Portugal- The Algarve 3 Week Stay at the Jupiter (Breakfast and Dinner Included)
Exceptional 3 week packages:
February 8 – March 1, 2027
February 22 – March 16, 2027
February 28 – March 22, 2027
For our 2 week package to the Jupiter, please click here.
Other 3-week packages to Portugal also available:
3 weeks at the Oriental (breakfast and dinner included)
3 weeks at Turim Presidente (breakfast and dinner included)
3 weeks at the Navigator Solaqua
Travac has crafted a fine vacation to Portugal’s Algarve in the beautiful Praia de Rocha region. Just a few steps from the beach, marina, restaurants, shops, and casino, the Jupiter Algarve Hotel is a perfect choice for a memorable stay. This fabulous hotel features one of the few heated outdoor pools in the Algarve. Your worry-free vacation includes return flights and airport transfers, accommodation at the highly rated Jupiter Algarve Hotel, and two meals per day. Join us to discover the best of the Algarve’s mild climate and cultural diversity. Attractively priced, this holiday is a fantastic alternative to many of the semi-inclusive holidays you’ll find in Florida or the Carribbean.
Travac is also offering a 2 week package to the Jupiter- for more information, please click here.
For more information on our exceptional long-stay vacations between 5 and 12 weeks to the Algarve this winter, please click here.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Canada
Departure from Ottawa (Carlingwood Mall) to Montreal with a Travac Tours representative. You will arrive in Dorval, Montreal 3 hours prior to your flight time. You will fly with Air Transat from Montreal to Lisbon. Our office staff will be happy to give you flight/time details.
Day 2- 20 (Feb 8 departure); OR Day 2- 21 (Feb 22 and Feb 28 departures)
Praia da Rocha
Upon arrival in Lisbon, you will be met by a local representative and transferred from the airport to your hotel in Praia da Rocha. Driving time is approximately 3 hours. Your Travac Tours Director will meet you on arrival in the main reception at the hotel and assist you with check-in. Baggage handling is not included, so please bring your baggage into reception and then to your room. Your stay includes accommodation (as paid for) with daily buffet breakfasts and buffet dinners. Coffee/Tea and juices are included with breakfast. Dinner includes tap water, house wine or draft beer or soft drinks (3-4 glasses per person).
With many of the country’s safest and loveliest beaches and a year-round balmy climate, it is not surprising that the Algarve is Portugal’s most popular tourist destination. The 200km coastline of the Algarve features all types of coves, cliffs, caves, and its rocky beaches contrast beautifully with broad expanses of sand.
Optional excursions will be available for purchase locally ($). Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of the time and location of your meeting regarding optional tours on arrival.
Day 20- 22 (Feb 8 departure); OR Day 21-23 (Feb 22 and Feb 28 departures)
Lisbon
You will be advised by your Travac Tour Director the time of departure today from Praia da Rocha to Lisbon. Your Travac Tour Director will get you onboard and say goodbye. On arrival into Lisbon, you will be met by a local representative for your check in. Your stay for the next 2 nights at a Lisbon hotel with breakfast.
Optional tours will be offered of Lisbon and area ($).
Day 22 (Feb 8 departure); OR Day 23 (Feb 22 and Feb 28 departures)
Return to Canada
You will be transferred early in the morning (boxed breakfast) from your Lisbon hotel to Lisbon airport (3.5 hours prior to departure time from Lisbon). Your flight today is with Air Transat from Lisbon to Dorval, Montreal. Once you arrive in Montreal you will proceed through customs and pick up your luggage. On arrival into Montreal – you will be met by a Travac representative outside of baggage claim area; he/she will get you onboard for your transfer from Montreal to Ottawa (Carlingwood Mall). Our office staff will be happy to give you flight/time details.
Itinerary and flights are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Algarve: Jupiter Hotel
Hotel Address
Avenida Tomás Cabreira 928500-802 Portimão, Portugal
+351 282 470 470
Lisbon: Turim Marques Hotel or similar (February 8 departure)
Hotel Address
R. Mouzinho da Silveira 26, 1250-167Lisbon, Portugal,
+351 21 049 5690
Lisbon: Turim Europa or similar (February 22 departure)
Hotel Address
R. São Sebastião da Pedreira 19, 1050-206Lisbon, Portugal,
+351 21 033 0800
Lisbon: HF Fénix Urban or similar (February 28 departure)
Hotel Address
Av. António Augusto de Aguiar 14, 1050-016Lisbon, Portugal
+351 21 351 5000
Quebec City & Whale Watching
Tadoussac
A late summer trip along the majestic St. Lawrence River is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Sweeping hills give way to historic trading post towns, lively Francophone cities and ultimately the cool blues of the river itself.
