Alberta’s Rockies, Lakes & National Parks

Today you'll enjoy complimentary lounge access at the airport before boarding your flight to Calgary, Alberta. Bordered by the Rocky Mountains to the west and the vast prairies to the east, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. After checking into your hotel, head out to explore the city itself, perhaps viewing the skyline from the observation deck at the Calgary Tower or adding on a food tour of Calgary's hidden gems. Alternatively, relax in your hotel for the evening, which boasts an onsite fitness centre, spa, and charcuterie restaurant.

Stay: Le Germain, Calgary (Superior)

After breakfast this morning, head out of the city with your hire car towards the magnificent Rockies. Your end-point is Canmore, an authentic Alpine town surrounded by cragged peaks. On the way, you might choose to stop at the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, where you can observe wolf behaviour up close. When you reach Canmore, rent bikes and explore over 100km of local trails, or add on a thrilling raft tour on the Kootenay River. Your accommodation for the night features a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs with panoramic views over the Three Sisters mountain range.

Stay: Malcolm Hotel, Canmore (Superior)

From your base in Canmore you'll head into the unspoilt wilderness of Banff National Park. There's plenty to do here, whether you prefer hiking in alpine forests or paddling across ice-blue lakes. Visit the geothermal hot springs, take a boat cruise across Lake Minnewaka, or perhaps drive to nearby Moraine Lake and view its sparkling turquoise waters against a backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks. Alternatively, Banff Gondola is another way to see awe-inspiring Rocky Mountain views. This evening, return to your hotel at Canmore.

Stay: Malcolm Hotel, Canmore (Superior)

Today you'll drive to the world-famous Lake Louise – one of Canada's most photographed spots – where ice-capped Alpine peaks rise above a pristine glacial lake. You might wish to ride the Lake Louise Gondola for wildlife-viewing opportunities and more scenic views, or simply stroll around the lake's shores and breathe in the fresh Alpine air. Then, drive the Icefields Parkway, one of the world's most spectacular highways, pausing for photos and watching out for bears, elk and wolves along the way. Tonight, stay at Glacier View Lodge, where you will enjoy a welcome reception in the Moraine Lounge, be led on a tour of the Athabasca Glacier where you will enjoy hot chocolate and Apple cider on the ice, before returning to the lodge for a three course dinner.

Stay: Glacier View Lodge, Icefields Parkway (Superior)

Enjoy breakfast in the Altitude Restaurant before setting out for your private morning Glacier Skywalk tour, suspended 280 metres over sparkling ice and jagged rock walls. Head south back down the Icefields Parkway to Saskatewan River Crossing where you branch off for the short drive to Abraham Lake, and your wilderness lakeside stay at Aurum Lodge, nestled in the front ranges of the Canadian Rockies, overlooking the Abraham Lake, surrounded by forests in Bighorn Country, you will still have time to enjoy one of the range of hikes in the vicinity of the lodge.

Stay: Aurum Lodge, Abraham Lake (Superior)

After breakfast this morning take a final walk to Abraham Lake, or a hike to Siffleur Falls. Then, hop in your hire car and continue on to your next destination. On the way, you might choose to stop at Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site and learn more about the local indigenous culture. Later, arrive in Red Deer, a lively city surrounded by farmland and winding river trails, perhaps visiting a local brewery to sample craft beers. 

Stay: Sandman Hotel Red Deer (Superior)

Before leaving Red Deer this morning, perhaps take advantage of its waterside location with a gentle float down Red Deer River to spot wildlife. Then, en route to Drumheller, stop at the Donut Mill, a quaint converted windmill serving delicious treats. Head into the hoodoos of the Canadian Badlands to Drumheller, where the Royal Tyrrell Museum showcases a vast collection of dinosaur remains and prehistoric plants. Finally, arrive back into Calgary, checking back into your original accommodation in the heart of this wild west city.

Stay: Le Germain, Calgary (Superior)

On your final morning in Calgary, explore the city further on foot or add on a shopping trip at the CrossIron Mills. Then, head to the airport before your overnight flight to the UK arriving on Day 9.