Say Hello to Nictau Lake
One of the most cherished gems in Northwestern New Brunswick is the stunning Mount Carleton Provincial Park, home to the serene and beautiful Nictau Lake. This lake, nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountain Range, is often celebrated as one of the best in the region. It offers excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, where paddlers can glide across the calm waters, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the chance to spot local wildlife. The lake’s rich aquatic life also makes it a popular spot for fishing. Around the lake, the park offers numerous hiking trails, including the challenging ascent to the summit of Mount Carleton, the highest peak in the Maritime provinces.
Interesting Facts about New Brunswick
01
Bay of Fundy
Home to the highest tides in the world, the Bay of Fundy sees about 160 billion tons of seawater flow in and out twice a day, creating a unique and dynamic marine environment.
02
First City in Canada
Saint John, situated on the Bay of Fundy, is Canada’s oldest incorporated city, founded by Loyalists in 1785. It’s known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the reversing rapids, a unique phenomenon caused by the Bay of Fundy’s high tides.
03
Acadian Culture
New Brunswick has a strong Acadian presence, descendants of the original French settlers. The Acadian culture is celebrated through music, food, and festivals, most notably the annual Acadian Day on August 15th.
Must See Attractions
Kouchibouguac National Park
Nature & Parks
Kouchibouguac National Park, situated along New Brunswick’s eastern shore, is known for its diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, and dense forests. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and bird-watching.
St Martins Sea Caves
Nature & Parks
Visitors can explore the strikingly sculpted caves and rugged beaches at low tide, witnessing the Bay of Fundy’s dramatic tidal changes and the picturesque beauty of the surrounding coastline.
Fundy National Park Of Canada
Nature & Parks
The park offers breathtaking landscapes, from dense forests and pristine waterfalls to dramatic coastal cliffs, providing a haven for hikers.
Where to Sleep
Lakes to Explore
1. Killarney Lake
Located near Fredericton, Killarney Lake is a family-friendly destination offering a sandy beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas, perfect for a day of relaxation and outdoor activities.
2. French Lake
Located in Fundy National Park, French Lake is a pristine spot for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and immersing in the natural beauty of the Acadian Forest.
3. Yoho Lake
A small yet beautiful lake near Fredericton, Yoho Lake is ideal for a quiet day of canoeing or kayaking, surrounded by lush forests and peaceful ambiance.
4. Harvey Lake
Nestled in the picturesque rural landscape, Harvey Lake is a tranquil spot for swimming, canoeing, and enjoying the serene nature away from the bustling city life.
5. Oromocto Lake
This lake is a hidden gem known for its peaceful surroundings and excellent bass fishing, making it a favorite spot for anglers and nature lovers.
6. Magaguadavic Lake
Known for its crystal-clear waters, Magaguadavic Lake is a serene spot ideal for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of southwestern New Brunswick.
7. Grand Lake
The largest freshwater lake in the province, Grand Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports, with scenic views and rich wildlife.
8. Washademoak Lake
Washademoak Lake is admired for its scenic beauty and is a popular location for sailing, fishing, and exploring the small, charming communities along its shores.
Annual Events and Festivals
TBA 2025
Poutine Festival
The Poutine Festival, an annual extravaganza held in Drummond, New Brunswick, stands as a delicious homage to the iconic Canadian dish—poutine. This festival, dedicated to celebrating the delectable combination of crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and savory gravy, attracts both local and international food enthusiasts. As the air fills with the enticing aroma of sizzling fries, attendees are treated to an array of creative poutine concoctions from various vendors, showcasing the diversity and innovation in this beloved comfort food. From traditional poutines to gourmet twists featuring unique toppings, the festival offers a culinary adventure for taste buds.
July 5 – 13, 2025
Shediac Lobster Festival
The Shediac Lobster Festival, hosted annually in Shediac, New Brunswick, widely recognized as the “Lobster Capital of the World,” is a vibrant celebration of the region’s deep-rooted lobster fishing heritage. This festival, which dates back to 1949, is more than just a culinary event; it’s a cultural extravaganza that brings the community and visitors together in a lively, festive atmosphere. Throughout the festival, attendees can indulge in the freshest, most succulent lobster, prepared in countless ways, showcasing the versatility and richness of this local delicacy.
