Three winters ago I enjoyed the winter wonderland of British Columbia and Alberta while aboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
And now they’re offering a special last minute winter getaway between Vancouver, BC and Banff, Alberta.
The Rocky Mountaineer train features Christmas with all the trimmings. It’s a cozy and relaxing journey as it travels eastbound or westbound between the coastal city of Vancouver and the charming ski resort town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies.
Travel in either GoldLeaf or RedLeaf Service, with prices starting at $549 CDN per adult (double occupancy) and $259 CDN per child (2-11 years). The package includes two breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner and overnight hotel accommodations and rail station transfers in Kamloops, BC.
This is a great way to get into the heart of the Canadian winter, as the train travels during the daylight hours. And yes, you’ll even have a Santa sighting (the train meets his broken down sleigh mid-route and he boards the train!).
While onboard you’ll be treated to live jazz and dancing in the lounge car, a holiday bar with such favorites as mulled wine and eggnog and a children’s coach with an entertainer who leads the group in caroling, decoration making and other activities.
Departure dates for the two-day adventure are Dec. 19 or 27, 2006 from Vancouver and Dec. 21 or 29, 2006 from Banff. Motor coaches connect guests between Banff and Calgary, Alberta.
For additional information, or to book a getaway on the Rocky Mountaineer winter train, contact your travel agent or Rocky Mountaineer Vacations at 800.665.7245.
Santa meets the Rocky Mountaineer and boards the train to the delight of passengers. Photo by Sue Frause.