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As the second largest country in the world by land mass, it’s no surprise Canada is famous for its natural beauty, with everything from crystal-clear waters to majestic mountain ranges. Beyond the popular destinations, there are many hidden gems in Canada which you absolutely must add to your Canad bucket list.
We’ve spoken to our local guides in Canada to uncover the destinations that you’ve probably not even heard of. In a country this big, it’s easy to stay on the beaten track. But if you’re willing to go a little further afield, you’ll find some incredible places that will leave lasting memories.
1. Canmore, Alberta
Canmore is a town nestled away in the Rocky Mountains, a 25-minute drive from Banff National Park and an hour from Calgary. Knowledgeable locals know this small town is far less crowded than Banff while still offering stunning scenery and a vast array of outdoor activities.
If you visit Canmore in the winter, you’ll find some of the best skiing, snowboarding and ice climbing on offer in the whole country. In the summer, there are so many hiking trails and climbing opportunities as well as trails for mountain biking.
The city itself is blessed on virtually all sides with mountain views and wildlife such as elk, deer and the occasional bear that you will see in and around the city. With festivals, galleries and renowned cafes and restaurants, there will be no shortage of activities. Canmore is a destination for tourists who love the outdoors, animals and adventures.
2. Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick
Hopewell Rocks is located within the Bay of Fundy which itself is between the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. It’s famous for the changing tides and mesmerizing rock formation. Visiting Hopewell Rocks offers a great opportunity for a road trip adventure being very conveniently located only 40 minutes from Moncton. For many travelers, Hopewell Rocks is an ideal day trip from Moncton. A full day out exploring New Brunswick, but you can still make it back for your dinner reservation in Moncton.
The rocks which are the pride of Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park are shaped like flowerpots. But what you’re really here for – and what you will absolutely need to add to your Canada bucket list – is one of the coolest phenomena on earth.
The tide at Hopewell Rocks is one of the fastest and highest rising tides in the world. Within 12 hours, the tide will rise between 32 and 46 feet. Visiting Hopewell Rocks and experiencing the tide rising in real time is one of those hidden gems in Canada that you’ll wish you knew about sooner.
During low tide, you can walk right up to the rock formations. During high tide, get on a canoe or kayak and go around the rocks. If you want to make the most of your time at Hopewell, get to the park when the tide is at its lowest. That way, you can walk along the ocean floor, explore the area, visit the flowerpots. Later in the day you’ll be able to watch the tide start to roll in at a rate of four to six feet per hour.
A good kayak tour will take you around all the stacks while the tide is rising. It’s truly something you cannot experience anywhere else in the world. Make sure to buy your tickets to Hopewell Rocks in advance as well.
3. Prince Edward County, Ontario
Located two hours from Toronto, Prince Edward County (PEC) is a charming destination perfect for wine lovers. The region is full of farmlands, quaint towns and the beautiful beaches of Sandbanks Provincial Park. The area boasts around 40 wineries, each bringing something unique to the winery experience and specializing in their own blends.
From wine tours to tastings and food-pairing experiences, everyone walks away from PEC with a new confidence in wine and various Insta-worthy shots. PEC is also a region which hosts annual art festivals and has numerous art galleries to explore in between wine touring. Spending a weekend in PEC is absolutely essential for your Canada bucket list – especially if you’re ready to relax and unwind.
One thing you will absolutely want to do in Prince Edward County is enjoy the local produce. You’ll find so many fantastic products made in the region which you’ll want to take home – nominally as gifts for others, but actually for yourself. Either way, Prince Edward County earns its place as one of the hidden gems in Canada.
4. Tadoussac, Quebec
Tadoussac is a tiny village – the population is estimated to be no more than 800. At just three hours north of Quebec City, Tadoussac offers unmatched opportunities for whale watching. Set between the St. Lawrence River and Saguenay Fjord, Tadoussac is the oldest still-inhabited European settlement in Canada.
The village offers various boat tours where you will see belugas, humpback whales and sea lions in their natural habitats. Naturally, there’s plenty of options for water sports like kayaking and canoeing. However, if water sports doesn’t pique your interest, you can always go birdwatching.
The town offers charming and local shops, cafes and restaurants with some of the freshest seafood you can find (and that’s saying something for Canada). Tadoussac is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in getting to know the beauty of a small French town within Quebec.
5. Emerald Lake, British Columbia
Nestled in Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder which is renowned for its turquoise waters, mountains and lush forest. The area is known for water sports, bird watching and hiking and the Emerald Lake Hike which takes around two hours to complete. Typically, moose, deer and elk can be spotted around the trail. The Emerald Lake really is one of the hidden gems in Canada.
Around the Lake there is plenty of high-end accommodation, various hiking trails and cross-country skiing in the winter. The waterfalls in the region like Takakkaw Falls and the Natural Bridge in Kicking Horse National Park are also stunning. If you want a taste of the Rockies, Emerald Lake is the place to visit. Unquestionably, it is a must on your Canada bucket list.
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