The most picturesque locations in Canada

Canada, home to vistas of all varieties, from rocky outcrops to stunning, sandy beaches, there really is some of the most beautiful locations in the world, dotted across Canada’s stunning provinces. A holiday in Canada  is the perfect way to explore some of these magical locations. There are so many to choose from that we have narrowed down a few of our favourites to give you a little insight into some of the wonderful places you could visit next year.

Lydia from the travel blog Lydiascapes says: “Whether you are a solo traveller or travelling with friends or kids, the beauty of Canada can be enjoyed in all forms. If you are a fan of islands, you can check out some of the most beautiful Canadian islands for some cycling and wildlife immersion walks.”

Carry on reading to find out a little more about some of these most picturesque locations and what they can offer you when visiting Canada in the coming years.

Manitoba

Manitoba, a province that many may not instantly think of when they think of beautiful locations but it is a bit of a dark horse and one people often overlook. Hugging the Hudson Bay, Manitoba is on the east of the country and boasts scenic coastal expanses as well as lakes and country outcrops.

We spoke to Kristin Addis, CEO of Be My Travel Muse, she told us more about why she loves Manitoba and the views it has to offer: “I know my answer may be surprising, but I just love Manitoba! I've explored in both the summer and in the winter and I find the prairies and lakes to be stunning, and uncrowded, even in peak summer months. In the winter I've loved the cosy cabins and gorgeous stars at night, and in the summer canoeing around Nopiming Provincial Park as well as the golden fields are gorgeous. However, the crown jewel has to be Churchill. Imagine a place where you get the northern lights, polar bears, and swimming with Belugas all in one spot. It's stunning for so many reasons, but the lights would have to be my number one.”

Manitoba isn’t commonly known for its coastal retreats and lakeside resorts, but these hidden gems are some of the provinces most stunning locations.

Mount Thor

Located on Baffin Island, Mount Thor looks like something out of a Jurassic Park movie but it is one of the most picturesque mountains in Canada, and one that people often overlook. Sitting at just 1,675 metres it isn’t the loftiest mountain, but still offers the same charm and grandeur. Located within the Auyuittuq National Park, those who decide to visit will experience more than just stunning views.

The mountain climb isn’t for the faint-hearted with 1,250 metres of fall at an average angle of 105 degrees either side, that aside it has been tackled by a plethora of alpine climbers who have tackled its rough edges.

The national park is well worth a visit as it is home to some spectacular mountains, glaciers and polar ice, rugged granite and much more.

Bay of Fundy

One of the 7 wonders of North America, the Bay of Fundy is again on Canada’s east coast and is home to some of the world’s most outstanding phenomena. Visitors can expect to see some of the highest tides on earth, the rarest species of whale, precious minerals and dinosaur fossils, what’s not to love?

The cove which is nestled between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia is truly breath-taking. The blog Three Legs, One World have visited Fundy Bay and have documented their experiences over on their blog: “Fundy National Park in New Brunswick, Canada was never on my radar. It wasn’t a place that I had ever heard anything about it. It isn’t on any “must visit” list that I have ever seen. By National Park standards Fundy is small (it is one of Canada’s smallest National Parks). New Brunswick itself is highly underrated and most consider it a ‘drive-through’ province. But in my opinion, both New Brunswick and Fundy National Park should be on your list!”

If you’re planning to visit the bay, then here a few highlights you should ensure you see:

• Waterfalls – Fundy Bay is home to 25 waterfalls, so make sure you explore some.
• Fundy Village - a small village situated in Fundy.
• Hopewell Rocks Park – a short 30-minute drive from the bay but well worth a visit.

Banff National Park

Would the list really be complete without the addition of Banff National Park? A real treasure in Canada and one that is immensely popular with visitors and Canadians alike. Home to the likes of the rocky mountains, Lake Louise and the Rocky Mountaineer Railway.

Read more: An in-depth guide to the Rocky Mountaineer

Lydia went on to explain why she loves Banff National Park and thinks it is one of the most picturesque locations: “Some of the best experiences I had in Canada was taking the Canadian rail from Vancouver to Edmonton, passing by Jasper and Banff National Park admiring the majestic Rockies. One can literally see the landscape change 360, from autumn foliage to fields to huge lakes to snow-capped mountains. If you are not a fan of long train rides, opt for easy but scenic Canadian walks at some of the best places like Lake Louise or Grouse Mountain near Vancouver. Lastly, whether you are a very fit traveller or a more conservative traveller looking for safe and healthy options, there is something for everyone.”

Lake Louise

Banff is a picture-postcard image from any location, but Lake Louise is truly a gem among the wooded forests of the mountains. Deep turquoise, the waters look as if they have been tinged with food colouring and the surrounding walking trails are the perfect place to see some of the Canadian wildlife. Expect to see wild bears, elk, bighorn sheep and birds of prey.

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is also situated in Banff National Park and much like its sister Lake Louise, it boasts some stunningly picturesque views that just have to be seen. Lotte from the Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog told us a little more about why she loves the lake and thinks it is so picturesque: “Moraine Lake is located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks and one of the most picturesque locations in Canada (and possibly the world). The beautiful colour of the lake is caused by the reflection of the light on the small rock particles floating in the glacial water.”

Niagara Falls

This article wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Niagara Falls, just a short drive from the capital city, it could be one of the first sights you see after disembarking from your flights to Toronto. Niagara is a sight like no other and one that everyone visiting Canada should witness.

One of the world’s biggest waterfalls, the sight can be experienced in a number of unique and immersive ways: from the viewing platform, from the sky in a helicopter or from the water in one of the sightseeing boats. The falls are one of the most picturesque locations in the world, so make sure you have your camera to hand.

Canada is a country speckled with stunning and picturesque locations and a self-drive Canada holiday is one of the best ways to see the stunning sights at your own leisure.