I’m going to PEI Monday and staying to Friday. Short time. What is your favourite spots and day trips.
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Food
Hello Brian,
Thank you for your question to Ask an Islander.
The first stop I would make is to the Visitor Information Centre either in Wood Islands, as you get off the ferry, or Borden-Carleton, if you are arriving by bridge. Here you can pick up maps and have your locations highlighted for great day trips.
Prince Edward Island has three Coastal Drives, North Cape Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive and Points East Coastal Drive.
North Cape Coastal Drive is 350 km, about a five-hour drive, without stopping. You will want to stop, the tall red dramatic cliffs are photo worthy! Lighthouses, harbours, the windmill farms and charming small communities. Stop at the Potato Museum in O'Leary.
Dining in North Cape Coastal drive, in Tignish enjoy Our Family Traditions. They are known for their meat pies and at home atmosphere. If you are looking for a sweet to nibble on, try visiting M.J.'s Bakery and Caboose Cafe. In Tyne Valley, check out Backwoods Burger. Backwoods has won awards for their burgers!
Central Coastal Drive is 253 km, a solid four-hour drive. This is a great drive featuring the Green Gables Shore and Red Sand Shore. Visit the artisan village of Victoria by the Sea. Artisans, restaurants, walking tours, trails and theatre. Enjoy some of the freshest seafood and unique meals in this community. Travel to the Prince Edward Island Preserve Co. and walk the grounds, they have amazing public gardens. Their butterfly house is now open for the season. Walk the boardwalk in North Rustico and stop into Pier 15 for an amazing meal or enjoy the 60 ft salad bar and lobster supper at Fisherman's Wharf Lobster Supper. The drive through the National Park is beautiful. Take a spin into Kensington and see the Haunted Mansion, try the amazing bakeries and restaurants and if you love to walk or bike, jump on the Confederation Trail. Also, love the walking trails in Bonshaw Hills.
Dining in the Central Coastal region is a struggle, because there are just too many wonderful restaurants and chefs.
Looking for breakfast, the Blue Goose in DeSable, Budley's at the airport, Linda's Coffee Shop and Casa Mia are all in Charlottetown. The weekend brunch at Old Triangle and Chambers at the Rodd are a treat. Good basic breakfasts.
Lunch can be enjoyed almost anywhere, but I love the atmosphere at Founders' Hall and the numerous food spots. Don't forget to check out Oh Fudge, it is made with Island potatoes!! Looking for the feel of the Island, try the Old Dublin Pub, Churchill Arms, Chamber's, Gahan House or Hunter's Ale House. Great meals, beautiful buildings with some great history. In Kensington, try the Island Stone Pub in the old train station or across the road Family & Friends. Any of the bakeries in Kensington are great.
Dinner would be some place like the Pilot House, Merchantman, Claddagh Oyster House, Sea Rocket Oyster House and Slaymaker's.
Points East Coastal Drive is 475 km and we tend to advise visitors, this is a seven to eight-hour drive, so consider two days. Boasting over 50 beaches, this is a sea glass haven for those who love beach combing. Lovely small harbour communities, farms, unique nooks and crannies and even a cow or two!
Dining in Points East, must try places would include Clam Digger's in Cardigan, deep fried clams, need I say more? The Home Plate in Murray River for their fish and chips or British fare. Red Claw Bistro or 21 Breakwater in Souris. The Maroon Pig for sweets in Georgetown or travel to Belfast and visit Country Taste Kitchen and Bakery.
There is music and entertainment everywhere, while visiting the visitor information centre, ask for a copy of the Buzz. The Buzz will have all the arts and entertainment for the month!
Enjoy the locals fish and chips, the search for the best lobster rolls, slurp an oyster or two and don't hesitate to explore!
Enjoy your stay!
Erin Davis
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