Ireland: Shamrock Adventure- The North and South of Ireland
May 17-29, 2026
It is often said that each day in Ireland is like a festival. Ireland is, after all, a country bustling with activity. Activity that ranges from cultural to traditional and from music to theatre and dance. Ireland is also a country of ancient landscapes that are ever changing. In fact, it is a country that boasts “40 shades of green”.
Join us on a delightful journey to the Emerald Isle. Your visit will take you to some of Ireland’s most treasured landmarks: You will visit Dublin; Blarney Castle, famous for its Blarney Stone; and the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. You will even visit Galway Bay!
You will also journey into Northern Ireland with visits to Belfast, famous for its Titanic museum, enjoy a drive along Northern Ireland’s famous coastal route and Giant Causeway. Your holiday will also take you to Derry, Londonderry and Donegal.
During your vacation, you will be accommodated in 3 or 4 star hotels. Previous tours to Ireland sold out very quickly. Booking early therefore is your only guarantee of space on this adventure!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Ireland
This afternoon you will depart on your overnight flights from Ottawa to Dublin.
Day 2
Dublin Airport to Kilkenny
Céad míle fáilte – “One Hundred Thousand Welcomes” to Ireland!
Upon your arrival in Dublin, you will be met by your local driver/guide.
Your destination today is Kilkenny City. Located in the heart if Ireland’s Ancient East, the medieval city of Kilkenny is named after a 6th century monk called Saint Canice. His memory lives on in the beautifully preserved St. Canice’s Cathedral built overlooking the city in the 13th century.
Visit Kilkenny Castle – The Normans arrived in the 12th century and their legacy remains in the superb and fully restored Kilkenny Castle and in the thriving and cosmopolitan merchant city. The 17th century was a time of great social and political turmoil for Kilkenny. It was the seat of national parliament for a six-year period. The famous Oliver Cromwell invaded the city in 1650, and Kilkenny College was attended by such luminaries as Jonathan Swift and Bishop Berkeley. (D)
Overnight in Kilkenny at Ormonde Hotel (or similar)
Day 3
Midleton & Waterford
This morning, you will travel to Waterford with an included tour. Waterford is one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic cities. The walled city withstood siege on several occasions in the past but fell to the Normans in 1170 AD. It prospered under the Normans and emerged as the second city of Ireland after Dublin. The city was the chief port of Ireland throughout the Middle Ages.
This afternoon, visit the Jameson Experience at the Old Midleton Distillery, Co Cork. The original buildings at the Middleton Distillery date back as far as the 1800s and were used to mature Cork Distillery Whiskey (now known as Paddy Whiskey). Visitors come face to face with original kilns and pot stills from that time and explore warehouses that have matured whiskey for more than 2 centuries. Enjoy a signature drink of Jameson at the end of the tour. (B)
Overnight in Kinsale at Actons Hotel (or similar)
Day 4
Blarney
You will enjoy a panoramic tour of Cork and learn the history of Ireland’s third city known as the Rebel City. The city’s origins lie early in the seventh century when St. Finbarr, founder and patron saint, founded a small monastic community close to where Gilabbey Street now stands, and it grew into an extensive and wealthy establishment. It attracted the attention of the Viking sea-pirates who raided and burned the infant city but returned in later years to settle and trade. The Anglo-Norman invasion in 1172 resulted in both the Danish lords and local MacCarthy chiefs having to submit to Henry II, but Cork has always had a reputation for independence and stubborn resistance – it came to be known as “Rebel Cork”.
Then visit Blarney and the Blarney Stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it! The word ‘Blarney’ means pleasant talk, intended to deceive without offending. The battlements crowning the castle keep are typically Irish in form. Having climbed more than 100 steps, the famous Stone is set in the wall below the parapet, and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards from the parapet walk of the battlements. You can also visit the Blarney Woolen mills for some fine quality Irish produce. (B)
Overnight in Tralee at Brandon Hotel (or similar)
Day 5
Scenic Tour Around the Dingle Peninsula
Our first stop will be in Dingle. Dingle is a small port town on southwest Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, known for its rugged scenery, trails and sandy beaches. It is one of the most picturesque parts of Ireland.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to Tralee and the rest of the day will be at your leisure. (B)
Overnight in Tralee at Brandon Hotel (or similar)
Day 6
Cliffs of Moher, and the Burren
This morning, depart for the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 600ft above the ground at their highest point and 5 miles long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara.
