From its wild Atlantic coast to the Pacific, Canada offers a feast of experiences from pristine national parks and spectacular landscapes to rich history, fascinating cultures and culinary gems.
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1. Because It’s Canada
Canada is a kaleidoscope of colour, from its eye-poppingly blue lakes and majestic peaks in coats of green or white to its wondrous wilderness areas, the ethereal palette of the Northern Lights and the bright lights of its many beautiful cities. A visit to Canada encourages you to reconnect with nature, experience its diverse cultures, and immerse in vibrant local communities. Nature is calling throughout this idyllic country and you will want to answer. Marvel at the power of Niagara Falls in Ontario, go dog sledding through the pristine snow in Nunavut, or kayaking on Alberta's crystal-clear lakes. Admire the vibrant fall colours in Thousand Islands National Park, Banff, or Jasper, and in winter, strap on skis or snowboards to explore achingly beautiful terrain in world-class resorts.
Delve into Canada’s history by visiting some of the many world-class museums, galleries or historic sites – some that go back thousands of years. Signal Hill in St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, was a fortification constructed in 1697, and where, in 1901, Guglielmo Marconi stood to receive the first transatlantic wireless transmission. In Saskatchewan, Wanuskewin (Gathering Place) is an interpretive centre, and while it is new, it has been a sacred site and gathering place to the first peoples of the Northern Plains for more than 6,400 years. Stroll around Old Quebec with its fortifications and stunning historic landmarks in the Upper Town, including the Citadelle fort and the grand Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel, and in Ottawa admire the Rideau Canal, the Parliament buildings on Parliament Hill and the slew of national museums, including the National Gallery of Canada.
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2. Explore BC
Seeing bears in the wild is on the bucket-list for many, and British Columbia has many spectacular places to see them. Spot grizzlies at Knight Inlet Lodge, an Indigenous-owned wildlife viewing destination in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. It is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Search for the elusive Spirit bear during a stay at Spirit Bear Lodge within the Kitasoo Xai’xais traditional territory, and look for black bears in places like Whistler, or Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island. Off the west coast of BC, marine life is plentiful, with everything from whales to seals, sea lions, dolphins and otters.
Connect with Indigenous cultures in BC, with over 200 First Nations calling this land home. Hear their ancestral stories and the land, their heritage and wildlife, by visiting some of the cultural centres and art galleries, by staying in unique accommodations, and by tasting Indigenous cuisine.
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3. Vancouver Awaits
This waterfront city is open all year round and has so much to see and do you’ll need three to four days to experience its charms. In winter, this walkable city has the mildest temperatures in Canada, just add a beanie, gloves and winter coat. Foodies will love Vancouver any time of year, with gourmet delights available in its ‘Flavourhoods’, from Michelin-star restaurants to Chinatown and the food stalls and tours at Granville Island. When in Vancouver, visit Whistler, just a two-hour drive north from Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway. Visit in green season to go for walks or bike rides in the fresh, mountain air, play golf, take a ride on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola or browse the vibrant pedestrian-only streets.
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4. Take the Train Right Across Canada
Traverse 4,466 kms through Canada’s heart on VIA Rail’s The Canadian Train from Toronto to Vancouver. The view out the dome cars or carriages will showcase different landscapes from mountain ranges to the Prairies, and everything in between. Experience it in Prestige Class, which includes larger contemporary cabins with double bed. The train runs all year round, but winter is an excellent time to go. Once in Toronto, consider riding VIA’s Corridor Trains, brand new state-of-the-art trains that run from Québec City to Montréal, Ottawa and Toronto, with stunning views around the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River. These award-winning carriages are a more sustainable way of travelling compared to driving or flying and are so comfortable and relaxing. Just sit, chat, or enjoy the view.
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5. There Are Bears, Belugas and Northern Lights
Wild Manitoba is, for the most part, as nature intended. Uncrowded, except for wildlife. In Churchill, known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, be awestruck when you see these beautiful, endangered animals up close, especially if you are in a tundra vehicle or staying in a mobile tundra lodge. Look out your window when you wake and you might have a curious bear looking back at you. This sub-Arctic region is so remote you cannot drive in, you can go by air or by VIA Rail from Winnipeg, or on an expedition cruise. In summer, Hudson Bay is also home to 60,000 belugas. Manitoba is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, which come out to play around 300 nights a year.
