A Sojourn For Open Hearts and Precious Memories

With its sprawling land mass, Canada entices all sorts of travellers for a multitude of reasons. It’s the domain of outdoor pursuits, the home of formidable landscapes and the remedy for soul-fatigued travellers.

Come and experience a wealth of attractions, tantalising food scenes and natural splendours in cities like Ottawa, Vancouver, Toronto and Whitehorse. Harness your intrepid spirits and prepare for an incredible glow-up as you traverse Canada from coast to coast.

Full of enchanting winter experiences, Canada draws adventurers of all stripes. Begin in Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, the world’s longest skating rink. After whizzing around, warm up with a hot chocolate cuppa and try Beavertails—a classic pastry staple. The best part about winter in Ottawa is Winterlude—a blissful citywide celebration with impressive ice sculptures, live performances, and tube sliding.

In Québec, visit its quaintest winter village at the base of Laurentian Mountains: Mont-Tremblant. Go skiing on the four mountainsides, with 662 acres of skiable terrain. Non-skiers will have just as much fun careening down on horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing or fat bike riding on the snow. Gatineau Park, just 20 minutes from Ottawa across the Quebec border, is also worth visiting for its prime winter trails. You can ski, hike, or ride a fat bike along marked routes like Capital Pathway or Pioneers Trail.

In Banff, Alberta, experience cool winter adventures against the ethereal Rocky Mountains. Avid skiers can shred the powder slopes of Banff National Park, Sunshine Village, or Mount Norquay’s ski resorts. Or visit Lake Louise for a picturesque snowshoe tour. Love scenic routes and road trips? Plan a liberating drive along Icefields Parkway for awe-inspiring vistas between Banff and Jasper.

In winter, visit Whistler Blackcomb—North America’s largest ski resort and a playground for alpine enthusiasts. This resort houses 200 marked runs, 32 lifts, and 8,000 acres of varied terrain. Beginners and intermediate skiers can start at the gentler terrains, while marvelling at the lofty Coast Mountains. Plus, ride the Winter Peak 2 Peak Experience for incomparable views.

Adventurers, we’ve saved the best for last. Head to the Yukon–one of the world’s last frontiers–for epic adventures and glowing memories. Whether it’s witnessing the Northern Lights symphony from an invigorating hot spring, stargazing at Watson Lake, blazing through glittering forests on a sleigh, or fat biking on Whitehorse’s frozen lakes, there’s no time for hibernation during winter in Canada.

Besides the beaver, Canada’s beloved national icon, there’s a diverse range of wildlife to seek out. Start your safari at The Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, home to the cream-coloured Kermode (Spirit) bear. September and October are great months to peep at these rare bears, otherwise tap on local guides to boost your chances.

Continue your bear hunt at the vast Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary. Accessible only via boat or seaplane, this serene habitat is one of the best places in the world to witness carefree grizzlies—especially between May and September. For a visit to the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” in Churchill, Manitoba, plan for lots of layers. Watch the majestic bears wander along Hudson Bay from a tundra vehicle. Or catch them sparring playfully from a helicopter ride—a stellar photo moment.

Additionally, Canada is home to one of the largest mass migrations. Every year, over 250,000 Qamanirjuaq Caribou will commute from the open Tundra to the south and escape winter. A popular base to witness this phenomenon is the Arctic Haven Lodge in Nunavut.

If you’re a fan of the moose, attempt to spot this well-loved creature at Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park. Go in the early morning or late afternoon, and find moose lurking in the swampy marshlands.

Whale-watching is another activity to add to your itinerary. Between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the Bay of Fundy lures large pods of rare humpbacks, fins, and minkes. Another prime whale-watching destination is Sidney on Vancouver Island. Plan a relaxing boat trip and see these giants breaching right before you. In these moments, it’s easy to forget the world for a while.

There are endless possibilities to get up close to Canada’s astonishing wildlife. Wear a sturdy pair of boots and prep your cameras to capture these wild moments.

Canada has you covered, from roving food trucks and lively markets to posh dining spaces. Besides the iconic poutine, beavertails, and maple syrup, the country also boasts an inclusive culinary scene with palate-pleasing flavours.

There are quintessential dishes to try, starting with Tourtière. This traditional French Canadian meat pie is made with minced beef, veal, pork, or potatoes. After savouring the pie, try donairs—Canada’s unique spin on the Greek gyro. This wholesome pita dish originated in Halifax, Nova Scotia and is filled with ground beef, tomatoes, and gobs of zesty sauce. If seafood is your passion, the Nova Scotia lobster rolls are highly raved. And for the sweet tooth, delight in good ol’ butter tarts or the addictive Nanaimo bars, named after Nanaimo, British Columbia.

You can sample these goodies and more at various markets and food streets. In Vancouver, amble around Granville Island Public Market. From fish and chips and breakfast bagels to homemade pies and artisan cheeses, there are a good deal of meal options. If you’re in Toronto, the St Lawrence Market will delight both the mouth and mind. Join a walking tour and feast on mouth-watering delicacies ranging from peameal bacon sandwiches to vegan cheeses. And for a one-of-a-kind experience, attend Montreal’s First Fridays—North America’s largest food truck gathering. Dig into Mexican tacos and burgers while soaking in the live summer music.

End your gourmet getaway on a high by visiting esteemed wineries and medal-fetching breweries. At Yukon Brewing Company, pick up seasonal offerings like Fireweed Honey English Pale Ale or Chilkoot to accompany your Northern Lights viewing. Those with an affinity for English-style ales should head to Picaroons Brewing Company in New Brunswick for some of the best beer in Atlantic Canada. And wine lovers ought to stop by Peller Estates Winery in Niagara-On-The-Lake and taste signature creations like Icewine and ultra-premium red wines. Combine this with a trip to Niagara Falls for a sublime outing.

