Why Rocky Mountaineer by Courtney

I was lucky enough to experience the Journey through the Clouds itinerary in the fall, traveling from Vancouver to Banff. Going into the trip, I had no expectations, as many of these locations in Canada had been off my radar. But by the end of the journey, I was absolutely blown away. The landscapes, the stories, and the experience itself made this trip unforgettable.  I feel like I got to experience and learn about Canada in the most unique way possible. Rocky Mountaineer brings luxury back to train travel and immerses its guests in the heart of the Canadian experience. From breathtaking views to impeccable service, it’s an adventure that stays with you long after the train has pulled into its final stop.  Here is why I think this trip needs to not only be added to your bucket list, but moved straight to the very top.

Unparalleled Comfort and Service: From the moment I arrived at the Fairmont Downtown Vancouver, I knew I was going to be in for an amazing experience. It’s really the little touches that make this company stand out, like the complimentary luggage service from stop to stop—so once you get to your hotel, you don’t have to worry about handling your bags for the remainder of the trip.  For this journey, I was fortunate enough to experience GoldLeaf Service, and I wouldn’t choose any other way for a trip through Canada.

GoldLeaf Service offers:

•  Bi-level Dome Coaches: With panoramic windows in the upper level, you’ll have unobstructed   views of the stunning landscapes. It’s like being in a luxury observation deck on wheels.
• Gourmet Dining: The lower level features an exclusive dining area where skilled chefs prepare locally-inspired cuisine. Think fresh salmon, Alberta beef, and other regional specialties.
• Personalized Service: The attentive hosts cater to your every need, providing insights into the landmarks and history along the way.
• Outdoor Viewing Platform: Step outside to feel the crisp mountain air and capture the perfect photo of the towering peaks and glacial rivers.
• Comfortable Seating: The plush, reclining seats with ample legroom ensure you can relax and fully enjoy the journey.

From start to finish, GoldLeaf Service elevates the Rocky Mountaineer experience to something truly extraordinary.

 Culinary Excellence: While we’re talking about the train experience, the food cannot go    unmentioned. Food and drinks (including alcohol) are all included in your vacation package while you’re onboard Rocky Mountaineer. I have to say I was so surprised by the quality of food they were able to produce from a train kitchen—it felt like eating at a 5-star restaurant.  Since the GoldLeaf service includes passage in a double-decker train, you leave your seat and head to the dining car for breakfast and lunch. We could literally smell fresh-baked bread coming from the kitchen downstairs. You can order as much or as little as you’d like from the menu, and they are great at making accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergies.  What makes the dining experience even more special is the expertise and passion of the onboard chef. Rocky Mountaineer’s culinary team crafts each menu to showcase locally sourced ingredients and flavors inspired by the regions you’re traveling through. The chef not only ensures every dish is cooked to perfection but also brings a bit of storytelling to the meals, sharing the origins and inspiration behind the dishes served. From the vibrant produce of British Columbia to freshly caught seafood, every bite is a celebration of Canada’s natural bounty.  My favorite meal was the pan-seared steelhead served on a bed of greens with a side of fresh-baked focaccia and a glass of Chardonnay! Each meal felt thoughtfully curated to enhance the overall journey and provide a true taste of Canada’s culinary excellence.

 Unique Opportunities for Exploration: If you’ve dreamed of visiting breathtaking destinations  like Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, I can’t recommend taking the Rocky Mountaineer enough. These iconic Canadian gems are nestled deep in the Rockies, and Rocky Mountaineer not only gets you there, but does so in a way that makes the journey just as incredible as the destination. Banff offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures, from riding the Banff Gondola for panoramic mountain views to relaxing in the historic Banff Hot Springs, while Lake Louise enchants with its turquoise waters, perfect for canoeing or a scenic lakeshore walk. Best of all, Rocky Mountaineer ensures your stay matches the splendor of the surroundings by arranging accommodations at iconic hotels like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Waking up to the majestic lake and glacier views from your room is nothing short of magical, making this bucket-list experience seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable.

When to Go: Choosing the Perfect Time for Your Rocky Mountaineer Adventure: A journey on the Rocky Mountaineer is more than a vacation—it’s the perfect way to commemorate life’s most meaningful milestones. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a retirement, or simply checking a long-awaited adventure off your bucket list, this trip offers an unforgettable experience that’s tailored to your ideal season.  For those who want to fully immerse themselves in Canada’s great outdoors, the summer months of June through August are unbeatable. Lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and endless daylight make these peak months for adventure and exploration.  If a romantic snowy escape is more your style, consider booking your trip in April. This is when Lake Louise is still frozen over, creating a dreamy, winter-wonderland atmosphere. Alternatively, traveling in October offers the chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of Canada’s autumn foliage, with the added bonus of early-season snowfall dusting the mountains—an extra touch of magic to cap off your journey.  No matter when you decide to embark on this incredible adventure, one thing is certain: the memories you create on the Rocky Mountaineer will stay with you for a lifetime. This is truly a trip you’ll never forget.

Although a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list vacation, it has a way of capturing your heart and calling you back for more. With so many different train routes to explore, every journey offers something new and unforgettable. Personally, I can’t wait to plan my next adventure with them—it’s truly that special.  Excitingly, Rocky Mountaineer has expanded beyond Canada, now offering itineraries through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains in the U.S. This means even more opportunities to experience the magic of luxury train travel in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Ready to start planning your next adventure?