Suggested Itineraries

High Times, High Tides: The Best of New Brunswick in 1 Week

New Brunswick is spread out; to see it quickly and compactly, this tour takes in the highlights of the southernmost New Brunswick coast, from the province's largest city to its biggest tidal drops. Begin at St. Andrews, the first significant destination beyond the Maine state line. (I'm assuming you've driven north from Maine. If you've flown into Saint John, see it first or last and simply switch around the order below.)

Days 1 & 2: St. Andrews

This compact seaside town is the perfect stopping point after rambling through miles of the blessed emptiness that is downeast Maine. It's worth at least 1 night for shopping and walking, another day and a night if you're intent on taking a whale-watching trip or other excursion from the harbor -- or playing the Algonquin Hotel's golf course, one of the top courses in eastern Canada.

A day trip to the nearby islands, such as Deer Island or Campobello, is always nice in summer.

From St. Andrews, continue about 19km (12 miles) northeast (do not backtrack) along Route 127 to Route 1, the main road. Then continue 80km (50 miles) along Route 1 to

Days 3 & 4: Saint John

Saint John (spelled out, please) isn't the capital of New Brunswick, but it is the province's chief economic engine. The downtown's central square is lovely and worth some time just hanging out; you can also wander the downtown streets, choosing from gourmet and midpriced restaurants or pubs with ale and live music.

The farmer's market, also within walking distance, is a must-visit if you like fresh produce.

From Saint John, continue about 90km (56 miles) northeast along Route 1 to Route 114; turn south along Route 114 and continue 15km (9 1/3 miles) to its end, which puts you in

Days 5 & 6: Fundy National Park

One of the most surprising things you can do in New Brunswick is hightail it to this park, where the world's highest tides slam the narrowing "V" of the Bay of Fundy. Any number of tour outfits can take you down to the waterside (tide schedules in hand, of course). The weirdly shaped Hopewell Rocks make a good trip, and there's also an excellent road/hiking path along the bay. This is worth a day or two with the family -- you'll have to stay in rustic accommodations, however -- and remember to spend time on the bike or on a hike, too.

From the park, continue north along Route 114 80km (50 miles) to

Day 7: Moncton

This city at the crossroads of the Maritimes is showing new signs of life. Stay the night and use the city as a base for a day trip, or else press on to the big park an hour away.

Head 80km (50 miles) north, following routes 115 and 11, passing the big Dune of Bouctouche en route, to Kouchibouguac National Park, where you can canoe, bike, or kayak, and the flat land makes for easy walking (or picnicking on the beach). Return to Moncton at night, or just stay in the park.

From Moncton, you're just 80km (50 miles) from the bridge to Prince Edward Island or a few hours from further coastal exploring. Or return south 266km (165 miles) along Highway 1 to the Maine border, about a 3 1/2-hour trip.