Why you need to visit Canada on a road trip

For many of us, the thought of travelling again may feel like a distant vision, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get excited about the experience when the time comes. Canada is one of the best places to plan an upcoming trip, not solely because of its beauty, amazing experiences and stunning wildlife but the sheer space that surrounds you when you are exploring.

Canada has always been popular with travellers across the globe and when the travel industry allows we expect the upcoming years to be no different, especially for those who love to explore the country on their own terms on a fly drive Canada holiday or motorhome holiday. Read on to find out a little more about why you should consider visiting Canada on a road trip and what makes it one of the best places for a self-drive holiday.

Vast landscapes

One of the main benefits that Canada offers visitors from across the globe is the vast space and landscapes that are on offer, perfect for those who may be travelling by road. Your holiday to Canada can be as secluded or as busy as you like, depending on your preferences.

The blog A Mum Reviews is run by Petra who has visited Canada in the past and loves the space that Canada has to offer: “I spent three weeks in Canada for work reasons. It was a trip that was very spontaneous and last-minute, but I am so happy that I decided to take the opportunity to go as Canada is a beautiful country full of friendly people. What impressed me the most was the gorgeous natural scenery and vast landscape. I also enjoyed the contrast between the big city life and countryside life. I stayed outside Toronto where the houses were so far apart you couldn’t see any neighbours and where nature is what you would see in all directions”

With huge lakes, vast mountain ranges and roads that seem to lead on forever if you don’t want to visit a city landscape then you don’t need too to still get the true Canadian experience that is planned and executed on your own terms.

Rachel Bustin, the writer behind the similarly named blog spoke to us about why she thinks people should consider visiting Canada in the future, she loves the landscapes that make the country so famous: “Canada is a stunning country with its vast outdoor spaces. If you are into outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding then you are going to love it. My sister moved to Canada 12 years ago and I love going to visit her and exploring new areas together. One memorable trip was to Algonquin Provincial Park. The logging museum and Lookout Trail are fantastic. It’s breathtaking looking at the vast landscape out over the park. Another reason to consider visiting Canada is that I’ve found everyone to be very friendly when I’ve been over there, it makes the experience perfect.”

Locations like Lake Louise, The Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park are some of the popular locations for those who want to experience Canada on their own terms on a fly drive or self drive holiday and want to focus their time on the landscapes as opposed to the cities. The range of options in Canada is endless.

Macca, blogger at An Adventurous World also loves the landscapes that Canada has to offer those who visit: “Without being one of those bloggers, I’ve travelled to 80+ countries, and Canada is up there as one of the most beautiful I’ve ever been to. From Newfoundland all the way over to Vancouver Island, the vast landscapes are simply stunning. However, the jewel in the crown is the Rocky Mountains. If there’s a place I could keep going back to in Canada, it would be here.”

Rare wildlife

Canada is known for its wonderful array of wildlife, some of it very rare and if you’re in the right places you can quite often catch sightings of these stunning creatures. There is no better way to try and see some of this rare wildlife than on a self-drive Canada holiday. Whether you’re dying to see a bear, go whale watching or get a glimpse of a moose, a Canada road trip is the place to see it.

Polar bears

Polar bears are one of the rarest bears in the world and Canadians are lucky to have some of them dotted around their coastlines. If you’re wanting to get a glimpse of one of these magnificent beasts then the Western Shore of Hudson Bay is your best bet. Churchill is known as the ‘polar bear capital of the world’ and is where these beasts descend when they are looking to find land.

Whales

Whale watching is an experience that is on a lot of peoples bucket lists and it is understandable why. With so many species and variations that surround Canadian waters, a trip offshore is bound to bring the goods. It is known that there are 30 species roaming the 202,000 km of coastline which means the chances of spotting one are pretty high.

If you want to find out where the best places to see them are, check out our article dedicated to Whale watching in Canada.

Moose

Moose are an animal you may forget to look out for when in Canada due to their rare nature, but if you are on a fly drive holiday or are looking at car hire in Canada then you should definitely keep your eyes peeled as they are commonly seen near roads. Known for being the largest member of the deer family, Moose can grow to a staggering 3.1m so they are often hard to miss when you’re travelling through the country.

