North America
Canada
Glacial lakes, Pacific rainforest and a sense of space in which time seems to stretch.
Photo: Redd Francisco / Unsplash
Canada is a country whose scale is hard to grasp until you see it up close. In the morning you might stand beside a glacial lake the colour of melted turquoise; by evening you're driving a road where the only traffic is a moose on the verge. Yet all that space doesn't mean hardship: roads are good, places to stay are welcoming, and the wilderness is within reach even for those who aren't seasoned hikers.
Each region has its own character. In the west, Vancouver sits between mountains and ocean, with the rainforests of Vancouver Island and the peaks of Banff and Jasper beyond. In the east come Montreal's cafés, the cobbled streets of old Quebec City and the fishing villages of the Atlantic coast. The art is not to try to cover it all, but to choose one or two regions and let them unfold.
Experiences to consider
- 01
The Pacific coast
The west coast of Vancouver Island around Tofino — long beaches, mist-wrapped temperate rainforest and surf that draws board riders. In storm season, simply watching the ocean from a window is part of the pleasure.
- 02
Roads through the Rockies
Banff and Jasper national parks, linked by the Icefields Parkway — glaciers, waterfall canyons and lakes best reached at dawn, while it's still quiet. The trails suit a gentle stroll as well as a full day's hike.
- 03
Quebec City and Montreal
French spoken in the streets, stone city walls and a bistro culture that surprises many first-time visitors. In autumn the maples of the St Lawrence valley turn vivid colours, though the timing shifts a little from year to year.
- 04
Wildlife moments
Whales off the coasts of British Columbia and Quebec, bears along salmon rivers and, in autumn, polar bears near Churchill in Manitoba. Sightings are never guaranteed, but with an experienced local guide the chances are far better.
Ways to travel
Ways to experience it
Ways to travel aren't separate paths — the best journeys often bring several together.
Tailor-made journeys
A self-drive journey at your own pace, with stays, ferries and free days arranged in advance so you can simply wander.
Adventure & active travel
Hiking in the Rockies, kayaking among the inlets of British Columbia and, in winter, skiing at Whistler or Banff.
Wildlife & nature
Whale watching by boat, guided bear viewing and the polar bear season at Churchill.
Exceptional stays & escapes
Lakeside cabins, coastal stays facing the ocean and historic mountain hotels.
Family journeys
Short drives, easy trails and adventures that children enjoy every bit as much as adults.
Sample journey
More journey inspiration
12–14 days
Eastern Canada: from Québec's streets to the Atlantic shore
Montréal, Québec City, Charlevoix, Tadoussac, Gaspé, Prince Edward Island & Cape Breton
Culture & discovery · Wildlife & nature
14–17 days
Canada — the Rockies to the Pacific
Banff, Lake Louise, the Icefields Parkway, Jasper, Vancouver & Tofino
Adventure & active travel · Wildlife & nature
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