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Planning to discover Atlantic Canada? For those who’re a meals fanatic who loves tradition and out of doors journey, you’re going to wish to put Cap-Pelé, New Brunswick on the prime of your checklist.
Its distinct Acadian tradition, bounty of recent seafood and string of sandy seashores supply a magical mixture of Maritime experiences.
We spent a number of days within the space as a part of a summer season street journey from Toronto and fell in love with this welcoming group.
I’m certain you’ll too. Right here’s what to anticipate!
Location
Cap-Pelé, Beaubassin-Est, and Shediac are a gaggle of Acadian communities that type Cap Acadie, a municipality in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada.
Set alongside the coast going through the Northumberland Strait, Cap-Pelé itself is a 1.5 hour drive to Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia, 1.5 hours to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, 2.5 hours to Halifax and 4 hours to Digby, Nova Scotia.
The central location is right for exploring the broader Maritime area.
For those who’re coming from Quebec, it’s a 5 hour drive from Temiscouata Sur le Lac, Quebec (a wonderful lakeside cease) on the Trans-Canada Hwy.
For touring inside New Brunswick you’re solely half-hour to Moncton and one hour to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park on the Bay of Fundy.
Regardless of this proximity, the area feels wild, distant and genuine.
Right here’s our information to the highest points of interest, eating places and issues to do in and round Cap-Pelé.
1. Soak Up the Solar at Aboiteau Seashore
Fringed by pillowy sand dunes and marram coastal grass, Aboiteau Seashore (Google Map) is the most effective seaside in Cap-Pelé, providing smooth cinnamon-hued sand and the warmest water north of the Carolinas.
It’s an excellent place to spend the day swimming, sunbathing or just strolling alongside the tidal swimming pools. You may witness the dramatic tides of the Northumberland Strait, which create an ever-changing panorama alongside the coast.
Whereas at Aboiteau Seashore we had the chance to talk with Justin LeBlanc the Director of Tourism for the Cap-Acadie municipality. He crammed us in on the numerous initiatives the group and authorities are undertaken to protect this invaluable eco-system.
Common water high quality testing, replanting of the seaside grass and safety of endangered species, wheelchair ramps, litter administration and a brand new glamping expertise are just some of the numerous revolutionary issues on the go.
Be taught extra on the official Plage Aboiteau web site.
2. Feast on Native Seafood
For those who’re spending the day at Aboiteau Seashore, you don’t need to go far to bask in a feast of recent seafood. The onsite Restaurant a la Dune‘s menu options all kinds of ocean-fresh seafood in addition to burgers, hen and naturally, lobster rolls.
For a real style of the Maritimes go for the deep-fried bar clams, clams, scallops or shrimps. Or go for a platter brimming with an assortment of clams, shrimps, scallops and fish.
The Dune Restaurant’s gigantic servings may look daunting however belief me, the crispy tempura-like coating on the clams and scallops pairs so completely with their tender, ocean-fresh flavour, you received’t be capable to cease at a couple of.
Eating right here is a straightforward but satisfying seafood expertise, particularly whereas taking within the seaside views.
Restaurant a la Dune is open from 11:00 a.m. to eight:00 p.m. every day from the primary Friday of June till the Labor Day weekend. Test hours right here.
3. Sip Some Native CAVOK Craft Beer
Sip a beer at CAVOK Brewing Co., an area brewery that has shortly gained a fame for its distinctive craft beers.
Whereas the identify CAVOK may sound just like the identify of a villian from a Marvel comedian, it’s really an aviation acronym of ceiling and visibility [are] OK. This displays the house owners’ former careers as air site visitors controllers.
Whether or not you like a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a wealthy stout, there’s one thing on faucet for each beer lover. Many of the 20 merchandise on faucet are crafted at CAVOK however there are a number of produced by craft breweries from round New Brunswick.
CAVOK has two places: one in Dieppe (Google Map) and one other at Aboiteau Seashore (see above). The beachside location is the right spot to unwind after a day of exploring the tides.
4. Be taught About Conventional Herring Smokehouses on the Herring Museum
One of many largest thrills for us whereas visiting New Brunswick was studying extra concerning the fishing business. From Brunswick sardines to lobster, its waters are wealthy in marine life.
In Cap-Pelé, we had been launched to the smoked herring business by Anthony Azard, CEO of the Cap-Acadie Chamber of Commerce.
