Top Rail Journeys in Canada

By Sally - Silversurfer's Editor Apr 2, 2019

There’s nothing quite like exploring a destination by rail; and Canada is no exception.

Imagine travelling across the entire country in the comfort of your seat as you pass by the most breath-taking scenery along the way. Traverse from Toronto to Vancouver on board VIA Rail’s premier train, The Canadian, a fascinating 4-night journey sleeping on-board the train or cross the Canadian Rockies on board Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world’s most iconic rail journeys, where exceptional service and incomparable cuisine meet.

First Class Holidays are an award-winning tailor-made tour operator specialising in holidays to Canada and beyond, and their 23 years exceptional service and first-hand experience means they will create you dream to absolute perfection. Here are their favourite rail journeys across Canada:

Via Rail

Via Rail

VIA Rail provides comfortable rail travel to passengers across the nation. From the Atlantic to the Pacific they have it covered, and on some iconic journeys too.

VIA Rail’s flagship service, The Canadian, links Canada’s largest city Toronto and cosmopolitan Vancouver. Crossing the Northern Ontario Lakelands and the Rockies, it is one of the longest rail journeys in the world, taking four days to complete.

The Ocean service links Montréal and Halifax travelling overnight 3 times a week in each direction. The Ocean leaves Montréal, travels along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, across New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, reaching Moncton and finally Halifax. The Ocean is the ideal choice for visiting Québec and the Atlantic region.

Jasper to Prince Rupert, referred to as “The Skeena” is a two-day, daylight journey taking you from Jasper in the Rockies to Prince Rupert on the Pacific coast. Travelling past Mt Robson, it crosses the interior plateau of British Columbia with an overnight stop in Prince George, then along the Skeena River valley, covering a distance of 725 miles. It operates three times a week each way.

Rocky Mountaineer

As one of the 6 iconic rail journeys in the world, a trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is without a doubt an unforgettable experience. As you cross the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies, passing glistening snow-capped peaks and deep blue glacier fed lakes; cascading waterfalls and soaring forests, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife – bears, moose and mountain sheep. A journey on the Rocky Mountaineer is a perfect addition to an Alaskan cruise or tour of western Canada to make the ultimate holiday experience.

Imagine soaking up Canada’s soul-stirring landscape from a bi-level glass-dome luxury coach while nibbling on gourmet meals created by Executive Chefs. Sound like a dream come true? It is. GoldLeaf Service is the best of the best: you’ll receive a refreshing welcome aboard toast, hot gourmet breakfasts and lunches, morning scones and afternoon wine and cheese, complimentary beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and gourmet snacks, complimentary baggage delivery to your hotel, sit in a custom-designed bi-level dome coach with meal service below and seating up top and have access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform.