The second-largest nation on this planet is crammed with pure wonders, so making an inventory was a problem! Though from my time exploring this terribly scenic nation, listed below are my favourite spots I’d like to share with you…
1. Yellowknife/Northwest Territories
This distant and vibrant metropolis is the place I lastly noticed the Northern Lights! The capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, I assumed it was a surprising and distinctive spot with a putting mix of rugged Arctic landscapes and quirky trendy structure. I additionally beloved the way it blended a frontier spirit with a robust sense of group!
It’s situated within the Northwest Territories, within the northern a part of the nation and was based in 1934 throughout the gold rush. Right now it serves as each a governmental and cultural hub and boasts a inhabitants of round 20,000 residents. It’s located immediately beneath the auroral oval, which makes it among the best locations on this planet to view the northern lights!
I took the 2 and a half hour flight from Vancouver and stayed for 4 days. I used to be fortunate sufficient to see the breathtaking aurora borealis at Aurora Village and I additionally explored the wealthy historical past and indigenous artwork on the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, went snowmobiling on Nice Slave Lake, snowshoed the scenic Body Lake Path, and skilled the colourful native tradition on the Previous City’s quirky retailers and funky waterfront eating places!
- Tackle: Northwest Territories, Canada
- Location Map
- Greatest time to go to: from early Sept to mid-April (to see the Nothern Lights).
My favourite highlights…
- Taking a tour of the auroral oval to see the magnificent and breathtaking Northern Lights.
- Exploring the Previous City on Nice Slave Lake’s waterfront the place I discovered an array of high eating places and artwork retailers.
- Mountaineering alongside the Ingraham Path to see Hidden Lake Territorial Park which featured Cameron Falls.
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2. The Rockies
This can be a world-famous rugged and breathtaking mountain vary! I’ve to be trustworthy I used to be in awe of their dramatic mountain peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes and the way they embody no much less 5 gorgeous nationwide parks recognized for his or her scenic magnificence: Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, and Glacier Nationwide Park. I assumed it exuded an impressive and adventurous ambiance!
They stretch over 3,000 miles from the northernmost a part of British Columbia, in western Canada, down by way of america to New Mexico and its highest peak, Mount Elbert, stands at 14,440 ft.
I personally hiked the gorgeous trails in Banff and Jasper Nationwide Parks, explored the icefields alongside the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, soaked within the pure scorching springs in Banff, tried snowboarding on the slopes of Lake Louise, and marveled on the rugged magnificence and numerous wildlife of Yoho and Kootenay Nationwide Parks and explored the quaint allure of mountain cities like Canmore and Golden.
- Location: Banff Nationwide Park, The Canadian Rockies.
- Location Map
- Greatest time to go to: July to August
My highlights…
- Happening The Rocky Mountaineer – I completely beloved the Glass-Domed Coaches the place I noticed panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and forests. I additionally beloved the Outside Viewing Platform and eating on a regionally foraged Wild Mushroom Risotto within the upscale eating cart!
3. Vancouver Island
I assumed this was such an serene, distinctive and atmospheric place! I discovered it was additionally very easy-on-the-eye with gorgeous rugged coastal cliffs, misty old-growth rainforests, and sandy seashores, charming seaside cities, positive historic structure and a number of other bohemian-style communities which had artsy, different vibes.
It’s the most important island on North America’s west coast, has a inhabitants of about 865,000 and a historical past formed by Indigenous Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw peoples, early European explorers like Captain James Prepare dinner, and British colonial settlement, with Victoria changing into the capital of British Columbia in 1868.
I took the ferry from Vancouver and stayed every week which was idyllic! I explored the charming streets and historic Fairmont Empress in Victoria, swam within the wild waves of Tofino, hiked by way of the towering old-growth forests of Cathedral Grove, noticed orcas and humpback whales within the Salish Sea, soaked within the pure scorching springs of Scorching Springs Cove, wandered the bohemian markets of Salt Spring Island, and drove the breathtakingly scenic Pacific Rim Freeway!
