West Coast Wonders

Start your Western Canada adventure in cosmopolitan Vancouver, an oceanfront, mountain-backed city frequently voted the most liveable in the world. With a mild climate and breath-taking landscapes right on its doorstep, Vancouver is a great base for exploring the national parks and rugged scenery of British Columbia. Try the blooming flowers of Queen Elizabeth Park or the waterways of Stanley Park. Back in town, be sure to savour the top-notch cuisine, covering everything from succulent wild salmon to pan-fried Japanese gyozas.

Accommodation at 4* Rosedale on Robson Suite Hotel

Welcome to Whistler, king of the ski resorts and a perennially popular weekend getaway for Vancouverites. It is adventure galore among the mountain passes, with downhill and cross-country bike trails, rock climbing and even zip lining all up for grabs. In the evening, numerous cosy pubs and sunny patio bars bring a lively atmosphere to the après hike festivities, and the restaurant scene is first-rate.

Accommodation at 3* Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites 

Nestled among forested hills and twinkling lakes, Kamloops is a sporty city offering stacks of fun-filled outdoor activities. Take your pick from the list which includes skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding and snowshoeing in winter, and golf, canoeing, mountain biking and horse riding in summer. Kamloops is a lively place, with numerous restaurants and cafés lining the leafy streets, if you fancy a spot of culture take a look around the collection of vintage photographs in the nearby Museum.

Accommodation at 3* Sandman Inn Kamloops

Head onwards to majestic Lake Louise in the heart of the spectacular wilderness of Banff National Park. You’ll be staying right on the lake itself at the Lake Louise Inn. It’s a romantic spot, surrounded by snowy mountains, a gorgeous turquoise-tinged lake, a carpet of deep green alpine forest and the odd grizzly bear. The town itself is dotted with teahouses and coffee shops, but your best bet if you fancy a cuppa is to follow the relatively easy forest trail to Lake Agnes, where you can sit down to an aptly named high tea and admire the stunning views.

Accommodation at 3* Lake Louise Inn

It’s less than an hour’s drive to Banff, access point to the mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls and canyons of the remarkable Rockies. Activities here are the stuff of adventure, with skiing, ice hiking and helihiking all on offer. For the less energetic, ride the gondola up Sulphur Mountain, then sit back, relax, and enjoy the sweeping vistas from 2281m above sea level. For further thrills, don your snowshoes and explore the dramatic limestone gorge of Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park, part of a World Heritage site. And while you’re in town, don’t forget to try the hot maple taffy, a Canadian delicacy.

Accommodation at 4* Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

Head to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and discover the vibrant city of Calgary, a diverse metropolis that attracts a younger crowd to its well-tended parks, sophisticated restaurants and designer shops. But it’s also popular with families, drawn by a conservation-focused zoo, a fascinating science centre and various sports clubs. If you are lucky enough to visit in July, be sure to join in the party as Calgary hosts the annual Calgary Stampede, a rodeo extravaganza complete with colourful stage shows, parades and concerts.

Accommodation at 4* Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel