By Julie Phimister
June was all about exploring one of the most beautiful parts of Western Canada. From the stunning turquoise lakes and snow capped mountains of Banff to the wild beauty and peaceful landscapes of Jasper, every day brought a new view that seemed even more incredible than the last. It's hard to describe the feeling of standing surrounded by nature on such a grand scale. It really makes you slow down and appreciate the moment.
VIA Rail Train
Julie in Jasper
Banff National Park
Julie onboard VIA Rail
Icefields Parkway
Julie at the Icefields Parkway
Banff National Park is exactly the sort of place that lives up to its reputation. The turquoise lakes seem almost too vivid to be real, and with snow capped peaks framing every view, it's easy to see why so many people fall in love with this part of Canada. Jasper offered a different pace again, quieter and wilder, with a real sense of untouched landscape stretching out in every direction. Between the two parks, there was a constant feeling of being somewhere truly special, where nature takes centre stage and everything else falls away.
One of the highlights was boarding VIA Rail and travelling through the Canadian Rockies to Vancouver. Watching endless mountains, forests, rivers and tiny towns pass by from the comfort of the train was an unforgettable experience. There's something wonderfully relaxing about letting the scenery come to you, rather than rushing between stops.
We stayed in a private cabin, and sleeping on the train was a real highlight in itself. Waking up to changing scenery outside the window, with a coffee in hand, is one of those experiences that's hard to beat. Sometimes the journey really is just as special as the destination, and this leg of the trip proved exactly that.
Ending the trip in Vancouver was the perfect finale. With its vibrant city life, waterfront views and beautiful parks, the city offered a completely different side of Canada compared to the mountains and forests we'd just left behind. It was the ideal way to close out such a varied and memorable journey, swapping alpine peace for coastal energy.
Feeling incredibly grateful for the places I've seen, the memories I've made and the moments of awe that reminded me how amazing our world is. This journey gave me so much more than beautiful photos. It gave me experiences I'll treasure forever.
Below is a selection of itineraries which feature The Canadian.
Spectacular Rail Journeys
Canada Winter Experiences
Canada Adventure Holidays
Canada Holidays 2026
Canada Winter Experiences
Canada Holiday Offers
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