My highlights…
- Going for afternoon tea on the iconic Fairmont Empress – I really like the dreamy waterfront location.
4. Banff Nationwide Park
This was each a wide ranging and adventurous place! I used to be significantly in awe of its gorgeous alpine landscapes, majestic mountain vistas, shimmering lakes, and thick, dense forests and nice facilities corresponding to buzzy eating places and quaint retailers. I additionally beloved its deal with outside adventures whereas nonetheless having a comfy mountain retreat vibe!
It’s situated within the coronary heart of the Canadian Rockies inside Banff Nationwide Park, within the province of Alberta (round 80 miles west of Calgary). It was established in 1885 as Canada’s first nationwide park and a historic city resides throughout the protected space which has a inhabitants of round 8,000 residents.
I spent a heavenly 5 days right here and I kayaked on Lake Louise, hiked the breathtaking trails of Johnston Canyon, explored the sweeping vistas from the Banff Gondola, checked out the world-class snowboarding slopes in Sunshine Village, relaxed within the soothing Banff Higher Scorching Springs, and marveled on the wildlife and rugged peaks alongside the Icefields Parkway.
- Guests Middle Tackle: Banff Customer Centre (Hours) 224 Banff Avenue, City of Banff Telephone: 403-762-1550
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: all yr spherical (completely different seasons supply completely different actions)
My favorite highlights…
- Renting a canoe and spend time on the beautiful waters.
- Discovering the right chook’s eye view overlooking the lake through a mountaineering path.
5. Vancouver
I completely beloved Vancouver once I visited! I additionally thought it was very simple on the attention with modern trendy structure and charming historic buildings, all set towards a backdrop of glowing waters, sandy seashores rugged, pebbly shores, thick forests and snow-capped peaks of the Coast Mountains.
I actually admired that truth it was simply so many issues without delay – it was laid-back but cosmopolitan, it additionally had outside adventures, cultural variety, and concrete sophistication. I might be sipping on espresso in a comfy café downtown, after which be mountaineering up a mountain or lounging by the seashore very quickly! To me, it was the right mix of laid-back West Coast vibes and vibrant metropolis vitality!
It’s nestled on the west coast of Canada in British Columbia, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Coast Mountains. It was based in 1886, is a historic port metropolis on Canada’s west coast with a inhabitants of over 660,000, recognized for its Indigenous heritage, vibrant financial system, and function as a gateway to the Pacific.
I spent 4 days right here and explored Stanley Park’s breathtaking seawall, visited Granville Island’s superior meals market and artisan retailers, admired artwork on the Vancouver Artwork Gallery, strolled by way of historic Gastown which had an iconic Steam Clock, relaxed on Kitsilano Seashore and took in panoramic views from Grouse Mountain.
6. Churchill, Manitoba
I assumed this made such a singular journey vacation spot! This small, distant city situated on the shores of Hudson Bay utterly captivated me with its rugged pure magnificence and an untamed wilderness dotted with fascinating sights and much more intriguing wildlife – it’s not known as “Polar Bear Capital of the World” for nothing, (and on my journey, I noticed 40 of them in at some point)!
I additionally beloved the wild, rugged, and adventurous vibe, in addition to the close-knit group ambiance and the sensation that I used to be deeply immersed in nature.
It’s tucked away in northern Manitoba, round 68 miles from the Manitoba-Nunavut border. It was established as a fur buying and selling put up within the 18th century and immediately it’s a really small city with solely 900 folks dwelling there.
Whereas it’s already the premier vacation spot for seeing these stunning white bears, not everybody realises that it’s also a implausible place to see Beluga whales in late summer time.
I took the 2 hour flight from Winnipeg and wow it was value it! I skilled the joys of polar bear viewing excursions on the tundra, (beluga whale are widespread in the summertime), explored the historic Prince of Wales Fort, visited the Itsanitaq Museum and learnt concerning the native Inuit tradition, and even noticed the spectacular northern lights – it was truly an ideal place to identify them due to the excessive latitude and lack of sunshine air pollution.