Cap-Pelé’s historical past is deeply intertwined with the fishing business, notably Atlantic herring. In spring, the waters of the Northumberland Strait are one of many main spawning shoals for herring.
Way back to the 1840s Acadian households had yard smokehouses (boucanières) the place they salted and smoked the catch utilizing strategies from France influenced by aboriginal practices.
A lot as with salting cod, it was achieved to protect the meals provide for house use. By the early 1900s it had turn into a industrial exercise.
At the moment there are over 20 smokehouses within the Cap-Pelé space producing 95% of Canada’s smoked herring.
Conventional Smoking Practices
The Acadian conventional smoking strategies, emphasizing pure wooden smoke and processes, enhances the fish’s pure style.
First, the fish should be salted and soaked in brine for 5-7 days. Then the herring is strung on lengthy poles known as “cannes” and hung in smokehouses over low fires of arduous wooden and sawdust.
It’s fastidiously tended by an knowledgeable who “holds the key of the fireplace.” After smoking, the herring is then faraway from the poles and packed in wooden crates for transport.
Most is exported to the Caribbean. There, it’s loved within the conventional dishes of Dominican Republic akin to locrio de arenque in addition to typical meals of Martinique, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, and St. Lucia.
Smokehouse Museum
Whereas we had been lucky sufficient to witness this course of firsthand at an area smoke home, guests can find out about this essential Acadian ancestral custom on the Smokehouse Museum (Musée de la Boucanière) on Acadie Highway (Google Map).
One of many prime points of interest in Cap-Pelé, the museum is house to fascinating displays on the historical past of the herring smokehouses that dot the shoreline, offering perception into the group’s cultural and financial heritage.
The museum additionally serves as a Vacationer Centre and has a kiosk with data in addition to a bistro and out of doors picnic space.
5. Strive Your Hand at Cooking Smoked Herring
After visiting the Herring Museum, why not do as we did and decide up some smoked herring and check out your hand at cooking it up?
Smoked herring is loved world wide and can be utilized in quite a lot of recipes, from dip to stews. It’s a preferred ingredient in conventional dishes within the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Haiti and Martinique.
Our simple (simply quarter-hour from begin to end) recipe for Creamy Smoked Herring Dip is a scrumptious strategy to convey the flavours of Cap-Pelé into your individual kitchen.
In Cap-Pelé, New Brunswick, you should buy smoked herring fillets on the Marché au Nook Market Freshmart on Acadie Highway (Google Map). It’s additionally a prime place to choose up some native maple syrup and street journey snacks.
6. Admire the Stained Glass Home windows at Ste-Thérèse d’Avila Church
As you drive by means of Cap-Pelé, alongside Acadie Highway, it’s unimaginable to overlook Ste-Thérèse d’Avila church (Google Map).This landmark isn’t just a spot of worship however it’s additionally a formidable piece of contemporary structure.
Its design, resembling an inverted herring boat, pays homage to the village’s fishing heritage. Inside, stained glass home windows illuminate the house with vibrant, ethereal gentle.
Created by Schella Glass Studio of Moncton — artisans whose work seems all through Atlantic Canada in addition to the Caribbean — the Tiffany-style home windows are among the many largest within the Maritimes.
Catholic providers are carried out in French, English, Tagalog and Spanish because the congregation consists of seasonal employees who come to work within the factories throughout herring season.
The church is a must-see for historical past lovers and artwork lovers alike.
7. Dine on Upscale East Coast Specialties at Resto 577
For a memorable eating expertise in Cap-Pelé, head to Resto 577 (Google Map).
This new addition to the native eating scene provides an elevated tackle basic East Coast delicacies, mixing custom with world influences.
Open for lunch and dinner, there’s heaps to select from on the in depth menu.
Fried bar clams and seafood platters are at all times widespread however every day specials akin to honey garlic poutine with maple aioli additionally make engaging choices.
We had been thrilled with our decisions of crab rangoon, the crabatizer (crab claws with garlicky dip) and lobster roll.
Whether or not you’re craving seafood, steak, or one thing a bit extra adventurous, Resto 577 has one thing to fulfill each palate.
Test the Resto 577 Fb web page for specials and information.
8. Go on a Llama Seashore Stroll with Llama-zing Adventures
For a really distinctive expertise, ebook a llama seaside stroll with Llama-zing Adventures.