August 5 – 15, 2024
Festival Acadien de Caraquet
Festival Acadien de Caraquet stands as a vibrant celebration of Acadian culture, heritage, and the indomitable spirit of the Acadian people in New Brunswick. Taking place in the charming coastal town of Caraquet, this festival has earned its reputation as the largest Acadian gathering worldwide. With a rich history dating back to 1963, the festival has evolved into a dynamic showcase of Acadian traditions, featuring lively music, spirited dance performances, colorful parades, and an array of delicious Acadian cuisine.
Top Hiking Trails
Moosehorn Trail – Laverty Falls Trail
Laverty Falls Trailhead, 669 Laverty Rd, Alma, New Brunswick
Moosehorn Trail, leading to Laverty Falls in Fundy National Park, is a captivating hiking experience that immerses adventurers in the pristine beauty of New Brunswick’s wilderness. The trail begins at the scenic Laverty Lake, winding its way through a lush forest adorned with vibrant moss-covered rocks and towering trees. As hikers venture along the path, the tranquil sounds of rustling leaves and babbling brooks provide a serene backdrop. The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly Laverty Falls, a cascading waterfall nestled in a rocky gorge, where the rushing waters create a mesmerizing display of natural splendor.
Mount Carleton Summit Trail
Parking Mont-Carleton, Northesk Parish, New Brunswick
As the highest peak in the Maritime Provinces, Mount Carleton stands at an impressive 820 meters (2,690 feet), providing hikers with an unparalleled view of the surrounding wilderness. The trail to the summit is a testament to the area’s natural beauty, taking adventurers through a diverse landscape of dense forests, alpine plateaus, and, depending on the season, snow-dusted paths or vibrant wildflower meadows. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are greeted with a 360-degree panoramic vista that encompasses over 10 million trees, sprawling lakes, and distant mountains.
Hopewell Cape
Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick
Hopewell Cape Trail, nestled along the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, offers an enchanting 2.7-kilometer journey through the coastal landscapes that characterize this region. The highlight of the Hopewell Cape Trail is its connection to the iconic Hopewell Rocks, where the world’s highest tides dramatically shape towering rock formations known as flowerpots. The trail allows hikers to witness the ebb and flow of these colossal tides, providing a dynamic and ever-changing coastal experience.
Best Golf Courses
The Algonquin Golf Course
465 Brandy Cove Rd, St. Andrews, New Brunswick
Nestled in the heart of St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, The Algonquin Golf Course is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled combination of challenging play and picturesque surroundings. Designed by the renowned golf architect Thomas McBroom, this 18-hole championship course seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of New Brunswick’s coastal landscape. As golfers navigate the meticulously manicured fairways, they are treated to panoramic views of Passamaquoddy Bay and the historic Algonquin Resort, creating a scenic backdrop for an exceptional golfing experience.
Fox Creek Golf Club
200 Golf St, Dieppe, New Brunswick
Fox Creek Golf Club, situated in Dieppe, New Brunswick, is a golfer’s haven that seamlessly combines natural beauty with a challenging and meticulously designed course. Designed by renowned architect Graham Cooke, this 18-hole championship course offers a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. Golfers navigating the fairways are treated to scenic views of Fox Creek, which meanders through the course, and the surrounding Acadian forest. The layout features strategic bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens that demand precision and strategy from players.
Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club
150 Youghall Dr, Bathurst, New Brunswick
Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club, located in the scenic city of Bathurst, New Brunswick, stands out as one of the premier golf destinations in the region. This 18-hole championship course, known for its stunning design and challenging layout, was masterfully crafted by Canadian golf course architect Howard Watson. The course unfolds along the picturesque shores of the Bay of Chaleur, offering golfers not only a challenging game but also breathtaking views of the bay and its surrounding landscapes. The signature 12th hole, in particular, provides an unforgettable golfing experience with its impressive coastal vistas.
