Maritimes- The Train Experience to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton
Cabot Trail, Cape Breton
Halifax and Cape Breton by VIA’s Ocean Train
September 17–23, 2025
Join Travac this fall on a spectacular trip to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton! We will embark on VIA’s Ocean Train to Halifax, then visit all the must-sees in this beautiful province: Lunenberg, Peggy’s Cove, the Annapolis Valley, Digby, Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail. This week-long adventure includes all transportation (train to Halifax and return flight to Ottawa), accommodation, tours by deluxe private motor coach as well as visits to One Wine Tasting and the Glenora Distillery. Call us today for more information!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa
This afternoon we will depart from Tremblay Road, VIA Train station and travel from Ottawa to Montreal. We will then change trains to embark on the “Ocean” Via Train from Montreal to Halifax this evening at 630pm. We will enjoy dinner tonight in the dining car on the train. Overnight on the train in accommodations as paid. NO CHECKED LUGGAGE is permitted with you on the train. WE HIGHLY recommend bringing only a carry on for this tour. Overnight on VIA’s “The Ocean” Train.
Day 2
Arrival in Halifax
Wake up this morning and enjoy your breakfast and then your lunch in the dining car. We should arrive into Halifax at approximately 6:00pm. Delays can happen, so be prepared with medications required in your carry-on bag. Once we arrive into Halifax we will be transferred via private coach to our hotel for the next 3 nights in Halifax. Dinner on your own tonight. Your Travac Tours Director will have recommendations.
Day 3
Halifax, Lunenburg, and Peggy’s Cove
After your breakfast, enjoy a private coach tour with a professionally guided tour of Halifax, noting attractions from iconic lighthouses to urban gardens, stunning galleries, museums and a waterfront science center. This afternoon we will visit Lunenburg and have some free time to explore. Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – with its narrow streets and unique architecture – is the home port of the Bluenose II. This graceful ship is a replica of the original fishing boat. Your final stop before heading back to Halifax will be Peggy’s Cove. Famous for its lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove is one of the most iconic images in Eastern Canada.
Day 4
Annapolis Valley
Today we will travel to the north shore and Annapolis Valley. We will make our way to the Annapolis Gardens, then travel further west to Digby for free time, lunch ($) and seeing the quaint village known for its scallops and lobster. After lunch we will head back to Halifax, but not before trying some of the local wines.
Day 5
Antigonish and Inverness
This morning, we will make our journey from Halifax to Cape Breton. We will make a lunch stop prior to arriving into Cape Breton in Antigonish. It is often referred to as “the Highland Heart of Nova Scotia” due to its rich Scottish culture. You may also want to try one of the local breweries. Our second stop will be Inverness, with a stop at Canda’s first single malt whiskey distillery to sample some of their award-winning products at Glenora Distillery. Then we will continue to the village of Baddeck, our home for the next two nights. Baddeck stretches along the beautiful shores of Bras d’Or Lake.
Day 6
Cabot Trail
Today our local guide will take you on a leisurely drive along the Cabot Trail, often hailed as one of the world’s most scenic drives. The road winds through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. Along the way, stop at quaint fishing villages, where you can experience the warmth of local hospitality and enjoy freshly caught seafood.
Day 7
Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site and Return to Ottawa
We will depart the hotel today mid-morning with a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site. After the visit you will have time for lunch. ($) After a most enjoyable experience in Nova Scotia, you’ll make your way back to Ottawa. Your Tour Director will advise you on your departure time from the hotel for our late afternoon flights out of Sydney, NS to Ottawa.
Portugal- NH Marina Portimão Resort
Experience the unique beauty and charm of the Algarve!
Portugal’s Algarve province, with its magnetic Moorish appeal, has become a Mecca for snowbirds trying to escape the harsh reality of winter. It’s also one of Europe’s most picturesque and friendly holiday destinations. The Algarve is what most of us envision the Mediterranean to be. The whitewashed villages cascade into the sea. Cobblestoned streets are lined with outdoor cafes, bistros, wine bars, and markets full of fresh fruits and vegetables. The weather is wonderfully spring like and invigorating.