Travel through the Burren – The Burren takes its name from the Irish word ‘bhoireann’ meaning, ‘a stony place’ or ‘a rocky place’, which is a good description for this 350 sq. kilometers limestone plateau in North Clare. The rough, intriguing and attractive landscape was formed 320 million years ago under a tropical sea. Later it was shaped by ice, hard weather and, of course, man and his beasts. The many wedge tombs and megalithic tombs (such as Poulnabrone dolmen, also known as Poll na Brón) prove that people have been living in the Burren for more than 5000 years. (B, D)
Overnight in Galway at Ardilaun Hotel (or similar)
Day 7
Connemara Tour
Today you can explore some of the beautiful countryside of Connemara, with its rolling hills, flowing rivers and coastal landscapes. Connemara is a wild and beautiful region of mountains, lakes, tumbling streams, undulating bogs, unspoiled beaches and panoramic views. It is a Gaelic-speaking region and has attracted many artisans, who can be visited at work in their studios. The centre of Connemara is composed of mountain peaks, the Twelve Bens or Pins, which culminate in Benbaun. The sharp grey peaks of quartzite rock which is resistant to weathering are too steep and hard to be clothed in blanket bog. The region is now largely uninhabited, although in the past the more fertile lowlands were cultivated, and the uplands were used as pasture for cattle and sheep.
Stop and visit Kylemore Abbey & Gardens. Kylemore Abbey is the only home of the Benedictine nuns in Ireland. The Abbey was acquired by the nuns in 1920. Set in the heart of Connemara, this unique Abbey offers the warmth and hospitality of its peaceful environs. Its enchanting history is interpreted in detail in rooms at the Abbey. It was originally built by Mitchell Henry, M.P., for County Galway (a native of Manchester city) as a gift for his wife. The Gothic Church, set in the grounds of the Abbey, is the jewel in the crown of Kylemore. It has been lovingly restored, and no visit would be complete without seeing it. Explore the magical 6-acre Victorian walled garden, where Victorian varieties of flowers and vegetables are grown. Vegetables and herbs from the garden are used in the café where they offer traditional home cooked food made to the recipes of the Benedictine nuns. (B)
Overnight in Galway at Ardilaun Hotel (or similar)
Day 8
Londonderry & Donegal
After breakfast we will begin our journey to Northern Ireland. Our first stop en route will be in Donegal. Donegal was voted the coolest place on the planet by National Geographic Traveler in 2017. This is because of its rugged interior; remote mountain passes and shimmering lakes.
Our next stop will be in Londonderry. This town is the only completely walled city left in Ireland. It has also played a big role in Northern Ireland’s troubled past. You will enjoy a guided walk along the walls of Derry. (B)
Overnight in Derry at City Hotel Derry – soon to be Doubletree by Hilton Derry~Londonderry (or similar)
Day 9
Costal Route & Giant’s Causeway
This morning, we will follow Northern Ireland’s famous coastal route and Giant’s Causeway. Considered to be one of the top scenic drives in Great Britain, this 212-kilometer route winds along the craggy coast of Northern Ireland. Stretching from Belfast all the way to Derry, the Causeway Coastal Route leads to castles, cliff walks, beaches, waterfalls, Game of Thrones filming locations and other scenic locales.
On arrival in Belfast, visit the Titanic Belfast. This museum is the world’s largest RMS Titanic visitor attraction, comprising nine interpretive and interactive galleries focused on the short history of the famous ship. Its exhibits fill six floors and include interactive discovery zones, full-scale reconstructions with special effects and real-life accounts from survivors of the tragic wreck. Highlights include the Ocean Exploration Centre with live links to modern underwater explorations and the luxurious Titanic Banqueting Hall. (B)
Overnight in Belfast at Hilton Belfast (or similar)
Day 10
Belfast
Free day in Belfast – Your Travac Tours Director can assist you with ideas on what to do.
Overnight in Belfast at Hilton Belfast (or similar)
Day 11
Dublin
This morning, we will make our way to Dublin. After free time for lunch, we will have a city tour of Dublin before being taken to our hotel. (B)
Overnight in Dublin at Buswells Hotel (or similar)
Day 12
Dublin
Free day in Dublin- Your Travac Tours Director can assist you with ideas on what to do.
Dublin is a lively capital city that’s as intimate as a village and as friendly as your local Irish pub. With its seamless blend of classic visitor sights, excellent social scene and the natural playgrounds of Dublin Bay and the Dublin Mountains framing it on all sides, this laidback city is an adventure in itself. (B)
Overnight in Dublin at Buswells Hotel (or similar)
Day 13
Ireland to Ottawa
Alas it is time to depart. The driver will transfer the group to Dublin Airport and depart for return flights to Ottawa. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.
UK ETA Information:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Apply for an ETA- The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app:
Help with the app:
You can read the guide on using the UK ETA app.