- Tackle: Manitoba, Canada
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: January, February and March (for Northern Gentle watching).
My highlights…
- Stopping by the Churchill Northern Research Middle to be taught concerning the historical past and ecology of the realm.
- Wandering across the fascinating Prince of Wales Fort, which is simply accessible by boat.
7. Quebec Metropolis
I assumed this metropolis was each charming and seductive! I used to be utterly gained over by its old-world European-style allure, positive historic landmarks, French colonial structure and the picturesque streets of Previous Quebec, which is definitely a UNESCO World Heritage website.
I assumed it had a vibrant, cultured vibe with a definite European aptitude, with full of life festivals, quaint cafes, and bustling markets, all set towards a backdrop of historic structure and the welcoming, bilingual allure of its residents! Sure it was touristy, nevertheless it was widespread for a motive!
It’s situated within the southeastern a part of the province of Quebec on the north financial institution of the Saint Lawrence River. It was based in 1608 as one of many oldest cities in North America, it’s predominantly French-speaking and serves because the capital of the province of Quebec with inhabitants of round 540,000 residents.
I stayed for 3 days and that was sufficient to squeeze in a tour of of the historic streets of Previous Quebec, a go to to the imposing Château Frontenac, exploring the spectacular fortifications of La Citadelle, having fun with panoramic views from the Observatoire de la Capitale, wandering by way of the charming Quartier Petit Champlain, and eating on French delicacies in its positive eating places. I beloved that I stumbled throughout a quaint facet avenue or romantic cafe each almost jiffy!
- Location: Québec province
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: June to September and December to February.
My favourite highlights…
- Strolling throughout the unbelievable suspending bridge above Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
- Having enjoyable at implausible Village Vacances Valcartier/Ice Resort, which boasts the most important theme park in Canada.
8. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
That is an idyllic UNESCO-listed heritage city! I found a gem with brightly painted buildings reflecting a wealthy maritime heritage and scenic seashores with rugged coastlines and serene, sandy stretches. It had a quaint and inventive vibe with bustling waterfront, and a pleasant community-focus, I additionally beloved that it was jam-packed with artisanal and regionally produced meals and merchandise!
It’s situated on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Canada, nestled alongside the western facet of Mahone Bay (90 kilometers southwest of Halifax) Lunenburg, based in 1753, is a historic fishing and shipbuilding group and immediately’s its dwelling to round 2,300 residents. It was designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Website in 1995, because of it being a really well-preserved instance of a British colonial settlement.
- Location: Nova Scotia
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: Summer time
My favourite highlights…
- Eating on the fabulous Salt Shaker Deli and Inn which had nice harbour views.
- Taking a visit on the world-renowned racing ship champion, Bluenose II, who was undefeated for 17 years.
- Exploring the charming Previous City Heritage District crammed with vibrant buildings and retailers.
9. Johnston Strait
The waters listed below are dwelling to a number of the world’s largest pods of resident orcas! I additionally thought it was stunningly stunning, with silverly clear waters surrounded by untouched coastal surroundings and forest-covered mountains – the majestic resident orcas simply added to the extraordinary pure drama of all of it!
It’s situated within the northeastern a part of Vancouver Island in British Columbia operating between Vancouver Island and the British Columbia mainland spanning an space of 68 miles lengthy and its width varies from 1.5 to three miles. It’s a key navigation route with a wealthy historical past of indigenous habitation and European exploration and immediately it’s sparsely populated solely dotted with small communities centered on fishing and tourism.
When staying in Vancouver Island I drove to the group of Telegraph Cove (different alternate options have been Port McNeill and Alert Bay) and from there I may discover the strait and its surrounding sights.
I stayed a couple of days and went on an orca-viewing boat tour at Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, went kayaking by way of the calm waters surrounded by gorgeous coastal surroundings and explored Telegraph Cove which had a quaint boardwalk and restored historic constructing, and hiked the close by forest trails – the surroundings was zen-like and breathtaking!
10. Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park
I assumed this wild and rugged place was really breathtaking! I discovered dramatic cliffs and forested mountains overlooking sandy and rocky seashores, charming fishing villages, and scenic lighthouses dotted the unspoilt shoreline. To me it felt tranquil and untamed and I actually preferred the way it blended the uncooked fantastic thing about nature with a welcoming coastal allure.
It was situated on the northern a part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia and stretched alongside the well-known Cabot Path and bordered by the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. It was established in 1936 as one of many nation’s first nationwide parks and spans over 950 sq. kilometers.
I took the Trans-Canada Freeway to Cape Breton Island and drove the breathtaking Cabot Path with its sweeping ocean views. I additionally stayed for 3 days and hiked the Skyline Path and noticed gorgeous sunsets and fascinating wildlife, explored Ingonish Seashore which had a singular mix of sand and clean rocks, visited the Acadian village of Chéticamp for cultural allure, and found the waterfalls and plush forests alongside the scenic Center Head Path.
11. Previous Montreal
I assumed Montreal was such a dynamic and intriguing metropolis! I’ve to confess it was an eclectic combine however components of it have been each really gorgeous and really elegant particularly Previous Montreal which was crammed with historic structure, charming cobblestone streets and the buzzy Previous Port and I beloved the way in which it was oozing with European-inspired allure in type of quaint nook cafés, boutiques with fairly home windows, spectacular columns, and church buildings.
I discovered Previous Montreal within the southeast of Montreal, Quebec, alongside the St. Lawrence River which southeastern a part of the nation. Montreal was based in 1642 as a French colonial settlement, is Quebec’s largest metropolis with a inhabitants of over 1.7 million. It’s principally French-speaking and is thought for its cultural variety, and standing as a hub for arts and commerce.
I spent three days in Montreal and in Previous Montreal I explored the cobblestone streets and historic websites, marveled on the gorgeous Notre-Dame Basilica, took in panoramic metropolis views from Mount Royal Park, visited the Montreal Museum of Tremendous Arts and the Biodome, and sampled the town’s world-famous meals scene within the full of life Previous Port which included poutine and bagels!
- Location: Québec province
- Map Location
- Greatest occasions to go to: between April and Might and September to November
My favourite highlights…
- Visiting the Notre Dame Basilica, the oldest Catholic parish church within the metropolis, which is crammed with spectacular interiors.
- Driving on the La Grande Roue de Montreal for the very best views overlooking the town.
- Trying out the exhibitions within the Science Middle.
12. The Bay of Fundy
This can be a pristine coastal area which is known for having the world’s highest tides! In addition to its record-breaking tides which formed the rugged cliffs, sandy and rocky seashores I additionally thought it was a beautiful magnificence spot with fairly charming coastal villages dotted with historic lighthouses and colourful waterfront buildings. I beloved the way it blended a tranquil vibe, awe-inspiring vitality of the dramatic tides and a quaint allure!
It was situated between the provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick within the japanese a part of the nation. It additionally has a wealthy historical past of indigenous Mi’kmaq tradition and is surrounded by small coastal communities with a mixed inhabitants of round 100,000. It’s nutrient-rich waters, additionally appeal to humpback, fin, minke, North Atlantic proper whales, and sometimes blue whales.
I took a drive from Halifax and spent three days right here kayaking the dramatic tides at Hopewell Rocks, strolling on the ocean ground at Burntcoat Head Park and going whale-watching in Digby.
I additionally explored the charming city of Wolfville which had vineyards and an fascinating Acadian historical past, and hiked the paths and noticed waterfalls and lovely coastal views at Fundy Nationwide Park. It was additionally nice to satisfy different kayakers and canoers from all around the world who have been interested in the jaw-dropping surroundings and the world’s highest tides!
- Location: New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
- Map Location
- Greatest occasions to go to: Spring, Summer time and Fall
My favourite highlights…
- Admiring the spectacular Hopewell Rocks with their uncommon formations created by the Fundy tides.
- Watching the drive of the tides in motion from the statement deck, which has a transparent glass-panelled ground.
