Unearth the Hidden Gems of Atlantic Canada
As the world’s second-largest country, it’s no surprise there are plenty of places to see and stories left to be told in Canada. Particularly in Atlantic Canada, trendy travellers will love discovering the hidden gems of culture and beauty native to the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.
Atlantic Canada has something for every traveller, from outdoor enthusiasts wanting to hike to Thunder Cove and reach breath-taking rock formations, to history buffs fascinated by the story of the buried treasure in Oak Island. See below for some of Atlantic Canada ‘s hidden gems.
Ministers Island, New Brunswick
Ministers Island is an enchanting place to visit and lies just off the shore near St. Andrews. This part-time island can be reached at low tide by driving or walking approximately 1 km over the seafloor. Visitors will be immersed in an experience from the late 19th and early 20th century, as they stand in the summer estate of Sir William Van Horne’s, one of Canada’s most historic figures who as President of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1800s, was responsible for building the Canadian railway line that connected the country coast to coast. Visitors will be enraptured in one of the foremost cultural, heritage and environmental destinations in the Charlotte Coastal Region of New Brunswick, with Sir William’s vast house, gigantic livestock barn and his bathhouse/artist’s hideaway all on view.
Petty Harbour Maddox Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador
With less than 1,000 people living in the community of Petty Harbour, the picturesque town is located on the eastern shore of the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador. Steeped in history, the town settlement can be traced back to the 1600’s. Traditionally a thriving fishing village, Petty Harbour offers fantastic tourism programs to experience the fishing heritage which support their youth & community programs. Other activities and attractions available at Petty Harbour include the mini aquarium, war memorial, North Atlantic ziplines and the Petty Harbour Museum.
Oak Island, Nova Scotia
For over 200 years, Oak Island in Nova Scotia has enthralled, delighted and frustrated those who have dug in its famous Money Pit looking for the renowned Oak Island Treasure. Steeped in history and conflicting theories, some believed pirate treasure lay just below the next layer of soil. Others believed Marie Antoinette’s lost jewels were buried there right after the French Revolution. A guided tour by the Friends of Oak Island Society gives visitors the chance to see mysterious island for themselves.
Thunder Cove, Prince Edward Island
The breath-taking red sandstone rock formations and sea caves contrasting against the blue waters make the short hike to this hidden beach, Thunder Cove well worth it. Just a short drive or kayak paddle away is a mesmerising sea stack known as Teacup Rock best viewed in early morning when the water is calm and the sun is beginning to rise. This enchanting spot is a must when it comes to viewing Prince Edward Island’s most unique sandstone cliffs and formations.