Join us as we depart for the picturesque village of Tadoussac, at the maritime junction of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord. From here you will depart on a breathtaking whale watching cruise on which you are bound to see an abundance of marine life. Then it will be off to Quebec City. While in Quebec City you will have enough time to explore many of the wonders of this magnificent city including its quaint shops and cafes.
This tour is sure to sell out fast- call the office at 613-728-1934 or visit us at the Carlingwood Shopping Centre today!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Tadoussac
This morning you will depart Carlingwood Shopping Centre on your journey to the Quebec heartland. A lunch stop will be made enroute. Expect to arrive at Hotel Tadoussac in the late afternoon. Your evening will be free to enjoy the facilities at the hotel. (D)
Overnight at Hotel Tadoussac or similar
Note: Hotel Tadoussac does not have air conditioning, only fans. The pool will be closed by end of August 2026.
Day 2
Whale Watching Cruise
This morning you will make your way to the pier for your 2.5-hour whale watching experience. A qualified guide will give you information about points of interest as well as information about the whales or belugas that you might encounter. After the cruise, you will return to your hotel. The remainder of your day is at your leisure. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Tadoussac or similar
Day 3
Tadoussac to Quebec City, QC
You will have an early departure for Quebec City. Upon arrival, you will have time to enjoy lunch in the city before in taking a guided tour of this magnificent city that is truly “a touch of Europe in your own back yard”. You will have ample time to explore the city on your own. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Clarendon or similar
Day 4
Quebec City
Today, you have a free day to shop, dine, and explore the city and its surroundings. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Clarendon or similar
Day 5
Quebec City to Ottawa
Your morning will be free in Old Quebec. Your Travac Tour Director will advise you of your departure time from the hotel. Expect to arrive back in Ottawa in the early evening. (B)
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hotel Clarendon
Hotel Address
57 Rue Sainte-AnneQuébec, QC
G1R 3X4
(418) 692-2480
Hôtel Tadoussac
Hotel Address
165 Rue du Bord de l'EauTadoussac, Quebec
G0T 2A0
(418) 235-4421
Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest
September 28 – October 11, 2026
Travac’s passage to Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest is a journey into the very cultural centre of Europe. It is an adventure into a land carved by the music of Kings and Courtesans inspired by the music of Beethoven, Mozart, Schubert and Strauss. It is an odyssey along the romantic Danube River from Vienna with its Opera Houses and fine arts museums to the bridges and bastions of Budapest.
Your pilgrimage will be filled with the charm and vibrancy of the Danube valley. It is here that you will experience impressive orchards tumbling from hills along its banks to postcard villages that dot the way throughout your journey. Each city you visit will offer you a different cultural insight and experience that will be both awe inspiring and revealing. Join us as we travel into the heart of Europe and follow a trail through the Imperial Cities.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa
Today you will depart Ottawa on your overnight flight to Berlin.
