Travel
Long Weekend Road Trip Ideas Across Canada
Photography, Cape Breton Island, cbisland.com
Travel
Long Weekend Road Trip Ideas Across Canada
When you live in Canada, you don’t need to leave the country in order to see stunning scenery.
Whether you're seeking the tranquillity of nature, the charm of small towns, or the vibrancy of cities, there's a fun route waiting for you. Here are some top long weekend driving trip ideas in Canada:
1. The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
Photography, Cape Breton Island, cbisland.com
Highlights:
- Stunning coastal views
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Charming fishing villages
The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometre loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island. This drive offers some of the most breathtaking ocean vistas, winding roads and scenic lookouts in the country. Hikers can enjoy trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, while food enthusiasts can savour fresh seafood in quaint fishing villages like Chéticamp and Ingonish.
2. Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Photography, Authentik Canada, authentikcanada.com
Highlights:
- Majestic Rocky Mountains
- Athabasca Glacier
- Bow Lake and Peyto Lake
Stretching 232 kilometres between Jasper and Banff, the Icefields Parkway is a must-drive for nature lovers. The route offers unparalleled views of the Rockies, Lake Louise and glaciers. Don't miss a visit to the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided tour on the Athabasca Glacier.
3. Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia
Photography, Evergreen Adventures, evergreenadventures.ca
Highlights:
- Coastal and mountain views
- Shannon Falls
- Whistler
The Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) runs from Vancouver to Whistler, covering 121 kilometres of diverse landscapes. Begin your journey in the bustling city of Vancouver, then head north, enjoying stops at Shannon Falls and the scenic town of Squamish. Continue to Whistler, a world-renowned resort town with activities ranging from mountain biking to fine dining.
4. The Laurentian Mountains, Quebec
Photography, Peak Visor, peakvisor.com
Highlights:
- Picturesque villages
- Mont-Tremblant National Park
- Scenic lakes
Just a short drive from Montreal, the Laurentian Mountains offer a fantastic mix of outdoor activities and charming villages. Visit Mont-Tremblant for hiking or gondola rides, and explore the small towns of Saint-Sauveur and Sainte-Adèle for their quaint shops and restaurants. The region is especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves change colour.
5. The Viking Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador
Photography, Must Do Canada, mustdocanada.com
Highlights:
- Gros Morne National Park
- L’Anse aux Meadows
- Coastal views
The Viking Trail covers 489 kilometres from Deer Lake to the northern tip of Newfoundland. Along the way, you'll encounter the rugged beauty of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Further north, explore the Norse archaeological site at L’Anse aux Meadows, where Vikings settled over a thousand years ago.
6. Prince Edward Island Coastal Drive
Photography, Landsby, landsby.ca
Highlights:
- Red sand beaches
- Lighthouses
- Anne of Green Gables sites
Prince Edward Island’s Coastal Drive offers 1,100 kilometres to explore scenic routes, charming coastal villages and historical sites. Make sure to stop at the red sand beaches and rolling countryside, and visit the famous Green Gables House in Cavendish. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore multiple regions over a long weekend.
7. Ontario’s Southwest Wine Route
Photography, Ontario's Southwest, assets.simpleviewinc.com
Highlights:
- Vineyards and wineries
- Charming towns
- Lake Erie views
Starting from Niagara-on-the-Lake, this drive takes you through some of Ontario’s best wine country. Visit the vineyards and taste award-winning wines, then explore the picturesque towns of Essex County. The route along Lake Erie offers beautiful views and numerous opportunities for beach stops and water activities.
Tips for a Successful Long Weekend Road Trip
- Plan Ahead: Book accommodations and make any necessary reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials like a first-aid kit, snacks, water and comfortable clothing. Don’t forget your camera for those scenic shots!
- Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is in good condition before hitting the road. Check the oil and tire pressure and fill up the gas tank.
- Stay Flexible: While it’s good to have a plan, allow for spontaneity. Some of the best travel memories come from unplanned detours and discoveries.
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