Article by: The Culture Trip
The east coast of Canada is a truly magical place, and you’ll find unique cultures here that really set these provinces apart from the rest of Canada. Not to mention there are vibrant cities, historic towns, beaches galore and some of the best seafood you’ll ever have! Start planning your trip with a look through our picks for the area’s best road trip routes.
Trans Canada Highway
The Trans Canada Highway will take you on the most direct route straight through eastern Canada. Hop on the highway in Montreal and drive straight through to St. John’s, Newfoundland – with a ferry ride in between the mainland and Newfoundland of course.
Eastern Townships, Quebec
A drive through the historic Eastern Townships is like stepping into another world. A journey to take in these beautiful little towns, located in southeastern Quebec just 75 minutes from Montreal, makes for the perfect mini road trip.
The Gaspésie Tour, Quebec
If you’re looking for a longer road trip through Quebec, the Gaspésie Tour is a great one to consider. You can conveniently start your trip in Montreal or Quebec City, and then drive the 1,235 kilometre route around the Gaspé Penninsula. Trust us, the views are worth the gas money.
Iles de la Madeleine, Quebec
Take a week-long trip through the Iles de Madeleine and discover the beauty and charm that these secluded islands have to offer. There are various ways to get to the islands, including a five-hour ferry from Prince Edward Island and cruises from Montreal and Quebec City.
Bay of Fundy Route, New Brunswick
Extend the above route by adding on a drive along New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy, or make it a trip of its own! You’ll begin in the city of Moncton, and then continue along the coast, past highlights like Hopewell Rocks, wineries, and of course, the Fundy itself.
Sun & Sand Trail, New Brunswick
Enjoy some of Canada’s warmest beaches with a road trip along New Brunswick’s Gulf of St. Lawrence coast. You’ll drive the length of the coast and enjoy the many beautiful beaches and parks along the way.
Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
One of the most stunning routes in all of Canada, Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail has earned itself international recognition for its unparalleled beauty. Running along the Cape Breton coastline, this trail is especially popular in the fall when visitors come from far and wide to admire the fall colours.
The Chowder Trail, Nova Scotia
Foodies will love Nova Scotia’s Chowder Trail, which runs the full length of the province from Yarmouth to Louisbourg, and makes stops along the way at 10 restaurants, serving up some of Nova Scotia’s best chowders. It’s a great way to enjoy delicious food and take in all that the province has to offer.
Coastal Drives, Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island is roughly divided into three sections, so there are three coastal drives you can make: North Cape Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive, and Points East Coastal Drive. Each route is beautiful and full of fun attractions, gorgeous beaches, amazing restaurants, and so much more. Luckily, the island is small enough that you can easily fit all three drives into your vacation.
The Loop’s East Coast Route
We love this route that The Loop put out, which covers all the hot spots in the Maritime Provinces. It’s the perfect way to see the best of these three charming places.
Viking Trail, Newfoundland
How cool does this trail sound? This route is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore Newfoundland’s wild side. Beginning in Deer Lake and then heading straight to Gros Morne National Park, the route continues along the coast, ending at the island’s northernmost point. Along the way, you’ll encounter unbelievable scenery, quaint fishing villages, and rugged landscapes. It’s also a great jumping off point to visiting Labrador – just catch the ferry over to the Quebec-Labrador border.