Day 2
Berlin (3 nights)
Upon your arrival in Berlin, you will be transferred to the hotel. After checking into our hotel, the balance of your day will be free. (B)
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Hampton by Hilton Berlin City West or similar
Day 3
Berlin
This morning, you will be met by our local guide and taken on a city tour. The tour will take you into both the east and west sections of the city. Included are the Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden Boulevard, the German State Opera House, the Tiergarten as well as the shopping and entertainment district. This evening, you will have the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers at the included welcome dinner. (B, D)
Your afternoon will be free to explore some of the great sights that the city has to offer. Berlin is famous for its “Island Museums.” Your guide will explain how to easily get to and from the museum complex. You may also want to visit the bustling “KU Damm”. This shopping district was once the “shop window of the west”. Today it remains a vibrant shopping and dining experience. (B)
Day 4
Berlin
Today you will have another leisurely chance to explore and discover the spirit of Berlin. Join your host on an early morning walk. This captivating city has plenty of opportunity for a new adventure. (B)
Day 5
Prague (3 nights)
From Berlin we will travel through Germany and into the Czech Republic. Our destination is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe- Prague. After checking into our hotel, the remainder of your day will be free. (B)
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Hilton Prague Old Town or similar
Day 6
Prague
This morning you will join a local guide for a complete city tour. The tour will start with a visit to the 1000-year-old Prague Castle. The castle offers an amazing view of the old city. Your tour will also take you to the old town square, a hub of activity in the city since medieval times. Your afternoon is at leisure. Prague has a rich musical history, so some may wish to explore all the musical events and experiences this city has to offer. (B)
Day 7
Prague
Today is a free day. A few options are to visit Prague’s version of the Eiffel tower, or the Jewish Museum. No matter what you choose to do with your free time the majesty of the city is always there. Your tour director will be happy to help you with suggestions to make the most of your day. (B)
Day 8
Vienna (3 nights)
Leaving Prague, we will make a stop in the charming town of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO world heritage site, before we reach Vienna. This medieval town is nestled on the Vltava River. While in Český Krumlov you will have a chance to wander through its traffic-free cobblestone streets, shop and enjoy a light lunch before heading on to Vienna. Your afternoon and evening will be at your leisure in the beautiful city of Vienna. (B)
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Austria Classic Hotel Wein or similar
Day 9
Vienna
Your sightseeing of Vienna will begin with a guided tour of this great metropolitan centre led by a professional local guide. You will have a chance to see Hofburg Palace, the official residence of the President of Austria and a former home of the Hapsburg Dynasty. You will also see the famous Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace. Your afternoon will again be at your leisure. (B)
Day 10
Vienna
Your last day in Vienna will be on your own. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to offer some suggestions for sightseeing, dining or shopping. (B)
Day 11
Budapest (3 nights)
Leaving Vienna we will travel along the Danube Bend, a narrow twisting valley in the stunning Carpathian Basin. Along the way we will make a stop in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, before arriving in Budapest. This evening you will be free to enjoy the magical city of Budapest. (B)
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Danubius Hotel Astoria or similar
Day 12
Budapest
Your city tour of Budapest will consist of both a walking tour of old Buda taking in a good part of the city’s rich heritage, and a drive to Pest to visit Heroes’ Square featuring the Millennium Memorial. On your free time you may wish to visit one of the city’s Thermal Pools. This evening, you will enjoy recounting amazing stories with your new-found friends at tonight’s included farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 13
Budapest
A free day in Budapest is sure to be nothing short of invigorating. You will have time to shop, explore and enjoy the boundless heritage that has made the city so awe inspiring. (B)
Day 14
Return to Ottawa
This morning, you will bid farewell to Europe and fly back to Canada. (B)
To avoid disappointment please book early. Our last similar trip sold out in a matter of weeks.
Hotel Information
Berlin- Hampton by Hilton Berlin City West
Hotel Address
Uhlandstraße 188-189Berlin, Germany
1062
+49 30 4050270
Prague- Hilton Prague Old Town
Hotel Address
V Celnici 2079/7, 110 00 Nové MěstoPrague, Czech Republic
+420 221 822 100
Vienna- Austria Classic Wien Hotel
Hotel Address
Praterstraße 72Vienna, Austria
1020 Wien
+43 1 211 30-0
Budapest- Danubius Hotel Astoria
Hotel Address
19-21. Kossuth Lajos u.Budapest, Hungary
1053
+36-1-889-6000
British Columbia- The Great Canadian Train Experience: VIA The Great Western Way (East to West)
October 10-17, 2026
Travac wants you to see Canada the way it was meant to be seen: travelling onboard VIA’s unforgettable cross-country rail journey!
Your epic adventure begins boarding VIA’s Corridor train from Ottawa to Toronto. You will overnight at the historic luxury Fairmont Royal York Hotel before embarking on VIA’s The Canadian the following day to begin your journey west. Aboard the train, you will pass through Ontario’s lake country, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, the sweeping Prairies, Jasper, and the stunning Rocky Mountains before travelling from Kamloops to Vancouver. Your trip concludes with time in Vancouver, where you will have a city tour and free time to explore at your leisure.