- Exploring the luxurious greenery and delightful waterfalls on the Nationwide Park.
13. Yoho Nationwide Park, British Columbia
This park is underrated when in comparison with its extra well-known neighbors of Banff and Jasper, nevertheless it’s a gem! It had a extra peaceable intimate vibe however the surroundings was simply as putting with towering waterfalls, deep glowing blue lakes, and dense forests dotted with rustic heritage buildings and serene riverbank seashores.
It’s situated within the Canadian Rockies in southeastern British Columbia, close to the western slope of the Continental Divide. It was established in 1886 and spans 1,313 sq. kilometers and is a part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Website. It’s additionally well-known for its Burgess Shale fossils, that are among the many world’s oldest and most vital fossil finds courting over 500 million years in the past.
I stayed right here for a two days and marveled on the iconic Takakkaw Falls, one among Canada’s highest waterfalls, explored the traditional Burgess Shale fossils, hiked the difficult trails to Emerald Lake and Lake O’Hara, kayaked throughout the reflective waters of Wapta Lake, traversed the scenic Iceline Path and took an fascinating guided tour to the Mount Stephen Fossil Beds.
- Location: Discipline, BC V0A 1G0
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: July to September
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the gorgeous and vibrant Emerald Lake which is surrounded by lush forests.
- Visiting the Pure Bridge and getting an ideal Insta-worthy shot.
- Mountaineering to the spectacular Wapta Falls, the largest waterfall within the park which stands at 18-meters excessive.
14. Cape Spear, Newfoundland and Labrador
I used to be a giant fan of this rugged and distant spot! I assumed it was pristinely stunning with gorgeous ocean vistas from the easternmost level of North America, the putting, historic Cape Spear Lighthouse, rugged cliffs, and pebbly shores – I used to be taken by its serene and majestic vibe and the sense of solitude I felt being on the most easternmost level of North America.
It’s situated on the Avalon Peninsula close to St. John’s within the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and Cape Spear, established as a lighthouse website in 1836 and now a part of a Nationwide Historic Website.
I spend a day right here and that was sufficient to discover the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, hike alongside the rugged coastal trails the place I noticed breathtaking views of the Atlantic, watched out for icebergs and whales from the cliffs, and be taught concerning the space’s historical past and its function throughout World Battle II within the fascinating restored navy fortifications.
- Location: St. John’s, NL A1C 5H2
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: June to October
My favourite highlights…
- Going for a scenic hike alongside the Blackhead Path path which supplied sensible views throughout the waters.
- Climbing up the steps on the historic lighthouse and listening to the tales of the households who lived there for generations earlier than.
- Wandering alongside the Fairly Harbor fishing village situated near Cape Spear.
15. Prince Edward Island
I assumed this was a quaint and picturesque gem! I found quaint, picturesque maritime cities, historic Victorian structure, rolling inexperienced hills, and pristine sandy seashores which ranged from white to purple sand. I used to be additionally charmed by its welcoming small-town vibe and really sluggish tempo of life! There have been heat smiles in every single place I seemed right here!
It’s nestled within the Gulf of St. Lawrence, north of Nova Scotia and east of New Brunswick, because the smallest province in the entire nation with a inhabitants of solely 159,000. It turned a part of Canada in 1873 and is thought for its historic websites, together with being the setting of the novel “Anne of Inexperienced Gables.”
16. Whistler
That is one of many largest ski resorts in North America! It’s additionally a really gorgeous spot the place I discovered jaw-dropping alpine surroundings, a mixture of trendy ski resort structure with chalet-style buildings and a backdrop of thick, lush forests and towering mountains. It exuded a full of life, adventurous vibe mixing high-energy sports activities actions and a laid-back mountain life-style.
It’s situated within the Coast Mountains of British Columbia round 75 miles north of Vancouver. It was established as a resort municipality in 1975 and was the co-host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. It has a inhabitants of round 11,854 and is thought for its world-class ski slopes and mountain biking trails.
