The 15 most beautiful destinations in Canada to recharge your batteries
Would you like to forget about everything for a while and breathe the pure air of nature? Treat yourself to a timeless break in one of these beautiful destinations in Canada! All of them peaceful places, nestled in the heart of Canadian nature, that you'll never want to leave.
In the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff is a small town located in the heart of a natural park bearing the same name. Once you visit it, you will fall in love with its historic city center and its crystal clear lakes. You'll also enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. If you go out to explore the natural park, you may have the chance to observe wild animals, such as black bears, grizzly bears, or elk.
Considered one of the most colorful and artistic cities in Canada, Nelson will seduce you with the architecture of its downtown area, filled with art galleries, theaters, and cozy cafés. Located in the Selkirk mountain range, Nelson offers multiple outdoor activities, such as beautiful hiking and skiing in winter.
If you are a nature lover, you will love discovering Jasper. To the west of the province of Alberta, this city is located in a natural park of the same name, the largest in the Rockies. There is no shortage of treks in the middle of lakes and mountains. Hiking enthusiasts will take full advantage of Jasper's trails in the spring and summer. But if you like sliding sports, it's wintertime when you will appreciate this place most of all.
Change of scenery! On Vancouver Island, on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Tofino is a peaceful town where you will love to escape for a few days. Surfing is the favorite activity here, but you can also go kayaking, take long hikes, and enjoy the good restaurants of the city.
Port-au-Persil is part of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec, and when you discover the exceptional views it offers, you'll quickly understand why! This small village breathes tranquility, its hiking trails immerse you in Canadian wildlife, its waterfalls can cool you off in summer, and so will its many sea excursions.
Elected the most beautiful village in Canada in 1998, Merrickville is a true haven of peace, located along the Rideau Canal. If you are in Ontario, this is definitely a cultural and historical spot you should know. You'll love getting lost in its charming little streets, discovering the parks surrounding its locks, and visiting its blockhouse, a Canadian historic site that holds a museum.
Also in Ontario, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Toronto, Elora is known for its limestone architecture dating from the 19th century. However, its visitors go there above all for its proximity to the Gorge of the same name (the Gorge of Elora), a natural and protected area that promises you thrilling excursions. On your way, you will be able to observe very old limestone cliffs. Please note that the Elora Gorge is only open from May to October.
An hour's drive from Quebec City, Baie-Saint-Paul is a small town renowned for its artistic dimension. The Cirque du Soleil made its first performances there in the early 1980s. Today, you can still find musicians, painters, and acrobats performing in its streets. The true cultural capital of the region, Baie-Saint-Paul is also known for its many art galleries.
This is one of Canada's most picturesque towns. In Nova Scotia, Mahone Bay has a lot of charm with its brightly colored Victorian houses, its three world-famous churches, and its large verdant gardens. The city is also famous for its breweries.
In northwestern Canada, Dawson City is a village whose history is intimately linked to the Klondike Gold Rush. Vestiges of this era remain there, including the oldest gambling hall in Canada: the Diamond Tooth Gerties. The village offers many outdoor activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing in winter, or cycling during the rest of the year. Moreover, you will enjoy a unique experience by going there between June and September, when there is non-stop daylight.
Victoria-by-the-Sea is a picturesque village located in the province of Prince Edward Island. Here, you will breathe in the maritime air while immersing yourself in the tranquility of the village. Disconnection guaranteed! Kayaking trips are very popular in Victoria-by-the-Sea, as are its restaurants where you can taste oysters and lobster throughout the evening in a friendly atmosphere.
This pleasant little town was the very first seaside resort in Canada. A popular destination in the summer season, its tourists feast on its seafood and go on excursions to observe whales in the Bay of Fundy. Art lovers must go and discover the various murals that decorate the city. Kingsbrae Garden and its 50,000 perennials is another attraction in St. Andrews by-the-Sea.
In the past, this village specialized in the construction of fishing boats. Today, its conservation and historical legacy make it one of the most touristic sites in the province. Although Trinity has less than 200 inhabitants, its constant flow of visitors keeps the village alive.
Recognized for its picturesque character, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec. Tourists go there to enjoy its tranquility and observe the beauty of its landscapes. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate its trails leading to spectacular viewpoints over the Saguenay Fjord.
In eastern Quebec, Kamouraska is a small village renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. It will also charm you with its pastoral character, its walks along the water, and its excellent restaurants. A perfect spot to treat yourself to a romantic getaway, far from the hubbub of the city!