Your Portugal holiday includes transportation (as selected), accommodation (as selected), local transfers (airport/hotel/airport), and the services of a Travac Tours Director while at your destination.
Early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this great holiday.
2026 Packages at the NH Marina Portimão Resort:
Hotel Information
NH Marina Portimão Resort
Hotel Address
Marina, 8500-843Portimão, Portugal
+351 282 460 200
Portugal- Marina Club Lagos Resort
Experience the unique beauty and charm of the Algarve!
Portugal’s Algarve province, with its magnetic Moorish appeal, has become a Mecca for snowbirds trying to escape the harsh reality of winter. It’s also one of Europe’s most picturesque and friendly holiday destinations. The Algarve is what most of us envision the Mediterranean to be. The whitewashed villages cascade into the sea. Cobblestoned streets are lined with outdoor cafes, bistros, wine bars, and markets full of fresh fruits and vegetables. The weather is wonderfully spring like and invigorating.
Your Portugal holiday includes transportation (as selected), accommodation (as selected), local transfers (airport/hotel/airport), and the services of a Travac Tours Director while at your destination.
Early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this great holiday.
2026 Packages at the Marina Club Lagos Resort:
Albufeira, Portugal
Hotel Information
Marina Club Lagos Resort
Hotel Address
Marina de Lagos, Lote 20Lagos, Portugal
8600-315
+351 282 790 600
Portugal- Hotel Brisa Sol
Experience the unique beauty and charm of the Algarve!
Portugal’s Algarve province, with its magnetic Moorish appeal, has become a Mecca for snowbirds trying to escape the harsh reality of winter. It’s also one of Europe’s most picturesque and friendly holiday destinations. The Algarve is what most of us envision the Mediterranean to be. The whitewashed villages cascade into the sea. Cobblestoned streets are lined with outdoor cafes, bistros, wine bars, and markets full of fresh fruits and vegetables. The weather is wonderfully spring like and invigorating.
Your Portugal holiday includes transportation (as selected), accommodation (as selected), local transfers (airport/hotel/airport), and the services of a Travac Tours Director while at your destination.
Early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this great holiday.
2026 Packages at the Hotel Brisa Sol:
Albufeira, Portugal
Hotel Information
Hotel Brisa Sol
Hotel Address
R. do Município 27, 8200-161Albufeira, Portugal
+351 289 580 420
Ontario- Pelee Island, Windsor, and Niagara Getaway
June 16-20, 2025
A passage to Pelee Island and Windsor Essex combined with a stop in Niagara Falls is an excellent getaway. The climate of the Lake Erie Islands Archipelago boasts the highest heat units in the country and the longest frost-free season in Ontario. This helps make the flora and fauna of Pelee Island rather unique.
There are many facets to Travac’s marvelous getaway. You’ll enjoy a Rum Runners tour that lets you understand the nefarious lifestyle of Windsor during the 1920’s. During your adventure you’ll experience Pelee Island through the eyes of a local professional guide, visit a local winery and enjoy tasting. You’ll also stop at Willistead Manor House once the residence of Edward Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker, one of the principle icons of the spirits industry during its formative years.
Your holiday includes round trip transportation on a deluxe chartered coach, 4 nights’ accommodation, 2 lunches, a full sightseeing program and the services of a Travac Tours Director. Early booking is your best guarantee of obtain space on this fabulous getaway.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Leamington
Early this morning, you will depart Westgate Mall for Leamington by private motor coach. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to explore your surroundings.
Day 2
Pelee Island Adventure
After your breakfast at the hotel, we will make our way to Pelee Island by ferry. As your journey begins to Pelee Island, the ferry slowly leaves the mainland and drifts into the horizon on the warm waters of Lake Erie. During this 90-minute crossing, take this time to relax and chat with your travelling companions on the ferry’s open air upper deck.