Hotel Information
Kilkenny Ormonde or similar
Hotel Address
Ormonde St, Gardens,Kilkenny, Ireland
+353 56 775 0200
Buswells Hotel or similar
Hotel Address
27 Molesworth StDublin, Ireland
+353 1 614 6500
Actons Hotel (Kinsale) or similar
Hotel Address
Pier Rd, DromderrigKinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland
+353 21 477 9900
Brandon Hotel (Tralee) or similar
Hotel Address
Prince's StTralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland
V92 PVK6
+353 66 712 3333
Ardilaun Hotel (Galway) or similar
Hotel Address
Taylor's Hill RdGalway, Ireland
H91 H29F
+353 91 521 433
Hilton Belfast (or similar)
Hotel Address
4 Lanyon PlBelfast, Ireland
BT1 3LP
+44 28 9027 7000
City Hotel Derry – soon to be Doubletree by Hilton Derry~Londonderry (or similar)
Hotel Address
Queens QuayLondonderry , UK
BT48 7AS
+44 28 7136 5800
British Columbia- The Great Canadian Train Experience: VIA The Great Western Way (East to West)
April 18-25, 2026
April 25-May 2, 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 1145 and arriving in Toronto at 1633. 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 at 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 CHECK 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 0945 and you will travel to Winnipeg. Enjoy all the lakes and the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Shield in Northern Ontario. Expect to arrive April 21 at 1930. You can put your watch back 1 hour to CST 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 during the night. Expect to arrive in Saskatoon at 1050. There will be a 1 hour stop in Saskatoon where you can set your watch back 1 hour to MST 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 2050.
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 MST in Jasper.
Expect to arrive in Kamloops at 1830 and depart at 1903.
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 PST in Vancouver. Expect to arrive at 0800. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your Vancouver hotel The Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront. Within walking distance to Vancouver Harbour and Canada Place with wonderful views of Stanley Park you are very well situated. 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 city tour. Your afternoon is at your leisure. You may wish to visit Gastown, a lovely walk in Stanley Park or make your way to Granville Island. 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 guide 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
September 21-28, 2025
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 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.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Charlottetown
This morning you will depart Ottawa Airport for your flights to Charlottetown. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Day 2
Charlottetown
This morning, we will be met by our local guide for a motorcoach tour of this appealing island. We will start off with a tour of Historic Charlottetown. Next, we will be off to Anne’s Land. Your journey will take you to Cavendish, one of the prettiest towns on the island. The fictional redheaded Anne of Green Gables is everywhere in this area. When the novel Anne of Green Gables was first published in 1908, most people could only dream of visiting its magical setting. Your visit will take you to Green Gables heritage site. Green Gables, part of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Cavendish National Historic Site, is famous around the world as the inspiration for the setting in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic tale of fiction. We will also visit PEI Preserve Company, North Rustico, and PEI National Park.
Lunch will be at Chez Yvonne at 12:15pm
Day 3
Charlottetown
Today is a free day. Your Travac Tours director will have suggestions for optional tours.
Day 4
Charlottetown to Iles de la Madeleine
After a leisurely breakfast, you’re off to Souris for the ferry crossing to Iles de la Madeleine. Our route to the ferry will take us along the north coast of PEI. Dinner will be available to be purchased onboard the ferry during your 5-hour crossing.
Day 5
Iles de la Madeleine
The Îles de la Madeleine is an isolated archipelago made up of seven inhabited islands in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Six of these islands are linked by the main road, Route 199, while the seventh, Entry Island, is only accessible by boat. The total population of the islands is under 15,000. While on the islands you enjoy a complete change of pace. Today we toured the western part of the archipelago. In the morning, our tour guide & coach will pick us up and 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 at the hotel at 6:30pm.
Day 6
Iles de la Madeleine
Today we tour the eastern part of the islands. In the morning, we explore the village of Havre-aux Maisons and make a stop at the Pointe-Basse Harbour to visit the herring 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 a look at the brilliant cliffs carved by the sea. In the afternoon we will visit the villages of Grosse-Isle and Grand-Entrée.
Dinner is included tonight at Domaine du Vieux Couvent at 5:30pm.
Day 7
Iles de la Madeleine
Today is a free day- your Travac Tours director will have suggestions for optional tours.
Day 8
Iles de la Madeleine to Ottawa
After a hearty breakfast, you will begin your homeward journey. Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your transfer time to the airport for your return flights back to Ottawa. (B)
Hotel Information
Chateau Madelinot
Hotel Address
323 QC-199Fatima (Iles de la Madeleine), QC
G4T 2H6
(418) 986-2211
Rodd Charlottetown
Hotel Address
75 Kent StCharlottetown, PEI
C1A 7K4
+1 902 892 7448
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
Malta with Paris
Extraordinary 3 week holidays:
February 9- March 3, 2026
March 3-26, 2026
A lovely year-round climate, 7000 years of history, and a Mediterranean lifestyle that is second to none. Discover Malta, the hidden gem of the Mediterranean!
Malta is a small island in the middle of the Mediterranean with a rich history and tranquil ambience that summons tourists from around the world. Its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, unique heritage, and warm hospitality make Malta the true gem of the Mediterranean and an unforgettable bucket list destination.
