Embark on an Atlantic Canada Road Trip: Scenic Drives & Coastal Gems in Every Province
Picture yourself winding through coastal roads as you stop to explore seaside towns and discover cultural treasures. A road trip to Atlantic Canada is the ultimate way to experience this region and satisfy your wanderlust for nature, history, food, and ocean views. Our team of travel experts have put together the most iconic drives that are a must-visit for even the most novice road-trippers.
New Brunswick: The Fundy Coastal Drive
Start your journey in New Brunswick, where the Fundy Coastal Drive offers some of the most jaw dropping scenery in Atlantic Canada. Explore the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides, and explore the geological wonder of Hopewell Rocks, carved over the last 10,000 years. Stop in the vibrant city of Saint John for art galleries and waterfront dining, then head to St. Andrews by-the-Sea, a charming town filled with historic inns, whale-watching tours, and boutique shops.
Must-visit:
- Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park
- Fundy Trail Provincial Park
- Uptown Saint John
Newfoundland and Labrador: The Viking Trail
Arrive by ferry or flight in Newfoundland and head for a drive north on the Viking Trail, one of Canada’s most breathtaking routes. This road winds through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Gros Morne National Park, where fjords, cliffs, and Tablelands will leave you in awe, then continue to L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Viking site in North America, and experience thousands of years of history.
Must-visit:
- A boat tour through Western Brook Pond Fjord
- A stop in St. Anthony for coastal charm and fresh seafood
- Visiting Twillingate, the iceberg capital of the world
Nova Scotia: The Cabot Trail & Beyond
Known for some of the most iconic coastal views in Canada, no Atlantic Canada road trip is complete without a drive along Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail. This iconic route travels through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering jaw-dropping views and plenty of adventure. Along the way, enjoy a hike and take in coastal cliffs that rival any in the world. Along Nova Scotia’s south shore, explore the Lighthouse Route from Halifax to Lunenburg, stopping for seafood, beaches, and exploration into maritime heritage.
Must-visit:
- The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck
- Lobster rolls in Peggy’s Cove
- Music and storytelling at a Cape Breton ceilidh
Prince Edward Island: Coastal Drives and Storybook Charm
Quaint yet brimming with character, Prince Edward Island is a dream for slow-paced exploration and scenic driving. The Island has three official coastal drives: North Cape, Central, and Points East. Each route takes you past red-sand beaches, pastoral landscapes, and friendly seaside towns. Relive literary nostalgia in Cavendish at Green Gables Heritage Place, or sample fresh oysters in Malpeque Bay.
Must-visit:
- The PEI National Park beaches and trails
- A stop in Victoria-by-the-Sea for artisan shops and cafes
- A round of golf with ocean views—PEI is known as Canada’s top golf destination
Your Atlantic Canada Self-Drive Adventure Awaits
There’s no better way to soak up the beauty, charm, and culture of Atlantic Canada than from behind the wheel. Each province offers something uniquely its own—whether it’s dramatic cliffs, Viking history, Acadian traditions, or seaside serenity. Let our team of travel experts craft your dream itinerary so you can hit all the top spots stress-free.
Ready to Book?
For more information or to start planning, contact our team at bookings@andersonvacations.ca or call 1-866-698-6377