Perth-Andover Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture, safety tips and more in Perth-Andover, New Brunswick, Canada.


Introduction to Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover is a picturesque town located in the Saint John River Valley, within the province of New Brunswick, Canada. The town is nestled amidst the lush green mountains of the Appalachian Range, presenting a stunning backdrop that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and scenic landscapes. The town is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway experience.

List of Places to Visit in Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover is a small town, but it offers plenty of things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions that you should not miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Perth-Andover Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Perth-Andover, the Saint John River Valley, and the surrounding areas. It features exhibits and artifacts that provide insight into the town’s history and the lives of its people.

  • Aroostook Valley Country Club: This club is home to an 18-hole golf course, and it has been a popular destination for golf enthusiasts for over 100 years. The club has beautiful views of the Saint John River and the surrounding mountains.

  • Saint John River: The Saint John River is a natural wonder that runs through the Saint John River Valley. Visitors can enjoy various water-based activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and boating.

Natural Attractions of Perth-Andover: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Village Creek Covered Bridge: This historic covered bridge is a popular attraction and a great spot for photo opportunities. The bridge spans across the Saint John River, and it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding areas.

  • Mount Carleton Provincial Park: This park is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. It offers several hiking trails that provide access to the park’s pristine forests, clear streams, and impressive waterfalls. The park also has campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking and biking trails. Some of the popular trails in the area include:

  • The Andover Trail: This trail runs along the Saint John River, providing hikers with stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. The trail is easy to moderate, making it suitable for families with young children.

  • Ridgeview Trail: This trail is located in Mount Carleton Provincial Park and provides hikers with panoramic views of the Saint John River Valley and the park’s dense forests. The trail is challenging, and hikers should be prepared for a steep climb.

  • Big Brook Trail: This trail is located near the town of Perth-Andover and provides hikers with access to the area’s pristine forests and crystal-clear streams. The trail is easy to moderate and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Perth-Andover: Activities and Tours

Perth-Andover offers a range of activities and tours to visitors, including:

  • Saint John River Boat Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour of the Saint John River and enjoy its scenic beauty. The tour takes visitors past the Village Creek Covered Bridge and offers glimpses of the area’s wildlife.

  • ATV Tours: Perth-Andover is an excellent destination for ATV riders, and several tour companies offer guided rides for visitors. The tours provide access to some of the area’s most scenic areas and provide an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Saint John River Valley up close.

  • Horseback Riding: Several local stables offer horseback riding tours of the Saint John River Valley. The tours provide a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perth-Andover

The following week-long itinerary offers visitors a chance to experience the best of Perth-Andover and the surrounding areas:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Perth-Andover and visit the Perth-Andover Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Explore Mount Carleton Provincial Park and hike the Ridgeview Trail
Day 3 Take an ATV tour of the Saint John River Valley
Day 4 Visit the Village Creek Covered Bridge and take a boat tour of the Saint John River
Day 5 Explore the Big Brook Trail and go horseback riding in the surrounding areas
Day 6 Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Perth-Andover
Day 7 Depart Perth-Andover

Food and Drink Scene of Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover offers visitors a chance to indulge in some of the best local cuisine and beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder: This delicious seafood chowder is a local favorite and is made with fresh seafood sourced from the nearby Saint John River.

  • Fiddleheads: Fiddleheads are a local delicacy that is available in the spring season and is typically served with butter and vinegar.

  • Scalloped Potatoes: Scalloped potatoes is a local dish made with potatoes, cream, and a variety of local herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Picaroons Brewing Company: Picaroons Brewing Company is a local brewery that serves a range of craft beers made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Pomme de Coeur Winery: Pomme de Coeur Winery is a local winery that specializes in producing handmade wines using traditional winemaking techniques.

Where to Stay in Perth-Andover: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Perth-Andover offers visitors a range of accommodation options to choose from, including:

  • Perth-Andover Motor Inn: This motel is located in the heart of Perth-Andover and provides visitors with comfortable rooms and a range of modern amenities.

  • Mactaquac Lodge and Chalets: This lodge is located near Mactaquac Provincial Park and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Saint John River Valley up close.

  • Rose Valley Lodge and Restaurant: This lodge is located near Mount Carleton Provincial Park and provides visitors with comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.

What to Buy in Perth-Andover: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Perth-Andover can take home several unique souvenirs and local products, including:

  • Pottery and Ceramics: Perth-Andover has several local pottery and ceramics makers who produce unique and beautiful pieces that are popular with tourists.

  • Local Art and Crafts: Perth-Andover is home to several local artisans who create unique handmade items that make great souvenirs.

  • Maple Products: Maple products are a local specialty and can be found at several local farmers’ markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover is a small town with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience the local culture through various activities and events. Some of the most popular cultural events in the area include:

  • Perth-Andover Potato Festival: This annual festival celebrates the area’s potato farming heritage and features various potato-themed activities and events.

  • Saint John River Festival: This festival takes place in the summer and celebrates the natural beauty of the Saint John River Valley. It features various cultural events, music, and food.

Best Time to Visit Perth-Andover

The best time to visit Perth-Andover is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and pleasant. The fall season, from September to November, is also a great time to visit when the colors of the leaves change, creating a stunning visual display.

Do’s and Don’ts of Perth-Andover

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area by going hiking, boating, and kayaking.

  • Experience the local culture by attending various festivals and events.

  • Indulge in the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

  • Ignore safety guidelines while participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Perth-Andover

Perth-Andover is a safe town, but visitors should take usual precautions when traveling, such as not leaving valuables in plain sight and not wandering in unfamiliar areas after dark. Visitors participating in outdoor activities should also be aware of potential risks and take necessary safety precautions.

Health in Perth-Andover

Healthcare services are available in Perth-Andover, and visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance before traveling. Visitors should also take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites during the summer months as mosquitoes can carry diseases such as West Nile Virus.

Getting to Perth-Andover: Transportation Options and Logistics

Perth-Andover is located within driving distance from major cities in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. Visitors can also arrive by bus or plane. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Perth-Andover

  • Fredericton International Airport (YFC), located approximately one and a half hours’ drive from Perth-Andover, is the closest major airport.

Bus Stations Near Perth-Andover

  • Greyhound operates a bus service to the nearby town of Woodstock, which is a short drive away from Perth-Andover.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Perth-Andover from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Perth-Andover

Visitors can explore the town on foot or by bicycle. Several local tour companies also offer guided tours of the area.

Where to Go Next from Perth-Andover: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Woodstock: This charming town is just a short drive away from Perth-Andover and offers visitors a chance to explore its historic downtown area and local markets.

  • Saint John: Saint John is a major city in the province of New Brunswick and is located approximately two hours’ drive from Perth-Andover. Visitors can explore its historic architecture, museums, and galleries.

Conclusion

Perth-Andover is a beautiful town nestled in the Saint John River Valley, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region. With its range of outdoor activities, cultural events, and local specialties, Perth-Andover is an excellent destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation.