel: In the Kamloops, Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer

Full Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13: Onto Vancouver

Your magical Goldleaf ride onboard the Rocky Mountaineer continues today. Relax while rail staff ensure your every need is attended to, topping off your drinks or perhaps bringing you a snack.

This evening, gather with your Tour Director and travelling companions for a Celebration Dinner at an award winning restaurant.

Hotel: Four Seasons Vancouver

Full Breakfast, Lunch, Celebration Dinner

Day 14: Depart Vancouver, extend your stay or take an Alaskan inside passage Cruise

Guests on the 14-day tour will be taken to the Vancouver International Airport for their onward travel arrangements. A departure transfer takes you to Vancouver International Airport, or the tour hotel in Vancouver for passengers extending their stay. On arrival at your UK airport, your driver will greet and escort you to your waiting car for your return private V.I.P. transfer home. Please do not schedule flights before 12.30pm. 

Full Breakfast

Your Insight Vacations Tour Highlights

 

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Butchart Gardens: Enjoy a delightful, private breakfast, VIP entrance and informative talk with a horticulturalist in the 55 fragrant acres.
Yoho: Enjoy a liqueur before roasting s'mores around a bonfire.
Lake Louise: Join a revealing walk along the milky-blue waters at the foot of Victoria Glacier.
Athabasca Glacier: Travel in a specially designed Ice Explorer for a remarkable excursion onto the icy slopes.
Jasper: With a Local Expert, learn about the fascinating history and nature of the Rocky Mountains.
Maligne River: This system mystified early French Canadian fur traders. Find out why on an narrated cruise.
Vancouver: Explore Chinatown and Gastown, visit the totem poles of Stanley Park and take in the spectacular views of English Bay.

ADDITIONAL INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS

Victoria: Enjoy an introduction to this sparkling city, including the Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings and Bastion Square.
Banff National Park: View Moraine Lake, the Spiral Tunnels and Natural Bridge.
Jasper National Park: Enjoy Jasper National Park's wildlife from a unique perspective with a Local Expert. Take a guided walk past roaring waterfalls.

EPICUREAN DINING

Whistler: Your resort's setting and reputation for fine food is hard to overlook - join us for a Highlight Dinner with wine.
Banff: Experience traditional, regional and contemporary à la carte dining at your choice of the Fairmont's fine restaurants.
Jasper: Join your Tour Director for a lively Highlight Dinner with wine.
Vancouver: Enjoy a sumptuous, end-of-tour Celebration Dinner with wine at 'La Terrazza, one of Vancouver's award winning restaurants.
1 Welcome Dinner (WD), 15 Full Breakfasts (FB) 2 Highlight Dinners (HD), 1 Dine-Around (DA), 1 Celebration Dinner (CD) and 2 three-course table d'hote dinners (D) 2 Gourmet Breakfasts (FB) 2 Lunch Selections (L) Complimentary snacks and all beverages, including alcohol, served at your seat, onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train in GoldLeaf Service.

DISTINCTIVE HOTELS

Hotel Overview: Located in the heart of Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the world famous Fairmont Banff Springs hotel stands as a landmark in the picturesque alpine town of Banff. The Four Seasons Resort in Whistler is a true luxury resort hotel located in Whistler's Upper Village. The stunning Sparkling Hill has been recognised as a leader in North American, Canadian, and British Columbian resorts.

ADDITIONAL FIVE STAR SERVICES

An expert Insight Tour Director, at the pinnacle of their career, will guide you on your journey. Serving as your 'travelling concierge', this skilled guide will act as consummate organiser and be your 'friend in a foreign land'.
Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight's luxury air-conditioned 40-seat coach, with extended leg room and an on-board restroom. It's Business Class comfort, complete with complimentary bottled water for you to enjoy during your luxury coaching tour.
A personal radio headset gives you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating insights and commentaries.
At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling with prompt delivery right to your door. Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. Plus, we include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi.
With Insight Flourishes, from time to time, your Tour Director will enchant you with local tidbits, each representing authentic food or beverages unique to the destination.
Included airport transfers on Day 1, 14. Ferry from Vancouver to Victoria in the Seawest Lounge, featuring comfortable lounge seating, quiet atmosphere, Starbucks® coffee, tea, juice, fresh pastries, newspapers and magazines. GoldLeaf Service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train including gratuities to onboard train personnel. 

