Mysterious forests, majestic mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes and rushing mountain rivers – with its unspoilt nature and friendly, cosmopolitan cities, Western Canada is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The best way to travel the vast country is by campervan. You can hire a campervan online from the comfort of your own home and pick up your “mobile holiday home” on site. This way, your holiday starts on the very first day.
From Vancouver to Calgary – the classic Canadian road trip
One of the most scenic routes for a road trip through Canada is the route from Vancouver on the Pacific coast to Calgary at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The approximately 1,500-kilometre road trip from Vancouver to Calgary offers unforgettable outdoor experiences as well as numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the country’s history and culture. Here are the most important sights along the route – let’s get started!
Vancouver
The starting point of your Canadian adventure is the vibrant cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. Nestled between the sea and coastal mountains, the green metropolis is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world. Vancouver offers a rich cultural programme with numerous renowned museums and world-famous galleries, such as the Museum of Anthropology and the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Stroll along the waterfront promenade through the city centre, browse for unusual souvenirs in the boutiques of the hip Gastown district or immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Vancouver Aquarium. Relax on Kitsilano Beach or in the 400-hectare Stanley Park. Take a stroll through the lively Chinatown or the markets of Granville Island to feel the multicultural atmosphere of Vancouver.
Vancouver Island
Before travelling further east, you should make time for a detour to Vancouver Island. The largest of the North American Pacific islands is located directly off the coast and can be easily reached by ferry.
In addition to a diverse landscape with long beaches, rugged fjord coasts and pristine rainforests, you can also experience the culture of the First Nations, Canada’s indigenous people, up close on Vancouver Island. Vancouver Island is also the ideal starting point for whale-watching tours.
Whistler
From Vancouver, you can reach the famous winter sports resort of Whistler after a two-hour drive. Whether skiing, hiking or mountain biking – outdoor enthusiasts will find excellent conditions here all year round. Those who prefer a more relaxed pace can take the cable car up to the surrounding mountains and enjoy the magnificent panorama. A highlight is the ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects the peaks of Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Peak.
Jasper National Park
Further east lies Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Here you can hike through the deeply carved Maligne Canyon or explore Maligne Lake, which is over 1,600 metres high, by boat. Spirit Island, idyllically situated in the middle of the lake, is a popular photo spot. At the impressive Athabasca Falls, you can experience the thundering Athabasca River plunging from a height of 23 metres.
Icefields Parkway
The approximately 230 kilometre long highway that connects Jasper National Park with Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful panoramic routes in the world. Passing countless vantage points, the route heads north-east with views of mighty glaciers and sparkling lakes.
The Athabasca Glacier offers a particularly impressive natural experience. Take a snowcoach tour into the eternal ice or marvel at the natural spectacle from the 280 metre high glass viewing platform Glacier Walk. With a bit of luck, you might even spot bears, wolves, moose or wapiti deer at the side of the road.
Banff National Park
With its thermal springs, the idyllic main town of Banff is a real wellness oasis. Here you can relax in the warm water in the shade of the imposing mountain peaks. Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to take a trip to the crystal-clear glacial lakes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Anyone who likes to be active outdoors will be in their element in Canada’s oldest national park. The activities range from hiking and horse trekking to white water rafting.
Calgary
The culmination of your road trip through Canada’s wilderness is Calgary in the province of Alberta. In the former Olympic city, cowboy romance meets cosmopolitan flair. At the annual Calgary Stampede, the largest rodeo in the world, visitors can get a taste of the western air.
The Heritage Park offers exciting insights into the history of the region. The open-air museum takes you back in time with a faithfully recreated settler town, a fort and a Native Canadian settlement. From Calgary’s landmark, the 192 metre high Calgary Tower, you have a fantastic view over the rooftops of the city to the Rocky Mountains.
A campervan trip – the best way to experience Canada
Renting a campervan gives you the opportunity to organise your trip entirely according to your wishes. That’s why it’s worth taking the road trip from Vancouver to Calgary in a campervan:
- Freedom: Want to stay in one place for longer? Don’t feel like sticking to strict time limits and rigid deadlines on holiday? No problem! Set your own travelling pace and daily rhythm – without time pressure and fixed hotel reservations
- Spontaneity: If you discover a new favourite place or want to make a spontaneous detour, you have maximum flexibility with a campervan. You get to choose your own itinerary and turn your road trip into your own personal travel adventure.
- Pure nature: On your road trip, you’ll get to stay at numerous campsites surrounded by beautiful nature. Spend the night under the vast starry skies of the Rocky Mountains and be gently awoken in the morning by the sounds of the wilderness.
- Maximum comfort: Even in the middle of the Canadian forests, you don’t have to give up your usual comfort. You have everything you need in your “home on wheels” – from a cosy bed and kitchen to your own bathroom.
Roadtrip from Vancouver to Calgary – to the wilderness and back
Thanks to the extensive road network that leads to the furthest corners of the Rocky Mountains and the excellent infrastructure with pitches and everything a camper’s heart desires, Western Canada is a top destination for campervan trips. The road trip from Vancouver to Calgary stands out with a remarkable variety of landscapes, plenty of nature and interesting cities. Perfect for anyone who wants to get to know Canada in all its facets.