Lonely Planet Canada: Country Guide (Travel Guide)

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The train offers three different classes: Economy (seat only), Sleeper Plus (sleeping berth) and Prestige (private compartment). In contrast to planes, reclining seats are large with plenty of legroom; bathrooms are invariably well-scrubbed, and musicians, presenters and wine tastings break up the journey. Take in the dramatic highlands and rugged coasts of Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island – considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world – from its famed Cabot Trail. The 299km (186-mile) loop spans an eight-hour, non-stop drive, but hiking or cycling a smaller section allows for a more leisurely pace. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is where you’ll find the greatest selection of hiking trails, with the Skyline, Fishing Cove and Acadian trails being the most popular. Don’t book any other activity or onward travel on the day of arrival due to possible delays (with the exception of the more straightforward city-to-city routes, such as Toronto to Quebec City). miles) to Lake Agnes round-trip; 10km (6.2 miles) to the Big Beehive round-trip; 2–4½ hours, moderate Known for its famous waterfalls that go by the same name, the Canadian city of Niagara Falls has much more to offer than riveting views of rushing rapids.

Ferry services are extensive, especially throughout the Atlantic provinces and in British Columbia. Walk-ons and cyclists should be able to get aboard at any time, but call ahead for vehicle reservations or if you require a cabin berth. This is especially important during summer peak season and holidays. Accessible travel in Canada From Kinney Lake, the longer, harder Kinney Lake to Berg Lake trail covers 23km (14 miles), with seven camping areas along the way, but the route is currently closed due to flood damage and is set to re-open in 2023. Planning tip: This is a destination for the less adventurous too – stylish accommodations, a blossoming arts scene and energetic après-ski bars have transformed Whistler village from a rustic ski town into a European-style retreat. 16. Dig for dinosaurs in the BadlandsAdministratively, the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago is in Québec; geographically, it’s much closer to the Maritimes. Possessing an astounding 217 miles (350km) of beaches juxtaposed with iron-rich red cliffs, its pièce de la résistance is this 6-mile (10km) sweep of pale sand on the Anglophone island of Grosse Île. The route covers 25km (15.5 miles) and is best attempted over two days, breaking the trip at the Helm Creek campground. A less ambitious trail of 3km (1.9 miles) links the Cheakamus Lake Parking lot to Cheakamus Lake. Two compelling attractions make this the most popular hike at Lake Louise in Banff National Park. First up is the historic Lake Agnes Teahouse, where hikers have been refueling since 1901. It's a supremely atmospheric spot to break for tea, sandwiches and baked goods at the 3.4km (2.1-mile) mark.

From here, it’s vista overload: from water (the train crosses the wide Miramichi River, famous for its Atlantic salmon); to the Sugarloaf Mountain, an ancient volcano; then on to quaint Acadian communities that fly blue-and-red flags reflecting their French roots. And speaking of colors, fall is a stunning time to make this trip when the leaves turn rich shades of red, gold and yellow. Canadian trains qualify as slow travel. Don’t expect Japanese bullet trains or French TGVs. Passenger trains in Canada defer to freight, so you'll often spend 30 minutes or more waiting in a siding for another train to pass. While it’s not technically an island, the waterfront community of Granville Island in Vancouver is the perfect destination for a full day of varied activities – indoors and out. Start at the Public Market where you can tantalize your tastebuds with a wide selection of gourmet goodies. Stroll the hidden alleyways and browse through art galleries and artisan shops found along the way. The trail is well-signposted and fastidiously mapped. To complete the whole trail, you’ll need to follow a couple of interconnecting paths along quiet roads, passing several attractive beaches on the way.If you’re focusing on a city-centric stay, consider getting to know the local transit system. Public transportation is generally safe and easily accessible, and you’ll save substantially on parking and daily car rental fees. Even major cities like Toronto and Montreal were built to navigate by car, although they have ample public transportation (and horrible traffic) now. A visit to Vancouver would not be complete without a stroll through scenic Stanley Park – a 400-hectare public park found steps from the city’s downtown core. Start with a guided Indigenous-led Talking Totems tour, where you can learn about the towering totem poles and captivating carvings that have stood tall since 1920. July and August are busier months as the warmer weather and summer holidays bring an influx of visitors, and weekdays often offer lower airfares than weekend dates. Find a more affordable arrival airport Planning tip: Book a table at CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant, where you’ll find award-winning Canadian-sourced cuisine served in a sleek setting, and the “cellar in the sky,” the world’s highest wine cellar. 21. Bike the Vancouver Seawall