Southeastern New Brunswick Travel Guide

Read our guide on Southeastern New Brunswick to discover the most culturally significant attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scenes, accommodations, and local customs of this beautiful region in Atlantic Canada.


Introduction to Southeastern New Brunswick

Southeastern New Brunswick is a breathtaking region located in Atlantic Canada. With its picturesque beaches, majestic forests, and quaint villages, Southeastern New Brunswick offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience. The region is well-known for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Southeastern New Brunswick

Here are some of the top places to visit in Southeastern New Brunswick:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • New Brunswick Museum in Saint John: This museum showcases the art, culture, and natural history of New Brunswick and Eastern Canada.
  • Fundy National Park: This park is home to over 25 waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and scenic trails that lead to stunning vistas.
  • Irving Nature Park: This nature park is located in Saint John and features over 600 acres of woodlands, marshes, and wetlands. It is a great place to go bird-watching, hiking, or picnicking.

Natural Attractions of Southeastern New Brunswick: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kouchibouguac National Park: This national park is located on the Acadian coast of New Brunswick and offers visitors a chance to explore Acadian culture, go kayaking, camping, and cycling.
  • Hopewell Rocks: These rock formations are located in the Bay of Fundy and are known for their unique shape and natural beauty. They are a must-see for anyone visiting Southeastern New Brunswick.
  • Cape Enrage: This beautiful cape is located on the Bay of Fundy and features a lighthouse, hiking trails, and stunning views of the coast.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeastern New Brunswick

Southeastern New Brunswick is home to many beautiful hiking and biking trails. Some of the best include:

  • Fundy Trail Parkway: This 16 km trail takes hikers and bikers through the forest and along the coast of the Bay of Fundy. It offers breathtaking views of the coast and is a great place to spot wildlife.
  • Irishtown Nature Park: This park is located in Moncton and features over 20 km of multi-use trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing.
  • Poley Mountain: This ski resort is located in Sussex and is a great place to go skiing, snowboarding, and hiking in the summer months.

Best Things to Do in Southeastern New Brunswick: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Southeastern New Brunswick, including:

  • Whale Watching in the Bay of Fundy: Visitors can take a whale-watching tour and see some of the largest whales in the world in their natural habitat.
  • Acadian Village in Caraquet: This recreated Acadian village offers visitors a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of French settlers in the region.
  • Magnetic Hill: This unique attraction in Moncton appears to defy gravity. Visitors can park their car at the bottom of the hill and watch as it appears to roll uphill.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeastern New Brunswick

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Southeastern New Brunswick:

Day 1-2: Start your trip in Saint John and visit the New Brunswick Museum and Irving Nature Park.

Day 3-4: Head to the Bay of Fundy and explore Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park.

Day 5-6: Travel to Moncton and visit Magnetic Hill and Irishtown Nature Park.

Day 7: End your trip in Caraquet and explore the Acadian Village.

Food and Drink Scene of Southeastern New Brunswick

Southeastern New Brunswick has a rich food and drink scene that offers visitors a chance to indulge in local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster: Southeastern New Brunswick is known for its delicious lobsters that are cooked fresh from the ocean.
  • Poutine: This iconic Canadian dish is made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Acadian ployes: A type of pancake made with buckwheat flour that is typically served with butter and molasses.

Local Beverages

  • Moosehead Beer: This brewery has been around since 1867 and is one of the oldest independent breweries in Canada.
  • Wine: Southeastern New Brunswick is home to several wineries that produce delicious wines made from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Southeastern New Brunswick: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many great options for accommodations in Southeastern New Brunswick, including:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John: This hotel is located in the heart of Saint John and offers guests comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
  • Auberge Seraphine Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse is located in Moncton and offers guests a chance to experience life in a traditional Acadian home.
  • Kouchibouguac National Park Campgrounds: Camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region. Kouchibouguac National Park offers several campgrounds for visitors to choose from.

What to Buy in Southeastern New Brunswick: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Southeastern New Brunswick should consider bringing home some of these local products:

  • Maple syrup: This sweet treat is made from the sap of maple trees and is a popular souvenir in Canada.
  • Hand-crafted pottery: There are many talented pottery artists in the region who create beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces.
  • Acadian-style weaving: This traditional craft involves weaving strips of cloth together to create beautiful and functional items.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeastern New Brunswick

Southeastern New Brunswick has a rich cultural heritage that is most visible in the Acadian communities located throughout the region. Visitors should make an effort to learn about Acadian history, cuisine, and traditions during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Southeastern New Brunswick

The best time to visit Southeastern New Brunswick is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and the region is bustling with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeastern New Brunswick

Do:

  • Try local delicacies like lobster, poutine, and Acadian ployes.
  • Take a whale-watching tour to see some of the largest whales in the world.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking or biking along one of the many scenic trails.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on hiking trails or beaches.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Overlook the region’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southeastern New Brunswick

Southeastern New Brunswick is a safe and welcoming region, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Lock doors and windows when staying in accommodations.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and in a secure location.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when travelling alone or at night.

Health in Southeastern New Brunswick

Visitors to Southeastern New Brunswick should ensure they have adequate health insurance before travelling. They should also take precautions to protect their health:

  • Use sunscreen to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  • Be aware of ticks when hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Southeastern New Brunswick: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southeastern New Brunswick is accessible by car, bus, and plane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Southeastern New Brunswick

  • Greater Moncton International Airport
  • Saint John Airport

Bus Stations Near Southeastern New Brunswick

  • Maritime Bus
  • Greyhound Canada

Other Options

  • Rental Car
  • Taxi
  • Uber/Lyft

How to Get Around in Southeastern New Brunswick

The best way to get around Southeastern New Brunswick is by car. There are also several public transportation options in the region, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Southeastern New Brunswick: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Southeastern New Brunswick who are looking to explore other parts of Canada might consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Halifax, Nova Scotia: This charming city is known for its maritime history and lively music scene.
  • Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island: This picturesque city is the birthplace of Canada and is known for its red sand beaches and delicious seafood.
  • Quebec City, Quebec: This historic city is the heart of French Canada and features stunning architecture, delicious food, and beautiful parks.

Conclusion

Southeastern New Brunswick is a truly magical destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Atlantic Canada. Whether you are interested in hiking, history, or culinary delights, there is something for everyone in Southeastern New Brunswick. Plan your trip today and prepare to be amazed!

Tilted layers of sandstone at Hopewell Rocks Tilted layers of sandstone at Hopewell Rocks


    Moncton
    Shédiac