Canada is a vast country with scenic grandeur on a magnificent scale. From the Atlantic to the Pacific and the U.S. border to the Arctic, splendour is on display. Here’s a collection of what could be the 10 best views in Canada.
10. Niagara Falls
Sure, it’s crowded and commercialized. Still, it’s a natural wonder that needs to be experienced with fantastic views. Take it all in from high viewpoints, from below on the deck of a boat, or from a helicopter circling above. Don’t let the crowds bother you, just go and enjoy the view.
9. Chesterman Beach
Tofino is one of the best beaches on the West Coast. Unique geography allows visitors to walk out to Frank Island at low tide with numerous tide pools to explore. The sand spit reaching out to the island separates the beach into two uniquely beautiful sections.
8. Terrasse Dufferin
The boardwalk promenade high above the Saint Lawrence River provides historic vistas of Quebec that remind one of provincial France. The romance of a stroll along the high boardwalk is intensified by the backdrop of the Chateau Frontenac.
7. Okanagan Country
The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia is one of the warmest areas in Canada and is anchored by Okanagan Lake with its sandy beaches for those hot summer days. Wineries and orchards are set against a backdrop of rising cliffs and forested bluffs. Dry landscapes fill the lower elevations and provide sharp contrasts.
6. Cape Enrage
Cape Enrage is home to grand vistas. The lighthouse on the bluff of the cape stands like a sentinel eternally watching the sea. The tides of the Bay of Fundy lying below are among the most extreme in the world. You can view boats stuck high and dry at the pier side that is floating along just fine a few hours later.
5. Lake Louise
It’s easy to understand why Lake Louise and Banff National Park are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The beautiful waters of the lake sparkle in blue hues and reflect back the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Paddle out on the water for stunning mountain views. In the winter the lake freezes to become one of the most spectacular skating rinks in the world.
4. Vancouver from the Water
One of the most picturesque cities in the world is best viewed from the water. Rent a kayak or canoe and prepare to be awed. It’s easy to see why Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful cities on the planet. Vancouver Island on the opposite side is gorgeous in the setting sun.
3. Bonavista Peninsula
Angling out into the ocean about 120 kilometres off the mainland of Newfoundland is the Bonavista Peninsula. Lined with hidden coves, bays, and inlets, the sightlines for great views are plentiful. See icebergs drifting in the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The small village of Trinity is postcard-perfect.
2. Signal Hill
Take in some of the best views of the Atlantic anywhere from iconic Cabot Tower and along the North Head Trail. See the location where Marconi received the first trans-Atlantic radio signal in 1901. The homes clinging to the hillside embody the Newfoundland spirit.
1.Moraine Lake
Once termed a “20 dollar view” because of the lake’s appearance on Canadian money, the splendour of the setting is worth much more than that. The glacier-fed lake is only about 14 kilometres out of Lake Louise, making it easy to see them both in the same trip. It is situated in the Valley of Ten Peaks and each provides its own unique view.
It’s likely many favourite views are not on the list simply because there are so many to choose from. A wealth of grandeur is something Canada is famous for and it should be celebrated.
