Compare Discover the Canadian Rockies - Eastbound by G Adventures vs Quebec in Depth with the Gaspe Peninsula by Globus
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Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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Duration | 12 days | 11 days |
Price From | $ 4,504 | $ 3,715 |
Price Per Day | $ 375 | $ 338 |
Highlights |
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Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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Travel Themes |
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Countries Visited | ||
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Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
Activities |
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Meals Included | 11 breakfasts, 1 dinner | N/A |
Description |
Discover the awe-inspiring scenery and legendary wildlife of western Canada on a voyage across the craggy Rocky Mountains. Explore historic Banff and Whistler, marvel at the astonishing natural beauty of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier, take the ferry to Vancouver Island, and breathe in fresh mountain air while soaking in hot mineral springs and hiking in Jasper National Park. Along the way, gain fascinating insights from knowledgeable local experts and First Nations people. |
Who says you have to cross the Atlantic to dive into European culture? Croissant-scented cobblestone avenues are much closer than you think. Follow your nose to the café-lined promenades of Québec City, your ears to the music-filled streets of Montréal, and your eyes to the sweeping views of the Gaspé Peninsula on this eleven-day tour of French Canada. Along the way, say bonjour to tiny fishing villages, giant beluga whales, and the grandest of views as you cruise around the imposing Percé Rock and the sensational Saguenay Fjord. From the banks of the St. Lawrence River to the cliffs of the gulf, your taste of the Old World awaits. Sip strawberry wine made from the fields by the sea, savor a traditional lunch at Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site, and visit a family-owned fromagerie in the rolling-hill region of Charlevoix. On this flavorful vacation to French Canada, you’ll say “cheese” in more ways than one. |
Day 1 Vancouver
Arrive at any time.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.
Day 2 Vancouver/Victoria
Head downtown to explore the lush gardens, beaches, woodlands, and miles of trails around Stanley Park, considered one of the world’s greatest city parks. Venture to historic Gastown, and stroll cobblestone streets past Victorian buildings that now house lively restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Then board the scenic ferry to Victoria.
Take a stroll around the city with your CEO to get familiar with your surroundings before you can enjoy the evening on your own.
Day 3 Victoria
Today is free to explore the charming city of Victoria. Wander along the waterfront and choose among an array of optional activities. Discover the stunning floral displays at the famous Butchart Gardens, peruse the Royal British Columbia Museum, or enjoy high tea at a historic hotel. Or opt to cruise the sea in a Zodiac boat in search of gray whales, sea lions, seals, orcas, and other marine creatures.
Day 4 Victoria/Whistler
Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the village of Whistler, host of some of the events of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Enjoy a G for Good experience at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a showcase for First Nations customs, art, and music. Join an indigenous guide on an interpretive walk through the forest, hear how First Nations people lived off this land, and learn about local flora used for food and medicine. Then take part in a traditional tea ceremony to sample teas and bannock while listening to ancestral stories and legends. Continue to the mountain resort of Whistler, co-host to the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Day 5 Whistler
Spend today exploring Whistler and the surrounding parks on your own. Stroll through the village, and opt to ride the gondola up the mountain for 360-degree views. Or choose to hike one of the many beautiful trails in the area, go ziplining through the rain forest, or set out on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip.
Whistler and its surrounding provincial parks are places you must discover. It is also a great place to try one of the many optional mountain activities.
Day 6 Whistler/Blue River
Pass through the Coastal Mountains into the Caribou Mountains on a route once marked by gold prospectors. Sit back and enjoy dramatic changes in your surroundings, the mountains to sweeping grasslands. Enjoy stops at Kamloops Lake, an oasis amid an arid landscape, and the turquoise Seton Lake, a freshwater fjord ringed by towering peaks. Arrive in the small community of Blue River.
Following this extraordinary route, once marked by the gold prospectors, we leave the Coastal Mountain Range and set foot into the arid and dry land of the Thompson Okanagan region. Aboriginal peoples led a semi-nomadic life moving between hunting and fishing grounds in the summer and settling into pit houses for the winter. Europeans came at first for fur trading and later on to establish cattle ranches, farms, and mining operations. The scenery changes dramatically and could even make you feel as if you were in a western movie.
Day 7 Blue River/Jasper National Park
Cross the Rockies into Jasper National Park and follow in the historic path of fur traders on a scenic float trip down the tranquil Athabasca River, encountering a few gentle rapids along the way. Look out for wildlife, which can include bears, moose, eagles, ospreys, and mountain sheep. Later, gaze up at the highest peak, Mount Robson, during a stop at the visitor centre.
Day 8 Jasper National Park
Spend the day at leisure enjoying Jasper’s friendly mountain hospitality. Choose your own adventure among an array of optional activities: Hike to Maligne Canyon, cruise glacially fed Maligne Lake, or rent a bike or canoe to explore on your own. This evening, rejoin your fellow travelers for an unforgettable soak in Miette Hot Springs, where spacious pools of hot mineral springs offer panoramic views of the spectacular Fiddle River Valley.
