No matter where you live in Atlantic Canada, there’s no need to roam too far from home to enjoy a fun-filled adventure. But before you set out, you must learn to explore like a Saltscaper. I know just the person to help us plan our excursion.
Donna Hachey-Hatt, who lives in Bridgewater, N.S., has been a strong advocate for tourism in her home province for many years. She has three simple tips to help us Saltscapers get the most out of our adventure.
You’re in Atlantic Canada and hence, the ocean surrounds you. Donna’s number one piece of advice is for you to enjoy it. “Stop and savour the sea,” she says. “But be sure to dip your toes in it!”
A true Saltscaper will know that it’s safe to get in the water when the waves gently caress the shore, and the sandpipers are scurrying about as if they are trying to avoid getting their feet wet.
There are hundreds of beautiful beaches to explore in Atlantic Canada including Clam Harbour and Rainbow Haven beaches in Nova Scotia, or Mispec Beach and Thunder Cove Beach in New Brunswick. In Prince Edward Island, check out Canoe Cove or Greenwich beaches, while in Newfoundland and Labrador, you should visit Bottle Cove Beach or Shallow Bay Beach.
Here’s Donna’s second piece of advice for travelling Saltscapers — immerse yourself in the experience: “Get out on the water!”
Generations of Saltscapers have earned a living on the water. While today, many still do, others have discovered alternate ways to experience the power, energy, and beauty of the ocean. Go swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving. Try deep-sea fishing or take a sight-seeing excursion. Maybe you’ll spot a whale or, if you’re in Newfoundland and Labrador, an iceberg. Seek out an outfitter and go kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or sailing.
Embrace the experience, but if beach or water sports isn’t your thing, then there are many other options. The fun of being an intrepid travelling Saltscaper is to explore and discover new things. Or old things, if you’re into history. Heritage sites abound in Atlantic Canada.
As our friend Donna points out, you can’t do any of this from the highway. If you want the “real” experience, her advice is to “park your car and walk!”
There are many wonderful communities throughout Atlantic Canada to discover. Places such as Ben Eoin in Nova Scotia, or Kedgwick in New Brunswick will throw out the welcome mat for you. In Prince Edward, be sure to stop in Tignish, while in Newfoundland, include Heart’s Desire and Heart’s Content on your itinerary.
As a curious Saltscaper, you’ll discover the real Atlantic Canada if you talk to the locals and immerse in the culture. You can only do that when you get out and ramble. And remember, no matter where you travel in the region, you’re always among friends.
When you arrive in a community you owe it to yourself to meander the streets and to meet us. The locals love to chat so ask for our suggestions on the best place to get fresh seafood, to find locally made keepsakes, to discover the prettiest scenery, and to learn what’s happening while you’re here.
Most importantly, if you get lost, just ask for directions! Saltscapers love to help but listen carefully as most locals will tell you to take a turn at the old “whatever” the building was, or that old oak tree, or the blue bridge. Forget about street signs and road names. Real Saltscapers hardly ever use them.