One of my fabulous consultants, Ashley was lucky enough to recently travel to the Canadian Rockies compliments of Scenic where he experienced the spectacular Rockies, this is Ashley’s report.
There is something about western Canada that appeals to the adventurer in us all. From the spectacular Rocky Mountains to glacial lakes that shimmer in the magical shades of blue, this amazing region is an expansive wonderland that is as diverse as it is magnificent.
When travelling through the Rocky Mountains you can’t help but be overawed but the sheer scale of the countryside that surrounds you. Arriving into Banff I was welcomed by the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs also known as the ‘Castle in the Rockies’. This hotel is situated at an altitude of 1414 metres and was opened to the public in 1888. Since then it has hosted celebrities, politicians and a very lucky travel agent from Coffs Harbour!
Next stop was famous Lake Louise. This might just be the most beautiful place I have ever seen in my entire life! I arrived to see the glacial fed lake shimmering in all of its turquoise glory and thought how could this get any better. Well it turns out it could when I woke the next morning to see the valley completely covered in snow. It was like a dream to walk around the lake as the snow delicately fell all around me. All guests travelling with Scenic stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in Lake View rooms. This really was another highlight in my trip.
After enjoying all Lake Louise had to offer it was time to board the Rocky Mountaineer. The Rocky Mountaineer is undeniably one of the most iconic rail journeys in the world. The beautiful views are enhanced by the glass domed Gold Leaf carriage which allows you to take in all of the stunning vistas as you snake through the Rockies. The service was a standout and included drinks, gourmet breakfast and lunch in the downstairs dining carriage. After two days of winding through spectacular mountain scenery I arrived into the bustling metropolis of Vancouver but that another story!
This article was published in the Coffs Coast Advocate on Saturday 11 November 2017.