Jasper's friendly mountain hospitality, peaceful atmosphere, and the promise of real adventure make any visit unforgettable.
Day 9 Jasper National Park/Lake Louise
Pass lush coniferous forests, soaring mountains, turquoise lakes, and epic glaciers as we travel the winding Icefields Parkway—considered one of the world’s most scenic drives—to Bow Lake, stopping along the way to enjoy photo opportunities and wildlife encounters. At the Columbia Icefield, step foot on the lower Athabasca Glacier with an expert guide for a firsthand experience of this active glacial landscape. Continue to magnificent Lake Louise, an alpine lake legendary for its emerald-blue waters.
Along the 300km (186.4 mi) ride, a spectacle unfolds before our eyes: lush coniferous forests, immense mountains, turquoise lakes, high-falling cascades, and humbling glaciers. Numerous stops will be planned along the way for photos, observation, and wildlife encounters.
Day 10 Lake Louise/Banff
Enjoy the morning at Lake Louise, taking in the scenery of the Victoria Glacier. Opt to join a hike to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, following a forested trail past Mirror Lake and cascading waterfalls to the shores of Lake Agnes, where a remote tea house built in 1901 serves loose-leaf teas and other refreshments. Continue to Banff. Go on a walk back in time through this historic resort town alongside an expert from the Whyte Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies. As you explore local landmarks on foot, discover how the construction of the Canadian Pacific railroad served as a stepping stone towards opening up western Canada.
Day 11 Banff/Calgary
Spend the morning in Banff, then drive to Calgary for a day at leisure. Experience the city’s Western spirit at lively honky-tonk bars, go museum-hopping, or opt to visit the Olympic Park, site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, where you can luge down the bobsledding track in a wheeled cart or soar through the sky on a zipline.
Famed for its entrepreneurial spirit and youthful population, Calgary prides itself on being the heart of the new west while honouring its cowboy heritage.
Day 12 Calgary
Depart at any time.
If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC
Welcome to Montréal! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
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Day 2: MONTRÉAL
Magical Montréal After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing with a Local Guide. The rest of your day is free to explore this lively city on your own. Your Tour Director will be onsite to provide ideas for shopping, dining, and exploring. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEM Explore the cultural capital of Canada where the traditional Québécois style is celebrated along its cobblestone streets and grand buildings in European flair. See the Basilique Notre-Dame with its stunning stained glass, the Plateau Mont-Royal and spectacular views of Vieux-Montréal.
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Day 3: MONTRÉAL–RIMOUSKI
Maritime Marvels Follow the historic Navigator’s Route along the St. Lawrence River into the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for an overnight stay in the maritime center of Rimouski. Free time this evening – perhaps take in the sunset over the St. Lawrence River or stroll through downtown. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORY & HERITAGE Explore historic towns and maritime ports as you trace the historic path of the Navigators’ Route - a 292-mile course along the southern half of the Saint Lawrence River through the beauty of the Quebec countryside and quaint Victorian villages.
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Day 4: RIMOUSKI–MIGUASHA NATIONAL PARK–CARLETON-SUR-MÉR
Sea Legends & Ancient Creatures Start your grand tour of the spectacular Gaspé Peninsula featuring panoramic views of the sea, beaches, and cliffs. Continue along the St. Lawrence River to Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site, home of the Empress of Ireland Museum, to learn about the transatlantic liner’s history and doomed fate. Travel through the Matapédia Valley for a guided visit to Miguasha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the Carleton-sur-Mér. (Breakfast,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Explore the magnificent natural world of Miguasha National Park where pre-historic fossil fish and plants tell the story of the origin of the first terrestrial vertebrates, 380 million years ago. , when strange creatures moved from water to land. The park's fossiliferous cliff reveals a world of fossil fish from the Devonian period known as the “Age of Fishes” for a fascinating look at ages of a natural world long past.
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Day 5: CARLETON-SUR-MÉR–BANC-DE-PÊCHE-DE-PASPÉBIAC NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE–PERCÉ
Shipbuilding, Seascapes & Strawberries After a morning at leisure, continue your adventure through the Gaspé Peninsula countryside to Ferme Bourdages Tradition Farm, the local experts in everything strawberries since 1821. Here, visit strawberry fields with sea views and discover the secrets behind the art of making strawberry wine and liqueurs before tasting them. Next, visit the Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site. Later, continue to the seaside village of Percé. (Breakfast,Lunch)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEMS Visit the remarkable Banc-de-Péche-de-Paspébiac National Historic Site to explore the original buildings dating back to 1766, witness the Gaspésie fishing history, watch traditional shipbuilding, and net-mending demonstrations.
