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30 April 2024 by David Ward
Fanning out along Canada's Atlantic Coast, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island offer a rich variety of travel experiences, from standout seafood to vibrant festivals and national parks teeming with wildlife. Travel to the region is easy, with direct flights to Halifax, Nova Scotia from London. In fact, it’s all just a six-hour flight away. Below, you’ll find six great reasons why Atlantic Canada should be at the top of your holiday wish list.
1. A coastal destination
With over 43,000 kilometres to explore, Atlantic Canada’s coastline offers something for everyone. On Prince Edward Island, sandstone cliffs frame sandy beaches and water warm enough for swimming. Then, to the north, Newfoundland & Labrador is a rugged viewpoint for mighty icebergs on their journey south. Meanwhile, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick share the Bay of Fundy, host to migrating whales and the world’s highest tides.
Nova Scotia's coast is dotted with charming villages
2. Whales & wildlife
With whales in mind, Atlantic Canada is among the best regions on Earth for spotting these magnificent mammals, from Newfoundland & Labrador to Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia and Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick. Also, along the coast, visitors can spot puffins and other seabirds, while inland, national parks provide a rich habitat for moose, black bears and caribou.
Whale watching on the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick
3. Incredible seafood
Seafood lovers rejoice. The freshest lobster, oysters, mussels, scallops, clams, crab and salmon make Atlantic Canada a must for anyone who knows their herring from their halibut. Indeed, you’ll be treated to a wide range of culinary delights across the region, from renowned fine-dining restaurants to roadside stands serving delicious fish and chips.
Steamed mussels, Prince Edward Island
4. Urban experiences
Halifax is the vibrant capital of Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada’s largest city. Stroll the waterfront past historic sites, shops and museums, or head to the harbour for live music in one of the many pubs and restaurants. In Newfoundland & Labrador, St John’s is all colourful buildings and a friendly, small-town buzz. Be sure to include some of the region’s festivals in your visit, such as the Harvest Music Festival in Fredericton, New Brunswick or the Prince Edward Island International Shellfish Festival in Charlottetown.
Halifax waterfront, Nova Scotia
5. Outdoor adventure
Across the provinces, eight national parks and many more provincial parks offer the likes of hiking, cycling, sea kayaking, canoeing, and warm-water swimming. Autumn is a particular delight, with spectacular seasons foliage that rivals even that of New England. Meanwhile, in Newfoundland & Labrador, winter brings everything from husky sledding to snowmobiling.
Hiking on Fogo Island, Newfoundland & Labrador (image: Fogo Island Inn)
6. A unique heritage
As you journey through Atlantic Canada, you’ll begin to understand the region’s rich cultural fabric – a diverse mix of French Acadian, Scottish, Irish, German, African and First Nations. Each has its own unique customs, legends and legacies – compelling stories told through music, dance and cuisine.
