Canada As You Like It Blog

Bay to Bay Adventures

Canada As You Like It • 28 October 2025

Atlantic Canada, located on the east coast of Canada, comprises four provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. The region offers a wealth of outdoor experiences, from wildlife encounters to exhilarating water adventures, making it a must-visit destination. Spectacular wildlife, including puffins and numerous species of migratory whales, adds to the allure, while the icebergs of Newfoundland and Labrador and tidal bore rafting on Nova Scotia’s side of the Bay of Fundy provide unforgettable experiences. Prince Edward Island offers first-class trails and stunning red sand cliffs. It truly is a paradise, no matter how you choose to explore it. In New Brunswick, take in views that will take your breath away. Hike through beautiful landscapes, or paddle or cycle your way across the province. With ocean views, forests, and the Appalachian Mountains, there is no shortage of things to do.

Hiking

Hiking trails across Atlantic Canada caters to all abilities, with family-friendly strolls and challenging mountain routes. Belmont Provincial Park on Prince Edward Island offers views of Malpeque Bay and opportunities for beachcombing, while Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park features over eighteen kilometres of trails for both hiking and mountain biking. The Glass Hole Trail in Conche on Newfoundland and Labrador, rewards walkers with coastal vistas, iceberg sightings, whales, and a historic Second World War plane site. The trailhead is located at a crashed WWII Boston BZ-277 plane from 1942, with most of the wreck still intact. The East Coast Trail stretches 336 km along North America’s easternmost coastline, where sea stacks, deep fjords, and a natural wave-driven geyser known as The Spout await adventurous hikers. In Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers 26 spectacular trails, including the Franey Trail, where large flat rocks provide the perfect place to rest and take in sweeping 360-degree views of Clyburn Brook canyon and the Atlantic coastline. Across the border in New Brunswick, the Fundy Footpath leads through steep valleys, sandy beaches, and tidal crossings, beginning in Fundy Trail Provincial Park near the suspension bridge over the Big Salmon River and hugging the dramatic coastline to Fundy National Park, with two tidal rivers that can only be crossed at low tide. With the highest mountain peak in the Maritimes, Mount Carleton Provincial Park has more than 42,000 acres of Appalachian wilderness waiting to be explored. The mountain is home to more wild animal species than any other part of the province and is a botanist’s dream for rare plants. As a designated dark sky preserve, Mount Carleton is the perfect place to enjoy those crystal-clear starry nights.

Tidal Bore Rafting and Kayaking

Atlantic Canada’s waterways provide thrilling adventures for paddlers and rafters alike. Kayak along the Charlottetown area and Red Sands Shore, exploring scenic coastlines, historic sites, colourful fields, and lighthouses on Prince Edward Island. The Exploits River in Newfoundland and Labrador caters to both beginners and experienced rafters, with guides assisting you through rapids before a relaxing swim and picnic on a rock island. Tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River in Nova Scotia offers a unique adrenaline rush as waves rise to four metres, powered by the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy. In New Brunswick, paddle with Bay of Fundy Adventures past charming covered bridges and colourful fishing boats of St. Martins’ harbour. Explore sea caves, and marvel at the dramatic coastline. 

Whale Watching

Atlantic Canada is a prime destination for whale watchers, with peak season running from June to August. Nutrient-rich waters in the Bay of Fundy attract a variety of species, while the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island offers sightings of minke, pilot, and humpback whales against dramatic coastal scenery. Newfoundland and Labrador hosts the world’s largest population of humpbacks from May to September, best experienced by sea kayak or boat around Bay Bulls and Witless Bay. Get out on the water in New Brunswick to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life such as sunfish, seals, and puffins in Saint Andrews, Grand Manan Island, Deer Island and Campobello Island. You pick the vessel – opportunities in a catamaran, zodiac, tall ship or kayak are available to witness these beautiful gentle giants.

Iceberg Viewing

Newfoundland and Labrador is home to some of the world’s finest iceberg-viewing opportunities. During spring and summer, ten-thousand-year-old glacial giants drift along the northern and eastern coasts, with striking colours and forms. Most originate from western Greenland, with the remainder from Canada’s Arctic. Iceberg Alley stretches from the coast of Labrador to Newfoundland’s southeast coast, with popular viewing spots including St Lewis, Battle Harbour, Red Bay, Twillingate, Fogo Island, Bonavista, St John’s, and Bay Bulls. Accessible by road, these sites offer the longest viewing season in the north, with late May and early June typically ideal once the sea ice has cleared.

