A Guide to Exploring Atlantic Canada

Get ready for an adventure like no other! Atlantic Canada, with its breathtaking coastlines, charming fishing villages, and vibrant culture, offers a holiday experience you’ll never forget. This stunning region, made up of four unique provinces, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and warm, welcoming people.

As Canada travel experts, our team has explored this magnificent corner of the world, and we're thrilled to share our insights with you. This guide will take you through the incredible provinces of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. Discover what makes each destination special and start planning the trip of a lifetime. Let's find the perfect Atlantic adventure for you!

Nova Scotia, or "New Scotland," is a coastal paradise that will capture your heart! Its rugged shores, historic lighthouses, and lively Celtic music create an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and deeply charming. From the world-famous Cabot Trail to the bustling streets of Halifax, this province offers a spectacular mix of adventure and culture.

One of the absolute must-dos is driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island. This legendary scenic highway winds through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering jaw-dropping views of the ocean at every turn. You’ll find fantastic hiking trails, quaint fishing villages, and lookouts that are perfect for whale watching. We recommend taking at least three days to explore it properly—you won't want to rush this experience!

History lovers will be enchanted by Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its colourful waterfront buildings and narrow streets are a photographer's dream. It’s also home to the famous Bluenose II schooner. For a different kind of coastal magic, visit Peggy's Cove, where you can see one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, perched on a dramatic granite outcrop.

The capital city, Halifax, is a vibrant hub of activity. Stroll along the historic waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at a dockside restaurant, and immerse yourself in the city's maritime history. With its lively pubs and friendly locals, Halifax is the perfect base for exploring the rest of this amazing province.

Explore Nova Scotia holidays

Prepare to be amazed by the raw, untamed beauty of Newfoundland & Labrador! This is a land of towering icebergs, majestic fjords, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, offering an experience that feels truly off the beaten path.

A trip to this province wouldn't be complete without a visit to Gros Morne National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can hike across the Earth's mantle in the rust-coloured Tablelands—a truly surreal experience! Or, take a boat tour through Western Brook Pond, a stunning freshwater fjord carved by glaciers. The scenery is simply awe-inspiring.

Every spring and early summer, the coast becomes "Iceberg Alley," as massive icebergs drift down from Greenland. The best viewing spots are along the northern and eastern coasts, from towns like Twillingate and St. Anthony. It's a phenomenal sight you’re guaranteed to remember forever. From May to September, you can also witness thousands of humpback whales breaching and feeding along the shores.

Don't miss the vibrant capital city of St. John's, North America's oldest city. Wander down the colourful streets of "Jellybean Row," hike up Signal Hill for panoramic views, and experience the lively music scene on George Street. To truly embrace the local culture, get "screeched-in" at a local pub—a fun ceremony that makes you an honorary Newfoundlander!

Explore Newfoundland & Labrador holidays

Welcome to the gentle island! Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a picture-perfect destination with rolling green hills, red-sand beaches, and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life. Famous as the setting for "Anne of Green Gables," PEI offers a tranquil escape with endless charm and fantastic culinary delights.

For fans of the beloved book series, a visit to Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish is a must. Explore the iconic farmhouse and immerse yourself in the world of Anne Shirley. But the island’s appeal extends far beyond its literary fame. The coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, such as Cavendish Beach and Basin Head Provincial Park, known for its "singing sands, as well as Red Point Provincial Park with it's iconic red cliffs.

Cycling enthusiasts will love the Confederation Trail, a tip-to-tip trail that runs along a former railway line. It’s a fantastic way to see the island's pastoral landscapes up close, passing through charming towns and scenic countryside. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

PEI is also a foodie's paradise, especially for seafood lovers! The island is famous for its mussels, oysters, and lobster. You can enjoy a traditional lobster supper or visit a local oyster bar for some of the freshest seafood you'll ever taste. The capital, Charlottetown, is a beautiful city with a historic downtown, lovely waterfront, and a fantastic theatre scene.

Explore Prince Edward Island holidays