Summer in Canada ignites boundless excitement. From Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, warm weather opens the door to an array of unique and exhilarating activities. Let’s look at some of the best ways to enjoy a Canadian summer retreat in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Unwind by a Manitoba Lake
Manitoba has more than 100,000 lakes scattered across the province, and summer brings plenty of opportunity for waterfront recreation. Fishing, boating, and water sports are beloved activities among both residents and visitors in Manitoba. The region provides an abundance of waterfront resorts and vacation rentals to cater to every water enthusiast’s desires. A few of Manitoba’s incredible lakes include Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba, and Lake of the Woods.
Take a Hike in an Alberta National Park
Alberta, known for its stunning Rocky Mountain scenery, has become an all-season destination for outdoor enthusiasts. During the summer, make sure to put hiking through Alberta’s world-famous national parks on your to-do list. Below are two of its most renowned:
Banff National Park: This stunning mountain destination is Canada’s first national park. Its top-notch trails showcase the area’s remarkable beauty, which includes serene glacial lakes, jagged snow-capped peaks, and lush forests.
Jasper National Park: Another renowned park in Canada’s Rockies, Jasper spans over 4,200 square miles, encompassing glaciers, mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Explore Cape Breton
Cape Breton, an island on the eastern edge of Nova Scotia, is one of the country’s most extraordinary destinations. Charming little towns dot the island, exuding quaint atmospheres and housing tasty seafood restaurants. Most notably, this scenic island offers endless outdoor experiences to visitors. Let’s take a look at a few:
Unparalleled golf courses: Cape Breton is home to some of the best golf courses in Canada, featuring links-style layouts reminiscent of Scotland.
Cabot Trail: For an unforgettable road trip, the Cabot Trail awaits, offering a world-renowned drive that unveils jaw-dropping coastal scenery and dense forests.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Nature enthusiasts will delight in exploring this park’s spectacular trails on foot.
Experience the Saskatoon EX
The Saskatoon Exhibition, or the EX, is the largest summer festival in the province, attracting tens of thousands of attendees for six days of excitement and entertainment. The EX offers a range of many engaging experiences, from concerts and midway rides to carnival games, shows, and delicious food options. Held annually in August, this year’s EX will feature famed Canadian concert performers, including Arkells, Marianas Trench, Dallas Smith, and more.
Visit a Prince Edward Island Beach
Despite being Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island has plenty of engaging activities available. The picturesque island houses some of Canada’s best beaches, offering a diverse array of options that cater to every individual’s unique preference. Below are a few examples of the island’s exquisite beaches:
Basin Head Provincial Park: This unique beach is known for its “singing sand,” which makes strange noises when stepped on, due to its high silica content.
Cavendish Beach: This well-known destination features rolling dunes and gorgeous coastal views.
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park: This quiet beach with a lighthouse gives off a classic East Coast vibe.