Coastal Golf

Golfers will find paradise along Atlantic Canada’s coast, where more than three hundred courses are set against stunning seascapes and rolling countryside. From Canada’s first true links course, Cabot Links, and its sister course, Cabot Cliffs, rated number one in the country, to the modern seacoast layout of Fox Harb’r Resort, Nova Scotia welcomes the world to experience exceptional golf for every level of player. Those seeking dramatic tee-offs with the chance to spot local wildlife will find challenge and beauty at Gander Golf Club and Twin Rivers at Terra Nova Resort in Newfoundland and Labrador, where fairways are framed by forests, rivers, and rugged natural scenery. Courses across the region cater to both beginners and seasoned golfers, offering a perfect blend of sport and spectacular views. For over a century, the Algonquin Golf Course in Saint Andrews, New Brunswick, has stood among Canada’s seaside golfing greats. Recently redesigned to showcase the natural beauty of Passamaquoddy Bay and the Bay of Fundy, it offers an unforgettable golfing experience surrounded by breath taking ocean vistas. On Prince Edward Island, try your hand at Crowbush Cove. Overlooking the north shore dunes, this renowned course continues to captivate all who take on the challenge of conquering one of North America’s finest.

Cycling and Mountain Biking

Cyclists and mountain bikers can enjoy a wide variety of trails across the region. The Confederation Trail on Prince Edward Island offers smooth rides through rolling hills, lush farmland, and scenic coastal views. Sugarloaf Bike Park features thirty kilometres of trails with berms and jumps suitable for riders of all skill levels. The Harvest Moon Trailway is ideal for off-road cycling or long-distance trekking, as this easy, flat trail traverses the Annapolis Valley, passing through charming towns and providing trailside access to local farm markets and award-winning wineries. It also connects the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grand Pré to the historic seaside town of Annapolis Royal. On the west coast, the West Coast Mountain Bike Trails offer both machine-built, multi-directional routes and classic, feature-rich singletrack trails for the more adventurous. Riders can experience the stunning beauty of the Humber Valley, from old-growth forests to expansive views of Corner Brook and the Long Range Mountains.

Boating and Sailing

Boating and sailing allows you to explore Atlantic Canada’s waters in depth. In New Brunswick, waterways travelled for centuries are surrounded by 5,000 kilometres of rugged and gentle coastline, 2,500 lakes, and countless rivers. Sail along the Fundy and Acadian coasts, including the Bay of Fundy, Chaleur Bay, and Northumberland Strait, for breathtaking scenery at every turn. Grand Lake, the province’s largest freshwater lake, is popular for boaters, while the Saint John River offers tranquil cruising past farmland and historic wharves. Island stops with sandy beaches, osprey and bald eagle sightings, and a strong maritime spirit enhance the experience. Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton offers sailing charters and Liscombe Lodge Marina provides unforgettable coastal excursions.

Horse Riding

Horse riding offers a memorable way to explore Atlantic Canada’s varied landscapes. In New Brunswick, riders can traverse open meadows, peaceful wooded trails, or sandy beaches at Elite Equestrian, or enjoy a carriage ride with Riverfront Trail Carriage Rides. Nova Scotia provides scenic trail rides at Evangeline Trail Rides and Shelby Ranch, horse-drawn wagon journeys with Trot in Time Carriage Tours, and sleigh rides through dense forests, rugged coastal cliffs, and rolling countryside. These adventures cater to both beginners seeking leisurely rides and experienced riders looking for more challenging experiences. The Bay of Fundy Beach Ride with Spirit Rein is particularly popular, taking you at low tide past farmland and wooded trails to Glooscap Beach within the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark, where riders can trot along the beach and in the salt water while breathing in the fresh sea air. In Newfoundland and Labrador, visitors can enjoy outback experiences at Lomond River, Island Pond, or Bear Lake.

