From the Rockies to the Glaciers: an adventure in Canada & Alaska

Grizzly bears, luxury trains & epic scenery. The mighty Niagara falls, wildlife-filled forests of BC, vibrant cities and coastal gems, our clients Paddy & Lesley share their experience of travelling across Canada and Alaska's wildest places.

Niagara Falls to Banff, Sulphur Mountain & the Columbia Icefields © P Dodgson

'We’ve just returned from the trip of a lifetime across Canada and Alaska. Every detail was planned with care — from internal flights and first-class accommodation to unforgettable excursions and luxury experiences.

We began our adventure in Toronto with a warm family welcome from my wife’s cousin, who lives on the breath taking, tree-lined shores of Lake Ontario. A few days later, we flew west to Calgary, a vibrant and multicultural city where we visited the Calgary Tower, braved the glass floor and stayed at the historic Fairmont Palliser. What a hotel! No wonder the late Queen Elizabeth II chose it herself. We'd recommend Stephen Street, for every kind of cuisine, street performers, bars, happy hour and a great buzz, until 9pm when it quietens down.

From Calgary, we drove through the Canadian Rockies to Banff and then on to Jasper. That road trip felt like driving through a living postcard. We spotted bears and bear cubs in the wild, gazed at majestic mountain vistas, and stood in awe of pristine lakes that defied belief. By this time we'd braved the glass floors of both the Calgary tower and the ice fields sky walk! The Banff gondola and hot springs were fabulous and the Icefield tour outstanding.

Jasper to Vancouver aboard the epic Rocky Mountaineer © P Dodgson

In Jasper, we boarded the Rocky Mountaineer, an extraordinary luxury rail journey through Canada’s dramatic landscapes — soaring peaks, sun-scorched desert, and lush coastal rainforest — before arriving in vibrant Vancouver. The scenery left us speechless, and the entire experience felt world-class.

We had a magical stay on Vancouver Island, a true hidden gem of the trip. The island, with its focus on sustainable tourism and natural beauty, offered everything — from tranquil parks and botanical gardens to thrilling offshore marine safaris in inflatables. We spotted whales, seals, and sea otters, all while soaking in the exhilaration and serenity of the sea.

But the crowning jewel of our journey was the cruise from Vancouver to Alaska — an unforgettable experience made even more special by little touches such as premium drinks packages, included gratuities, and fine dining upgrades. We chose excursions we’ll never forget — including the White Pass Railway, a historic, scenic ride through the mountains along the trail once taken by gold prospectors heading to the Yukon in 1897.

Exploring Alaska, a hike to Nugget Falls & crossing White Horse Pass © P Dodgson

We ended our adventure in Anchorage, Alaska, where we chose to stay in local bed and breakfast accommodation to experience true Anchorage hospitality. This city radiates a “help your neighbour” spirit, and we felt warmly welcomed. Helen recommended the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a non-profit organisation focused on animal care, conservation, and research. We explored the 200-acre site and saw brown and black bears, caribou, lynx, and moose roaming freely.

This wasn’t just a holiday — it was a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with awe, luxury, wildlife, and memories we’ll cherish forever. Thank you, Helen. You didn’t just plan our holiday. You gave us the gift of adventure.'

Whale watching at Juneau, where the humpbacks and calves made an appearance © P Dodgson

A big thank you to Paddy & Lesley for sharing their adventures and photos. What an incredible journey in such pristine wilderness.