20 Nov 2024

Discover the Coasts of Canada

WORDS by Michael Wayne

Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Canada

Land Journeys

Whether east or west, spectacular natural wonders await across this vast country.

From breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters to majestic mountain scenery and a abundance of lakes, Canada is captivating and expansive. Stay in elegant hotels, visit unique cities and immerse yourself in some of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes.

Canada’s sheer size means it’s best to plan your visit. The iconic Rocky Mountains lie to the west, along with breathtaking coastlines and the Great White North’s distinctive wildlife. To the east, be immersed in the French culture and architectural charm of Montréal and Québec and appreciate nature’s power at the thundering Niagara Falls. 

Here’s a closer look at some of the must visit destinations on a Scenic handcrafted North American land tour as we compare the delights of Eastern and Western Canada.

Eastern Canada

Eastern Canada is bursting with charm, from the cosmopolitan buzz of Toronto and the beauty of Québec to the thunder of Niagara Falls. Revel in its magical mix of culture, rich history and friendly locals for a journey you will talk about for years to come.

Montréal

Montréal wears its French heritage with pride. The city’s culture, architecture and colonial history form a vibrant mosaic as you walk the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal).

Admire the Notre-Dame Basilica and explore the summit and surroundings of Mount Royal, an expansive city park with spectacular skyline views. 

Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal, Canada Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal, Canada


Québec City

Storied history and European charm are a captivating mix in Québec City, the official capital of the province of Québec. Stroll along the 17th century cobblestone streets of Old Québec, a World Heritage site and North America’s only walled city. Walk the fortress walls, discover the natural beauty and power of Montmorency Falls and capture your vision of Château Frontenac, one of the world’s most photographed hotels.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Canada Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Canada


Ottawa

History and modernity meet at the confluence of the Ottawa and Rideau rivers to form the graceful Canadian capital. Located in Ontario, Ottawa is bursting with charm, famous landmarks, world-class museums and a proud heritage. Most Ottawans speak both English and French, something to keep in mind as you visit Parliament Hill, take a culinary tour of ByWard Market, one of the oldest in Canada, and cruise along the Rideau Canal.

Parliament of Canada, Ottawa, Canada Parliament of Canada, Ottawa, Canada


Toronto

The bustling cosmopolitan city of Toronto is home to iconic sights, fabulous food, amazing art, a serene waterfront and a thriving live music scene. Look forward to stunning views of the city and Lake Ontario from Toronto’s CN Tower, which at 553 metres tall was the world’s tallest free-standing structure for over 30 years.

Discover a world of tasty treats and vintage wares at St. Lawrence Market, going strong since 1803, spend some time by the water at the Harbourfront Centre, take a self-guided tour of the quirky Casa Loma chateau and explore the more than 90,000 works that reside at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Toronto, Canada Toronto, Canada


Niagara Falls

The power of nature is on full display at Niagara Falls, one of the world’s greatest waterfalls that in fact consists of three separate falls. Get up close to the thundering torrent on a cruise to its base. Situated on the border of Canada’s Ontario Province and the United States, the Canadian side is often cited as offering the best viewing experience. The largest of the three Niagara waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls, is only truly seen from this vantage point.

Niagara Falls, Canada Niagara Falls, Canada



Featured Itineraries

Explore Eastern Canada on one of our captivating itineraries below:

Toronto to Boston

16 Days

SEASON: 2025

Eastern Explorer & Maritimes Cruise

The wonders of the east

From
NZD
$13,085*
Ottawa to New York City

15 Days

SEASON: 2025

Eastern Canada & USA Explorer

North America's treasures

From
NZD
$15,670*

Western Canada

Western Canada offers a vast kaleidoscope of natural wonders spliced with cultures inviting and intriguing. From the great Rocky Mountains to shimmering blue glacial lakes, picture-perfect alpine resorts and charming harbour cities, this varied and magnificent corner of Canada is an expansive wonderland. 

Banff National Park

Established in 1885, Canada’s first national park is home to emerald lakes, striking mountain scenery and unspoiled wilderness spread across 6,641 square kilometres.

Experience unique wildlife viewings of black and grizzly bears, elk, deer, bighorn sheep and cougars, hike well-maintained trails, go white water rafting, ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain and explore the picturesque town of Banff, lined with fine dining restaurants, bars, shops and museums.

Brown bear in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada Brown bear in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada


Lake Louise

Situated in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Banff National Park, Lake Louise has a lot worth seeing. It is renowned for its striking turquoise colour, breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies, world-class skiing and hiking trails as well as the spectacular Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Stay in a luxurious lakeview room and awake to a stunning sunrise.

Lake Louise’s qualities are evergreen. During the summer months, go canoeing, fishing and river rafting while in winter enjoy snowmobiling, horse drawn sleigh rides and ice skating across Lake Louise itself.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Banff, Alberta, Canada Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Banff, Alberta, Canada


Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering 11,000 square kilometres. Wildlife abounds, from lynx to caribou, and an extensive trail network provides access to the five spectacular, World Heritage-listed regions of the park.

Experience Jasper’s stunning landscapes by rafting down the Athabasca River, enjoying a Maligne Lake to Spirit Island cruise or discovering the top of Magaline Canyon with a scenic drive through Jasper’s stunning lake area.

Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada


Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia is the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest and known as the “City of Gardens”. Explore the diverse history and beautiful British colonial architecture, visit the breathtaking Butchart Gardens for colourful blooms all year round and stay at the magnificent Fairmont Empress, overlooking the beautiful harbour front.

While in Victoria, enjoy whale watching, take a Scenic Floatplane flight to get a bird’s eye view of the city or discover culinary delights on the Eat like a Canadian walking food tour.

Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada


Vancouver

Vancouver, one of Canada’s most cosmopolitan, coastal cities is home to a wealth of attractions. Stroll through tranquil Stanley Park, Vancouver’s first and largest urban park which covers 400-hectares, ride the ferry to Granville Island and visit the popular Public Market.

Explore Downtown Vancouver, grab dinner and drinks in Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood and watch the city’s lights come to life from the lookout at the Harbour Centre, rising 167-metres above the city.

Vancouver, Canada Vancouver, Canada


Whistler

Experience the beauty of Whistler all year round at this alpine village, regarded as one of the world’s most popular ski resorts. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains, zip line over Whistler Valley and soar above the spectacular mountain ranges on a Heli Flightseeing tour for awe-inspiring views.

For a unique cultural experience, visit Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola, Whistler, Canada Peak 2 Peak Gondola, Whistler, Canada



Featured Itineraries

Discover the wonders of Western Canada and Alaska on one of our itineraries below:

Calgary to Vancouver

16 Days

SEASON: 2025

Majestic Rockies & Alaskan Cruise

The ultimate Canada journey

From
NZD
$16,045*
Vancouver

22 Days

SEASON: 2025

Icons of Western Canada & Alaskan Cruise

A land larger than life

From
NZD
$23,765*
Victoria to Banff

14 Days

SEASON: 2025

Christmas in the Rockies

A special time, a magical place

From
NZD
$14,900*

The vast landscapes and unique beauty of Canada makes the world’s second-largest country a destination unlike any other. Whichever side of the Great White North you visit, there’s a world of natural wonder and vibrant culture to enjoy.

Canada, Alaska & USA land brochure cover
Canada, Alaska & USA land brochure cover

Your guide to Canada, Alaska & USA Land Journeys

Start planning your unforgettable Scenic journey, find out details about handcrafted land tours and our frequently asked questions.

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