This trip into history calls to you with the irresistible treasures of the gorgeous Acadian Isles, the lively Acadian Peninsula, charming Bouctouche and Shediac, the cities of Moncton and Dieppe, and the Cradle of Acadie: Memramcook. Sample the fresh seafood, experience the living history, bask in the sun, and enjoy it all with the region’s local craft alcohol. Drive from the border with Nova Scotia and PEI through the heart of Acadian culture to the islands and beaches of northern New Brunswick. You will pass by--and hopefully stop in--wine country, cider orchards, unique breweries, and distilleries all dedicated to bringing you the flavours of Acadie. New Brunswick is Canada’s only bilingual province and there is no better way to experience that individuality than to surround yourself with Acadian culture.
Please make sure you have a designated driver or make sure whoever is behind the wheel is sampling responsibly! There are plenty of nights to safely enjoy the craft alcohol you’ve picked up along the way.
Here’s what a trip up the Acadian coast would look like with all the craft alcohol producers along the way! The trip starts from the Nova Scotia or PEI border, or alternatively start where you left off on the Fundy Coastal Drive.
🚗 Day 1 🚗
On your way to the coastal town of Shediac, stop in Baie Verte to visit New Brunswick's original winery and distillery, Winegarden Estate. Then, a short skip away in Malden for Canada's first "field to bottle" distillery, Blue Roof Distillers. In Shediac, splash in the warmest waters north of the Carolinas at Parlee Beach National Park and grab a bite to eat. Make sure to stock up on some snacks for a camping trip later in the day! Then get back on the road and head up through Sainte-Marie-de-Kent to stop by Broue du Païen for some beer before going to Saint-Édouard-de-Kent to enjoy the beaches of the Irving Eco-Centre and the vineyards of La Ferme Maury, with seasonal tours and samples available. Spend the night at the nearby campground and early risers can enjoy the sunrise over the ocean.
🎣 Day 2 🎣
Drive up to Richibucto, making sure to take a slight detour to see the Richibucto River Wine Estate, a perfect place for seasonal vineyard tours and tastings. Once you arrive in Richibucto make sure to stop in at the info centre to learn the amazing history of the town. Up for a bit of fun? Play some Farmersgolf at Bonar Law Historic Site; the shoe-shaped clubs and unusually large balls make for a unique and very funny experience for all ages.
After all the laughter and learning, head on over to the amazing city of Miramichi, famous for its world-class salmon fishing and friendly locals. In addition to all that, Miramichi is also well-stocked with craft alcohol, with New Maritime Beer Company and Timber Ship Brewing for beer and Carroll’s Distillery and Three Dog Distilling for spirits. Spend the night here, and prepare to be amazed by the next day’s views.
🐚 Day 3 🐚
There is so much more to see and it’s only getting more beautiful! Drive up to the Acadian peninsula and enjoy the beaches, views, birdwatching, and make sure to stop by Brasseux d’la Côte in Tracadie. Once you get to Shippagan, check out the Aquarium and Marine Centre and then drive a bit further to Miscou Island to climb the historic lighthouse and get lunch at La terrasse à Steve for a lovely seafood lunch and their exclusive beer from Brasseux d’la Côte. Come back along the Baie de Chaleur into the Caraquet region to see Brasserie Retro Brewing in Bertrand and do not miss the award-winning Distillerie Fils du Roy in Petit-Paquetville. End the day in your choice of lovely inns, beautiful resorts, or the highly recommended Village Historique Acadien for a unique, historic experience like no other.
🐦 Day 4 🐦
Last day! Enjoy the drive along the Baie de Chaleur with stunning views and eye-catching wildlife. Try to keep your eyes on the road as you head into Bathurst, grab a lunch from one of the many local options but make sure to leave room for beer! Bathurst has two must-try breweries: 13 Barrels Brewing and Four Rivers Brewing Company, both of which are family and pet friendly, as well as offering tours, flights and retail sales.
From here, you can continue along the Baie de Chaleur into the Appalachian Range Route, or pack up and head home to show your buddies your new-found French skills.