Water Sports
Baymount Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking
Kayaking in New Brunswick offers an exceptional way to explore the province’s unique coastal and river environments. With its diverse waterways, including the famous Bay of Fundy, the Saint John River, and numerous lakes and estuaries, New Brunswick presents kayakers with opportunities to enjoy breathtaking natural beauty, encounter wildlife, and experience the world’s highest tides. Baymount Outdoor Adventures is located near the Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy and provides a unique opportunity for kayakers to experience the dramatic tidal changes of the bay. Their guided tours allow both novice and experienced kayakers to safely navigate through a landscape that transforms from vast coastal shores to deep waterways within a span of just a few hours.
Jolly Breeze Whale Adventures
Whale Watching Tour
Boat tours in New Brunswick present an extraordinary opportunity to experience the province’s stunning coastal beauty and marine life from a unique perspective. The Bay of Fundy, renowned for having the highest tides in the world, is a particularly popular destination for such tours, offering dramatic coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity, including various species of whales, seabirds, and other marine life. One highly regarded company offering boat tours in this region is Jolly Breeze Whale Adventures, based in St. Andrews by the Sea. Specializing in whale watching and wildlife tours, Jolly Breeze takes passengers aboard a majestic tall ship, combining the thrill of sailing with the awe of nature watching.
Maritime Water Sports Inc.
Jet skiing
Jet skiing in New Brunswick offers an exhilarating way to explore the province’s diverse waterways, from the majestic Bay of Fundy to the serene Saint John River. This high-speed water activity is perfect for those looking to add a dose of adventure to their maritime experience, combining the thrill of speed with the beauty of New Brunswick’s aquatic landscapes. A prominent company offering jet ski rentals in New Brunswick is Maritime Water Sports Inc., located in the city of Saint John. They provide customers with the opportunity to experience the excitement of jet skiing in a safe and controlled environment.
Resorts to Enjoy
The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea, Autograph Collection
Couples, Recreational
184 Adolphus St, St. Andrews, New Brunswick E5B 1T7
Evandale Resort & Marina
Couples
3500 NB-124, Evandale, New Brunswick E5M 2G8
Tips on Traveling to New Brunswick
Coastal Scenery
The province’s coastline is breathtaking. Drive along the coastal routes, visit charming seaside towns like St. Andrews by the Sea, and take a ferry to one of the picturesque islands.
Be Wildlife Aware
If you’re hiking or camping in wilderness areas, educate yourself about local wildlife and how to enjoy your outdoor adventures safely.
Experience the Culture
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of New Brunswick. Visit the Acadian historical villages to learn about the French-Acadian culture and enjoy their vibrant music and delicious cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions about New Brunswick
When booking a vacation rental in New Brunswick, you can expect a variety of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Some common amenities include air conditioning, parking, pools, and fully equipped kitchens. Bedding and linens are typically provided, and some rentals even offer extra features like balconies or terraces, child-friendly accommodations, and pet-friendly options.
Waterfront cottage rentals can be found across New Brunswick. Some popular waterfront destinations to consider for your vacation rental include Cap Bimet, Grand Barachois, and Pointe-du-Chene. Websites like Lake and Vrbo offer a selection of oceanfront and beachfront cottages and homes to suit your needs.
There are several popular locations in New Brunswick where you can find vacation rentals. Some top spots include Moncton, Saint John, Fredericton, Shediac, and St. Andrews by the Sea. Whether you’re looking for a city experience or a more relaxed, natural setting, a variety of options are available to suit your preferences.
Yes, many vacation rentals in New Brunswick offer pet-friendly accommodations. Before booking, it’s important to check the rental property’s listing to ensure it’s pet-friendly. Some hosts may also have specific pet rules and restrictions, so review their policies and communicate with them if needed.
New Brunswick is officially bilingual, so both English and French are widely spoken.
Booking several months in advance is recommended to secure your ideal vacation rental in New Brunswick, especially for popular locations and peak travel seasons. The sooner you book, the better your chance of finding the perfect rental and ensuring your desired dates are available. If your travel plans are flexible, you may also find last-minute deals and discounts on rentals.