History lovers will be in their element in Malta, discovering ancient temples, underground necropolises, and other man-made structures older than the Egyptian pyramids, some of which date back 7000 years. Due to Malta’s geographical position, it has been of great strategic significance over the centuries and is dotted with fortified cities, defensive walls and towers, as well as an excellent National War Museum. The Canadian Air Force played a significant role in Malta in World War II, during the island’s darkest days.
Malta’s historic 17th century capital, Valletta, is known for its stunning Baroque architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has over 300 monuments each with special significance. Further north, the breathtaking golden vistas and calm turquoise waters of Golden Bay provide a serene, relaxing escape to city life. Mdina, the “Silent City”, with its medieval fortress and astonishing views allows you to step back in time while exploring its charming alleys and archeological sites, while the caverns of the Blue Grotto and the historic fishing village of Marsaxlokk provide the opportunity to discover the diverse maritime culture that exists on this extraordinary island.
Travac wants you to enjoy all of these attractions and many more while basking in Malta’s gorgeous balmy weather on this fabulous holiday!
Hotel Information
Doubletree by Hilton Malta St. Paul’s Bay or similar
Hotel Address
St Paul's Bay SPB 2402St Paul's Bay, Malta
+356 2355 2355
AX Odycy or similar (March 3 departure)
Hotel Address
Dawret Il - Qawra, San Pawl il-Baħar SPB 1902, Malta
+356 2354 3000
Novotel Paris Les Halles or similar (Malta with Paris)
Hotel Address
8 Pl. Marguerite de Navarre, 75001Paris, France
01 42 21 31 31
Ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (return night, Malta with Paris option)
Hotel Address
Paris Charles de Gaulle Arpt, 1 Bis Rue De La Haye Accès Gps / Tremblay-En-France, Roissypole, Cs 20009, 93290Roissy-en-France, France
01 70 03 14 00
Spain- Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol region of southern Spain is remarkable for its diverse landscapes, fabulous beaches and coastal sites as well as a wealth of small villages that dot the shore line. This Mediterranean coastline is one of Europe’s most beautiful holiday destinations. Villages have grown into robust towns with great restaurants, shopping and nightlife. The area’s history dates back thousands of years and it has developed a unique and warm culture that defines the region.
Travac is pleased to be offering exceptional new packages to the Costa del Sol region of Spain for 2025 that include perfectly located deluxe accommodations in Benalmádena and the services of a local guide while at your destination.
Attractively priced, space is sure to sell out quickly- early booking is your best guarantee of enjoying this fabulous holiday.
Hotel Information
Sunset Beach Club
Hotel Address
Av. del Sol, 5Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
29630
+34 952 57 94 00
British Columbia- Beautiful Kelowna and the Okanagan Wine Valley
September 12-18, 2025
Join Travac on this incredible escape to explore the beautiful Okanagan Valley Wine region and Kelowna! An eclectic mix of spectacular mountains, sunny laid-back city life, lakeshore parks with incredible waterfronts, and lush vistas of rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards make spending time in Kelowna’s surroundings an ideal vacation.
Travac’s Okanagan adventure will take you deep into the heart of wine country. You’ll be accommodated at the downtown Royal Anne Hotel, enjoy a continental breakfast each day, visit 4 wineries that will include tastings at some of the most acclaimed wineries that the Okanagan Valley has to offer.
The Okanagan Valley Wine region is Canada’s second largest wine producing area and it accounts for more than 80% of BC’s wine production. Your days will be filled with local attractions and wine tastings, even a lunch at a local winery. The beauty and taste of this area will leave you wanting to return – join us this spring to experience one of Canada’s regional crown jewels!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
We begin our journey with Air Canada, departing Ottawa and connecting through Toronto en route to Kelowna.
Upon arrival in Kelowna, we will board our private coach and travel to our hotel in Osoyoos (approx. 2 hours). Along the way, we will stop in Oliver, also known as “The Wine District,” for a self-guided lunch and your first tastings (at your own expense). This region is home to 7–8 well-regarded wineries, each offering a unique experience with a wide variety of wines and scenic vineyard views. Dining options include several cozy restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Tonight, enjoy a three-course welcome dinner at the hotel.
Hotel: Watermark Beach Hotel
Day 2
After breakfast, we will visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos for a guided tour, offering insight into the unique ecology and Indigenous heritage of the area. Following lunch on your own, we’ll visit a local winery for our first tasting of the day. Later, we’ll return to Osoyoos for another winery visit featuring tastings and a selection of appetizers.
Hotel: Watermark Beach Hotel
Day 3
This morning is at your leisure to explore Osoyoos at your own pace after breakfast. In the afternoon, we’ll head out to a winery for tastings in a beautiful setting. On our way back, we’ll stop at another winery for an additional tasting.
