Set out on a captivating journey through Western Canada’s breathtaking landscapes with the Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems tour. This 9-day adventure offers a seamless exploration of the Canadian Rockies and the enchanting Waterton region, where travelers can enjoy a world of outdoor wonders, cultural discoveries, and culinary delights. From the rugged grandeur of snow-capped peaks to the serene beauty of pristine lakes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. Uncover the hidden gems that make this corner of the world truly exceptional, and let the wonder of the great outdoors captivate your senses.
Key Points
- This 9-day tour through the Canadian Rockies and Waterton region showcases a diverse range of experiences, from wine tasting in Osoyoos to a Waterton Lake cruise.
- The tour provides 8 nights of comfortable hotel accommodations and 8 complimentary breakfasts, ensuring a well-rested and energized exploration of the region.
- Travelers can discover the hidden gems of Western Canada, including the Nk’mip Cultural Centre, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site, and Eau Claire Distillery.
- The tour is accessible via public transportation, with the meeting point in Vancouver and the end point in Calgary, offering flexibility for travelers.
- The tour caters to diverse interests, providing a blend of culture, natural wonders, and culinary experiences, suitable for travelers aged 15 and above.
Tour Highlights
This 9-day tour takes travelers on an adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and Waterton region.
Kicking off in Vancouver, the tour offers a diverse array of activities, from wine tasting in Osoyoos to exploring the Nk’mip Cultural Centre and experiencing a thrilling Waterton Lake Cruise.
Along the way, guests can savor craft beers in Nelson, tour the Head-smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site, and discover the Eau Claire Distillery‘s prohibition-era secrets through a spirit tasting.
With magnificent mountain vistas, immersive cultural experiences, and unique culinary delights, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Western Canada’s hidden gems.
Accommodation and Meals
Travelers on this 9-day tour can look forward to 8 nights of cozy hotel accommodations and 8 complimentary breakfasts, fueling their adventures through the Rockies and Waterton region.
The hotels provide a comfortable home base for exploring the stunning landscapes, from the vineyards of Osoyoos to the iconic buffalo jump at Head-Smashed-In.
After a day of hiking, wine tasting, and cultural discoveries, guests can return to their rooms and unwind, ready to tackle the next day’s itinerary.
The included breakfasts ensure everyone starts their adventures well-nourished and energized, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey through this picturesque corner of Western Canada.
Pickup and Drop-off
Where does this 9-day tour begin and end? The meeting point for the tour is the Vancouver Cruise Pier, while the end point is the Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown, allowing travelers to conveniently start and conclude their Rockies and Waterton adventure.
The tour’s pickup and drop-off locations provide several benefits:
- Accessibility: Both the start and end points are easily accessible by public transportation, making it easy for participants to arrive and depart.
- Flexibility: The tour’s endpoints allow travelers to extend their stay in either city, giving them the freedom to explore Vancouver and Calgary before or after the tour.
- Convenience: The Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown serves as a comfortable and centralized location for the tour’s conclusion.
Important Information
Confirming the booking secures participants’ spots on this Rockies and Waterton adventure, which is accessible via public transportation and open to most travelers aged 15 and above.
Though the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly, group sizes range from a minimum of 12 to a maximum of 22 adventurers, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.
From exploring the Nk’mip Cultural Centre to discovering the historic Head-smashed-In Buffalo Jump, this journey promises a blend of culture and natural wonders.
Whether you’re savoring wine tastings in Osoyoos or indulging in spirits at the Eau Claire Distillery, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to diverse interests and preferences.
Cancellation Policy
This tour’s cancellation policy is clear-cut: it’s non-refundable and can’t be changed for any reason. However, if the minimum group size isn’t met, leading to the tour’s cancellation, you will receive either a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule on a different date.
This policy give you flexibility and protection for both the tour operator and the travelers.
The tour requires a minimum of 12 travelers, and a maximum of 22.
If the tour is canceled due to insufficient group size, travelers will be offered alternative options.
Refunds will be processed promptly in the event of a tour cancellation.
This straightforward cancellation policy ensures a smooth and hassle-free booking experience for those embarking on this Rockies and Waterton adventure.
Wine Tasting in Osoyoos
On the journey from Vancouver to Calgary, the tour makes a stop in the charming town of Osoyoos, where travelers can indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience, seeing the rich flavors and unique terroirs of the region’s acclaimed vineyards.
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos is renowned for its award-winning wineries, offering a diverse array of reds, whites, and rosés that reflect the area’s warm Mediterranean-like climate and sun-drenched slopes.
Visitors can sip and swirl their way through tastings, learning about the winemaking process and discovering the subtle nuances that make each varietal so distinctive. The wine tasting experience in Osoyoos promises to be a highlight, elevating the tour’s exploration of the Rockies and Waterton region.
Beer Tasting in Nelson
After exploring the wineries of Osoyoos, the tour heads east to the charming mountain town of Nelson, where travelers can savor a tasting of the region’s acclaimed craft beers.
Nelson has long been recognized as a hub of British Columbia’s thriving craft beer scene, with a collection of award-winning breweries nestled amidst the majestic Selkirk Mountains. Visitors can look forward to sampling a diverse array of hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers, and bold stouts that showcase the creativity and skill of the area’s brewmasters.
Exploring the unique flavors and aromas of locally sourced hops and malts.
Learning about the brewing process and the art of crafting small-batch beers.
Discovering the stories and personalities behind each brewery’s distinctive offerings.
Waterton Lake Cruise
Embarking on a tranquil Waterton Lake cruise, travelers enjoy the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by the majestic peaks of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
As the boat glides across the glistening waters, passengers marvel at the stunning vistas of towering mountains, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.
The cruise offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and the iconic grizzly bear, in their natural habitat.
This exhilarating journey not only provides a breathtaking scenic experience but also offers insights into the rich cultural and ecological significance of the Waterton region, making it a truly unforgettable highlight of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Bus?
No, you can’t bring your own alcohol on the bus. The tour has specified no outside alcohol is allowed, so you’ll need to enjoy the beer tastings and spirit tasting experiences included in the itinerary. The driver and guide enforce this policy.
Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options. Travelers can request special dietary requirements when booking, and the tour operator will accommodate these needs throughout the journey to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive experience.
Can I Extend My Stay at the End of the Tour?
Travelers can extend their stay at the end of the tour, but they’ll need to arrange it directly with the hotel or a third-party provider. There may be additional costs, so it’s best to inquire in advance.
Does the Tour Include Any Hiking Activities?
The tour includes several hiking opportunities, allowing travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and Waterton region. Hikes range from leisurely nature walks to more challenging mountain trails, providing an immersive outdoor experience.
How Much Free Time Is There During the Tour?
The tour provides ample free time for travelers to explore on their own, discover local hidden gems, and enjoy the region’s culture and natural beauty at their own pace during the 9-day journey.
Recap
Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada on this 9-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary.
Discover the hidden gems of the Rockies and Waterton region, indulge in local culinary delights, and create unforgettable memories.
With comfortable accommodations, diverse activities, and convenient transportation, this tour promises an adventure that will leave you inspired and in awe of Canada’s natural wonders.
