Atlantic Canada Holidays
This easterly region of Canada encompasses the four provinces of the country sharing strong cultural associations with the Atlantic. Coastal charm exudes from the Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, whilst dramatic Newfoundland and Labrador make up Canada’s most easterly province. Here you will find villages full of character, a wealth of nautical history, rugged coastal scenery and a very warm welcome and as you might expect, there are a wealth of recommended experiences for those visiting this region.
Popular Atlantic Canada Holidays
Whale Watching & Wildlife in Atlantic Canada
The nutrient rich waters off the coast of Atlantic Canada are amongst the most productive in the world where up to 12 species can be found including humpbacks, minke and the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Whether you sail from Newfoundland or cruise the Bay of Fundy, the chance for an epic encounter with a cetacean is an experience not to be missed.
The rugged Atlantic coastline is home to vast numbers of pelagic birds including the distinctive puffin and the third largest gannet colony in North America, while the epic wilds of parks throughout the region provide the ideal habitat for caribou and moose, including the Fundy National Park in New Brunswick, Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland and Labrador and Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia, among others. The PEI National Park offers miles and miles of warm, sandy beaches to explore.
Coastal Exploring
From the charming fishing villages of Nova Scotia to the aged icebergs that are regularly sighted off the Newfoundland and Labrador coast, this region offers some truly enchanting coastal touring. Discover colourful Lunenburg and the famous lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, perched on the rugged Atlantic shoreline or drive the splendid Cabot Trail, one of Canada’s most scenic drives that hugs the Atlantic Coast as it skirts the Cape Breton Highlands.
If you’re looking for more remote experience, join a coastal voyage along Newfoundland and Labrador’s wild coastline and discover the ‘Spirit Mountains’ of Torngat Mountains National Park.
Scenic Wonders
Separating Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy boasts the highest tides in the world and a wealth of marine life to boot. The region also boasts a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites – don’t miss the Viking settlement of L’Anse aux Meadows and dramatic Gros Morne in Newfoundland, or the old town of Nova Scotia’s picturesque Lunenburg as well as Joggins Fossil Cliffs.
From a seasonal perspective, with around 85% of New Brunswick covered in forest the autumn colours make for a fantastic spectacle on a September self-drive holiday. By contrast on Prince Edward Island, Anne of Green Gables’ fictional home in Canada’s smallest province, is where you will find red sand beaches, rolling farmland and azure seas.
“Atlantic Canada is bursting with history, culture, stunning scenery and probably the friendliest locals I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. For really breathtaking views I’d recommend Cape Spear, Continental America’s easternmost point”.
Lauren Shorney – Travel Specialist
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