Pelee Island’s magical charm has been coined the Canadian Caribbean. With summer temperatures that mimic the famed Bordeaux region of France, Pelee Island is a winemaker’s paradise, though you needn’t love wine to love your time on the island. Sand beaches dot the shoreline, and trails criss-cross the island, while rare species of birds soar over it all.
Your first stop will be at a local winery. Here you will enjoy both a tasting and a tour of the facility. Lunch is also included at the facility. Your afternoon will be spent exploring the island under the guidance of a local tour professional. Once we have arrived back on the mainland, we will make our way to Windsor. Your evening will be free.
Day 3
The Rum Runners Tour
This morning after your included breakfast you will be met by “The Rum Runners Tour” acting troupe. The group will take you on a journey through prohibition of the 1920s and 30s in Windsor. This tour includes visits to MacKenzie Hall and Bedford United Church, after your lunch and Rum Runner’s show you’ll be off to Willistead Manor House for a visit. Your evening will again be free.
Day 4
Niagara Falls
This morning after breakfast, you will depart Windsor for your drive to Niagara Falls. Upon arrival, you will have a free day in Niagara to do some exploring and shopping. Your Travac Tour Director will have some optional tours to offer ($).
Day 5
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
On this day, after a free morning in Niagara you will begin your journey back to Ottawa. You can expect to arrive back at Westgate Mall in the evening.
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Quality Inn Leamington (or similar)
Hotel Address
279 Erie St SLeamington , ON
N8H 3C4
(519) 326-9071
Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Hotel Address
33 Riverside Dr EWindsor, ON
N9A 2S4
(519) 258-7774
Niagara Falls at the Hilton Fallsview (or similar)
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Québec City
June 6-9, 2025
August 1-4, 2025
Québec City, built on the banks of the St. Lawrence River at Cap Diamant, is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in North America. It is the continent’s only walled city, a fact that aided UNESCO’s 1985 decision to classify it as a prestigious World Heritage Site. Let Travac Tours transport you on a four-day, three-night tour of the breathtaking French-Canadian heartland that you won’t want to miss.
Travac’s Québec trip provides you with a fully narrated glimpse of the city. With the help of a knowledgeable tour guide, we’ll take you on a half day excursion where you’ll see the Plains of Abraham, Artists’ Alley, and much more. You will spend three nights at the historic Hotel Clarendon, located in the heart of Old Quebec and just steps away from the city’s attractions and activities.
Your Québec City holiday includes round-trip transportation on a comfortable chartered coach, three nights’ accommodation as well as a guided tour of Québec.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we will depart for the charming city of Quebec City. Upon arrival, we will begin our exploration with a brief guided tour, providing you with an overview of the city’s rich history and picturesque architecture. The evening is free, allowing you to explore at your own pace or relax and enjoy the ambiance of this beautiful city.
Day 2
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. We recommend taking time to wander through the quaint streets of Old Quebec, where you can experience the European charm of the city. The local shopping scene is unique, offering everything from artisan boutiques to local craft stores. Indulge in exceptional French cuisine at one of the many renowned restaurants, where you can savor the flavors that make Quebec City a culinary delight. Should you need assistance with planning your day, your Travac Tours Director will be happy to provide recommendations and help organize any activities.
Day 3
You will have another leisurely morning to explore Old Quebec at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit historic landmarks such as the iconic Château Frontenac or simply enjoy a quiet stroll along the cobbled streets, there is no shortage of attractions. Your Tour Director will be available to offer suggestions for those looking to make the most of their time in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 4
You will have the morning to again amble through the streets of Old Quebec. Your tour director will advise of the departure time for Ottawa.
Itinerary and hotel subject to change.