Hotel: Watermark Beach Hotel
Day 4
Today we leave Osoyoos and travel north to Summerland, known for its breathtaking scenery. We’ll visit the Ornamental Gardens, a 6-hectare site established by Agriculture Canada in 1916. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a ride on the historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway, followed by an included lunch. Enjoy stunning views of Okanagan Lake, Giant’s Head Mountain, and the Trout Creek Trestle bridge—an impressive feat of engineering. The evening will be at your leisure to explore.
Hotel: Watermark Beach Hotel
Day 5
Today’s excursion takes us to Penticton. We’ll begin with a guided tour of Red Rooster Winery, followed by lunch at a popular restaurant. Afterward, we’ll visit a Vineyards for another tasting experience. We’ll end the day at the SS Sicamous Paddlewheel Boat Museum, located along the shores of Okanagan Lake, where you’ll learn about the area’s rich maritime history.
Hotel: Royal Anne Hotel
Day 6
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Kelowna with a knowledgeable local guide. Later, we’ll visit two local wineries, for tastings. You’ll have free time for lunch on your own and to explore downtown Kelowna at your leisure in the afternoon. This evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Hotel: Royal Anne Hotel
Day 7
Early this morning we will depart home for Ottawa with Air Canada via Vancouver.
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Watermark Beach Hotel
Hotel Address
15 Park PlOsoyoos, BC
V0H 1V0
(250) 495-5500
Royal Anne Hotel
Hotel Address
348 Bernard AveKelowna, BC
V1Y 6N5
(250) 763-2277
British Columbia- Victoria Independent Stay Put Vacation at the Parkside
February 3 – March 3, 2026
March 3 – April 2, 2026
The coastal serenity that awaits you in British Columbia’s capital city is unlike any other. Victoria’s mild climate and walkable city limits make this island oasis an ideal winter getaway. Nicknamed “the garden city” for good reason, Victoria’s radiant west-coast terrain is home to some of Canada’s most acclaimed gardens and parks. Whether exploring Victoria’s quaint downtown core, taking an historical walking tour, spotting a whale, or indulging in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding beaches and rainforests, there is no shortage of adventure to experience at your own pace.
Travac’s marvelous winter escape to Victoria includes accommodation at the Parkside Hotel and Spa located in the heart of the city and within walking distance to Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, Ogden Point, and several neighbourhood amenities.
Refresh and recharge this winter with Travac in the city of wide-open spaces. Whether you’d like to experience the vibrant offerings of a cultural centre within a safe and physically-distanced environment, indulge in the beauty of Victoria’s acclaimed gardens and natural surroundings, or simply relax in the blissful tranquility of the Pacific coast, this holiday has it all. Book early to avoid disappointment!
The Sunken Garden at Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site
Hotel images (luxury suite, Parkside Hotel and Spa):
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Ottawa Airport
You will board your connecting flight from Ottawa to Victoria.
On arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel has been arranged (details to follow). The check-in time at the hotel is 4:00pm.
Day 2 - 28 (Feb departure) or 2 - 30 (March departure)
Victoria
Free time to do as you wish in the capital of “Beautiful British Columbia”. Enjoy the temperate climate, natural beauty, gardens, parks, and heritage charm that Victoria has to offer. Spend time exploring the beaches, museums, heritage, and historic buildings at your own pace. Visit the local distilleries, breweries, and vineyards. There is so much to see and do! The city of Victoria has excellent local transportation, ferry services as well as beautiful bike paths…the choice is yours. Travac will provide you with listings of restaurants and attractions. The hotel front desk staff will be happy to assist you with any questions.
Day 29 (Feb departure) or 31 (March departure)
Depart Victoria
Check-out time at the hotel is 11:00am. Today, you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport.
You will board your connecting flight from Victoria to Ottawa.
*Airline Schedules are subject to change; you will be advised of the current schedule at time of booking*
Hotel Information
Parkside Hotel & Spa
Hotel Address
810 Humboldt StVictoria, BC
V8V 5B1
(250) 940-1200
South Africa – Beach to Bushveld
September 1-17, 2024
Sold out- watch for March and Sept 2025 dates to be announced or call the office to be placed on a waitlist!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa by bus to Montreal to catch your flights to Amsterdam.
Day 2
Amsterdam- Cape Town
A warm welcome to Cape Town, South Africa!
We will be transferred directly to our hotel on arrival.
On the doorstep of the Atlantic, The Bay Hotel is an exclusive members-only hotel where our mission is to provide excellent service and unforgettable experiences.
