At times, it feels as if the entire country of Canada is a marvel. In the world’s second-largest country, there are numerous things to see and do. You’ll need a lifetime to explore the natural beauty, intriguing cities full of historic charm, cityscapes perfect for urban adventures, the great outdoors, and wilderness. Even the most popular destinations in Canada have their appeal and intrigue, but if you’re looking for a trip off the beaten road in 2022, consider visiting one of these overlooked destinations.
1. L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland
Long before Christopher Columbus, Vikings braved the New World. When the Norsemen voyagers arrived in North America, they initially settled in L’Anse aux Meadows. The only authentic Viking settlement on the continent, this UNESCO World Heritage site is rich in history dating back over 6,000 years. Artifacts recovered at this coastal site reveal that this area was home to many aboriginal groups before the Norse seafarers arrived. Today, visitors may learn about these humble Viking pioneers and experience their original village thanks to the efforts of L’Anse aux Meadows.
2. Fredericton, New Brunswick
The capital of New Brunswick has a thriving arts and music scene. Fredericton’s riverbank banks, ancient architecture, and parks have become a haven for artists, authors, and poets. A must-see is the Beaverbrook Art Gallery’s collection of British paintings and work by prominent Canadian artists. It’s a fantastic place to visit all year, but FROSTival or the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival are worth arranging your trip around. Take a stroll along the shoreline on bright days, or sit at the James Joyce Pub at the Lord Beaverbrook Hotel for spirited drinks and a view.
3. Charlevoix, Quebec
Charlevoix’s beautiful rolling terrain, fjords, headlands, and bays immediately captivated me. The Charlevoix crater was produced 350 million years ago when a meteorite collided with the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains, severely altering the landscape of the area. Visitors to this location can find something to do at any time of year. Skiing, snowboarding, and sledding are available at Le Massif de Charlevoix in the winter. Discover Charlevoix’s Flavour Trail during the summer and fall, a gastronomic excursion for epicureans featuring craft beer and cider, artisanal cheeses, chocolate, organic meat, and items from the region’s farms and mills.
4. Sucrerie de la Montagne, Quebec
Sucrerie de la Montagne is a hidden jewel at the top of Mont Rigaud, situated in a 120-acre forest of maple trees. This historic “sugar shack” west of Montreal is open all year and is a Quebec Heritage Site. Sucrerie de la Montagne, with its fire place, freshly baked pastries, sled rides, Quebecois feasts, live music, and maple delights, is a must-see for visitors to this area.
5. Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
Yarmouth is a bustling and charming little port town on the Bay of Fundy in southern Nova Scotia, with a never-ending list of things to do. Yarmouth is ideal for those who enjoy the sea and seafood. Natural landscape and the ocean provide the town with a plentiful supply of fresh seafood as well as a variety of land and aquatic activities.
6. Thompson Okanagan, British Columbia
The perfect way to spend a day in the Thompson Okanagan region starts with visiting the 463-foot Helmcken Falls, a hike in a rare inland temperate rainforest or the views from the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. Visitors who prefer a more leisurely pace can meander through Thompson Okanagan’s vineyards on wine trails. This region has over 200 wineries, the best way to see a bunch of them is to head to Kelowna on Okanagan Lake where there is a cluster of about 30 wineries. Wine festivals are held in the spring, fall, and winter, so plan your trip around them.
7. Kaslo, British Columbia
Kaslo’s strong food scene, natural beauty, and cultural attractions are all worth exploring in 2018. This picturesque, classic tiny village is nestled in a valley near to Kootenay Lake, surrounded by lush forest and mountains. Artists, restaurants, and boutique shops abound in downtown. Kaslo has the advantage of having no box stores, chain coffee shops, or traffic jams. Try Bluebelle Bistro & Beanery’s bennies, Taqueria el Corazon’s tacos, and Landmark Bakery’s handmade soup. August is an eventful time of year – both the Columbia Basin Culture Tour and the Kaslo Jazz Etc. Summer Music Festival take place – but visit during the off-season if you want this lovely town all to yourself.