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Day 6: PERCÉ. EXCURSION TO BONAVENTURE ISLAND & PERCÉ ROCK NATIONAL PARKS
Peninsula Discoveries Today, discover the iconic gems of the Gaspé Peninsula. Take a scenic cruise around the famous Percé Rock, also known as the “Pierced Rock” and Bonaventure Island to observe the stunning seabird colony and marine wildlife that frequent the region. Visit [LF] Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island National Parks. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITEWILD & WONDERFUL Explore Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island National Parks, home to one of the largest migratory bird refuge in North America. Its colony of 116,000 northern gannets is the most accessible in the world. Wander the hiking trails or enjoy the heritage trail to learn about the rich natural, historic, and geological wonders of the island.
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Day 7: PERCÉ–FORILLON NATIONAL PARK–GRANDE VALLÉE-MATANE
Native Traditions Visit Forillon National Park, the official beginning to the International Appalachian Trail. The park is home to traditional fishing villages, pebble beaches and quiet coves. Follow the peninsula road to old Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse. Enjoy [LF] lunch at a local restaurant in the charming Grand Vallée area, home to quaint fishing communities. The catch-of-the day comes highly recommended! This afternoon’s drive provides some of the best scenery of the peninsula with soaring cliffs, lighthouses, and expansive views of the St. Lawrence River. Late afternoon arrival in Matane, the hub of Gaspé’s thriving shrimp industry. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS The village of Grande-Vallée has an exceptional geographic location. Discover this picturesque village, tied to an ever present natural world. Nestled between sea and mountains, Grande-Vallée will surprise you with its grandiose panorama and excite your taste buds with local specialites served with an included lunch.
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Day 8: MATANE–QUÉBEC CITY
A Walk in the Garden Visit the famous [LF] Les Jardins De Métis, better known as the Reford Gardens. Continue your journey to romantic Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for being one of the most historic and best-preserved cities in North America. Tonight, explore Québec’s Parisian ambiance by visiting the shops in the Petit-Champlain district or enjoying the French inspired cuisine at one of the many restaurants. (Breakfast)
LOCAL FAVORITE BEAUTIFUL BY NATURE Few gardens have been built under such adverse atmospheric conditions as the stunning Les Jardins De Métis. These thoughtfully designed gardens (also called Reford Gardens) were built from 1926 to 1958 by innovator and horticulturist Elsie Reford, who spent thirty years transforming a fishing camp on the Métis River into a vast 40-acre estate garden brimming with bold and innovative character. Stroll amid some 3,000 plant varieties, including the famous Himalayan blue poppy, as part of 15 gardens in a naturally beautiful botanical wonderland. Spend time exploring the many areas of the gardens, such as the Linear Garden, the Stream Garden, or Bird Garden specifically designed to attract many varieties of birds.
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Day 9: QUÉBEC CITY. EXCURSION TO THE SAGUENAY FJORD & CHARLÉVOIX REGION
Whale Tales & Traditional Tastes Travel along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River to the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord to embark on a [LF] whale-watching cruise in the heart of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. En route back to Québec City, stop in the Charlévoix region, known as a thriving culinary destination. Here, visit a family owned traditional [LF] fromagerie (cheese factory) with tasting. (Breakfast)
LOCAL FAVORITEWILD BEAUTIES Embark on a fantastic adventure on the spectacular waters of Saguenay Fjord. Board your whale-watching cruise in the stunning Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, known for having the greatest variety of whale species on earth. On board, a naturalist guide will introduce you to the marine mammals of the area including the endangered species: the blue whale and the St. Lawrence beluga whale. Another favorite experience we share is a stop in the exquisite setting of the Charlévoix region to visit a family-owned fromagerie (cheese factory). Learn the art of cheese making with a tasting of traditional artisan cheeses.
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Day 10: QUÉBEC CITY
French-Canadian Treasures Tour the only walled city north of Mexico with a Local Guide. Tonight, travel to Ile D’Orléans to enjoy a delightful farewell dinner at a fine restaurant housed in a restored 17th-century flour mill. (Breakfast,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS Explore the beautiful city of Québec to see the Place d’Armes, the Laval Seminary, the star-plan Citadelle, and the Place Royale. Also see the Old-world houses crowding the narrow streets in Lower Town by the St. Lawrence River, and the historic Plains of Abraham in the French-founded city, port, and capital of Canada’s Québec province. One of the oldest cities in Canada— Québec City retains more than 400 years of tradition, architecture, and Old-World charm in the only remaining walled city in North America. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a romantic city of narrow cobblestone streets, stone buildings, fortifications, and rich French-Canadian culture and cuisine. Take in the city’s splendid views of the surrounding landscape and unique character, which prompted Charles Dickens to call it the “Gibraltar of North America.”
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Day 11: QUÉBEC CITY–MONTRÉAL
Safe travels until we meet again! Morning drive to Montréal. Your vacation ends at the Montréal Trudeau International Airport or the Montréal tour hotel for those with post-nights. Schedule departure flights from Montréal Trudeau International after 3:30 pm. Want to explore more in Montreal? Additional nights are available for purchase. (Breakfast)
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