Places you can't miss in Maritimes
If you're planning a trip to the Maritimes, timing is everything. It's important to know the best time to visit the region to make the most of your experience. Whether you're looking to explore the rugged coastline, sample the delicious seafood, or soak up the local culture, you'll want to plan your trip well.
During your visit to the Maritimes, you'll explore some incredible destinations. While there are plenty of beautiful locations to discover, some stand out. Cape Breton Island is stunning with its rugged coastline, rolling hills, charming fishing villages, and the famous Cabot Trail. A 300-kilometre scenic drive, the trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
1. Halifax
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a historic and vibrant city that shows the rich culture and history of the region. The city has many museums and galleries, such as the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. It is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens, such as Point Pleasant Park and the Halifax Public Gardens. These offer opportunities for strolls and picnics. The city's waterfront boardwalk houses various shops, restaurants, and cafes. A top attraction is the famous Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fort that dates back to the 18th century.
Visit Halifax on our Eastern Rail Classic and Coast to Coast train trips.
2. Lunenburg
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg is a charming and picturesque town. It has well-preserved architecture and colourful houses. The town has many historical buildings you can visit, such as the Lunenburg Academy and the St. John's Anglican Church. Lunenburg is known for its Maritime heritage, which you can discover at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and the famous Bluenose II, a replica of the renowned racing and fishing schooner.
3. Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is a natural wonder known for its massive tidal range, reaching up to 16 meters (52 feet). The bay has some breathtaking landscapes. The Hopewell Rocks, a series of flowerpot-shaped rock formations, can be explored from the Fundy Trail at low tide. The bay is also known for its rich marine life and the opportunity to spot several species of whales.
[ Read: Natural Wonders of Canada ]
4. Kejimkujik National Park
Located in Nova Scotia, Kejimkujik National Park boasts a mix of lakes, rivers, and forests. The park has various hiking trails. You can discover the park's natural wonders, like the Kejimkujik Lake and the Mersey River. You can do recreational activities such as camping, canoeing, fishing, and hiking. You can also explore the park's historic sites. One is the Kejimkujik Petroglyphs - ancient rock carvings created by the Mi'kmaq people.
[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]
5. Cavendish Beach
Located on Prince Edward Island, Cavendish Beach is a beautiful and popular beach known for its warm waters and white sand. It's the perfect beach for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. You can also explore the nearby Cavendish Grove, which has excellent cycling and walking trails and picnic areas.
6. Parlee Beach
Parlee Beach in New Brunswick has the warmest salt water in Canada, so it's ideal for swimming and sunbathing. You can play beach volleyball, go hiking nearby or camp overnight. The beach is a good location for water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