I got here right here in the summertime went snowboarding on the world-famous Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, watched the snowboarders, tobogganers, and ski jumpers, loved the panoramic views from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, relaxed within the Scandinave Spa, and sampled the eating places and purchasing within the buzzy Whistler Village. In the summertime the realm is widespread mountaineering, biking and zip-lining.
- Location: north of Vancouver, British Columbia
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: December to February for nice snowboarding circumstances.
My highlights…
- Buying within the village, there’s a nice vary of impartial boutiques.
17. Toronto
This multicultural hub is Canada’s largest cities! After all, like several main metropolis Toronto has its grittier components nevertheless it was additionally a putting place with an outstanding skyline dominated by the long-lasting CN Tower, trendy and historic structure and a scenic waterfront alongside Lake Ontario. It has a full of life city vibe and to me, it appeared like a smaller, cleaner, tidier model of New York.
Situated within the province of Ontario, alongside the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto, it was established because the city of York in 1793 and renamed in 1834. It has a a inhabitants of over 2.9 million and is known for its multiculturalism, financial significance, and iconic landmarks.
I spent a enjoyable three days right here and explored the towering CN Tower and breathtaking metropolis views, visited world-class cultural establishments the Royal Ontario Museum and Artwork Gallery of Ontario, strolled by way of the historic Distillery District which was alive with cafes, artwork galleries, and quirky retailers, shopped and dined on the bustling St. Lawrence Market, relaxed on the Toronto Islands with their seashores and skyline views, and found the cool neighborhoods of Chinatown and Kensington Market the place I browsed classic shops for hours!
- Location: Ontario
- Map Location
- Greatest time to Go to: late spring to early fall
My favourite highlights…
- Wandering round Toronto Island Park, which featured stunning trails, small seashores and some amusement rides.
- Hanging out at Cineforum – that is the place native eccentric Reg Hartt confirmed me quick movies and animations in his lounge and even talked about his vibrant social gathering life-style previous with a can of beer in hand!
- Strolling as much as the Gothic Revival stately dwelling Casa Loma which was in equal components fascinating, quirky, and tragic!
18. Niagara Falls
Angel Falls could also be greater, and Victoria Falls could also be wider, however Niagara nonetheless holds the crown of the world’s most well-known waterfall.
It offered the backdrop for one among Marilyn Monroe’s higher movies, has hosted numerous weddings and honeymooning {couples}, and daredevils from throughout the globe have come to check themselves towards the would possibly of mom nature, both by crossing on a tightrope or throwing themselves over the sting in a barrel.
Fortunately, there are safer methods to benefit from the falls, particularly the Maid of the Mist boat (tip: it’s value letting folks previous you so that you simply’re on the entrance of the queue if you wish to be sure to’re first into one of many wettest spots on the boat).
Everybody has their very own opinion of which facet is best (Canadian vs American) however as chances are you’ll solely go to as soon as I’d recommend seeing it from each!
- Location: Between Ontario, Canada and New York State, New York
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: mid-Might to mid-September
My highlights…
- Hovering by way of the sky on the funWildPlay Zipline, which hits speeds of 40mph.
- Getting a singular view of the majestic falls by using the Skylon Tower 233 meters up excessive.
- Trying out the adrenaline-pumping and award-winning Fallsview Indoor Waterpark!
19. Nahanni Nationwide Park Reserve
In case you’re an everyday reader, you’ll know that we love a UNESCO World Heritage website! In case you say to most individuals ‘Canada’, that is what they consider. Wild turquoise rivers crash by way of steep-sided granite valleys. Pine timber dot grassy plains.
And if you happen to go to in the summertime, you’ll be offered with an ocean of shade and wildflowers. This nation is really wild and delightful and stays just about untouched. Please bear in mind, go away solely footprints and take solely reminiscences!
- Location: Fort Smith, Unorganized, NT
- Map Location
- Greatest time to go to: between June and August
My highlights…
- Paddling by way of the Nahanni River on a kayak which handed unbelievable gorges, waterfalls and pure springs!
- Climbing up the granite rocks for great views of the panorama.
- Take a flightseeing tour!