This unforgettable vacation allows you to take in the wonderful diversity of our great nation on one of the world’s most celebrated rail experiences. Canada awaits you!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today you will meet your Travac Tours Director at the Ottawa VIA Rail Station on Tremblay Rd. You will board train #53 departing Ottawa at 11:45 and arriving in Toronto at 16:33. It is a 3-minute walk from Union Station to the Fairmont Royal York which is your accommodation for the night. Located in the core of downtown Toronto your restaurant and shopping possibilities are extensive. The remainder of your afternoon is free time. Reminder that check-in is 4:00pm.
As per Canada Transport the entire group must travel from Ottawa to Toronto. No alternate pick-up station is permitted.
Day 2-3
This morning you will depart the hotel and walk over to Union Station to board the Canadian. NOTE: You are only permitted to have a carry-on size bag to take to your cabin. Your larger checked bag must be checked in with VIA, and it will be stored away. YOU CANNOT ACCESS YOUR CHECKED BAG WHILE ON THE TRAIN.
Today your wonderful train adventure begins aboard VIA’s The Canadian. You will be completely immersed in the single most contributing factor to what connected Canada from east to west.
Get comfortable in your “Manor Sleeping Car”. The cabins for one (with a concealed toilet) or two (with an ensuite toilet) both have vanities, and the chairs configure to make up your beds for the next four nights. The beds are made up while at dinner and put back away while at breakfast. The cabins for 2 have one upper and one lower bunk. The single cabin has one lower bed. A public shower, and 2 washrooms per car, are at your disposal. Your meals and access to the Dome Observation Car are included. Breakfast is first come, first served while lunch and dinner are set times. Times can only be reserved on the train the day before for the following day.
All 3 meals have 4 choices (one of which is vegan).
It is important to note that the train stops about every seven hours for operational reasons. The length of the stop can vary from ten minutes to two hours.
We will depart Toronto at 09:45 and you will travel to Winnipeg. Enjoy all the lakes and the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Shield in Northern Ontario. Expect to arrive October 12 at 19:30. You can put your watch back 1 hour to CDT in Allanwater Bridge, ON.
There is a complete staff change in Winnipeg which can affect your mealtimes.
Cabin for one
Cabin for two
Day 4
You will travel from Winnipeg to Saskatoon through the night. Expect to arrive in Saskatoon at 10:50. There will be a 1 hour stop in Saskatoon where you can set your watch back 1 hour to MDT then onward to Edmonton. Sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery and perhaps enjoy time with new friends. The train will follow a beautiful stretch on the Manitoba and Saskatchewan border of the Assiniboine River. Expect to arrive in Edmonton at 20:50. You will travel overnight from Edmonton to Jasper.
Day 5
Wake up and enjoy your wonderful breakfast in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Expect to arrive in Jasper at 0630 and then depart at 0930. You will enjoy full daylight for this breathtaking segment from Jasper to Kamloops. Jasper to Kamloops is likely the most stunning scenery. Enjoy the Dome Car, the Dining Car, and the Park Car to take in all the scenery. You can set your watch back 1 hour MDT in Jasper.
Expect to arrive in Kamloops at 18:30 and depart at 19:03.
Day 6
We will travel from Kamloops through the night onto our destination of The Canadian to Vancouver. You can set your watch back 1 hour PDT in Vancouver. Expect to arrive at 08:00 am. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your Vancouver hotel, The Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront. The hotel is within walking distance of Vancouver Harbour and Canada Place, and offers wonderful views of Stanley Park, putting you in a great location. After arriving at your hotel, the rest of the day is free to enjoy the surrounding area. Your Travac Tours Director will have ideas of things to do. Reminder that check-in time is 3:00pm.
Day 7
This morning at 9:00am you will depart the hotel on a private coach for a 4-hour guided Vancouver city tour. Upon your return, the afternoon is at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director may recommend nearby activities for this day. This beautiful city has so much to offer.
Day 8
Today you will meet your Travac Tours Director in the lobby of the hotel to get your transfer to the Vancouver International Airport and board your flight to Ottawa. Your Tour Director will update you on the time.
We hope you’ve had a memorable trip!
* Schedules and itinerary are subject to change*
*CN Freight has priority over Via Rail and can delay our arrival times*
Hotel Information
Fairmont Royal York
Hotel Address
100 Front St WToronto, ON
M5J 1E3
416-368-2511
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
Hotel Address
1133 W Hastings StVancouver, BC
V6E 3T3
604-689-9211
Maritimes- Iles de la Madeleine & Prince Edward Island – Spring Departure
May 26 – June 3, 2026
For our fall departure, please click here.