Grand Rail Tour of Switzerland
September 17-26, 2025
Join Travac this Fall for an unforgettable adventure through Switzerland by panoramic train! Travelling through picturesque towns with breathtaking train rides and thrilling excursions, you will see many of Switzerland’s most notable attractions including the Jungfrau Region, Matterhorn, Landwasser Viaduct, Brusio Circular Viaduct, and the Chapel Bridge. Our tour begins in the cultural epicentre of Zurich. We travel west to east through Luzern, Interrlaken, Montreaux, Zermatt, Lugano, St. Moritz, then finally back to Zurich.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa
This afternoon you will depart on your overnight flights from Ottawa to Zurich. You will be served a dinner and a continental breakfast on board your overnight flights.
Day 2
Arrival in Zurich
On arrival in Zurich, we will have a private coach from airport to Zurich city Centre. Enjoy a guided tour of Zurich’s old town before boarding the coach back to the hotel for check-in.
Welcome dinner in a local restaurant (D).
Day 3
Lucerne-Interlaken Express
Breakfast at the hotel.
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel.
We will take the train from Zurich Main Station to Lucerne where we will have lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, continue to Interlaken on the Lucerne-Interlaken Express.
Dinner at hotel (B, L, D)
Day 4
Jungfraujoch and Goldenpass Express
Breakfast at the hotel.
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel
This morning ascend to the famed Jungfraujoch – the so-called “Top of Europe” for some spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a 3-course lunch at the top of Jungfraujoch before descending to catch the Goldenpass Express to Montreux.
Dinner at hotel (B, L, D)
Day 5
Zermatt
Breakfast at the hotel.
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel
This morning is at your leisure to explore Montreux.
In the afternoon, board the train to Zermatt where you have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Dinner at hotel (B, D)
Day 6
Glacier Express
Breakfast at the hotel.
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel
This morning, we will take a local train from Zermatt to Brig. In Brig, board the world renown Glacier Express – the slowest Express train in the world – all the way to St. Moritz.
A 3-course lunch will be served on board as the train meanders past stunning picturesque landscape and over spectacular bridges
Dinner at hotel (B, L, D)
Day 7
Bernina Express, Tirano and Lugano
Breakfast at the hotel
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel
Another panoramic train today from St. Moritz to the Italian town of Tirano. Enjoy a hearty 3-course lunch. In the afternoon, board a bus (part of the Bernina Express) all the way to Lugano. (B, L)
Day 8
Gotthard Panorama Express
Breakfast at the hotel.
Separate Luggage Transfer to the next hotel
Take the early service of the Gotthard Panorama Express through the historic Gotthard tunnel to Flüelen on Lake Lucerne.
In Flüelen, board a boat for Lucerne where a 3-course lunch will be served.
On arrival in Lucerne enjoy a short, guided tour of the historic city. Afterwards, continue to Zurich by train. (B, L)
Day 9
Zurich (free day)
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy the day at your leisure to explore wonderful Zurich.
(B)
Day 10
Return to Canada
After breakfast, we will travel to the Zurich airport for our return flights to Ottawa. (B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
No checked baggage is boarded on the train – be sure you have a day bag for necessities you require throughout the day. The trains do NOT stop enroute. The lunches included when on a train are served at your seat.
For more details on the trains, please click here.
Hotel Information
Hotel Alexander (or similar)
Hotel Address
Niederdorfstrasse 40, 8001Zurich, Switzerland
+41 44 251 82 03
Grand Hotel Beau Rivage (or similar)
Hotel Address
Höheweg 211, 3800Interlaken, Switzerland
+41 33 826 70 07
Hotel Eden Palace au Lac (or similar)
Hotel Address
Rue du Théâtre 11, 1820Montreaux, Switzerland
+41 21 966 08 00
Hotel Derby (or similar)
Hotel Address
Bahnhofstrasse 22, 3920Zermatt, Switzerland
+41 27 966 39 99
Hotel Steffani (or similar)
Hotel Address
Via Traunter plazzas 6, 7500St Moritz, Switzerland
+41 81 836 96 96
Hotel City Lugano (or similar)
Hotel Address
Via Giuseppe Bagutti 4, 6900Lugano, Switzerland
+41 91 222 09 00