Unique experiences

Canada is a country of total uniqueness and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to unique experiences. If you’re looking to plan a post-coronavirus self-drive holiday that has the total wow factor and offers you an experience unlike any other, then you’ve chosen the right place.

From adrenaline-filled water sports and experiences to fulfilling activities everyone will love, below are just a few of the options available to you.

Float at the base of the Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, on the edge of the Canadian border with the USA, is one of the most visited attractions in the world and is the ultimate photo opportunity. Many that visit will spectate from the viewing platform at the top of the falls, but for those who want a little extra from their experience then a boat trip to the base is the best way to go. A selection of boat and helicopter tours are available that offer a unique perspective of these incredible waterfalls.

“I’ve always been a big America fan, but when we had the opportunity to go over to Niagara Falls on our NYC trip, I realised what I’d been missing,” comments Codie from the blog CodieKinz, she continues to tell us why she loves Canada.

“Canada was absolutely stunning, especially in the freezing February snow and the people are as friendly as they are portrayed in the media. Seeing the falls in the winter was such a unique experience. There was barely anyone at all around and it felt like we had the place to ourselves.

I’ve got a friend who has emigrated and is working out there and every picture she shares is breathtaking – I am desperate to return and enjoy more that this glorious country has to offer.”

Walk around the CN Tower

If you want to see Toronto from a whole new perspective, then why not walk around the CN Tower? EdgeWalk is known for being Toronto’s most extreme attraction and offers visitors the opportunity to walk the ring at the top of the CN Tower completely hands-free.

Visit the Rockies

For those who love an adrenalin activity, then why not head to the peaks and explore the Rockies? Known for being one of the most famous parks in Canada, The Rocky Mountains can offer you some of the best skiing in the world with views you can only dream of. It is also a great place for avid photographers and those who just love exploring.

Chloe, an avid traveller who blogs about her adventures at Wanderlust Chloe, loves the Rockies and thinks exploring the outdoors should attract anyone to visit Canada: “Canada is such an amazing place for anyone who loves the great outdoors. I’ve loved my trips to Alberta in particular. Nothing beats driving through Icefields Parkway with the epic peaks of the Canadian Rockies on either side of you. While I was there I also tried ice climbing, went up the Banff gondola and enjoyed relaxing in some hot springs. This region of Canada is ideal for a memorable winter adventure.”

The Rockies are an incredible destination and one most people visiting Canada want to visit, Marta from the blog In A Faraway Land comments on how much she loves the Canadian Rockies: “In the recent uncertain times we’ve found ourselves in, nothing soothes my soul better than being surrounded by nature. In my eyes, Canada, particularly the Canadian Rockies  are the pinnacle of the outdoor adventure.”

Stunning lakes and coastlines

If you love being near water or want to enjoy a coastal holiday, then Canada is the perfect place to do so. Not only does the country have the largest coastline in the world, but it is also home to some of the world’s most unique and impressive lakes that are the perfect accompaniment to a long, Canadian drive.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park and is one of the most visited lakes in Canada. Its sheer beauty, crystal clear blue waters and impressive surroundings make it one of the most relaxing and fulfilling places to visit.

The family behind the blog Flashpacking Family visited Lake Louise and mentioned it in their article: “Lake Louise is famous for its beautiful turquoise water, imposing mountain peaks and the iconic hotel Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise nestled on its shoreline. It’s located in Banff National Park about 60km north of Banff town on the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s also famous for the hordes of visitors it attracts every year. Don’t let this put you off though. This post will help you navigate visiting one of the most popular attractions in Banff National Park and help you create unforgettable memories.”

Hopewell Rocks

Hopewell Rocks are situated in New Brunswick and were formed thousands of years ago by tidal erosion. Also known as flowerpot rocks, the rocks offer funny shapes poking out of the blue waters. The location is popular with tourists and is also a great location for those who love the seaside with stunning beaches and coastlines not far.

Long Beach

Long Beach is located in British Columbia and offers what the name suggests, a long beach. It may not sound like much but this beach is one of the most popular in the country and is the longest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

So, if you’re craving a fly drive or Canadian motorhome holiday and want to start planning one for when you’re able to, then why not consider Canada. Its vast landscape makes it not only safe but an unforgettable experience for travellers of all types.