Maybe you’re the kind of tourist who finds no inspiration in popular, crowded attractions and likes to explore the hidden, unspoiled beauty of Canada.
Or maybe you’ve already been to the main destinations and want to see what else this country has to offer. No matter what drives your inner adventurer, these ten offbeat places to travel in Canada are bound to get you off the well trodden tourist path.
10 Offbeat Places to Travel in Canada
Ahmic Lake, Ontario
Picture an impressive lake of serene and surreal beauty, where you can both relax and go on adventures. This is exactly what Ahmic Lake offers. Situated in Parry Sound District, Ontario, it makes the perfect spot for meditation. Ahmic Lake is surprisingly family friendly, because it unites two competitive swimming camps where kids can learn to swim competitively or just for fun. You can encourage your children to join a girls’ or boys’ summer camp in the area as an alternative to conventional trips, or you can go on a fishing trip there yourself to recharge your batteries.
Kluane National Park, Yukon
Kluane National Park in Yukon is one of those places that many have heard of, but few have had the adventurous spirit to experience to its full potential. Offering no less than 22,000 square kilometers of wilderness, Kluane National Park has lavish valleys, sparkling ice plains, and everything in between – including Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan. Set up camp here and get ready to embark on the hike of a lifetime.
Twillingate, Newfoundland
Those who find solace in the gentle nostalgia of small seaside communities will like the historic town of Twillingate in Newfoundland. For a symbolic accommodation price, you can experience surreal views of the Atlantic Ocean and long boat tours around the many lighthouses in the area. Go there during fall and you’ll love the scenic, solitary hiking trails and memorable seafood and wine tasting. If your loved one is up for the ride, a stop at the Cozy Tea Room is worth planning in, but check that it is open before you go.
Kananaskis Country
Grab your backpack and get ready to see why Canada is by far the best country for wildlife enthusiasts! Often overshadowed by neighboring Banff National Park, Kananaskis Country is a quieter alternative. It has grizzly bears, bighorn sheep and other wildlife, and it stands out as a perfect location for those who love hiking, backpacking or just long, romantic road trips on Highway 40, which offers wide mountain views. The Highwood Pass section of Highway 40 closes every winter from December 1 to June 15, and parking anywhere in Kananaskis needs a Kananaskis Conservation Pass (CAD 15 per day or CAD 90 per year per vehicle).
Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia
Do you love natural parks, but hate having to make your way through crowds of school children and noisy, intrusive tourists? Look no further than the Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia. Quiet and low key, it has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Canada, as well as thrilling hiking and camping options.
Tangier, Nova Scotia
A place of remarkable beauty and simplicity, Tangier in Nova Scotia is the place to go to if you’re interested in a digital detox, because mobile coverage is patchy here, and there are few modern distractions to compete with the pristine beaches. While you’re here, we recommend you go on a sea kayaking course, because it has some of the best waters to learn on.
Strathcona Park, British Columbia
Located on Vancouver Island Strathcona Park is a mountainous region that surrounds Della Falls, which at 440 m is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. It’s not a place for tourists who prefer comfort or modern amenities, but if you have a preference for wilderness and off-road adventures, Strathcona Park will steal your heart.
Pinawa, Manitoba
Picture a warm and welcoming community that treats each visitor like family and where accommodation feels like home. In the small town of Pinawa, Manitoba, about 110 km (roughly 90 minutes by car) northeast of Winnipeg, you can go cruising on the Winnipeg River and explore Pinawa Dam Provincial Park, where the ruins of an early 1900s hydroelectric dam still stand.
Swan River, Manitoba
This river, which rises in the Porcupine Hills of Saskatchewan and flows into Manitoba’s Swan Lake, gets its name from the trumpeter swans that you can spot all across the area. But that’s not the only reason to visit it! On the contrary, you can count on Manitoba to offer you fairy-tale landscapes and fun year-round local events.
Cavendish, Prince Edward Island
Along with Twillingate, the small community of Cavendish is another good example of a beachside town. Outside the July and August peak it is great if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet while sunbathing or if you want to take up golf. Its seafood restaurants are famous all across Canada, so don’t forget to check them out!