VIP DOOR TO DOOR RETURN UK AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Your holiday begins in true style from the moment we collect you from your front door for a relaxed journey to your choice of departure airport. Your wonderfully appointed executive car is reserved exclusively for your use, ensuring an uninterrupted, hassle-free journey to your departure airport.

Each and every Insight tour begins and ends with our unique and truly unrivalled private car door to door transfer service. You will be met at your front door by your driver who will assist with your bags before whisking you to your choice of departure airport in a private executive saloon car, all in plenty of time to make your way to your check-in desk. With Insight you really will experience an exclusive service, enjoying your journey in a standard of car that you would expect to associate with Insight standards. All of our cars are up-to-date models and maintained to the highest standards. We will arrange a convenient pick-up time from your home that suits you, not us or other passengers. Each car is equipped with the latest satellite navigation intelligence to ensure your continued peace of mind and a speedy journey.

At the end of your tour, on arrival at your chosen UK airport, you will be greeted by your waiting driver in the arrivals hall and escorted to your car for the smooth and comfortable journey directly back home.

Should you wish to make your own way to the airport, all you need do is advise us at the time of making your reservation and a discount will be offered.

Terms and conditions apply.

Tour Only Cost: All prices quoted below are per adult person, per tour in British Pounds (GBP)

Departure Dates

Single Twin/Double Triple Quad
01st May 2016 £6437* £5278* Please call Please call
15th May 2016 £6512* £5324* Please call Please call
29th May 2016 £6811* £5483* Please call Please call
12th June 2016 £6909* £5535* Please call Please call
10th & 31st July 2016 £7073* £5581* Please call Please call
28th August 2016

£7026*

£5628* Please call Please call
18th September 2016 £6951* £5577* Please call Please call
 
* 2016 Early Payment Discount - Insight's most popular tours fill very quickly. Don't be disappointed, book early and pay your balance in full as below and save up to 10% Off the prices shown above - Ask us at time of booking.
 
Pay for your 2016 tour in full by 29th January 2016 and SAVE 7.5%
Pay for your 2016 tour in full by 29th April 2016 and SAVE 5%
 
Repeat Client Discount - Have you travelled with Insight Vactions before, within the last 5 years ! - if so you qualify for a 5% discount - Ask us at time of booking.
 
Children aged 5-17 may qualify for a discount off up to 10% when sharing a room with 2 adults - Please call us for details. 
 
Not included in your tour cost:
Flights – we can package your tour with flights at very competitive airfares using our airline partners. Please call us to discuss the best airline for your itinerary.
Pre or post accommodation - If you want to extend your stay at the start or the end of your escorted tour or add another destination to your booking please call us and we will be happy to provide a quote.
Meals, other than those listed in the itinerary.
The customary gratuities for the Tour Director and local drivers are not included and are paid locally, if you prefer these can be pre-paid to us in advance for £95.00 per person.
 
FAQs:
There are many questions and considerations you might have when planning an escorted tour with Insight Vactions. For more information please click here.
 

TO BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS:

Please call us on FREEPHONE 0800 0336 335 or EMAIL us reservations@purelytravelgroup.co.uk we are open 7 days a week.

We will be happy to answer any questions, check the availability of your tour, offer a quote for flights and any pre or post nights you would like to add.

When you are ready to go ahead with the booking, a non-refundable deposit of 10% will be due at time of booking or the full balance if you are due to travel within 8 weeks.