Located in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a green archipelago surrounded by white sandy beaches and dramatic red cliffs wields a magnetic attraction to everyone that steps on its shores. Iles De La Madeleine are the Maritimes best kept secret and an incomparable escape! Renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming Acadian culture, the islanders here have created a perfect getaway with exquisite seafood and fabulous attractions including wonderful museums, galleries, and shops.
Join us on May 26 as we journey to Iles De La Madeleine for a fabulous 9 day, 8 night holiday that includes a visit to PEI.
While on PEI, you will visit Summerside, Charlottetown, Cavendish, as well as landscapes filled with rolling hills and green forests. You also have a chance to stroll along the island’s beckoning sandy beaches with their dunes and red sandstone cliffs. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Lucy Maud Montgomery, creator of Anne of Green Gables, as you explore the island’s incomparable charms. During your tour of this island you will be enchanted by the yarns of our local host as he guides you through some of the most beautiful and colourful villages in Canada.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Edmundston
This morning you will depart Ottawa and travel east along the south shore of the St Lawrence River to Edmundston, New Brunswick. Expect to arrive in Edmundston in the late afternoon.
Hotel: Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar.
Day 2
Edmundston to Summerside
This morning we will depart Edmundston to continue our journey along the Trans-Canada highway, making our way through New Brunswick to the Northumberland Straight, where you will cross Confederation Bridge. Upon arrival in PEI, we will stop for a photo stop near the bridge before continuing onto Summerside. Your Travac Tours Director will offer an optional orientation walk of the area- the remainder of your evening is free to enjoy. (B)
Hotel: Loyalist Country Inn or similar.
Day 3
Summerside to Iles de la Madeleine
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, we will drive along the north coast of the island to the town of Souris where we will board the ferry our 5-hour crossing to Iles de la Madeleine. Meals will be available to purchase onboard the ferry. Upon arrival at on Iles de la Madeleine, your Travac Tours Director will assist in helping you check into your hotel. The remainder of your evening is free to relax and/or enjoy the beach. (B)
Hotel for the next three nights: Chateau Madelinot or similar.
Day 4
Iles de la Madeleine: Cap-aux-Meules, L’Etang-du-Nord, La Cote, Havre-Aubert
Îles de la Madeleine is an isolated archipelago made up of seven inhabited islands in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Today we tour the beautiful western part of the archipelago: in the morning, we will visit the villages of Cap-aux-Meules, L’Etang-du-Nord and La Cote. In the afternoon we have the opportunity to explore the island of Havre-Aubert. Dinner is included tonight. (B, D).
Day 5
Iles de la Madeleine: Havre-aux Maisons, Pointe-Basse Harbour, Dune-du-Sud, Grosse-Isle, Grand-Entrée
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will make our way to the lovely eastern islands of the archipelago. In the morning, we’ll explore the village of Havre-aux Maisons and make a stop at the Pointe-Basse Harbour to visit the Smokehouse Economuseum. We will then make our way to the Echourie Lighthouse before stopping at Dune-du-Sud for a walk on the beach and to look at the brilliant cliffs carved by the sea. In the afternoon we will visit the charming villages of Grosse-Isle and Grand-Entrée. Dinner is included tonight. (B, D).
Day 6
Iles de la Madeleine to Charlottetown
This morning, you will be served a boxed breakfast to take with you on the ferry back to PEI. After our ferry crossing, we will make our way to Charlottetown. Upon arrival at the hotel, your Travac Tours Director will take you for an optional orientation walk of the area. The remainder of your afternoon/evening is free to spend at leisure (B).
Hotel for the next two nights: Rodd Charlottetown or similar.
Day 7
Charlottetown
After breakfast this morning, we will meet our local guide for our full-day tour of Prince Edward Island. Your tour will start with an exploration of historic and modern-day Charlottetown before heading into Cavendish, one of the loveliest towns on the island. Affectionately known as “Anne’s Land”, Cavendish is especially revered for its beautiful red sandy beaches, PEI National Park, and of course for inspiring LM Montgomery’s much-beloved Anne of Green Gables novels. We will visit Green Gables Heritage Place, where you can explore the Green Gables estate and its walking trails and learn more about why Anne of Green Gables attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world to the island each year. We will then continue our tour to the beautiful seaside town North Rustico, visit PEI National Park, and make a stop at the PEI Preserve Company. Your evening will be free to explore the warm island hospitality of Charlottetown. (B, L).
