For a summer vacation filled with seafood, beautiful scenery, mighty tides and discovery, a trip to New Brunswick is no problem. From Saint-Andrews to the Bay of Fundy, a coastal New Brunswick road trip promises a change of scenery without leaving Canada!
Itinerary for a successful road trip on the New Brunswick coast:
1. SAINT ANDREWS
Your New Brunswick excursion 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’re on vacation when you stroll down the main street, Water Street. Cafes, restaurants, sunny terraces: Saint-Andrews invites you to sit down and enjoy the gentle sea breeze.
Tourism New Brunswick
What to do?
- From July whales meet in the region. The Jolly Breeze Tall Ship company recommends that you go in search of these marine mammals by Zodiac.
- Visit the island of Campobello on a guided tour. This vacation spot was a favorite of the Roosevelt family in the early 20th century. You can enjoy water sports, hiking and swimming when the water temperature allows.
Good addresses:
- The restaurant at Rossmount Inn offers absolutely exquisite seafood dishes.
- The Clam Digger is a roadside snack bar serving lobster rolls and fish and chips.
- Seasons by the Sea bistro presents a simple menu on a beautiful waterfront terrace.
Or sleep?
- Dating back to 1889, the mythical hotel The Algonquin offers luxurious sea-view rooms and daily activities for the whole family. The “Smores around the Fire” evening is particularly popular.
Tourism New Brunswick
2. MINISTER ISLAND
Near Saint-Andrews, Ministers Island is a must-see. Accessible only at low tide – check the timetables to avoid getting stuck – perched high above is the mansion of Sir William Van Horne of the Canadian Pacific. You can therefore circumnavigate it and walk or cycle around the magnificent grounds, which offer incredible views.
3. GRAND MANAN ISLAND
Grand Manan Island is a detour few people take on a “road trip” in southern New Brunswick. For a guaranteed change of scenery and total tranquility, you must go there. A ferry leaves Blacks Harbor (45km from Saint-Andrews) and travels to the island in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Welcome to Paradise!
What to do ?
- Take photos of the most beautiful lighthouses on the island. Fall in love with the swallowtail.
- Go hiking on the many trails and snap a photo nearby Hole in the wall.
- Drive from one end of the island to the other (30km) and watch the wildflowers dance in the wind.
Tourism New Brunswick
Good addresses:
- The old post office has become a pizzeria post pizzawhere the community meets in the evening for a good tip.
- A delicious seafood dish overlooking the sea, that’s it compass rose.
- For a meal on the go, that’s it Old Well House Cafe is specified.
- THE Newton Cafe.
Or sleep?
- Just steps from the ferry, 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, the capital of Newfoundland. The city of Saint John or Saint John is very easy to walk to. The town is famous for its “reversing” falls, a phenomenon caused by the effects of the tide on the river water, and for its market housed in a building that dates back to 1876.
What to do?
- Discover New Brunswick beer and the town of Saint John on a guided tour Uncorked tour (in English).
- Try local products St John City Market.
- Go inside uptown on a beautiful summer evening.
Or sleep?
- The Hilton Saint John hotel is conveniently located just meters from the waterfront and restaurants.
5. DETOURS!
Do you have time to deviate from the route? St. Martins is a pretty fishing village at the very beginning of the Fundy Trail Parkway. Stonehammer Global Geopark has a pretty covered bridge, tidal caves, craft shop and beachside snack bar. Spend a few hours there or take a break 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 that creates a flood of up to 12 meters twice a day! A must-see on any trip to southern New Brunswick, this unique phenomenon can be enjoyed at Fundy National Park and a visit to Hopewell Rocks.
What to do?
- Go wide 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 As the tide rises, paddle between the giant monoliths.
Tourism New Brunswick
Or sleep?
- Fundy National Park offers various camping and glamping opportunities as well as small cabins in the Fundy Highlands. You can also stay in one of the many hotels in Moncton.
Tourism New Brunswick
7. MONCTON
Your coastal “road trip” ends in the province’s largest city, Moncton, voted the “politeest” city in New Brunswick! If you have more time, head north along the Atlantic coast to discover an entirely different facet of the province, the Acadian region.
Knowledge:
- Distance traveled in New Brunswick: 350 to 400 kilometers
- Recommended duration: 7 to 10 days
- How to get there: fly to Fredericton or drive to Saint-Andrews, just under 7 hours from Quebec City
- Info: Tourismnewbrunswick.ca