5 reasons to travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service

From glittering glaciers to snowy mountains, epic valleys to iconic wildlife, no train trip comes close to the legendary Rocky Mountaineer – and if you really want to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime journey, then GoldLeaf Service is the only way to go. With gourmet meals, five-star service, glass-dome coaches and luxurious hotels to bookend the trip, it’s one of the world’s most unforgettable rail journeys – and Canadian Affair has all the expertise to make sure your adventure runs smoothly from start to finish.

In GoldLeaf Service, scenery-spotting steps up to a whole different level. The exclusive GoldLeaf Service double level train carriages offer a grandstand view of the landscape as it rushes past: snow-dusted mountains, glacial lakes, surging rivers, sprawling forests, steep canyons and jagged peaks, all framed by the panoramic, glass–domed windows. From the dynamic coastal city of Vancouver, you’ll follow the Fraser River, traverse the famous Cisco Crossing and Stoney Creek Bridge, climb up through the Kicking Horse Canyon via the unique Spiral Tunnels, and finally cross the Continental Divide before continuing to the mountain towns of Banff, Jasper or Lake Louise. Best of all, train staff provide a running commentary on the scenery as you travel: it’s like having your own personalised nature documentary rolling past your window.

Wildlife watching is undoubtedly one of the highlights of a trip onboard Rocky Mountaineer, and while animal sightings can never be guaranteed, with luck you’ll come away with some fantastic memories – and if you’re quick enough, some stellar snaps too. Spring and summer are usually the best times for seeing wildlife. Moose and elk can often be seen grazing along the train tracks at this time of year, while bald eagles are also a common sight, roosting in the treetops or gliding over the rivers. In late summer and early autumn, with a bit of luck, you might even spot a grizzly or black bear, browsing for berries or foraging around the forest floor in preparation for the long, cold Canadian winter ahead. Who knows – they might even be trailing a fuzzy little cub or two in tow…

Just because you’re travelling on the tracks, doesn’t mean you won’t be dining in style. Rocky Mountaineer’s talented team of onboard chefs serve up a mouth-watering menu for passengers, inspired by local produce and seasonality. You could tuck into Fraser Valley chicken paillard with a corn and fennel sauté, Lois Lake steelhead with homemade gnocchi or a classic Albertan striploin steak with a green peppercorn jus, all washed down with a crisp white from the Okanagan Valley or a craft ale from one of British Columbia’s top microbreweries. For passengers on GoldLeaf Service, there’s the added luxury of dining in the lower-level dining room to tuck into a freshly prepared breakfast and three-course lunch while admiring the sprawling landscapes passing by. In SilverLeaf Service, gourmet meals are thoughtfully delivered directly to seats. One thing’s for sure: this is one train journey where you definitely won’t be going hungry.

Watching the Canadian landscape race past the window is impressive enough, but for an extra–special view, step outside on to GoldLeaf Service’s private outdoor viewing platform to breathe in the clean mountain air and experience the wilderness up close. This exclusive al fresco deck is reserved solely for Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service guests, with plenty of room for a family or group to gather and watch the scenery whistle past. It’s also one of the best places on the train to be when it comes to wildlife encounters: watching a moose or a bear from just metres away is an experience you’re not likely to forget in a hurry. Make sure you don’t leave your camera or your phone on your seat, just in case!

When it comes to straightforward booking and stress-free travel, having a partner you can trust makes all the difference. Canadian Affair is the UK’s leading tour operator specialising in travel to Canada, with 30 years of experience, 25 prestigious industry awards and an ’Excellent’ TrustPilot rating, not to mention an expert team of travel advisors delivering award-winning customer service. As members of ABTA and ATOL, all bookings with Canadian Affair are fully protected, giving you the peace of mind to know that your special holiday will go according to plan. Best of all, they will never be beaten on price. If you can find the same holiday for cheaper, Canadian Affair offer a price–match guarantee, no questions asked.