An island that was dubbed “the prettiest place in the world” nearly 150 years ago still lives up to that lofty title today.
Prince Edward Island is Canada’s smallest province – and it boats stunning landscapes, colourfully painted homes and dramatic red cliffs. Known as the ‘Garden of the Gulf’, it is located on the east coast, in the Gulf of St Lawrence.
Offshore from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the island is connected to the mainland by the £740m Confederation Bridge – one of the world’s longest bridges. Prince Edward Island, or PEI, has a laid-back and friendly vibe – and is famously the setting for a classic Victorian children’s novel.
Indeed, it was this novel – Anne of Green Gables – that made the claim Prince Edward Island is the “prettiest place in the world”. The novel’s titular hero vividly describes the island’s natural beauty – its rolling green hills, red cliffs, sparkling waters, and charming landscapes.
At one point, she enthuses: “Oh, there are a lot more cherry trees all in bloom! This Island is the bloomiest place.
“I’ve always heard that Prince Edward Island was the prettiest place in the world, and I used to imagine I was living here, but I never really expected I would.”
While the novel was set in the 1880s, Prince Edward Island has retained its charm and beauty. The island is home to over 800 kilometers (500 miles) of coastline – offering pristine sandy beaches like Cavendish Beach and Basin Head.
The latter is famed for its ‘singing sands’ – so-called because of the distinctive chirping noise the sand makes when walked upon. The island is also home to a National Park with stunning dunes, wetlands, and coastal habitats – which is ideal for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Indeed, PEI perfect for cycling enthusiasts, thanks to the Confederation Trail – a 435-kilometer (270-mile) network of former railway tracks converted into scenic trails. Meanwhile, golfers will appreciate PEI’s world-class golf courses, which have stunning views over the wild Atlantic ocean.
Unsurprisingly, given its island status, is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly lobsters, oysters, and mussels. Culinary tourism is a big draw, and local restaurants offer farm-to-table and sea-to-table experiences.
Charlottetown, the island’s capital, is rich in history and culture. It’s known as the “Birthplace of Confederation” for hosting the 1864 Charlottetown Conference, which led to Canada’s formation.
It’s famous for its brightly painted homes and buildings, a maritime tradition in many coastal areas. These vibrant houses contribute to the warm, welcoming atmosphere and reflect the province’s rich cultural heritage.