Canada is not often thought of as an “Island Nation” but from coast to coast, some of the prettiest places sit offshore of our country. In the summer, there are more festivals, fine foods, fun and of course fishing found right here. Check out what’s on, on an island near you. Think about going for more than a three hour tour…
Vancouver Island: Food, Finery & Fishin’
Try out Feast Tofino “from boat to table” May 8-24th with menus that highlight their sustainable seafood through unique dining events.
Since 1908, guests have been enjoying Afternoon Tea at the historic Victoria Empress Fairmont Hotel. Pinky fingers up!
Millions of salmon make their way up the Campbell River, a prime destination for recreational fishers and curious snorkelers.
Prince Edward Island: Plays, Tunes & Eats
Head to the Charlottetown Festival, from Jun 11- Aug 29th. Catch the world premiere of the Canadian written and produced “Bittergirls: The Musical”
Rock out at the Cavendish Beach Music Festival July 10-12 featuring Keith Urban, Eric Church, Dallas Smith and more.
Fall Flavours for fierce foodies – Sep 11 to Oct 4th. Culinary experiences from catching lobsters to brewmasters’ dinners.
Newfoundland: Whales, Bergs & Birds
Watch 22 species of whales, including world’s largest population of humpbacks, breach the surface along the coast between May & September.
Over 350 species of birds makes this a major destination for birdwatching. Observe and admire seabirds, rare birds, and birds of prey.
10,000 year old glacial icebergs line the eastern and northern coasts. Watch a sparkling spring berg parade down Iceberg Alley.
Cape Breton: History, Hiking & Kicking Up Your Heels
The Fortress Of Louisberg is historic and hysteric with a humourous dinner theatre experience for the whole family.
Hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highland’s National Park, stopping only to enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful scenic vistas. Is that a fiddle you hear?
The Celtic culture is alive and well in Cape Breton. Follow your ears and nose to a ceilidh, found around almost every corner.
Manitoulin: Nature & Culture, Northern Style
Hike through hardwood at Gordon’s Park in Tehkummah, stopping at the Interpretive Centre for information gathering and local insight.
Many museums can be found around the island, including the Old Mill Heritage Centre and Post Office Museum in Kagawong.
Authentic Aboriginal experiences can be taken in on the Great Spirit Circle Trail. Learn from the Ojibwe, Odawa and the Pottawatomi people.
Kathy Buckworth
Author, I Am So The Boss Of You (Random House)
Family & Travel Expert, CBC’s Steven & Chris Show
Travel Expert, How She Travels, on Sirius/XM What She Said
Chief Family Advisor, President’s Choice Financial & PC Plus
Member, PWAC, TMAC, ASJA, CWU