Explore the Acadian Coastal Drive, a scenic journey through New Brunswick's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, featuring quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches, historical attractions, and the world's highest tides at the Bay of Fundy.
The Acadian Coastal Drive in New Brunswick, Canada, offers a captivating journey along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, showcasing the region's rich Acadian heritage. This scenic route, approximately 750km in length, can be started at any point and offers a variety of attractions and experiences. Some highlights along the drive include:
Top Attractions Along the Way
Aulac Big Stop: Known for its large slices of chocolate cake with boiled icing.
Fort Beausejour/Fort Cumberland: Explore the historical ruins and enjoy the breathtaking landscape at the New Brunswick/Nova Scotia border.
Trueman Blueberry Farm: Offers berry picking, corn mazes, and delicious ice cream.
Goodwin's Lake: A relaxing hike with potential wildlife sightings.
Murray Beach Provincial Park: Ideal for swimming and beachcombing.
Cape Jourimain National Wildlife Area: Offers hiking trails, a lighthouse, and diverse ecosystems.
Winegarden Estate: A must-visit for wine lovers, showcasing the history of wine-making in New Brunswick.
Cormier Village Eco Trails: Nature trails following the Kagibougouet River.
Shediac: Known as the lobster capital of the world, it offers fresh seafood and lobster-themed tours.
Parlee Beach Provincial Park: Known for Canada's warmest saltwater and camping facilities.
Irving Eco-Centre: Features one of North America's great sand dunes.
Richibucto River Wine Estate: A family-run winery with a beautiful vineyard.
Kouchibouguac National Park: Offers camping, beaches, and trails for hiking.
Miramichi River Boat Tours: Provides scenic river tours and dinner cruises.
Miscou Island: A green gem for bird watching and historical lighthouses.
Atlantic Canada’s Largest Public Aquarium: Showcases local marine life.
Beresford Beach: Popular for its boardwalks, walking trails, and observation tower.
Youghall Beach: Known for warm waters and a summer boardwalk.
The Bay of Fundy: renowned for having the highest tides in the world, offers a breathtaking display of nature's forces along New Brunswick's rugged coastline.
Key Towns and Cities Along the Way
The Acadian Coastal Drive in New Brunswick, Canada, traverses several towns and cities, offering diverse experiences along the way. Some key towns and cities along this scenic route include:
Moncton: It's a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene and history. Moncton is a major urban center in New Brunswick and is famous for attractions like Magnetic Hill, the Tidal Bore, and the proximity to natural wonders like Hopewell Rocks.
Bouctouche: This small town is known for its beautiful beaches and the Irving Eco-Centre, which aims to preserve and restore the dunes of Bouctouche. The town has a rich Acadian heritage.
Shediac: Often called the "Lobster Capital of the World," Shediac is famous for its giant lobster statue and its annual lobster festival. It's a popular destination for beachgoers, with beautiful sandy beaches.
Saint John: As the largest city in New Brunswick, Saint John is known for its historical significance and urban charm. Key attractions include the Reversing Falls Rapids, the City Market, and the Bay of Fundy.
Saint Andrews: This charming town is known for its well-preserved architecture, beautiful gardens, and the Algonquin Resort. It's a popular spot for whale watching and exploring the Bay of Fundy.
Saint Martins: A picturesque village, Saint Martins is famous for its two covered bridges, the Fundy Trail Parkway, and its proximity to the Bay of Fundy, known for the world's highest tides.
Miramichi: Known for its salmon fishing, Miramichi has a rich history linked to the logging industry and Irish immigration. It's also the site of annual Irish festivals.
Caraquet: This town is known for its Acadian culture and hosts the annual Acadian Festival. Caraquet is also home to the historical Village Historique Acadien.
Miscou Island: Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this small island is famous for its peat bogs, lighthouse, and birdwatching opportunities, especially during the migratory season.
Bathurst: A hub in northern New Brunswick, Bathurst has beautiful beaches and is known for its mining history. The annual Bathurst Hospitality Days Festival is a popular event.