Day 8
Charlottetown to Edmundston
After a hearty breakfast this morning, you will begin your homeward journey. We will travel today from Charlottetown to Edmundston- after checking into our hotel, the remainder of your evening is free. (B)
Hotel: Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar.
Day 9
Edmundston to Ottawa
Today we will travel from Edmundston to Ottawa. Expect to arrive back at the Carlingwood Mall in the early evening (B).
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar
Hotel Address
100 Rue RiceEdmundston, New Brunswick
E3V 1T4
(506) 739-7321
Loyalist Country Inn or similar
Hotel Address
195 Heather Moyse DrSummerside, PEI
C1N 5R1
(902) 436-3333
Chateau Madelinot or similar
Hotel Address
323 QC-199Fatima (Iles de la Madeleine), QC
G4T 2H6
(418) 986-2211
Rodd Charlottetown or similar
Hotel Address
75 Kent StCharlottetown, PEI
C1A 7K4
+1 902 892 7448
Maritimes- Iles de la Madeleine & Prince Edward Island
Located in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a green archipelago surrounded by white-sand beaches and red cliffs wields a magnetic attraction on everyone that steps on its shores. Iles de la Madeleine offers a perfect summer escape. Renowned for their warm hospitality, the islanders here have created a perfect summer getaway with exquisite seafood, fabulous attractions including wonderful galleries and shops.
While on PEI you will experience Charlottetown as well as landscapes filled with rolling hills and green forests. You also have a chance to stroll along the beckoning sandy beaches with their dunes and red sandstone cliffs. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Lucy Maud Montgomery, creator of Anne of Green Gables. During the tour of this island you will be charmed by the yarns of our local host as he guides you through some of the most beautiful and colourful villages in Canada.
Quebec- On the Trail of Louise Penny
Abbaye de Saint-Benoit du Lac
Exploring the Epic Sites That Created the Backdrop to
Louise Penny’s Captivating Novels
•
September 23-25, 2026
October 7-9, 2026
October 14-16, 2026
October 21-23, 2026
Award-winning Canadian author Louise Penny has captivated the world with her compelling mystery novels set primarily in the Eastern Townships of Quebec. Her wildly popular books from the Three Pines series have consistently topped the New York Times bestseller lists and have been translated into 29 languages, selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. Her recent collaboration co-authoring State of Terror with Hillary Rodham Clinton has cemented her as one of the mystery genre’s all-time greats, and this spring Travac wants to take you to the centre of her universe as we visit the idyllic real-life locations that inspire the settings to her novels.
Travac’s special three-day excursion will take you into the heart of the Eastern Townships and to the locations that have been immortalized by Penny and her brilliantly fashioned characters. We will visit the Victorian village of Knowlton- the direct inspiration for Penny’s fictional village of Three Pines- with stops at Brome Lake Books and the Brome County Historical Society Museum where Jane’s painting from Still Life is on display. Your tour will continue with visits to many sites that are cherished parts of the fabric woven in Louise Penny’s novels, including (among others) Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac (the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery), old Hadley House, and of course, Sarah’s Boulangerie. We will also make stops at Elderberry Farm, and Sherbrooke’s famous murals.
Travac’s fabulous Louise Penny adventure will be very popular- early booking is essential. Join us as we uncover the important settings that make Penny’s novels so endearing and the secrets behind them!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we depart Ottawa and travel toward Quebec’s picturesque Eastern Townships. Our first stop is Vitality Elderberry Farm in Lac-Brome, where we will enjoy a tasting of their locally grown elderberry products.
