After 11 years of living and exploring Canada, I’ve discovered that my favorite places are those by the water. And above all, the Atlantic coast has managed to steal my heart. The wild ocean and the coastal fishing towns have a mystic charm paired with a down-to-earth vibe that I haven’t felt anywhere else in the country.

Having already visited the big cities of Atlantic Canada but wanting to explore more, Ryan and I decided to take a road trip from Toronto all the way to the Gaspésie—the easternmost part of Quebec—for a little escape before winter set in. It was the perfect time to visit: the weather was still beautiful, and the tourist season had ended.

We had already been to Montreal and Quebec City before. But after passing through those two enchanting cities, we found ourselves in entirely new territory.

Kamouraska, named one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec. 

La Gaspésie

After leaving Quebec City, we continued east along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River until we reached the town of Kamouraska, known for its small-town charm and picturesque houses. From there, we followed the coast as the river opened to the ocean, bringing us to the stunning region of La Gaspésie. We spent two days exploring this breathtaking peninsula, driving along seaside cliffs and through coastal towns along the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Our inn in Percé had a clear view of the iconic Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island, two of the area’s most famous natural attractions. With a population of just 3,000 people, the town was the perfect respite from city life. We strolled along the waterfront, breathing in the crisp late-fall Atlantic air, which announced that winter was just around the corner.

Another must-visit spot in the region is Forillon National Park. Located at the eastern edge of the Appalachians, the park offers stunning trails that wind through forests and beaches. The vibrant fall foliage—one of Canada’s trademarks this time of year—was on full display. To top it off, we were lucky enough to spot some seals curiously watching us from the water.

The name “Percé” means “pierced” in French and refers to the massive limestone rock formation just off the town’s coast.

Maine

Although our original plan was to focus on La Gaspésie, we decided to extend our trip and follow the Appalachian Mountains through New Brunswick into Maine. Both of us had heard glowing reviews about Acadia National Park’s fall colors, and it did not disappoint.

As beautiful as fall is in eastern Canada, the colors in Acadia were unlike anything we’d ever seen. We spent the day hiking the park’s trails, walking along its rugged beaches, and soaking in views where the forest’s fiery reds, oranges, and yellows met the powerful ocean waves.

At sunset, we climbed to Bubble Rock, to get a panoramic view of the park. That evening, we returned to Bar Harbor for one last seafood feast. The town, just days away from Halloween, was beautifully decorated. With its quaint, carefully adorned storefronts, it felt like stepping onto a movie set.

The colors of the fall that you can encounter at every stop of Acadia National Park.

After a week of exploring the charming coastal towns and natural wonders of Quebec and Maine, we finally made our way back home. While the fall colors in Ontario are undeniably stunning, I wholeheartedly recommend venturing further east to experience the season at its most vibrant.

Quebecers have always struck me as warm and welcoming, and the Atlantic coastal towns bring a sense of calm that’s hard to find in bustling inland cities. Whether it’s the breathtaking natural landscapes, the peaceful vibe of small towns, or the ever-changing palette of the seasons, the Atlantic coast has a way of capturing your heart—and leaving you longing for more.