When was the last time you did something for the first time - THIS TIME

This morning we were up very early for a short drive to the town of Canmore approximately 20km out of Banff on the road to Calgary. We made our way to Alpine Helicopters. Their primary role is search and rescue but they also provide tours of the Rocky Mountains. We boarded the helicopter and spent 30 minutes flying over mountains, glaciers, rivers and forests. The weather was perfect and the trip something we will never forget. We flew over, around and through the mountains, banking close to the glaciers so we could see them clearly. WOW!!!

A log jam on the famous Bow River. 

We flew with a couple from Gosford - Susan and Michael, who are also on our trip. We were all so awe struck that none of us spoke during the entire 30 minute trip. 

We returned to the hotel in time for a leisurely breakfast in the Bow Valley Grill. Time now for a catch up on our blog, journalling and news from home. This afternoon we will explore the chateau in greater detail. It is massive!

Lake Louise to Banff

After a busy day on and off the bus we have settled into our room at the Fairmont Banff Springs. The view from our room is again spectacular. We are both a bit tired and have a very early morning tomorrow so will catch up on all the news tomorrow.

Beautiful Lake Louise

Words really can't really describe the beauty of this special place. We spent the day soaking up the view and the sunshine. After a leisurely breakfast we walked to the other end of the lake (a round trip of about 5km) to take in the view from the opposite viewpoint. It was a little overcast which was a shame but the view was absolutely awesome. 

After our walk we sat on the patio. The clouds had disappeared and the sun was shining and it was the most pleasant way to while away an hour or two. Not only is the view sensational so are the gardens which are full of summer colour at the moment. It will be a great shame to leave in the morning however we have been assured that Banff Springs is even better. Big shoes to fill but we will see. 

A couple of videos showing the beauty of Lake Louise and the Chateau. 

http://youtu.be/SuLzvOH5fdY

http://youtu.be/lrZfiVtwScE

Lake Louise

After two full but fabulous days on the train we arrived in Lake Louise. The scenery, service, food and accommodation were out of this world. It was a lovely way to travel. Stephen was a little disappointed that he wasn't allowed to drive the train. I offered to buy him a train driver's hat but he declined. We saw a lot of wildlife. Numerous bald eagles and osprey, some big horn sheep, deer and elk, 3 marmots, a coyote and.....2 black bears. We had been scouring the forest for them but to no avail. Would you believe that after two full days and within 5kms of our final destination, there they were, two of them grazing on the edge of the train tracks. The train drove past and they didn't even raise their heads. No one had their cameras out as we were all busy getting organised to get off the train. Our bus driver who picked us up from the station and transported us to the chateau saw one on the way to the station and reported that there had been quite a few sighting in the past couple of days. Here's hoping!!!

Lake Louise is absolutely stunning. I am looking forward to relaxing here for the next two nights. This is the view from our room. 

Rocky Mountaineer - Day 1

Just arrived in Kamloops for our overnight stay. First day on the train was luxurious and interesting. Been on the go since 5.00am and have to be up at 5.00am tomorrow so it is an early night. Will catch up with the news in Lake Louise, which is our next stop. 

Touring Vancouver

Vancouver is a very pretty city and our city tour only reinforced that this morning. We left the hotel just after 7.30 as we were lucky enough to be allowed to enter Capilano Park early. That meant we had the suspension bridge to ourselves. The view from the bridge really is beautiful if you have the courage to open your eyes. I made it all the way across and back - even have a certificate to prove it!!! The park itself is a temperate rainforest almost in the middle of the city. 

We then made our way to Stanley Park to view the First Nation Totems. They really are spectacular. We toured the sea wall taking in exceptional views of the city skyline. 

Our lunch stop today was at the art and craft centre right on the water's edge on Granville Island. The weather was a warm 30 degrees. It was lovely wandering the stalls looking at the wonderful range of artisan goods. 

Tonight is our last night in the lovely old Fairmont Vancouver. We are up very early tomorrow (bag pull is at 5.30am) before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for our two day train trip to Lake Louise. Tomorrow night is spent in Kamloops and Internet may not be available. Will update as soon as we are able. 

Waterfront Road - Vancouver Harbour

Tonight we went for a walk to the waterfront area. From the wharf you can look out over the water to North Vancouver. It is a very busy area with large ships embarking on the journey up the inland passage to Alaska and ferries and float planes busily carrying passengers to and from Victoria on Vancouver Island. We met a couple from Newcastle down by the water who happen to be on our tour. We had dinner in an Italian restaurant overlooking the water. The weather is a balmy 27 degrees and at this time of year, it is light until after 10.00pm. Tomorrow, the 1st of July, is Canada Day and preparations for their big street party are well underway.