Thursday 20 January 2011

Visit the charming mountain resort town of Whistler by Rail

Visit the charming mountain resort town of Whistler by Rail


Canada rail holidays are a great way to experience this exciting country, which combines stunning scenery with friendly locals and vibrant cities. And by taking trips on the famous Rocky Mountaineer, you can visit the gorgeous town of Whistler - famous for being the perfect year-round destination.
By opting for tailor made rail holidays over other forms of travel, you can enjoy the romance of the railway and venture across historic routes, seeing some of Canada's most famous sights.
Starting your journey in Vancouver, you will have time to explore this exciting city before setting off on your first rail adventure. One of the best places to visit while you are there is the Gastown, which is home to restored Victorian buildings that are a delight to explore.
Making your way to north Vancouver by crossing Lions Gate Bridge, you can visit one of the city's most famous sights - the Capilano Suspension Bridge. This fantastic feat of engineering spans a dramatic gorge sitting on the edge of the Canadian wilderness - and is an absolute must-see during your trip.
And while you're in the area, don't forget to explore a little more and discover its fascinating museums and excellent shopping facilities.
Meanwhile, you may be particularly interested in the Vancouver Aquarium if you are travelling with children, who will undoubtedly love seeing the dolphins, sea otters and other marine life it is home to.
Departing Vancouver, you will board the famous Rocky Mountaineer for the first time to begin your railroad odyssey. Travelling past the British Columbia Mountains on one side and the sea on the other, you will find no shortage of amazing sights during your journey.
Arriving in Whistler in the early afternoon, you can set about exploring this world-renowned resort, which achieved new heights of fame when it co-hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010.
It is known for being a fantastic destination no matter what time of year you visit, making it the perfect place to stop on any break. Whether you want to take escorted tours of the area, walk in the mountains or simply explore the local village, you will find something to occupy your interest at every turn.
Those keen to see the very best views of the region can board the gondola, which will take you some 6,000ft above sea level - sure to be a highlight of any Whistler trip.
Once you've finished exploring the Alpine delights of Whistler, you can climb back aboard the Rocky Mountaineer to see some more of Canada's top sights. Chugging past the beautiful Anderson and Seton Lakes, the train will carry you alongside the powerful Fraser River, which flows through the Rockies all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Spending the night in Quesnel, you will board the train once more in the morning to travel to your next destination - Jasper National Park. During your journey you will pass the highest point in the Rockies, Mount Robson. This towering peak reaches up a staggering 12,972 ft.
Arriving in Jasper National Park, you will be able to see an incredible range of sights and animals, such as elk and bighorn sheep. Some of the park's most beautiful attractions include the glacier-fed Maligne Lake, which is widely considered one of the most picturesque spots to be seen here.
Sharing its name is Maligne Canyon, which is also something of a must-see, this huge gorge is 150 ft deep and is home to fascinating formations of rock, as well as pretty waterfalls.
Leaving the park, you can travel along the well-known Icefields Parkway, famous for its glimmering turquoise lakes which reflect the gorgeous mountains above. Don't miss the chance to stop off at the Columbia Icefield en route, while you can speed on to the glacier itself on a giant snowmobile if you wish.
Your penultimate stop will be Banff, where you can sample the delights of the local hot springs and learn something of their history. The Upper Hot Spring is constantly at between 37 and 40 degrees C, making it a wonderful option for those keen to relax in beautiful surroundings.
And once you have finished exploring all that Banff has to offer, you can travel to Calgary to bid Canada a fond farewell and board your flight home.

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