Canada Travel Beyond the Guidebook

Even More Reasons to Book with Us

The Great Outdoors

Yvonne Sartain
The saying goes that “time spent in the mountains is not deducted from the rest of your life”. For me, the Canadian Rockies have it all, with over 9,500 square miles of pristine wilderness. I have led numerous tours over the past thirty years, and without exception, everyone is profoundly moved by the almost surreal beauty. Despite the number of tourists visiting the parks, 95% of them venture no more than 100 metres from the trail so it is possible to find your perfect, quiet and inspirational spot to contemplate the beauty of the mountains.

My favourite viewpoint is close to Lake Louise - Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. There is a short climb to the top of what is known as the “Rockpile Trail” and from there, you have what is, in my opinion, the best view in the world. The pure turquoise blue of the lake below will take your breath away and the view of the Ten Peaks from here is incredible.

Back in Banff, it’s easy to escape civilisation by taking the path along the Bow River towards Vermillion Lakes. The 3rd lake has a hot spring and so is popular with many different species of birds including Bald Eagles and Blue Herons. There is a hidden side to this magical place if you just sit quietly to watch and listen. I usually suggest taking a picnic lunch so that you can sit and wonder at the extraordinary beauty and peace. This is also the best place to see my favourite mountain, Mount Rundle, one of the most recognised peaks in the Canadian Rockies.

Niagara and Beyond

Amanda Wesson
While Niagara Falls is an absolute must see in Eastern Canada, my recommendation is also not to miss Niagara-on-the-Lake. It’s an absolutely gorgeous small town about an hour from the falls with so much to see – from quaint local shops and boutiques to amazing places to eat – try the gelato, you won’t regret it! The journey itself to the town is beautiful as you travel through picturesque countryside towards to shores of Lake Ontario.

Mont Tremblant is a real unexpected treat – a ski resort in winter and a pretty and relaxing destination in the summer. Be sure to go down to Lake Tremblant at sunset for goosebump-inducing silence and sunset views. A journey on the cable car to the top of the mountain won’t disappoint – the views are truly spectacular across the lake and the National Park.

And not forgetting Quebec – surrounded by bistros and jazz buskers in the streets, you could almost be in France itself. Make sure you fit in a visit to see the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Old Quebec - one of the most photographed hotels in the word. It’s one of Canada’s grand railway hotels perching above the Old Town. Truly a sight not to be missed!

Mouth-watering Cuisine

Kimberly Chaulk
You know how they say the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach? Well, I think that’s particularly true for those who love to travel. As a Holiday Director, when I take groups through Canada, one of my favourite things to do is take them to those off-the-beaten-path restaurants and pubs and let them indulge in cuisine native to the area.

From poutine, nanaimo bars, flapper pie, lobster rolls, giant Jos Louis cake and Acadian meat pie, to Canadian bacon with maple syrup, moose burgers, and butter tarts, Canada has something to offer everyone.

Canada has such a large variety of delectable food that you’re sure to come upon something that will suit your fancy. If, though, you prefer the standard coffee, donut, and burger stop, well, you won’t be disappointed. I will make certain you have the chance to pop into Canada’s Tim Hortons, the largest fast food chain in the nation. So, come on over to Canada! The timbits are on me!