We then continue to Knowlton, a charming village known for its pastoral beauty and for inspiring Louise Penny’s fictional town of Three Pines. While in Knowlton, we will visit Brome Lake Books, followed by a short walk to the Brome County Historical Society Museum. After your included lunch, we travel to an award-winning winery just outside of Magog, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. (L)
Day 2
We will begin our day in Sherbrooke with a guided tour of the town and its famous murals. After your included lunch, we will visit La Station Fromagerie, winner of several regional, provincial, and national awards for their cheese made from organic raw cow milk. Our last stop is Georgeville, where you can visit the General Store, the inspiration for Mr. Belliveau’s General Store, and St George’s Church, inspiration for St Thomas Church. You will also see the old Mansion House, the basis of “Hadley House” which figures prominently in Penny’s novel A Fatal Grace. (B, L)
Day 3
Our final day begins with a journey to Sutton. On our way, we will stop at Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. This abbey was the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery. The Benedictine monks of the Saint-Benoit-du-Lac abbey are famous for and have been making cheeses since 1943. Leaving the abbey, we will continue to Sutton, where you will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at your own expense. Before we bid farewell to the world of Three Pines, you will also have a chance to visit the delicatessen (La Rumeur Affamée) on which Sarah’s Boulangerie was based. (B)
We hope you will enjoy this tour into the world created by Louise Penny in her many Three Pines novels.
Itinerary subject to change.
Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
A Spectacular Escape to the Land of Fire and Ice!
Check off one of your ultimate bucket list destinations this year with our fabulous tour to mother nature’s land of fire and ice! Iceland is an awe-inspiring country with pristine nature, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture with deep roots in ancient heritage. You will be pleasantly surprised by its sparsely populated yet epic landscapes, known for their incredible glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, and active volcanic systems.
You will stay at the 4-star Fosshótel in the capital city of Reykjavik, where you can learn about and experience Iceland’s storied history of the Norseman. Our tour will illuminate many of the ancient sagas from the country’s history that make up not only part of the cultural fabric of Iceland, but that of North America as well. We will visit Iceland’s top attractions on this tour including the famous thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, where you can enjoy the views of its otherworldly vistas!
In your free time you could choose to ride an Icelandic pony, snorkel the waters between the tectonic plates, ride a helicopter and land on a volcano, or simply enjoy the local cuisine and spirited culture of Reykjavik. The options are endless- join us this October as we explore all this fabled island nation has to offer!
This tour is limited to 26 persons.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Departure from Ottawa
This evening you will depart Ottawa for your flights to Iceland (via Toronto).
Day 2
Arrival in Iceland and Tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula
Upon your arrival in Iceland you be met by our local guide and taken for breakfast. After breakfast you will go on a sightseeing tour around the Reykjanes Peninsula where you will discover several dormant volcanoes and extensive lava fields. You will also visit the Krýsuvík geothermal area and “the bridge between continents”. Later in the day you will check into your hotel in Reykjavik for your stay – Fosshótel Reykjavik.
Fosshotel, Reykjavík
Day 3
City Tour via private motor coach and local guide
Reykjavík is the world’s most northerly capital, and home to 60% of Iceland’s population. Today Reykjavík is a modern city with a variety of restaurants, museums, galleries, and theatres. On our tour we cover all the cities highlights, with a bit of walking in the downtown core. We will see the old town centre, Parliament, the Cathedral, the Harbour, the National Museum, the Pearl and Höfði house (site of the Iceland summit of 1986). We will drive past the city’s salmon river and the Árbæjarsafn outdoor folk museum, which offers an interesting contrast to the modern buildings. Our drive continues past Reykjavik’s largest outdoor swimming pool in Laugardalur which is heated with water from natural hot springs under the city, the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum and Hallgrímskirkja Church (whose steeple is a Reykjavík landmark). The tour ends at the hotel or the National Museum (your choice). The balance of your day will be at your leisure.
Reykjavík
Day 4
Golden Circle & Fontana Steam Bath
Today you will enjoy a perfect combination of the hugely popular “Golden Circle Tour” and finish off with a visit to the newly opened Fontana Steam Bath in the quaint little town of Laugarvatn with a local guide. You will also visit the high temperature geyser geothermal area, the Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall and the historical and geological wonder that is Thingvellir National Park. The icing on the cake today is a relaxing visit to Fontana Steam Bath, a natural sauna.
Note: Please bring a swimsuit (towels are provided).
Gullfoss Waterfall
Day 5
Free Day
Today you are completely free to enjoy Reykjavík. It will be your chance to visit some of the museums that make up the fabric of this wonderful city. (B)
Optional tours are also available. ($)
Day 6
Today is another free day. There will also be various optional excursions available to you at an additional cost. (B)
Arial view of Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik
Day 7
Return to Ottawa
This afternoon you will bid a fond farewell to Iceland. You will be making one final stop at the famous Blue Lagoon before heading to the airport for your return flights back to Ottawa. Arrival into Ottawa early morning of October 30th. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.
