Renowned for having the most extreme tidal environment on earth (16.2 meters or 53 feet) the incredibly diverse Bay of Fundy extends approximately 270 km in a northeasterly direction between the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
Coastal rock formations, amazing tidal effects both vertical and horizontal, and unique natural scenery – these are just a few of the many features that appeal tourists to this beautiful corner of Canada. Moreover, the Bay is also a critical international feeding ground for migratory birds, the best site on the planet for ‘green’ tidal energy, and one of the planet’s most important plant and animal fossil discovery ecozones.
Can you imagine? 160 billion tones of water flows in and out of the Bay of Fundy every 12.5 hours, more than the combined flow of all the freshwater rivers in the world. These waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, from fish to 12 species of rare whales, including the Finback whale, the world’s second largest animal, which comes to the Bay of Fundy to feed and play with right, Minke and Humpback whales.
Joggins Fossil Cliffs
Found near Amherst and the Nova Scotia-New Brunswick border, on the Fundy shore, the extraordinary Joggins Fossil Center is another ‘must explore’ site for any Bay of Fundy vacation, featuring the world’s largest and most complete fossil record of life in the ‘Coal Age’ with a collection of 300 million-year-old fossils. In 2008, the area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the awesome cliffs and the award-winning visitor center, including static and dynamic displays, are truly the jewels in the world’s Carboniferous Period crown.
Fundy National Park
With two distinct faces: the Fundy coastline with its amazing tides and inter-tidal zones, and its interior backcountry of Acadian forests with many hiking and mountain biking trails, the stunning Fundy National Park invites nature and adventure lovers to its coastal wonderland to experience picture-perfect natural beauty, discover the richness of the Acadian forest and learn the secrets of the Bay of Fundy’s world-famous tides.
You can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the majestic Bennett Lake. Enjoy a picnic with your family or take a guided hike or beach walk. Indulge in evening programs, rich in various shows, or else visit the park’s main Visitor Center in Alma, where you can see a handful of exhibits on wildlife and tides, a video presentation, and many brochures on outfitters offering horseback, sailboat, whale watching and wildlife excursions.
Fundy shore & Annapolis Valley
There are many great activities to be found along the Fundy Shore & Annapolis Valley as well. One of them is the visit to the Cape d’Or lighthouse located on a panoramic point where the Minas Basin meets the Bay of Fundy. Another must-do activity is to visit the fascinating Five Islands Park to relax and sunbath on its wonderful sugary sands. Those who enjoy culinary adventures will surely find the Bay of Fundy an ideal place to try awe-inspiring cuisine with lobster and scallops, mussels and smoked salmon, at marvel at the Annapolis Valley’s award-winning wines.
Water Adventures
A great way to experience the Bay of Fundy is to ride the tide. What you should do is to walk the seabed at low ride, and admire at sparkling amethysts and other marine treasures. Kayaking is another water activity that is popular in the Bay of Fundy. This will enable you to experience the lively piping plovers and spectacular marine life.
Few places on Earth are as dreamscape as the Bay of Fundy. So, a visit to this special place will reward you with wonderful vacation filled with breathtaking scenery and endless adventure.
