Recently updated on October 6th, 2022 at 04:49 pm
Canada is undeniably vast in both size and beauty, displaying majestic scenery in each of its regions. Travelling to one destination can reveal pockets of this majesty, but rarely do people have the opportunity to set out on a journey across the entire nation. Trafalgar does exactly this, by travelling coast to coast from Vancouver to Toronto. Here, we take a closer look at what visitors to Canada can experience on this extraordinary journey.
Vancouver – Victoria
Vancouver is without doubt one of Canada’s biggest draws, so it’s the ideal place to begin a cross-country journey. Not only does the city have a thriving arts and culture scene, but it’s also on the edge of astounding natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities to get out and explore. And from the vibrant city’s urban landmarks and neighbourhoods, it’s just a short ferry ride over to Vancouver Island.
Located just off Canada’s Pacific Coast, this island alone spans a huge expanse of 500 by 100 kilometres, and is dotted with rural logging and fishing communities, as well as being home to the heritage-rich city, Victoria. Then of course there’s the island’s vibrant wine scene, with vineyards and wineries opening their cellar doors to visitors who want to soak up this side of local life.
The Sea-to-Sky Highway – Whistler
From here, the journey continues on to the Sea-to-Sky Highway, of which the appeal is evident in the name. Running through British Columbia from Vancouver to just north of Whistler, this major highway takes in breathtaking ocean views, soaring mountains and waterfalls, as well as wildlife-rich parks. One of the greatest highlights though is undoubtedly the Sea to Sky Gondola, which transports passengers from the setting off point in Squamish up to Summit Lodge for expansive views of the coastal mountain scenery.
These views don’t get any less spectacular as travellers continue on this route either, as Whistler is the next port of call. Famous worldwide for its exemplary ski scene, Whistler doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sheer beauty. And of course, skiing isn’t all this mountain town has to offer, with the 2010 Winter Olympics sites and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center to visit, as well as its close proximity to Cache Creek, which offers some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Canada.
Sun Peaks – Jasper
Sun Peaks ski resort is next on the route, from where the UNESCO World Heritage Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks – Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glaciar National Park, and Yoho National Park – all provide unforgettable scenery. After crossing the Continental Divide, travellers then arrive in Banff.
Surprise Corner, the Bow Falls and hoodoo rock formations all make Banff National Park the unique setting it is, and it’s also from here that the Kananaskis Valley – Canada’s Wild West – can be reached for an authentic ranch experience. Lake Louise follows on from this, presenting the opportunity to board the Ice Explorer at Columbia Icefield, before stopping over in Jasper National Park to hike along the trails of Maligne Canyon and cruise across Maligne Lake.
The Canadian Via Rail – Toronto
As one of the world’s iconic trains, The Canadian by Via Rail seems the most fitting form of transport to continue on this extraordinary journey, setting out from Jasper to arrive in Toronto. Fine dining, wine tasting, live music and insightful presentations, all make the train journey live up to its fine name, but if it’s the scenery you’re looking for, then make sure to savour the views from the train’s Skyline and Park glass dome.
This journey may end in Toronto, but it’s far from being over. Toronto is often slated as Canada’s most cosmopolitan city, and this status becomes evident on exploring the metropolis further. The Niagara Peninsula is also within easy reach, and with its idyllic countryside, smattering of wineries, and spectacular Niagara Falls, it certainly is worth the diversion, ensuring this unforgettable coast-to-coast journey is remarkable until the very end.
Experience the journey from Vancouver to Toronto first-hand by joining the Contrasts of Canada trip.
Image credits: Cover photo of the Canadian Railway in Banff © iStock / ferrantraite. Vancouver Island © iStock. Whistler © iStock / Anne08. Banff National Park © iStock / brendanvanson. Toronto © iStock / espiegle.