The Rocky Mountaineer Experience
Michelle recently took part in the incredible Rocky Mountaineer Experience, journeying through British Colombia from Vancouver to Banff.
The Rocky Mountaineer Experience isn’t just about the train journey, it’s a full jam-packed itinerary that shows you the best of what British Colombia has to offer. Though without doubt the rail journey is the highlight of the trip. The route that Michelle took was First Passage to the West running from Vancouver through the Rockies and into Banff.
Vancouver, eh?
The Rocky Mountaineer Experience started with a day of exploring Vancouver city and its surroundings, including a visit to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Stanley Park and Granville Island. Want to see Canada at a glance? Head to the pier and take a spin on FlyOver Canada. Hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while our film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada, from east to west. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience.
All aboard!
Filled with lots of special touches from the very beginning where a bagpiper will play you on board from the station and you’ll enjoy a welcoming toast with the conductor and his team as you depart.
On board there are two different tiered carriages – GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf – to experience as you carve through otherwise inaccessible terrain in the Canadian Rockies. While the GoldLeaf offers unparalleled panoramic views from your seat in the upper-level of the custom-designed, bi-level glass-dome coach the SilverLeaf Service offers a single-level glass-dome service with stunning views of the pristine Canadian Wilderness. Reclining, heated seats await you, with a bar service that comes directly to your seat. Enjoy top class cuisine with à la carte menus from on board chefs and delicious cocktails made to order.
Spot all kinds of wildlife from small brown or black bears, eagles and ospreys to the much larger and more elusive moose and grizzlies – all from the comfort of your seat!
Explore Further
Make the most of your experience with fantastic add-ons. Visit the Colombia Glacier Ice Field, and walk on one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. Then, take a jaw-dropping walk along the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk at the cliff’s edge. Stay in Chateau Lake Louise and take in the spectacular scenery around the infamous turquoise waters of Lake Louise. Want to see the Rockies from a different angle? Then take a helicopter ride over the mountains, giving you an aerial view that stretches as far as the eye can see. Then end your trip with lunch in the Sky 360 Revolving Restaurant in Calgary Tower, giving you a complete 360 degree view of the city and the mountains in the distance as you dine.
Michelle’s verdict?
“As played out as the term may be, it really was a trip of a lifetime, especially for my first visit to the Great White North. We managed to fit so much in over the course of the week without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Every element of the trip was so well organised and we were looked after with the highest level of care. The sights, the sounds, the food, the drink but most of all the people. You haven’t really experienced true Canadian hospitality until you’ve stepped on board the Rocky Mountaineer train. Every element of the journey literally took my breath away – and not just due to the temps up on the glacier!”