Catch a glimpse of bears, rare whales and eagles

The beaver may be Canada’s national animal but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In Quebec, whales migrate up the St Lawrence River from May until September, while humpbacks and sperm whales can be seen all year round. But it’s the majestic fin and blue whales (which can reach a whopping 26 metres) that bring thousands of people here each year.

In Churchill, Manitoba, polar bears have been known to roam into the town centre as they wait for new ice to form in a real-life Yogi bear situation. And bird lovers, rejoice: the odds of catching a glimpse of a bald eagle in flight along the Yukon River during winter are in your favour.

Take a stroll along the ocean’s floor at the Bay of Fundy

Twice each day, 160 billion tonnes of seawater flows in and out of the Bay of Fundy, creating the highest tides on the planet. The phenomenon leads to some surreal brushes with nature, like the chance to take a walk on the ocean’s floor.

As a general rule, you’ve got about three hours before and three hours after low tide to explore, as you search for sea glass and semi-precious stones. You can also try rafting on a tidal bore, spotting one of 12 species of whales (including the rare fin whale) or tackling one of the lush hiking trails in the Fundy National Park. It’s here you can also paddle around cliffs that plunge down from the forest to the bay and explore sea caves.

Hike across soaring peaks and majestic vistas

Canada’s hiking trails are among the best in the world. There’s relaxed ambles and rugged ranges to suit all tastes and abilities. If a six-hour adventure in the Canadian Rockies is your jam, head for the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and through the fir trees to Lake Agnes – you’ll be rewarded with cascading waterfalls along the way. Or, prepare to be amazed by Alberta’s soaring mountain peaks and the dramatic Victoria Glacier.

Cyclists and horse riders can meander the stunning Galloping Goose Regional Trail in British Columbia, keeping a lookout for that ubiquitous bald eagle. And the Yukon, with its abundant wildlife and unnamed summits, was made for hiking. Seasoned hikers can up the ante and tick the majestic vistas of the mighty Arctic Tundra off their to-do list.

Experience a white Christmas in the original Winter Wonderland

Step into a postcard in the picture-perfect province of Alberta. Rest your weary head at two of its stunning historic hotels: the Victorian-style lodge at Fairmont Château Lake Louise or the ‘castle in the mountains’, otherwise known as Fairmont Banff Springs.

Soak up all the clichés and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride over snow-covered landscapes before warming up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and toasted marshmallows.

View the northern lights from a luxury lodge

The aurora borealis tops many a bucket list. Thankfully, you can view Mother Nature’s greatest light show from the comfort of your own far-flung lodge. There’s a hot tub and a viewing deck at the remote Blachford Lake Lodge, Yellowknife. It’s so remote it’s only accessible by float plane.

There’s even an aurora-watch wake-up service so you don’t sleep through a moment of twinkling. At the Inn on the Lake, Yukon, you can watch the elusive phenomenon from your bed. Then, try your hand at a slew of onsite snow sports including snowmobiling, tobogganing and ice fishing.

Experience the First Nations’ preferred sport – salmon fishing

Immerse yourself in British Columbia’s First Nations arts and culture in the vibrant community of Haida Gwaii (also known as the Queen Charlotte Islands), a wildlife-rich archipelago off British Columbia’s north coast.

Here you’ll find magical refuge at the various Haida Gwaii lodges. The serene destination is also a fisherman’s paradise, with salmon, halibut, ling cod and rockfish in abundance, so cast a line and experience the favourite sport of the First Nations’ People.