With the first sight of turquoise lakes, ancient glacial mountains, quaint towns, and picturesque landscapes; The Canadian Rockies is one destination that captures everyone’s heart.
The Cosmos Heart of the Canadian Rockies Tour is the epitome of highlights and you’ll want to visit your first, or maybe second, spot on your tour from Calgary to Vancouver.
Banff National Park
Once you enter the friendly and quaint town of Banff, there are tons of things to do and see. From shopping for quirky souvenirs to taking a gondola ride up Sulfur Mountain to soaking in the city’s magical views or taking a helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies, there’s the opportunity of a lifetime.
Lake Louise
Take a walk around the lake and sit to soak in the scenery; for a more intimate experience go canoeing on the lake or take one of the many hiking trails. Lake Louise is surrounded by lots of natural beauties – fragrant pine trees and glacial mountains. If you have some free time, you can also dine at the wonderful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise at Poppy Brasserie overlooking the panoramic lake views.
Moraine Lake, Banff
Picture perfect is an understatement. The natural beauty of this lake will surprise you at first sight itself. The turquoise water might have fooled you in the pictures but guess what? It’s as real as ever. Some believe that the color is a result of the reflection of the blue sky from the surface of the water, but this is not quite accurate.
The color is due to glacier sedimentary rocks or rock flour, which is common in many glacial lakes. Although you may be awestruck by the beauty, be sure to see the lake from all angles – take a quick hike on the Rockpile Trail, walk around the lake’s basin, or rent a canoe for the ultimate experience.
Maligne Lake, Jasper
This an optional tour you won’t want to miss! Considered one of the most spectacular areas of Jasper National Park, Maligne Lake provides great insight into the history of the First Nation. Climb aboard a boat and float through the lake – you might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle in flight!
As soon as you get off the boat, you will see the amazing Spirit Island which is completely surrounded by crystal clear blue water. The moment can be quite magical as the island holds many untold stories. Get your camera ready because this could arguably prove to be one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies!
Victoria
Where to start? Victoria is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities that will take your breath away. The city is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and showcases its Victorian architecture and one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. There is so much to see and do in this love-at-first-sight city, from countless adrenaline activities to great food and endless shopping opportunities. Victoria is the perfect destination for any tourist, and you just can’t get over some of its iconic landmarks.
Must-sees are the 55-acre bright flower display at Butchart Gardens, whale watching on a Zodiac boat for a chance to spot the famous orcas, boarding a seaplane while soaring above the stunning city center to have a picnic in front of the British Columbia Parliament as you admire the twinkling lights in the evening.
Vancouver
This busy West Coast city is perfect for those who love to experience unique neighborhoods, culinary delights, and endless outdoor activities. You can spend the day exploring and shopping Granville Street, visit Gastown for amazing food and shops, or perhaps rent a bike for the day and cycle through Stanley Park. With so much to do, and so much to see, Vancouver has everything you would need to fulfill your ultimate vacation!
