The Ultimate West Canada Adventure: Your Perfect Holiday Itinerary
Western Canada should definitely be on your travel list! With its vast landscapes and countless attractions, there’s so much to experience in Alberta and British Columbia, the two most western provinces. The snow-capped mountains, stunning blue lakes, and dense taiga forests can be explored by plane, train, or car.
Both provinces offer spectacular views in places like Jasper and Banff national parks in Alberta. British Columbia also boasts incredible natural beauty, including prime bear-watching spots in remote lodges. Whistler is perfect for both summer hiking and skiing, while Vancouver combines urban cool with access to nature on Vancouver Island and in Tofino, known for its laid-back vibe and whale-watching opportunities.
Here’s a fantastic itinerary to help you explore the best of Western Canada:
Day 1-3: London to Calgary, Canada
Fly from London to Calgary and arrive by midday. From there, head to Banff, a charming frontier town surrounded by mountains. Enjoy the local restaurants, cafes, and shops, like the Rocky Mountain Soap Company and Mary’s for toffee popcorn. Don’t miss the gondola ride for breathtaking views and a trip to the stunning Lake Louise. Visit early to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the serene beauty.
Day 4-6: Road Trip from Banff to Jasper via Icefields Parkway
Drive north along the Icefields Parkway, known for its scenic stops. Halfway, explore the Columbia Icefield and walk on the Athabasca Glacier. The Icefield Skywalk offers thrilling views from a glass platform. Jasper, less crowded than Banff, is a gem with dark sky reserves perfect for stargazing. From Jasper, you can take the Rocky Mountaineer or VIA Rail to Vancouver, passing through stunning mountain landscapes.
Day 7-10: Seaplane to Whistler
After exploring Vancouver, take a seaplane to Whistler. This area is easy to incorporate into a Rockies trip or as a standalone destination. Whistler Village offers plenty of cafes, bars, and adventure shops. In summer, mountain biking is popular, while winter brings top-notch skiing. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers amazing views from Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
Day 11-15: Vancouver Island and Great Bear Rainforest
Fly from the mainland to Vancouver Island and spend a few days at Farewell Harbour Lodge in the Great Bear Rainforest. Here, you can spot iconic Canadian wildlife like Orcas. Then, head to Tofino, known for its beautiful beaches and adventure activities such as sea kayaking, whale-watching, and black bear tours.
This itinerary is perfect for adventure lovers wanting to explore the epic landscapes and wildlife of Western Canada. Make sure to add this region to your travel bucket list!