by Canada As You Like It 29 August 2025
Alberta is a year-round playground for adventure seekers, where vast wild spaces invite exploration, and every season brings new thrills. With bucket-list wilderness escapes and adrenaline-fuelled activities, there is no shortage of ways to challenge yourself and connect with nature. The province’s scenic road trips are as memorable as the destinations themselves, whether you are cruising through towering mountain ranges, past golden canola fields, or alongside striking hoodoo formations. Alberta is easy to get to with an international airport in Calgary. This is the main gateway with Westjet and Air Canada offering direct flights.
by Canada As You Like It 29 July 2025
Nestled in the upper northwest corner of Canada, bordering Alaska, it is the country’s most accessible northern destination. Located partly in the Arctic Circle, this vast, untamed land is home to Canada’s highest peak at 5,959 metres, Mount Logan, and the world’s largest non-polar icefields in Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With nearly 80% of the region remaining pristine wilderness, you will discover soaring 5,000-metre peaks, sweeping forested valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and an abundance of iconic wildlife. For those seeking adventure and awe-inspiring beauty, the Yukon offers an experience unlike anywhere else in North America.
by Canada As You Like It 24 January 2025
Atlantic Canada is a coastal paradise filled with breath-taking vistas, rich history, vibrant traditions, plentiful outdoor adventures, friendly local characters, and, of course, the freshest seafood. Explore New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, each offering its own distinct charm. Visit Atlantic Canada and discover the wonders of these provinces for yourself.
by Canada As You Like It 4 March 2024
Atlantic Canada, located in Eastern Canada made up of four provinces, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, is a coastal wonderland that enchants visitors with its breathtaking vistas, rich history, and vibrant traditions. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless adventure opportunities, while those seeking cultural immersion will encounter local characters and charming communities. And no visit to Atlantic Canada is complete without indulging in its world-renowned seafood, freshly harvested from the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
by Canada As You Like It 16 October 2023
In the northwest of Canada where eighty percent of the area is wilderness, lies the Yukon. With friendly locals, wildlife to observe, activities to immerse yourself in and fascinating history to explore, this destination makes for the perfect fly-drive holiday.
by Canada As You Like It 16 August 2023
Lace up your boots and hit the back country. With trails at your doorstep for exploring, hiking is the best way of seeing the province on a fly drive holiday. There are areas suitable for all levels of hiking, from the congenial leisure walk to the avid hiker. Head to Saskatoon at the Meewasin Valley, this area offers over 105 km of trails across 67 square km of land. It provides year-round adventure and sightseeing opportunities in the heart of beautiful Saskatoon. Benefit from the well-maintained, multi-use pathways to cycle, jog or walk the scenic riverbank trails. Sections of the Meewasin Trail are also part of the Trans Canada Trail which extends almost 24,000 km across Canada from coast to coast. Keen for a challenge? Look at some of the best back country hiking at places like Prince Albert National Park, Lac La Ronge, Meadow Lake- and Narrow Hills Provincial Park in the north or Grasslands National Park and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park in the south.
by Canada As You LIke It 24 July 2023
With three different water ways and an UNESCO heritage site, Ottawa is the place to explore. Take a trip down the Rideau Canal or explore the ByWard market. Walk along Parliament Hill and through acres of woodland and royal trees planted by dignitaries.
by Canada As You Like It 22 June 2023
Imagine swimming thousands of miles to find that special someone. Whales complete this every single year, known as a whale migration, to find suitable habitat for feeding and reproducing. In British Columbia, these stunning orcas, also known as killer whales, are a prominent site and seeing them is a once in a lifetime experience. As well as orcas, expect to find humpback whales, grey whales and minke whales. These amazing creatures call BC their home from April to October. When the sun is out the whales come to play. From tail flukes to pectoral slaps, go for a whale watching trip and you can bask in their playful nature and enjoy the sunset with a relaxing drink, perfect for families and solo travellers. You can also go paddleboarding with orcas for a unique perspective from the water to see these magnificent creatures. You must, of course, always keep four hundred metres away from them for their safety and yours.
by Canada As You Like It 24 April 2023
Welcome to the province of Saskatchewan, Canada – a place of breath-taking landscapes, wide-open spaces and hospitality that is second-to-none. This province is big – 651,900 km2, in fact, and has nearly 100,000 lakes and waterways. Natural beauty is not the only thing this province is known for though. Join us on a culinary journey of Saskatchewan, where food and drink abound, and you will find something good to eat around every corner!
by Canada As You Like It 27 March 2023
Welcome to the fourth largest province in Canada. With five National Parks and six UNESCO Heritage sites, Alberta is a wonderful and varied place to visit. This blog will explore this great province and expose you to the unique qualities that make this area a location sure to be your next travel destination. A playground for outdoor adventure, popular summer activities include hiking, biking, horse riding, rafting, and fishing. As the seasons change and snow begins to fall, head to Alberta for world-class winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding, snowshoeing, heli-skiing, ice climbing and more. From wildlife in the Rockies to Waterton Lakes National Park, and art and culture to explore, Alberta is a wonderland packed with options for every traveller.