Venture into the Wilderness
Itinerary
Days 1-4 – Bikes & Bays of Vancouver
As well as being the launchpad for Western Canada, Vancouver is a real highlight in itself. So, before heading off in search of whales, bears, lakes, and mountains, why not spend a few days discovering one of the world’s most liveable cities? Family fun can be found across the city, from the famous Stanley Park to Grouse Mountain and Granville Island. You’ll never be short of ways to entertain yourselves! We’ll organise a guided bike ride around the vast Stanley Park for all the family to take in the views from the seawall across to the bustling city.
Days 4-6 – Zipping through Whistler
Today you’ll make your own way to the airport in Vancouver to pick up your rental car. From here, it’s a 2.5 hour drive up the famous Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. You’ll head up to the former Winter Olympic village of Whistler – a family-friendly adventure playground which fits perfectly into any trip to West Canada. You’ll be staying in a comfy hotel a short walk from the centre. During your time here, you’ll go on an exciting zip-trekking excursion through the snow-capped peaks and forests, before relaxing and exploring the charms of this famous Alpine village. If you need even more adventure, then bike hire, paddleboarding and hiking can all be arranged locally.
Days 6-7 – Tipi on Thompson River
Next, you’ll travel from Whistler to Thompson River, taking around 4 hours. During the next two days, you’ll sleep under the stars in a traditional tipi tent, located just outside Lytton between craggy canyons and the flowing Thompson River. The tipi experience will give your family a real ‘glamping’ feeling as you sleep under the stars in the Canadian wilderness. Take a walk along the riverside or try your hand at rafting on the river. In the evening you can unwind with a dip in the pool or hot tub and a delicious barbecue.
Days 7-9 – Paddling in the Peaks
After your tipi stay, you’ll hit the road again, this time travelling to Sun Peaks. Today’s drive will take approximately 1 hour. Hike, bike, paddle and kart your way around the adventure playground that is Sun Peaks – an alpine village in the heart of British Columbia. This mountain resort comes alive during the summer months, with families flocking to indulge in the outdoor activities on offer. You’ll stay for a couple of nights in the heart of the village and try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding on the pristine waters of the surrounding lakes.
Days 9-11 – Rafting Downriver in Revelstoke
From Sun Peaks you’ll travel on to Revelstoke. This will take 3 hours. Next, you’ll delve further into the heart of the Canadian Rockies with a visit to the majestic Mount Revelstoke National Park, as you go in search of hidden treasure on a hilarious pirate-themed rafting trip on the Columbia River! You can also conquer mountains with ease, as you wind your way up the extraordinary Meadows-in-the-Sky Parkway for breathtaking views of the Rockies.
Days 11-13 – Under Canvas in the Great Outdoors
From Revelstoke you’ll travel on to Kananaskis. This will take 4 hours. Ever wondered what it is like to live as a family entirely off-grid? Wonder no more! Staying in comfortable tented accommodation in the woods of Kananaskis Country, you’ll learn all about survival in the heart of the Canadian wilderness from an experienced local guide. By the end you’ll be spotting bear tracks, building fires and setting up improvised shelters! With no electricity and no wifi, it’ll be a great experience for the kids, and you may even get a little more conversation from them!
Days 13-16 – Mountains & Lakes of Banff
From Kananaskis, it’s approximately 30 mins to Banff or Canmore. High up in the Rocky Mountains, and filled with lush forests, snow-capped mountains and colourful lakes, Banff National Park is a real highlight for any family trip to Canada. You’ll spend 3 nights in the centre of Banff town, with its many restaurants and attractions. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the hiking trails and hot springs around the area independently, make sure you visit the famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, we advise getting there early to avoid the crowds. Leaving Banff or Canmore behind, you’ll drive the 1.5 hours to Calgary Airport for your flight home.
Accommodation