Travel Tips
Traveling the Acadian Coastal Drive in New Brunswick is a fantastic way to explore the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique history of the region. Here are some tips to make the most of your journey:
Plan Your Route: The Acadian Coastal Drive stretches over 750 km, so it's important to plan your route in advance. Decide on the towns and attractions you want to visit and how much time to spend in each.
Embrace the Acadian Culture: The drive takes you through many Acadian communities. Take the time to learn about the Acadian history, enjoy traditional music, and try local Acadian cuisine like poutine râpée and fricot.
Beach Time: The drive offers access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Canada, like Parlee Beach in Shediac. Plan for beach time and bring appropriate gear for swimming and sunbathing.
Visit Historical Sites: Don’t miss historical sites such as the Village Historique Acadien in Caraquet, which offers a glimpse into the life of Acadians in the 17th to 20th centuries.
Nature and Wildlife: Explore the natural beauty of the area. Miscou Island, for example, is excellent for birdwatching. The Kouchibouguac National Park offers stunning scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Attend Local Festivals: Depending on the time of your visit, you might catch local festivals like the annual Acadian Festival in Caraquet, which showcases Acadian culture and heritage.
Seafood Delights: The Acadian coast is known for its seafood. Enjoy fresh lobster, clams, and fish. Shediac, the Lobster Capital of the World, is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Stay in Unique Accommodations: From cozy bed and breakfasts to historic inns, the Acadian Coastal Drive has unique accommodations that offer a taste of local hospitality.
Check the Tides: If you plan to visit the Bay of Fundy, check the tide schedules as they can dramatically affect the landscape and available activities.
Prepare for the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, so pack for various conditions. Bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable shoes.
Drive Safely: Be mindful of local driving conditions, especially on coastal roads. Watch for wildlife and take your time to enjoy the scenic routes.
French in Cultural Experiences: Engage more deeply with Acadian culture by understanding and using French. This might be especially enriching in places like Caraquet and the Village Historique Acadien.
Bilingual Services: Remember that while many areas are predominantly French-speaking, New Brunswick is bilingual, so most services and information will be available in English too.
Possible Itinerary
A more relaxed and flexible itinerary for the Acadian Coastal Drive can allow for ample time to unwind, explore at your own pace, and immerse yourself in the serene coastal environment of New Brunswick. Here's a suggestion for a leisurely journey:
Day 1: Arrival in Moncton
Morning: Arrive in Moncton. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely brunch.
Afternoon: Visit a local park or stroll through the city center.
Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, sampling regional cuisine.
Day 2: Moncton to Shediac
Morning: Short drive to Shediac. Spend the morning relaxing on Parlee Beach.
Afternoon: Explore the town and be sure to visit the giant lobster statue.
Evening: Enjoy some famous Shediac lobster and a gorgeous view at Paturel's Shore House Restaurant.
Day 3: Shediac to Bouctouche
Morning: Depart for Bouctouche. Once there, take a nature walk at the Irving Eco-Centre.
Afternoon: Spend time on the beach or visit a local café for a laid-back lunch.
Evening: Sample Acadian cuisine at a local eatery.
Day 4: Bouctouche to Miramichi
Morning: Drive to Miramichi. Explore the town or visit a local market.
Afternoon: Relax by the Miramichi River or take a boat tour.
Evening: Dine in a riverside restaurant, enjoying a serene evening.
Day 5: Miramichi to Caraquet
Morning: Leisurely drive to Caraquet. Stop along the way at scenic spots.
Afternoon: Visit the Village Historique Acadien.
Evening: Enjoy a evening meal in Caraquet.
Day 6: Caraquet to Miscou Island
Morning: Short trip to Miscou Island. Explore the lighthouse and surrounding nature.
Afternoon: Relax on the island, enjoy a picnic, or walk along the beach.
Evening: Return to Caraquet or stay on the island for a quiet night.
Day 7: Return to Moncton
Morning: Head back to Moncton. Stop at any attractions missed on the way.
Afternoon: Enjoy a final leisurely exploration of Moncton or nearby attractions.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a delicious dinner in Moncton.
This itinerary is designed to be flexible and relaxing, allowing you to absorb the beauty and culture of the Acadian Coastal Drive at a leisurely pace.