*Please note that a visit to Iceland entails a fair amount of walking to fully enjoy your holiday experience. You should feel comfortable being able to walk for extended periods of time. Many of the avenues and walkways are uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Ontario- Christmas Season in St. Jacobs and Niagara (November 13 departure)
November 13-17, 2026
5 days, 4 nights
For our November 24-28 tour, please click here.
A magical and enchanting experience for the Christmas season!
Join Travac as we embark on an unforgettable adventure to southern Ontario to celebrate the holiday season! Your adventure will begin in St. Jacobs to experience “St Jacobs Sparkles”, an event where you will be immersed in a village enveloped in holiday spirit. Shop into the night amidst thousands of twinkling lights, indulge in delicious cuisine, and enjoy the old-fashioned charm of St Jacobs and all that Sparkles has to offer. You will also have the opportunity to visit the St Jacobs Market. You will then travel to Niagara Falls where you will experience the magic of Niagara’s winter while taking a coach tour through the Festival of Lights at night. Enjoy a free day in Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore and shop on your own. While in Niagara-on-the-Lake you will also see a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Festival Theatre.
This fabulous holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 2 nights’ accommodation at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs, 2 nights accommodation at the Hilton Niagara Falls, breakfast daily, a visit to “St Jacobs Sparkles”, a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, evening sightseeing of the Festival of Lights, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we’ll depart from Ottawa and begin our journey to St. Jacobs. Along the way, we’ll make stops for lunch and rest breaks before arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the evening is yours to relax, enjoy dinner, or experience the festive Sparkles holiday event in the village of St. Jacobs, evening shuttle service will be available.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Day 2
Start your day with an included breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at leisure in Waterloo and St. Jacobs. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to offer suggested activities. The famous St. Jacobs Market is within walking distance of the hotel, allowing you to browse its many vendors and local specialties. Today also brings another opportunity to experience the enchanting “Sparkles” holiday event with shuttle service.
(B)
Day 3
After an included breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and travel to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to discover the picturesque town known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and historic streets. This afternoon, you’ll attend a matinee performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Shaw Festival.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
1:00pm – Performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella.
Following the performance, we’ll travel to Niagara Falls and check in to our hotel. Enjoy leisure time before rejoining the group for a scenic evening drive to experience the spectacular Niagara Festival of Lights.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview or similar
(B)
Day 4
Following breakfast, enjoy another day at leisure to explore Niagara Falls or return to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Your Travac Tours Director will be available with recommendations and will advise the group of the shuttle schedule between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
(B)
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and begin our journey home to Ottawa. We’ll make comfort and lunch stops along the way before arriving back in the evening.
(B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Hotel Address
55 Benjamin RdWaterloo, ON
N2V 0C6
(519) 514-0090
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel or similar
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Québec City German Christmas Market
November 18-20, 2026
November 25-27, 2026
December 2-4, 2026
December 9-11, 2026
Québec City comes alive in the winter with the very best the holiday season has to offer. Travac would love to take you to Québec City to celebrate and enjoy its famous German Christmas Market, nestled right in the heart of the walled city. The market is designed to recreate as closely as possible the atmosphere of the big European Christmas markets. With its festive atmosphere, one-of-a-kind décor, and vibrant holiday spirit, the Québec City German Christmas Market is truly an exceptional multi-sensory experience you don’t want to miss!
Your Québec holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, accommodation in the heart of Old Quebec, a city tour, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Our packages to the Québec City German Christmas Market sold out fast last winter- early booking is your best guarantee of joining this fabulous escape!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we will depart for Québec. Upon our arrival, we will embark on a tour of this beautiful and historic city. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy Old Québec at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will have plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time in the city.
Day 2
The Québec City German Christmas Market is one of the highest regarded festivals of its type in North America. The city comes alive alongside the market, with its historic streets beautifully decorated and its shops and restaurants offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Your day will be free to enjoy the Québec City German Christmas Market at your leisure, located just steps from your hotel.
Day 3
You will have the early morning to again amble through the streets of Old Québec before departing for your drive back home to Ottawa in the late morning. Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your departure time.
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.