What is the smallest province in Canada?

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is the smallest Canadian province both in terms of geographical area and population. PEI is a significant and valuable constituent of the country, rich in history, culture and scenic beauty, despite its size. PEI is a small island located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, off the coasts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, and has red sand beaches, rolling farmlands, and small towns that are quaint.

Size and Geography

Prince Edward Island occupies an area of about 5,660 square kilometers which is much smaller than any other Canadian province. PEI has a long coastline which is uneven, consisting of breathtaking cliffs, sandy beaches, and beautiful bays. The topography of the island is predominantly agrarian and the farmlands there yield some of the best potatoes in Canada.

History and National Importance

PEI is a small island but of historical importance. It is also referred to as the Birthplace of the Confederation with the Charlottetown Conference of 1864 being held here, which resulted in the creation of Canada in 1867. In 1873, the island became the official member of the Canadian Confederation. Its capital city, Charlottetown is a cultural and political hub that boasts of Victorian architecture and historic sites.

Economy and Lifestyle

Prince Edward Island's economy is based on agriculture as well as fishing and tourism. PEI is Canada’s largest producer of potatoes, exporting them worldwide. The lobster and seafood businesses also bring a significant income to the local economy. The island, though small, provides a quiet and quality way of life, communities are closely-knit communities with a strong island identity.

Top Things to Do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is known to have red sand beaches, rolling green hills and literary heritage which present a lot of memorable experiences. These are the most popular attractions in Prince Edward Island that tourists can visit to enjoy culture, nature and leisure.

1. Visit Green Gables Heritage Place

Green Gables Heritage Place is one of the places that one should visit in the island of Prince Edward, in particular among the lovers of Anne of Green Gables. This old farmhouse on Cavendish was the inspiration of the favorite novel of Lucy Maud Montgomery. 

Tourists are also able to visit the home that is well maintained and walk through the lover lane and the haunted woods and also visit the gardens around the home. The place provides a nostalgic view of the life of the island at the end of the 19th century, where literature, history, and natural beauty are mixed in a lovely countryside.

2. Relax at Cavendish Beach

Cavendish Beach is one of PEI’s most iconic coastal spots, known for its golden-red sand and dramatic sandstone cliffs. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and long seaside walks during the summer months.

3. Explore Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island National Park is a gorgeous coastal retreat characterized by sandy beaches, red cliffs, and protected dune systems. The park, which is situated on the north coast of the island, has hiking and cycling paths, bird watching zones and picnic spots by the ocean. Tourists have access to sea bathing and swimming in major beaches such as Brackley and Greenwich or they can venture into the rare dune systems with boardwalks. This park is ideal for outdoor lovers, offering stunning scenery and abundant wildlife

4. Stroll Through Charlottetown

The capital of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, is an excellent place with a rich historical and cultural background. Strolling down its streets you will discover perfectly maintained Victorian houses, bustling waterfronts and warm cafes. See Victoria Row, visit St. Dunstan Basilica, and have a look at the shops and the theatres in the neighbourhood. Charlottetown, also referred to as the Birthplace of Confederation, is a very friendly place and a place with the most perfect combination of both heritage and modernity and hence the best place to have a relaxing and picturesque walk.

5. Drive the North Cape Coastal Drive

The North Cape Coastal Drive is a beautiful experience of the rural beauty of Prince Edward Island. You can see colorful fishing-villages, old lighthouses, and red sandstone cliffs. The best part is North Cape where you would see the spectacular wind farm of the island, and the very natural phenomenon of the tides clashing at the tip of the cape. It is an ideal scenic journey to travelers seeking dramatic scenery and coastal culture 

6. Taste PEI’s Famous Seafood

PEI is famed in the seafood industry with its lobster, mussels, and oysters. Have a classic lobster dinner or go to the seafood stands along the harbor and get an authentic island meal.

7. Walk or Cycle the Confederation Trail

The Confederation Trail is a 435 km trail converted from the island’s former railway line. It is perfect to ride, hike and explore nature and go through the farmlands, forests and small villages.

8. Visit Basin Head Provincial Park ("Singing Sands")

Basin Head Beach is famous for its unique ‘singing sands,’ where the quartz-rich sand makes a squeaking sound when you walk on it.

9. Tour Historic Lighthouses

More than 60 lighthouses are found in PEI. Visit West point Lighthouse (which also doubles as an inn) or point prim Lighthouse which is the oldest one on the island.

10. Experience Local Festivals

The island hosts vibrant festivals such as the Charlottetown Festival at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, featuring music and theatre performances, and the PEI Shellfish Festival, which is a festival of the seafood culture of the island, in the summer.

Conclusion

Prince Edward Island is a small province in Canada, however, there is something special about this island in terms of history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. It is relatively small, which is one of the features that make it seem peaceful and welcoming. PEI shows that the most minor province can make a significant mark in the life of a nation and its pride.

Related Articles

• Can you cross the Rainbow Bridge without a passport?
• Where do you cross the border into Canada?
• What language do they speak in Yellowknife?
• What to do in Saskatoon in winter?
• Can an ETA holder extend a stay in Canada?
• How to get to Cape Breton Island from Toronto?
• What is the cheapest province in Canada?
• Do I need to print my boarding pass for Air Canada?
• What is the largest port of entry in Canada?

View more