With Canada Day just around the corner, and travel is still restricted, let’s explore our own backyard. Canada is very diverse - in history, people and geography. Each province offers its own unique destinations. From West coast to East coast, you will find something that will entertain and inspire you. Here is a mix of well-known spots, and some not so well known spots.
Fraser River, British Columbia
Fraser River is the longest river in British Columbia stretching close to 1400kms. It is also known as Salmon River, as it is home to millions of salmon that swim out to the ocean. The Fraser River begins at the western side of the Rocky Mountains and extends into the Strait of Georgia in Vancouver. In 1998, it was designated as a Canadian Heritage River.
Banff National Park - Alberta
You’ve seen the pictures - unspoiled landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, majestic mountains. Banff National Park is
Canada’s first national park. Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are over 1500kms of trails you can explore. You can kayak or canoe the beautiful lakes. The trails can be accessed from the Town of Banff and the village of Lake Louise. Paradise right in our back yard!!
The Forks, Manitoba
The one and only time I visited The Forks was in the middle of winter with -40C temperatures - Why did I go there? A conference, but let me tell you the restaurants at this location is top-notch. Now, I should go back to visit in the summer and actually enjoy myself without my eyelashes getting frozen shut. But in all seriousness, The Forks has a history that dates back to 6,000 years ago. and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1974. Annually, The Forks see over 4 million visits every year as one of Winnipeg’s most popular tourist attractions with great shopping, entertainment, and dining.
Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador
This national park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is paradise for those that love nature. It is the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities - camping, hiking, biking, boating, or just overlooking the beautiful scenery of kilometres of sandy beaches. Stay in a cottage or chalet, or head out with your RV, or pitch your tent.
Old Quebec City, Quebec
There is something about Quebec that makes you feel like Europe. As we can’t travel to Europe just quite yet, let’s enjoy “Europe” right in our backyard. Old Quebec was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Old Quebec is the most intact walled city north of Mexico which dates back to the 17th century. Visit the Château Frontenac, the terraces along the Old Port during the summer, or Parliament Building, or shop along the boutiques of Petit-Champlain, or take pictures of the Place Royale.
Cavendish Beach – Prince Edward Island
Cavendish Beach has the iconic Prince Edward Island’s red sands. In Cavendish, you will find beaches and boardwalks. Enjoy an afternoon along its sandy shores. There is plenty to do with the family - amusement parks, music festivals, golf courses. As you are right on the Atlantic ocean, you can enjoy lots of water activities and deep sea fishing, and also enjoy the fruits of the sea. There will be fresh lobsters, oysters, and PEI mussels. And of course, cultural displays of music, arts, and theatre, coupled with shopping.
Fernie, British Columbia
Located south of Banff, close to the Montana border, Fernie, BC is ideal for skiers and snowmobilers, but you don’t have to like the snow to check out Fernie. There is something for you if you like to swim, camp, bike or hike in the many trails, or cliff jump. Look out for moose, or some mountain goats. There are local craft beer, art galleries, and outdoor concerts. If you are adventurous, check out Canada’s deepest cave. Fernie has something for historical enthusiasts and naturalists alike.
Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill, Manitoba - the polar bear capital of the world. Take on a polar bear tour, or take a chance on seeing the Northern lights. Go beluga whale watching or bird watching. Explore on a dog sled or check out the sights along the shores of Hudson Bay.
Fun Fact - My hubby was the electrical engineer in the design of the Churchill Northern Studies Centre. He tells me stories that polar bears would roam the construction site, and sometimes the workers would have to nudge the bears with the pick up trucks. No worries - polar bears were not harmed. I think they were more worried about how much damage the bears could do to their trucks.
Wolf Lake, Yukon
Wolf Lake is located past Whitehorse, Yukon, close to the Alaskan border.It is untouched wildernessmaking it one of Canada’s best kept secrets.It is a fisherman’s dream spot.Take a short 45 mins flight over mountain ranges that brings you to a dock in Wolf Lake. Spend the day fishing and retreat at night at a cozy lodge
Parliament of Canada, Ontario
One of the most Canadian things to do is spend Canada Day at Parliament Hill with the backdrop of the beautiful Parliament of Canada building. The Parliament building is a must see architectural must see. You can expore on your own, or take a guided tour. If you time it right, you might be able to see the Changing of the Guards during the summer months. Take a walk to see the National War Memorial or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Don’t forget to come back in the Winter to enjoy ice skating along the Rideau Canal.
Comment below if you have visited any of these locations or if you are thinking of travelling in Canada this year.
Comentarios