Overnight: The Bay Hotel Cape Town Mountain view room (B)
Day 3
Full day Table Mountain and City Tour – Cape Town
Start your trip to the Mother City with the highlights. We kick off our tour with breathtaking views of the city and Table Mountain, Camps Bay, Clifton, and Sea Point. Driving past Cape Town Stadium, we take a detour through the bustling V&A Waterfront to the City Centre. Here, we stretch our legs and take a walk through the Company Gardens, which were created by South Africa’s first European settlers in the 1650s.Then we hop back on board and chronicle some of the city’s most significant landmarks – the Houses of Parliament, City Hall, The Castle, and Slave Lodge – finally heading up to the Bo Kaap. Amid these iconic, brightly coloured houses along cobbled streets, you will discover the fascinating history of the Cape Malay culture. Going further up Signal Hill, we head for the Noon Gun, which has helped Capetonians tell the time since 1806, except of course on Sundays and public holidays, when we’re left to our own devices. End off your City Tour at the Table Mountain Cableway, where you will take the cable car to the summit to enjoy this spectacular view. Nowhere else will you get such a spectacular view of Cape Town as from the summit of one of the Seven Wonders of Nature. After our cable car tour, we will be transferred back to our hotel.
Overnight: The Bay Hotel Cape Town Mountain view room (B)
Day 4
Full day Cape Point tour – Cape Town
At the tip of the Cape Peninsula – only 60 km from the city of Cape Town – lies a wild and untamed wilderness. The perfect city escape for any nature lover, Cape Point is a Natural World Heritage Site – rich in fauna and flora – where wild antelope, baboon, Cape Mountain Zebra and 250 species of bird roam free in this 7750-hectare nature reserve. Heading out of the city, we journey south along the coast, past the pristine beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. To the left, we see the majestic peaks of the Twelve Apostles touching the sky, while to the right, the cliffs drop sharply into the Atlantic. Our first stop is Hout Bay, a quaint fishing village where you will have the option of heading out to sea to explore Seal Island. Or you can stay on dry land to peruse the souvenir shops and craft market at your leisure. Continuing our journey, we leave civilization behind – traversing Chapman’s Peak – heading out to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point. Here, surrounded by valleys of fynbos and a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat, you can take in some of the most extraordinary views in the Western Cape. For an even better view of the Two Oceans, you can take the Funicular to the lighthouse. We’ll stop for lunch before we head out to Boulders Beach, one of the most flourishing colonies of African Penguins in South Africa. From here, we’re only a stone’s throw away from Simon’s Town, where we’ll see the naval base. Our last stop of the day is Kirstenbosch – the crown jewel of South Africa’s nine national botanical gardens – which was founded in 1913 to preserve the country’s unique flora. As the last rays of sunshine streaming in through the peaks of Table Mountain kiss the tips of the leaves and flowers, our unforgettable journey comes to a satisfactory end.
Overnight: The Bay Hotel Cape Town Mountain view room (B)
Day 5
Free day
Today is a free day to enjoy time on your own. You might want to visit the V & A Waterfront with all its great restaurants and shops. At the
V & A waterfront there is also the ferry over to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years for plotting to overthrow South Africa’s racist apartheid system.
You can also choose to just relax on the beach at your hotel.
Overnight: The Bay Hotel Cape Town Mountain view room (B)
Day 6
Full Day Winelands– Cape Town
For this tour, we head north to the Winelands of Paarl and Franschhoek, stopping on the way at the Groot Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela was released in 1990.
Founded by French Huguenot refugees in 1688, Franschhoek is one of South Africa’s oldest and most picturesque towns with a distinctly French flair. The valley’s climate proved ideal for growing vineyards and today, is famed for making some of the country’s finest wines. Here we will do a cellar tour, attend two exceptional wine tastings, and enjoy a spot of lunch. The town boasts some of the best restaurants in the Western Cape, so be sure to ask us for recommendations!
After a leisurely lunch, we make our way to Stellenbosch, the second oldest European settlement in South Africa after Cape Town. Hundreds of oak trees line these pristine streets, which has earned the town the nickname, Eikestad (City of Oaks). Stellenbosch is famous for its gabled Cape Dutch architecture, which, against the backdrop of the Hottentots Holland Mountains, lend the town an unforgettable charm. If there’s time, we’ll certainly squeeze in a third wine tasting before heading back to Cape Town with some great memories and a great deal of cheer.
Overnight: The Bay Hotel Cape Town Mountain view room (B)
Day 7
Cape Town to Johannesburg
Early this morning we will depart our hotel to the airport for our flight to Port Elizabeth.
Driving time hotel to Airport 40 minutes.
Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Ukhozi Lodge in the game reserve. The drive from the airport to the Kariega Game Reserve typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. We will be driven straight to the lodge. Today we will enjoy lunch, a game drive and dinner.
