The iconic Rocky Mountaineer made its inaugural journey in 1990 and became an instant hit. The International Railway Traveler magazine listed it among the “World’s 20 Best Rail Experiences” the following year and by 2002, the same publication ranked it in the Top 10. Numerous other accolades have followed, including being awarded “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” no less than six times at the World Travel Awards. In 2020, the Rocky Mountaineer will celebrate its 30th anniversary.
For 30 years, this family-owned rail operator has stayed true to its original goal: “to provide the most spectacular and unforgettable travel experiences in the world”. In doing so, they have transported more than two million guests on awe-inspiring train journeys through the Canadian Rockies.
Always seeking to improve the experience, the luxurious GoldLeaf Service was launched in 1995. SilverLeaf Service followed in 2012, to offer another service level option. New routes have also been added over the years, such as the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb (Vancouver to Whistler) and Rainforest to Gold Rush (Whistler to Jasper) in 2006 as well as the Coastal Passage route in 2013, connecting Seattle with the Canadian Rockies.
Today, Rocky Mountaineer offers so much more than just award-winning rail journeys. Packages are available that combine your luxury rail experience with an Inside Passage cruise, an overland tour, self-drive options and even stays at an exclusive coastal resort for a comprehensive exploration of this picturesque part of Canada.
Train by day, hotels by night
Unlike most other train journeys, Rocky Mountaineer travels only by day, so you don’t miss a single breathtaking scene. Instead of a moving sleeper car, you will sleep soundly each night in a comfortable, stationary bed at one of a range of excellent hotels hand-picked to offer the same high level of service you experience on board. If you’re travelling in GoldLeaf service you can expect iconic properties such as the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Fairmont Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, where the service and views from your bedroom window rival those of Rocky Mountaineer itself.
Savour delectable dining
One of the many highlights of travelling on Rocky Mountaineer is the delicious locally inspired cuisine served on board. Each day you will enjoy a hot breakfast and chef-designed gourmet lunch served in the dedicated dining compartment (GoldLeaf Service) or at your seat (SilverLeaf Service). Expect dishes such delights as Maple-cured, Coho salmon or braised Alberta beef short ribs served with award-winning local wines from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley or local craft beers if you prefer. And the service doesn’t stop there as freshly baked cookies and gourmet cheese platters between meals will satisfy the heartiest appetites.
These are just some of the amazing experiences that come with a Rocky Mountaineer holiday. To find out more, speak to a Travel Associates advisor who can help match you with the perfect itinerary.
