Being by the sea brings delight to all the senses; the sound of gently lapping or powerfully crashing waves, the smell of the fresh sea air with a whisper of salt and the magnificent ever-expansive views. Add in a dose of movement and this uplifted feeling is enhanced, making a coastal walk or bike ride good for the mind, body and soul.
Recognising the tranquillity that sea breaks bring, we’ve put together two brand-new coastal adventures so you can journey from place to place at your own pace. And this time, we’ve gone further afield to destinations in the USA and Canada to offer you trips that are more exciting than ever.
So, if you’re planning ahead for your holiday in 2023, there’s never been a better time to do so! Read on below to learn more about the wonders that await you on our incredible Headwater holidays.
A visit to Maine invites you to take a step back in time to enjoy a slower pace of life in a region that remains unspoiled, pristine and rich in natural beauty. So, at a time when the world may seem stressful, taking a break here could be the perfect remedy.
On our Cycling Maine’s Coast & National Park trip, you’ll explore quaint seaside towns brimming with creativity, dramatic coastlines watched over by iconic lighthouses and spectacular scenery at the Acadia National Park.
Cycling along quiet coastal roads, you’ll reach the fishing village of Port Clyde and Marshall Point lighthouse. Fans of Forrest Gump will know this is where he famously ended his epic run. Stopping in Rockland is a must. It may be a small town, but its reputation for lobster fishing stretches far across the world, so sampling this local delicacy cannot be missed.
Transferring across to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, you’ll be greeted by the most stunning scenery. Located mainly on Mount Desert Island, just off the coast of Maine, its tall rocky headlands, verdant forests, pink granite shores and wild Atlantic waters make it one of the US’s most-loved parks. It’s also an excellent spot for whale-watching.
Maine is a food-lovers paradise, so make sure you’ve worked up a good appetite on your bike, as there are plenty of treats to enjoy. Alongside its fabulous seafood of lobster rolls, smoked salmon and New England Chowders, there are fresh blueberries to sample, used in pancakes, muffins and even cocktails. And don’t forget to save room for Maine’s acclaimed tasty treat, the Whoopie Pie. A delicious delicacy that goes back decades, you’ll find it sold widely in Maine’s bakeries. But is it a cookie, a cake or a pie? No one seems quite sure!
While summer is the prime time to visit Maine, making the most of the warm weather, it’s a place that is glorious at almost any time of year. Visit in the autumn for the breathtaking colours of the fall foliage or in spring when it’s quieter but still mild enough to discover the gems of this amazing destination.
Despite the breathtaking scenery of majestic mountains, vast forests rich in wildlife, glacial-carved inlets and expansive ocean vistas, the Sunshine Coast of Canada, in the southwest corner of British Columbia, has been a mainly well-kept local secret.
On our Walking Canada’s Sunshine Coast, you’ll stay in tranquil waterfront locations, in areas mostly only accessible by boat or plane, providing the perfect opportunity to get away from it all. Following trails that explore this awe-inspiring landscape, rich in flora and fauna and dotted with welcoming communities, it’s the ultimate place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Climb to the summit of the Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail to gain incredible, far-reaching views of Vancouver, Gibsons, Bowen Island, and much of Howe Sound. Take a forested trail when visiting Madeira Park to lead you to a rocky outcrop, where the changing tidal waters create mesmerising rapids and formidable whirlpools.
A favourite walk, and part of the renowned Sunshine Coast Trail, is the Appleton Creek Trail. Hiking through beautiful forestland and crossing streams, you’ll soon hear its rushing waterfall before serenity resumes as you reach the deep sapphire waters of Rieverley’s Pond. Other gentle trails around the area of Powell River offer the delightful opportunity to partake in some gentle swimming in the clear blue lakes or take longer routes up to Tin Hat Mountain, where Tin Hat Hut provides panoramic views of this magnificent landscape.
Being so close to the ocean, you’d expect the Sunshine Coast to have fantastic seafood. And it doesn’t disappoint. Wild sockeye salmon is one of the area’s signature foods, alongside Dungeness Crab and fish chowders. Canada is renowned for its maple syrup and when made in British Columbia, it’s rich and full of flavour. Try it on pancakes or waffles for a deliciously sweet breakfast treat.
As with Maine, this part of British Columbia offers something extraordinary at almost any time of year, although winters are best saved for snow sports lovers. The spring brings fresh green forests, great diversity in marine life and pleasant temperatures. Meanwhile, in summer, the climate is warm, and the days are long, making it a more popular season for outdoor adventures. When autumn comes, the temperatures cool slightly, but the weather remains generally pleasant. This time of year also offers good opportunities to spot whales and sea lions in the surrounding waters.
If you’re looking for a holiday in 2023 that brings a perfect blend of excitement, wonder and tranquillity, then these destinations will not disappoint. So, don’t wait to journey from place to place at your own pace on a captivating coastal trip.