Overnight – Kariega Game Reserve – Ukhozi Lodge – (All inclusive)
Day 7 - 10
Kariega Game Reserve
At Kariega, everything revolves around our twice-daily safari drives and river cruises. The close-up encounters with African wildlife are the center of guests’ unforgettable safari holiday. Our experienced game rangers will drive you out on safari every morning and afternoon/evening in open game-drive vehicles, traversing the valleys, grassy plains, and African bushveld to bring you close to the Big 5 and other game roaming freely in their natural habitat. If you are fortunate, you may witness the lion hunting or feeding, or even the heartwarming social interactions of an elephant herd.
Overnight: Kariega Ukhozi Lodge luxury accommodation, all meals, tea, coffee and mini bar in room, selected beverages alcoholic and non-alcoholic, early morning and evening game drives – time permitted)
Here is the schedule of a typical day at the lodge.
06h00 : Tea, coffee and a snack. Depart for an early morning game drive or perhaps a river cruise. 10h00 : Return to your lodge for a late, but hearty breakfast/brunch. 11h00 : Enjoy a bush walk, a spa treatment, go canoeing, have a swim, or just relax or siesta. 14h30 : Savor the flavors of our well-earned afternoon eats. 16h00 : Depart for an evening game drive and sundowners. 19h30 : Return to the lodge for your evening meal in either the boma or the restaurant.
Overnight: Kariega Ukhozi Lodge luxury accommodation, 3 nights.
Includes all meals, tea, coffee and mini bar in room, selected beverages alcoholic and non-alcoholic as well as two daily game drives (time and weather permitted).
Day 10
Kariega to Madikwe
This morning, we depart beautiful Kariega Game reserve for our flight to Johannesburg. Driving time is approximately 45 minutes.
At the airport in Johannesburg, we will be met by a member of the Madikwe Game Reserve for our transfer to our accommodation at the Lelapa Lodge in Madikwe for the next four nights. (Approximately 5-hour drive)
Enjoy a late lunch and settle into your rooms.
Tonight, we embark on our first game drive at Madikwe!
Day 10 - 14
Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve, in the Northwest province, is one of South Africa’s largest Big Five game reserves and set in a malaria-free area in the historic Northwest province, near the border with Botswana. The 76 000-hectare (187 800 acre) Madikwe Game Reserve supports a diverse combination of bushveld and the semi-arid Kalahari. Madikwe is famed for Operation Phoenix, the world’s largest game translocation exercise. Established almost 20 years ago, the reserve successfully reintroduced more than 8 000 animals of 28 species, including lion, elephant, and buffalo, as well as black and white rhino. This area is now home to the famous Big Five, as well as the endangered African wild dog and 350 bird species.
Here is an example of the daily events at Madikwe (times are approximate and subject to change)
05h00 Wake-up call
05h30 Tea/Coffee and game drive departs.
09h00 Game drive returns, breakfast/brunch is served.
At leisure Bush walk or activities of personal preference
16h00 High tea
16h30 Game drive departs.
19h30 Game drive returns and dinner follows.
Overnight 4 nights: Madikwe – Lelapa Lodge -ALL INCLUSIVE (Including: all meals, tea, coffee and mini bar in room, selected beverages alcoholic and non-alcoholic, two daily game drives (time and weather permitting).
Day 15
Madikwe to Johannesburg
After our game drive and breakfast, we leave Madikwe Game Reserve and transfer to our hotel in Johannesburg. (The drive is approximately 5 hours.)
Experience a passionate sense of style and service at the Melrose Arch Hotel. Situated in the new Melrose Arch development in Northern Johannesburg, the Melrose Arch Hotel offers easy access from the airport to the best that Johannesburg has to offer, day or night. The world- renowned March Restaurant, legendary swimming pool, inviting library and modern, comfortably appointed rooms conspire to make your visit to the Melrose Arch Hotel unique and unforgettable. Feel the pulse of urban Africa, set the course for your business, or just lay back in designer luxury – the choice is yours at The Melrose Arch Hotel where service excellence, absolute luxury and superb facilities are the order of the day.
Overnight: Melrose Arch Hotel (B).
Day 16
Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum or Constitution Hill
Today with our local guide, you will be introduced to a bit of the “Local Culture” as we pay a visit to the former “Black City of Johannesburg” – Soweto. We start with an orientation tour of Johannesburg – passing the house of Nelson Mandela in the upmarket residential area of Houghton. We will pass the suburb of Hillbrow – the most densely populated per square kilometre in Africa. Constitution Hill, Mandela Bridge, New Town, and Mining. Houses are some of the highlights. En-route to Soweto we pass Soccer City – the stadium that hosted the opening and final game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The establishment of Soweto is, like Johannesburg, linked directly to the discovery of Gold in 1885.Thousands of people from around the world and South Africa flocked to the new town to seek their fortunes or to offer their labour. Within 4 years Johannesburg was the second largest city in South Africa. More than half the early Johannesburg population was black, most living in multi racial shanty towns near the gold mines in the centre of the town. As the gold mining industry developed, the need for labour increased. Migrant labour was started and most of these workers lived in mine compounds. However other workers had to find their own accommodation often in appalling conditions. The first residents of what is now known as Soweto were located into the area called Klipspruit in 1905 following their relocation from “Coolietown” in the centre of Johannesburg because of an outbreak of bubonic plague. The Johannesburg City Council took the opportunity to establish racially segregated residential areas. We enter Soweto via the Diepkloof – a very affluent suburb and home to the rich. Across the road from here you will find the hugely contrasting old compounds. Your tour takes you pass the Chris Harni Baragwanath Hospital – the largest in the world. Across the street you find the enormous “Bara Taxi Rank” where hundreds of minibus-taxis transport more than a million passengers around the area per day.
