Monday 12 July 2010

Rocky Mountaineer

June 2010


Sheila & Kirk Kemp

We have just returned from a fabulous trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train. We took the train route from Vancouver to Kamloops and then on to Jasper and then by coach down to Lake Louise and Banff. This was my first experience on the Rocky Mountaineer and it definetly won’t be my last. What a way to travel.

We fly to Vancouver and stayed at the Sheraton Wall hotel, many of the rooms offer spectacular views of the waterfront. We were picked up quite early and taken to the train station and from the moment you walk into the train station you are surround by nostalgic pictures of rail travel gone by. Complimentary coffee is plentiful and the station is bright and cheerful. There is no shortage of train staff to direct you or answer any of your questions regarding your trip. We were fortunate to be travelling in the GoldLeaf cars which are true luxury. From the moment your steward greats you and shows you to your assigned seating in the dome car you are made to feel extremely welcome. While pulling out you are offered coffee, tea and muffins while you await your breakfast turn in the dining car. Who knew such flavourful, well prepared gourmet meals could come out of such a small kitchen space. Breakfast and lunch each day were 5 star calibre. There was always a choice for your meals and they were always surprisingly delicious and lunch was served with wine! The rail experience in the dome car is like none I have ever experienced before. You have fabulous views of the spectacular scenery in the very comfortable roomy seats while sipping on your favourite beverage (bar opens at 10:30)....who knew rail travel could be sooooo civilized!!

The scenery in Canada is hard to beat and it is a real shame that more Canadians do not experience it. From the beautiful green forests to the majestic mountains and turquoise lakes; you would be hard pressed to find a more beautiful spot in the world. Our travels took us in to Kamloops where we spent the evening at the Thompson Hotel before continuing on our journey the next day. We had another day of spectacular scenery and the one of the great things about the dome car is that there is an outside viewing platform that you can stand on to get the smells and sounds of nature. We ended up in Jasper and stayed overnight at the famous Jasper Park Lodge which really lives up to expectations. I would highly recommend staying at least two nights here so you can really enjoy the pristine beauty of its setting. Another perk was the elk, who were quite content to forage on the lawns surrounding the lodge so picture taking was extremely easy. We took a motor coach the next day down the Columbia Fields parkway making a stop at the Columbia Ice fields which is one of the few glaciers that the “masses “are able to go out and walk on (bring your woollies as there is quite the temperature drop here). This highway has to have the most magnificent scenery in the world, every corner you are gasping at the wonders before you, from the snow capped mountains, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, overflowing rivers, bears, mountain goats, big horn sheep, elk...you name it and the bus driver is always happy to pull over for snapshots (I took over 1500 pictures). We went from one natural wonder to another...too many to describe without writing a book. Lake Louise is of course stunning and the resort is beautiful, majestic ...outstanding! Then on to Banff where we stayed at the Rimrock hotel which has spectacular views of the valley. The rooms here are spacious, well appointed and the food is fabulous. The lobby bar boasts a view that is hard to beat...what could be better than having a glass of wine in the sun looking out at the mountains which surround you! Dinner was at the famous Banff Springs Hotel. A visit here is a definite must while in Banff. The hotel is a true Fairmont flagship hotel...stunning with the rock and wood and beautiful stately public rooms...what a spectacular backdrop for a wedding! Our time was too short but the trip was extremely relaxing and enjoyable. For those interested in going on the Rocky Mountaineer I would definitely recommend GolfLeaf over RedLeaf service not only because of the dome car and the outdoor platform but because the dining experience onboard is lovely as you walk to your dining car (with white tablecloths) and pick your meals from a menu accompanied by beverages (RedLeaf you are served at your seat – similar to airline meals of the old days). All beverages in the GoldLeaf are included (alcoholic as well) and your nightly accommodation is upgraded. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys spectacular scenery, good food and a relaxing atmosphere. Call me if you would like to discuss a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer.


905-623-3182 or email: sheila.kemp@kemptravel.ca

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