Wind deeper through Canada’s cities and discover swathes of unspoiled nature. From stunning national parks and jaw-clanging drives to under-the-radar gems, a host of secret spots await.

Camp at Newfoundland and Labrador’s Gros Morne National Park, one of Canada’s most geologically exciting parks with glacier-carved fjords. For zen-inducing views, hike up the Western Brook Pond gorge and leave feeling renewed. Elk Island National Park beckons a visit as well for its wildlife, wilderness, and starry prairie skies. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve can be enjoyed any season, but locals recommend watching the Northern Lights in winter. Or pop by Prince Albert National Park in Saskatchewan to witness its free-range herd of wild plains bison. Go horseback riding, cross-country skiing, or rent a yurt for something different.

If you enjoy road trips, Canada’s scenic drives are the answer. Get front-row seats along the 300-kilometre Fjord Route (Route du fjord) and witness Saguenay Fjord in Quebec, one of the world’s longest fjords. For Chardonnay and rosé fans, take the Wine Route (Route des vins)—with a designated driver of course. With over 20 vineyards to check off, this drive will also lead you to quaint towns in Quebec for day adventures. Alternatively, conquer the Whale Route (Route des Baleines) along Quebec’s Eastern coast. The splendid sea views, succulent seafood, and whale-watching excursions will leave your heart full.

It’s wonderful to have Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the Rocky Mountains on your travel agenda. But take a detour and recharge at some underrated attractions. Liard Hot Springs Provincial Park in British Columbia, Canada’s second largest hot spring, is great for travellers looking for a warm respite. If you’re more of a beach bum and want some vitamin sea, visit the Sandbanks Provincial Park, or tour the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario and check out The Grotto plus postcard-perfect coastal trails.

Canada is the perfect adventure playground, with no shortage of endorphin-filled experiences. It’s time to make that leap of faith and unlock memories for life.

In British Columbia, test your fitness at Grouse Mountain. Known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster", this is no walk in the park. But once you reach the summit, the epic Vancouver skyline makes all the steep stairs worthwhile. Then, dial up the adrenaline at North America’s longest zipline: Whistler Sasquatch® Zipline. This 2,133-metre descent will whizz you down Blackcomb Mountain, and over Whistler’s lush forests for a heart-pumping adventure.

Over in Ontario, test your nerve at CN Tower’s EdgeWalk—the world’s highest full-circle hands-free walk. Located 116 floors above ground, this attraction will set your pulse racing. Here on a longer stay? Escape to Blue Mountain—Ontario’s adventure hub and a popular weekend getaway. Depending on your adrenaline appetite, try free-fall jumping, caving, or attempt the only mountain coaster: Ridge Runner. And for winter trips, experience the euphoria of snowkiting across a frozen lake at Thunder Bay.

If you’re in Quebec, a wet and wild jet-boating trip in Montreal is a must. Hang on tight while riding the intense Lachine Rapids on St Lawrence River. Be warned though, the rapids will leave you with a good soak. No fear of heights? Enjoy an aerial tour of the city on the MTL Zipline or visit La Grande Roue de Montréal—Canada’s tallest Ferris wheel—for panoramic vistas.

Alberta has its own array of gripping outdoor quests. Don’t miss the Columbia Icefield and Glacier Skywalk. Board an Ice Explorer which will take you to North America’s most accessible glacier: Athabasca Glacier. Then, muster up some courage for the spine-tingling Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floor observation platform hanging 280 metres over Sunwapta Valley. The prized views are worth it.

Go one step further in your next Canadian adventure. Immerse yourself in Indigenous experiences, lose yourself in an eco-lodge or support delectable Indigenous cuisine. The options to connect holistically are limitless.

For a glimpse into Indigenous life, visit fabled Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia. It’s excellent for hiking and camping but also echoes the footsteps of the Mi’kmaq People. View over 500 18th-century petroglyphs first-hand in a special tour. Or, canoe along the same waterways used by the tribes. Wanuskewin Heritage Park warrants a trip too for interpreting over 6,000 years First Peoples heritage in Saskatchewan. Here, you can linger at Canada’s longest-running archaeological dig or spend the night in a tipi while indulging in traditional stories, and fresh bannock bread. And for a captivating musical affair, join Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival in Manitoba. This dynamic intertribal dance both celebrates Indigenous culture and fosters a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage.

Travelling sustainably is equally important. For an off-the-grid vacation, consider Ocean House in Massett, British Columbia. Anchored off Haida Gwaii’s coast, this haven has a staunch “leave no footprint” philosophy. Interact with the native folks, foray through the verdant forests or nourish your soul with tide-to-table cuisine. The homey eco-yurts at Wya Point Resort, British Columbia, are another choice pick. Here, you can revel in unrivalled ocean views from your circular tent, manned by the Ucluelet First Nation folks. The First Nations-led surf lessons are highly recommended as well, with insights into the rich Yu-klew-ith-aht landscape. In Ontario’s Prince Edward County, the family-owned Everly Inn serves as a quiet country getaway. A therapeutic escape from the city, this cosy stay features solar panels, sustainable architecture and recycled building materials. Decompress unapologetically at these soulful retreats.

Canada is an all-in-one destination that inspires awe and encourages openness. With an enviable combination of raw natural assets, fascinating wildlife, a buzzing food scene, under-the-radar highlights and intrinsically rich cultures, Canada leaves an indelible impression.

Seize these extraordinary experiences, build meaningful connections and ultimately, leave with a renewed vigour for life.