Apartheids Museum (Freedom Struggle)
The Apartheid Museum is the story of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Beginning in
1948, the white elected National Party government initiated a process which turned over 20 million people into 2nd class citizens, damning them to a life of servitude, humiliation, and abuse. Their liberation in 1994 with the election of Nelson Mandela, the prisoner who became president, is a climax in the saga of a nation’s resistance, courage, and fortitude. Discover the true history of South Africa. Whoever you are, you cannot but come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this country, its darkest days, and its brightest triumphs. The Apartheid Museum, the first of its kind, illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid: The racially prejudiced system that blighted much of its progress and the triumph of reason which crowned half a century of struggle. The Museum has been assembled and organized by a multi-disciplinary team of curators, filmmakers, historians, and designers. An architectural consortium comprising several leading architectural firms, conceptualized the design of the museum on a seven-hectare site. The museum is a superb example of design, space and landscape offering the international community a unique South African experience. The exhibits are from film footages, photographs, text panels and artifacts illustrating the events and human stories that are part of the epic saga, known as apartheid. A series of 22 individual exhibition areas takes the visitor through a dramatic emotional journey that tells a story of a state sanctioned system based solely on racial discrimination. For anyone wanting to understand and experience what South Africa was really like, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is fundamental. The museum is a beacon of hope showing the world how South Africa is coming to terms with the past and working towards a future that all South African’s can call their own.
Overnight: Melrose Arch Hotel (B)
Day 17
Free morning
3:00pm – depart Hotel for airport and bid farewell to amazing South Africa.
Day 18
Arrival in Ottawa.
Itinerary subject to change.
Maritimes- Halifax: Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
June 30- July 5, 2026
Travac Tours would like to invite you to join us as we travel to Halifax for the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo!
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is a show inspired by Military Tattoos given by military bands and display teams.
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is unique among other Tattoos in the world in that it is more theatrical in nature with a mixture of both military and civilian performers.
It takes place in the Scotiabank Centre’s hockey arena, a venue that, to some degree, resembles a traditional theatre in the round. The show is heavily costumed and intensively rehearsed with technical staff, choreographers, assistant directors, wardrobe staff and designers as part of the production team, which also sets it apart from traditional Tattoos.
This spectacle is one of the highlights of a Nova Scotia summer.
Travac’s visit to the Tattoo includes round trip airfare from Ottawa to Halifax; 5 nights’ accommodation at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront; a tour of Halifax including visits to Mahone Bay, Lunenburg, and Peggy’s Cove; reserved seating at the Royal International Tattoo; free time in Halifax, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Space is limed to 40 persons.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart for Halifax. Upon your arrival in Halifax you will be transferred to your hotel. The balance of your day will be free to explore Halifax on your own. From your hotel it is an easy walk to some of the fine restaurants and shops that are in the area.
Day 2
Your day is completely free to wander among the many sites that attract people to Halifax. Your tour director will have plenty of ideas on how to spend your day.
Day 3
Your day will begin with a professionally guided tour of Halifax, noting attractions from iconic lighthouses to urban gardens, stunning galleries and museums and a waterfront science centre. Continuing the tour, you’ll move on to Mahone Bay, Lunenberg, and Peggy’s Cove. Located on Nova Scotia’s spectacular South Shore, Mahone Bay was recently named one of Canada’s top ten most beautiful towns by culturetrip.com. 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
Today is another free day to take in more of Halifax and all it offers.
Day 5
After a leisurely morning, today is your day to enjoy The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. Over the years, the show has been seen by well over 2,000,000 spectators and has hosted tens of thousands of performers from 21 countries. In terms of annual economic impact, it generates tens of millions for the province of Nova Scotia and the Halifax Regional Municipality. Indeed, it will be a most enjoyable day.
Day 6
After a most enjoyable experience in Halifax, you’ll make your way back to Ottawa. Your tour director will advise you on your departure time from the hotel.
Itinerary subject to change.
Hotel Information
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront
Hotel Address
1919 Upper Water StHalifax, NS
B3J 3J5
(902) 421-1700