The Wonders of the Canadian Rockies (Family Tour) - 7 Days
7 Days
Calgary
Calgary
*****
Tauck Bridges (family tours)
Stay inside Banff and Jasper national parks at celebrated mountain resorts—The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and The Fairmont Banff Springs—on our exciting Tauck Bridges family adventure in the Canadian Rockies!
Climb along a glacier in a specially designed Ice Explorer. Discover fossils in a canyon once covered by a prehistoric sea. Go whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River. Bike, boat and more with an included Summer Resort Activities Card at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Take a guided hike in Maligne Canyon followed by lunch at the Canyon's Wilderness Kitchen; and look for moose and elk along the Icefields Parkway. Check out museums and historic sites with a Banff Heritage Passport, enjoy Canadian-style 5-pin bowling at our farewell reception and ride the Banff Gondola for amazing night-time views en route to a mountaintop farewell dinner as part of this Canadian Rockies tour.
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart Calgary and on to Lake Louise
Your Rockies adventure begins as you head west through the part of Alberta called Kananaskis Country; famous for great scenery, a lot of parks and protected areas, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Prepare to be dazzled when you reach your home for tonight, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, set on the banks of a sparkling lake deep in Banff National Park - when you look up, all you can see are the mountains that soar... and we mean really soar... above you! Meet your fellow Canadian Rockies explorers at a welcome reception and dinner tonight. Please note: a transfer is included from Calgary International Airport to Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire for guests arriving early or on day 1.
Day 2: Lake Louise & the Icefields Parkway
An interpretive guided hike along the shores of shimmering Lake Louise is a wonderful way to experience nature and the best of the resort's excellent setting as you begin your family's Canadian Rockies advenure. A variety of wildlife, like bald eagles, moose and many other animals, make their homes here. This afternoon, set off on a memorable ride along a world-famous stretch of highway – western Canada's Icefields Parkway - surrounded by mountains, glaciers and snowfields as far as the eye can see! And keep that eye peeled for glimpses of mountain goats, bighorn sheep, deer and other wildlife all the way to The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, your spectacular lakefront resort in the middle of Jasper National Park, for a three-night stay.
Day 3: A day in Jasper as you please
Start your morning off right with a guided hike in Jasper National Park, surrounded by incredible scenic landscapes on all sides. Following your hike, enjoy lunch at The Crimson's Terra Restaurant in Jasper before returning to the lodge to spend the rest of the day as you please in the wilderness wonderland of Jasper National Park. Your inside-the-park hotel is set in the magnificent Rocky Mountains, and you'll receive a free Summer Resort Activities Card* to use for activities such as a one-hour bicycle rental, a boat for an hour, or a bucket of balls and club rental at the golf driving range; your card is good for the entire time you're staying at Jasper. Maybe you and your family will go off in search of the wildlife that calls the area home or play in the swimming pool... or perhaps engage in other optional activities (available at an additional charge) like golf or horseback riding. It's up to you! Join us tonight for a private lakeside barbecue at your lodge. If you wish, join us after dinner for a visit to the Jasper Planetarium, where a stop inside the Planetarium Dome Theatre greets you with stories and experiences (including a trip to the edge of the universe... and back) by a local guide. Weather permitting, you'll also have a chance to look through the largest, most powerful telescope in the North American Rockies region.
Day 4: Athabasca River rafting & Jasper National Park at leisure
This morning, your family boards a rubber boat for a wet and wild rafting trip* down the mighty, glacier-fed Athabasca River, encountering both calm waters and "whitewater" along the way as you float through some amazing scenery. Then return to your lodge in Jasper National Park and spend the rest of the afternoon as you wish, perhaps using your free Summer Resort Activities Card* for more included family fun, or engaging in other optional activities available at the lodge for an additional charge. Enjoy dinner at the lodge at your leisure this evening.
Day 5: Ride across a glacier & on to Banff
Get set for something really cool as you board a specially designed Ice Explorer for an unforgettable ride atop the Athabasca Glacier in the middle of the Columbia Icefields, among the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle... some of the glacier's ice began as snow more than 400 years ago! Before you set off, look up – the people and Ice Explorers you see in the distance might look like ants and toy vehicles. Later... when you're on one... you get the picture of how incredible it is to be on the glacier! After lunch, keep a lookout for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, eagles, hawks and other wildlife as you drive along the Icefields Parkway again this afternoon, through spectacular Canadian Rockies scenery. Arrive at your historic "castle in the mountains" – The Fairmont Banff Springs Resort – to begin a two-night stay in the heart of Banff National Park; spend the rest of the day and evening as you please, enjoying dinner at the resort tonight.
Day 6: Banff as you please & a mountaintop farewell
The entire day is yours to enjoy Banff National Park and / or the chic alpine resort town of Banff itself, with its galleries, museums and shops, just as you please. We've included a Banff Heritage Passport to use in town, good for admission to the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies – featuring collections of local art, historic exhibits, and seven restored early Banff cabins and homes – and the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, dedicated to the appreciation, interpretation, demonstration and display of the cultures, traditions, and values of the First Nations of North America and their trading partners. Or you can choose to stay at your resort and swim, rent mountain bikes* or canoes*, pamper yourself at the Willow Stream Spa or get in a round of golf (both available at an additional charge), or just follow your nose to spot wildlife. Join us late this afternoon for a special farewell reception and bowling party – featuring Canadian-style five-pin bowling – at the Banff Bowling Centre. Then, you and your family will ride up to the "top of the world" on the Banff Gondola for amazing evening views from your gondola car en route to a mountaintop farewell dinner at the Northern Lights restaurant at the summit of Sulphur Mountain! Here, you'll have a bird's-eye view of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley… and can take in the state-of-the-art Banff interpretive center atop the mountain.
Day 7: Journey home
Your family's unforgettable Canadian Rockies adventure ends this morning as you travel back to Calgary (approximately 80 miles) for your flight home. You can, of course, extend your stay. Guests spending additional nights in Calgary will be transferred to the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire upon arrival; a transfer from Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire to Calgary International Airport is included. Please allow 2 hours for airport check-in formalities.
Includes
- 6 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage for driver and tour director plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights.
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.
