Travel Spotlight: Grand Manan, Canada
Written By: Victoria Tully
When I was younger, I took a great interest in marine biology, so my mom decided to send me to Whale Camp. This camp is based in New Brunswick, Canada on a small island called Grand Manan. Because Grand Manan offers various activities, it’s a big tourist attraction. One of the main attractions is hiking.
With 18 different coastal hikes, you will never get tired of the view! Each hike brings you a new and unforgettable experience.The first hike the campers go on when they reach the island is the trail. Even though the hike is only 10 minutes, the view is just as remarkable.
Grand Manan is most known for the Hole in the Wall hiking trail, located on the upper north side of the island. This 2 mile hike takes you to the infamous Hole in the Wall. But don’t worry, if hiking isn’t your style, there are kayak tours you can take to see this attraction. If you’re lucky enough you may even see seals and other marine life on the kayak tour, Adventure High!
Along with the more intense activities this island offers, there are also several leisurely activities to take part in. My personal favorite has to be whale watching. The Bay of Fundy, where this island is located, is known for its marine life. Different species of whales, seals, dolphins, porpoises, fish, and sharks have been spotted here. You can see all of these while whale watching with Sea Watch Tours. This small business offers whale watching, puffin watching, and lobster fishing too. And the best part is their policy where you’re guaranteed a whale sighting, or your money back!
Here’s a photo my friend Will took while we were out whale watching! It’s one of hundreds of white sided dolphins we saw on our watch.
Since the island is so small, everyone knows each other. You can feel the community and the comradery when you enter a small bodega or restaurant. Speaking of restaurants, my favorite place to eat is the Harrington Cove Tea Place. This is a small family owned tea house that lets you choose your own tea cup! But they have more than tea, their homemade biscuits and vast selection of jams makes this place stand out. Needless to say, this tea house is a great place to go for a midday snack!
During summer hours on Saturdays, the island holds a small farmers market where locals sell different goods for tourists like: knitted hats, household items, and jewelry. With all of the activities that you can do and sights you can see, Grand Manan is a great place to travel for those of you who are looking for a slightly more active vacation. Although I’m too old for the camp now, I still make an effort to go back to the island whenever possible because of the place it holds in my heart.