The 10 Most Beautiful Villages In Canada

When most people think of Canada, they imagine its cosmopolitan capitals like Vancouver and Montreal, or its iconic natural attractions like Niagara Falls and Whistler; however, Canada’s tiny villages and villages are often-overlooked sources of the country’s most unique scenery and richest traditions. From the charming seaside communities of the east coast, to the historic villages of rural Quebec, here are ten of the most beautiful villages in Canada.

Frelighsburg

Ranked among Quebec’s most beautiful villages, Frelighsburg is set in a gorgeous location at the foot of Mount Pinnacle, on the banks of the Pike River. Located near the Vermont border, the village was settled in the late 18th century by American Loyalists. Many buildings from this period, which blend brick and wood materials, are still standing today. Highlights include an early 20th-century convent, and a mill dating back to 1839. The surrounding valley is a flourishing apple-growing region, with numerous cider-houses and orchards dotted across the countryside.

Frelighsburg, Quebec, Canada

Victoria-by-the Sea

Victoria-by-the Sea is located on the shores of the Northumberland Strait, halfway between Charlottetown and Summerside. Founded in the early 19th century, the village exudes an old-fashioned charm with its colorful Victorian heritage homes, pretty little lighthouse, and easy-going locals. The village is known for attracting artisans and artisans, with visitors able to try candle making and pottery at some of its art galleries. The village is an excellent base for kayaking or visiting the beaches found along the Northumberland Strait.

Victoria-by-the Sea, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Merrickville

Nicknamed the Jewel of the Rideau, Merrickville was named ‘Canada’s Most Beautiful Village’ by Communities in Bloom. The village is home to more designated heritage buildings than any other Ontario community of its size, including lovely Gothic churches, historic stone houses, and grand Victorian homes. Many of these buildings have been transformed into the shops of the village’s thriving artistic community, selling crafts, antiques, and artwork. The Rideau Canal runs through this village, adding to its picturesque appearance. Once an important shipping route, the canal is now a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.

Merrickville, Ontario, Canada

Waterton

Waterton is a tiny mountain village located along a lake in the middle of Waterton Lakes National Park. Set near the USA-Canadian border, the 195-square-mile park is a World Heritage Site as well as an International Peace Park, sharing an open border with Glacier National Park in Montana. Visitors approaching the village are greeted with the impressive vista of the historic Prince of Wales Hotel set against a commanding mountain backdrop. Despite the national park’s popularity, the village is laid-back and unassuming, offering a few restaurants, shops, hotels, and other tourist facilities.

Waterton, Alberta, Canada

Tadoussac

Located three hours away from Quebec City, Tadoussac is best known for its excellent whale watching possibilities. The village is set at the meeting point of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence estuary, a site where whales linger over the summer before migrating to the Atlantic Ocean in the autumn. Many companies offer tours on Zodiacs, but smaller whales like minkes and belugas can sometimes be spotted from the shore. Aside from whales, Tadoussac offers an artsy, historic atmosphere, with plenty of quirky shops and boutiques lining its streets.

Tadoussac, Quebec, Canada

Memramcook

Memramcook is located less than a 20-minute drive away from the cities of Moncton and Dieppe. One of the region’s main hubs of Acadian culture, many locals speak the distinct Chiac derivative of the French language. The village’s Monument Lefebvre National Historic Site is home to a fascinating exhibit on the history of the Acadian people. Aside from its interesting culture, the village is surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Memramcook River Valley, which offers wonderful walking and biking trails through picturesque marshlands.

Memramcook, New Brunswick, Canada

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small village located 75 miles east of Vancouver along the shores of Harrison Lake. The lake’s stunning vista of sandy beaches and surrounding mountains is best enjoyed with a stroll along the village’s waterfront promenade. As you may expect based on its name, the village is known for its healing hot springs waters which have a naturally-high mineral content. There are two sets of hot springs in the village, one accessible to guests at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa, and a public pool located at the junction of Hot Springs Road and the Esplanade.

Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia, Canada

North Hatley

Another member of the Association of Quebec’s most beautiful villages, North Hatley is set on the north shore Lake Massawippi, surrounded by mountains. Located 18 miles south of the city of Sherbrooke, the village is shaped like a natural amphitheater. It became a favorite summer residence of wealthy Americans towards the end of the 19th century, resulting in the construction of numerous opulent residences. These centuries-old homes have since been converted into lovely B&Bs, art galleries, and boutiques.

North Hatley, Quebec, Canada

Blue Rocks

Blue Rocks is located on the south coast of Nova Scotia, a 5-minute drive from the popular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg. Often compared to larger Peggy’s Cove, the village has inspired artists like William E. deGarthe with its romantic scenery. Most families living in the village earn their living by catching fish or mussels. As you might expect based on the village’s name, the rugged rocks of Blue Rocks Point do appear blue and offer incredible views over the coast.

Blue Rocks, Nova Scotia, Canada

Elora

Located about 12 miles northwest of Guelph, Elora is the self-proclaimed ‘Most Beautiful Village in Ontario.’ The village is set on the Elora Gorge, where 80-foot limestone cliffs overlooking the banks of the Grand and Irvine Rivers. This natural recreation area is a well-loved spot for kayaking, camping, and hiking. Complimenting this dramatic setting are the village’s many historic stone buildings, which date back to the early 19th century. A number of these lovely old buildings have been converted into quaint studios, restaurants, and shops. There’s also the Elora Quarry Conversation Area, a former limestone quarry that’s now used by locals and tourists for swimming.

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