Here’s the perfect road trip along the New Brunswick coast

Have you ever visited New Brunswick? The neighboring province of Quebec has plenty to offer for a summer vacation filled with seafood, beautiful scenery, the highest tides in the world and awe-inspiring discoveries. From Saint-Andrews to the Bay of Fundy, a “road trip” on the New Brunswick coast promises a change of scenery without even leaving Canada. Follow the leader!

1. SAINT ANDREWS

Your getaway to New Brunswick begins in the charming English-speaking village of Saint-Andrews. Located by the sea, in the southwest of the province, barely a kilometer from the American border, you already feel like you are on vacation while strolling on the main street, Water Street. Cafés, restaurants, sunny terraces: Saint-Andrews invites you to sit down and enjoy the gentle sea breeze.

What to do?

• From the month of July, whales are at the rendezvous in the region. The Jolly Breeze Tall Ship company suggests that you go in search of these marine mammals in a Zodiac.
• Visit the island of Campobello in a guided formula. This vacation spot was the favorite of the Roosevelt family at the beginning of the 20th century. You can practice nautical activities, go hiking and swim if the water temperature allows it.

Good addresses:

• The restaurant at the Rossmount Inn offers absolutely exquisite fish and seafood dishes.
• The Clam Digger is a roadside snack bar featuring lobster rolls and fish and chips.
• Seasons by the Sea bistro presents a simple menu on a lovely terrace on the banks.

Or sleep?

• The mythical hotel The Algonquin built in 1889 offers luxurious rooms with sea views and daily activities for the whole family. The ‘smores around the fire’ evening is particularly popular.

2. MINISTERS ISLAND

Close to Saint-Andrews, Ministers Island is a must. Accessible only at low tide – check the timetables to avoid getting stuck – the villa of Sir William Van Horne of the Canadian Pacific is perched high there. You can therefore walk around it and walk or cycle on the magnificent property which offers incredible views.

3. GRAND MANAN ISLAND

Grand Manan Island is a detour that few people take on a “road trip” in southern New Brunswick. For a guaranteed change of scenery and absolute tranquillity, you have to go there. A ferry leaves Blacks Harbor (45 kilometers from Saint-Andrews) and sails to the island in 1 hour 30 minutes. Welcome to Paradise!

What to do ?

• Take pictures of the most beautiful lighthouses on the island; crush on the SwallowTail.
• Hike the many trails and have your photo taken near the Hole-in-the-Wall.
• Drive from one end of the island to the other (30 km) and watch the wildflowers dance in the wind.

Good addresses:

• The old post office has become a pizzeria, the Post office Pizzawhere the community gathers in the evening for a good tip.
• A tasty dish of seafood with a view of the ocean, that’s what the Compass Rose.
• For a meal on the go, the Old Well House cafe is indicated.
• THE Newton coffee shop.

Or sleep?

• A few steps from the ferry, the Island Home B&B is one of the most charming and within walking distance of the best addresses in the village.

4. SAINT JOHN (ST JOHN)

Not to be confused with Saint Johns, capital of Newfoundland, the city of Saint John, or Saint John, is very well visited on foot. The town is famous for its “reversing” falls, a phenomenon caused by the tide affecting the water of the river, and for its market in an 1876 building.

What to do?

• Discover New Brunswick beer and the city of Saint John with a guided tour of Uncorked Tour.
• Sample local produce at the Saint John City Market.
• Wandering Uptown on a beautiful summer evening.

Or sleep?

• The Hilton Saint John hotel is conveniently located just yards from the waterfront and restaurants.

5. DETOUR!

Do you have time for a detour from the route? St. Martins is a cute fishing village at the very start of the Fundy Trail Parkway. There’s a pretty covered bridge, tidal caves at Stonehammer Global Geopark, a craft shop and a beach snack bar. Spend a few hours there or stop for a day.

6. THE BAY OF FUNDY AND THE HOPEWELL ROCKS

The Bay of Fundy has the highest tides in the world; it’s 160 billion tons of water which, twice a day, gives a tide that can reach 12 meters high! A must on any trip to southern New Brunswick, this unique phenomenon can be enjoyed in Fundy National Park and by visiting the Hopewell Rocks.

What to do?

• Walk in the vast Fundy National Park on the 100 kilometers of hiking trails.
• Explore the seabed and ‘flowerpot’ rock formations…on foot at Hopewell Rocks.
• Watch the tide rise from the platform.
• Kayaking when the tide is in and paddling between the huge monoliths.

Or sleep?

• Fundy National Park offers several camping and “glamping” options, as well as small cabins at Fundy Highlands. You can also stay at one of Moncton’s many hotels.

7. MONCTON

Your coastal “road trip” ends in the province’s largest city, Moncton, which has been voted the most “polite” city in New Brunswick! If you have more time, head north along the Atlantic coast to discover a completely different facet of the province, the Acadian region.

To know:

• Distance traveled in New Brunswick: 350 to 400 kilometers
• Suggested duration: 7 to 10 days
• Getting there: by plane to Fredericton or by car to Saint-Andrews, just under 7 hours from Quebec City
• Info: tourismnewbrunswick.ca