5 of Canada’s most scenic getaways

Domestic breaks are a great choice when you’re short on time and if you’re Canadian, you’ll know there’s plenty to choose from on the home front. For trips that are both relaxing and beautiful, these getaways definitely deliver.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Around 90km from Halifax on the southern shore of Nova Scotia, you’ll stumble upon the picture-postcard port town of Lunenburg. Here, you’ll find a collection of little boxy houses painted in a range of joyous reds, yellows and blues lining the waterfront, while sailboats bob out on the water. With its patchwork of small galleries, shops and eateries, it’s no surprise that the waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander along the wharves of the old town in the morning before heading out on the Bluenose II boat – a replica of the original racing schooner that’s become a symbol of Nova Scotia and a Canadian icon. Return to treat yourself to steaming bowls of local clam chowder and salt cod fish cakes at The Knot Pub, or enjoy a pound (or a pint) of mussels at the Salt Shaker Deli & Inn. When you’re full, head upstairs – conveniently, the Salt Shaker is also a cosy place to spend a night or two.

The Discovery Islands, British Columbia

Sapphire waters and verdant forests mark this rugged and untamed archipelago in Western Canada. Take a ferry from Vancouver Island’s Campbell River, and you’ll be whisked over to the commercial hub, Quadra Island, wedged in the Discovery Passage between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia. Here, secluded bays open up to a network of channels, inlets and beaches that are perfect for kayaking, while the land around it – a mix of mountainous terrain and sandy stretches – provides hikers with plenty of routes to choose from. Venture over to some of the other islands (Cortes and Sonora are both good choices) and you may be lucky enough to catch glimpses of orcas dancing silently in the water while snow-capped mountains loom in the backdrop. Instead of staying on the mainland, make your base one of the islands – Quadra’s Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge offers ocean views from all of its rooms.

Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta

No need to hit the cinema if you’re looking for a Jurassic Park revival; the Dinosaur Provincial Park will thrill reptile enthusiasts and nature-lovers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Alberta Badlands, it’s home to a vast number of dinosaur fossils found all over its distinct terrain. Steep ravines, tall hoodoos and other eye-catching rock formations give the illusion of a jurassic slalom course. Hike the available trails, or try your hand at your own fossil safari where you’ll learn how to identify fossils. When the sun sets, camping is a popular choice (though you’ll need to reserve space in advance). Alternatively, the town of Drumheller – home to the dinosaur-themed Tyrrell museum – is just under a two-hour drive away. Spend the night at the The Canalta Jurassic.

Prince Edward County, Ontario

Drive two hours east of Toronto (and almost four from Montréal) and you’ll find yourself on the island haven of Prince Edward County, known for its community of artists, and its wine and culinary scene. The landscape is made up of undulating hills crested with fields of pale yellow wheat roll onto the horizon, while farm stands selling fresh local produce dot the winding roads. Besides great food and wine, the County offers a range of scenery, from the Lake on the Mountain in the north (which has no clear source of water) to the whipped sand dunes of the Sandbanks in the south, that hug the shoreline of Lake Ontario. It’s a region well-suited to long drives and unhurried walks, and be sure to sample the wine at any of the 40-plus wineries along the way. Norman Hardie is a good choice for spring and summertime visits, where you can combine a glass of chardonnay with a wood-fired pizza. When it’s time to call it a day, look no further than the Drake Devonshire, the younger sibling of Toronto’s boutique Drake Hotel – here, you’ll enjoy lake views, a private beach area and an outdoor fireplace for when the cold kicks in.

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

The dreamy Okanagan Valley is a 180km stretch of peach and apricot orchards, calm cerulean waters, dry deserts and sun-drenched vineyards. One of Canada’s sunniest areas, it’s a mixture of various types of scenery. Take in Canada’s fourth largest waterfall, the Helmcken Falls, or head to the arid Osoyoos desert – remarkably Canada’s only true desert and one of its largest grape regions. If you’re looking to escape the dry heat, visit the world’s only inland temperate rainforest and navigate your way over mossy carpets, past century-old cedars and out onto dramatic mountain ridges, spotting caribous and grizzly bears in the distance. Finally, head down to Okanagan Lake and you might even catch a glimpse of the area’s legendary lake creature, Ogopogo. The city of Kelowna is centrally placed in the valley and a good point to make your base at – Kelowna Bed & Breakfast Ltd. is a stylish stay with a sensational breakfast.