For round an hour and a half you’ll stroll (and generally run) alongside the scenic shores of Petit Cap with a pleasant llama or alpaca by your facet, taking within the recent sea air and gorgeous coastal views.
It’s a enjoyable and memorable strategy to join with nature and make a brand new four-legged good friend!
After your stroll, you’ll even get to feed your mountain climbing pal!
🌟 Take a look at our video of what it’s prefer to go on a Llama Seashore Stroll on Instagram!
9. Snap a Picture with the Big Lobster in Shediac
From the Massive Apple to the Pisces Pete in Hastings, we will’t resist a roadside cease at kitchy landmark.
So, there was no manner we had been leaving Cap Acadie with out making a cease on the Big Lobster in Shediac, the self-proclaimed “Lobster Capital of the World.”
A brief drive from Cap-Pelé, this quirky sculpture is a well-liked attraction for photo-ops and a enjoyable strategy to commemorate your journey to the area. It’s a must-do for households.
Climb up onto the lobster’s again for a memorable memento photograph.
10. Feast on Steamed Lobster
No go to to Cap-Pelé is full with out indulging within the area’s most well-known dish: steamed lobster.
New Brunswick has two essential lobster seasons. The primary one is within the spring, often from April to late June or early July, relying on the place you might be. It covers areas just like the Northumberland Strait and elements of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Then, there’s the autumn season, which runs from mid-August to mid-October, principally alongside the Bay of Fundy and the southern coast.
These seasons assist maintain lobster populations wholesome and thriving, so you’ll be able to get pleasure from recent lobster yr after yr.
Compared to different locations we’ve visited the place lobster was generally arduous to seek out, there have been a lot of locations to get pleasure from lobster in and round Cap-Pelé and Moncton.
From lobster shacks in Alma to fine-dining, New Brunswick lobster is a number of the finest lobster I’ve ever eaten.
It’s simply as tasty because the lobster I swooned over in Digby, Nova Scotia. It has a candy, succulent flavour with a fragile brininess that displays the chilly, clear waters it comes from.
🌟 Professional Tip: Strive our recipe for Creamy Lobster Fettuccine that includes Atlantic lobster.
11. Store for Artisanal Candies at Lovely Chocolat
Additionally situated in Shediac, locally-owned and operated Lovely Chocolat (Google Map) is a must-visit for these with a candy tooth. The decor can even be of curiosity to followers of the fantastical world of Alice in Wonderland.
Underneath the steering of grasp chocolatier Frédéric Desclos, this artisanal chocolatier crafts candies which might be as stunning as they’re scrumptious.
From hand-painted truffles to sugar-free Darkish Chocolate, pralines, creamy sizzling chocolate and extra, there are many engaging treats to select from.
Don’t overlook to choose up a field of candies to get pleasure from later or as a present for somebody particular.
🌟 Professional Tip: Don’t miss eating at Bistro Le Moque-Tortue in downtown Shediac. Along with its Glad Hour specials and widespread Sunday Brunch, the inventive menu is filled with recent choices akin to lobster-mango salad, seafood chowder and crepes. The Acadian Meat Pie, much like a tourtière, comes served with stunning sun-dried tomato pasta salad.
12. Immerse Your self in French Acadian Tradition
All through your go to to Cap-Pelé and its environment, you’ll be immersed within the wealthy French Acadian tradition that defines the area. You’ll usually see the Acadian flag on show.
Who’re the Acadians? They’re descendants of French settlers who arrived within the Maritime provinces, jap Quebec and Maine in the course of the seventeenth and 18th centuries, creating a novel tradition that blends French, Indigenous, and different influences. After the Expulsion of the Acadians by the British, many fled (some to Louisiana) and others went into hiding.
At the moment, Acadians signify about one-third of the inhabitants in New Brunswick, contributing to the province’s bilingual standing.
Whereas we had been in Cap-Pelé, we had the chance to pattern some conventional Acadian dishes together with poutine râpée (a spherical dumpling with pork), fricot (a hearty meat soup), rappie pie (grated potato casserole), tarte au sucre, all reflecting their wealthy culinary heritage.
Every little thing from the meals to the structure, the language to the traditions, provides a glimpse into the colourful historical past and heritage of the Acadian folks.
Closing Ideas on Cap-Pelé, New Brunswick
Whether or not you’re exploring the herring museum, eating at an area restaurant, or just chatting with locals, you’ll really feel the heat and pleasure of this distinctive group.
Cap-Pelé, with its coastal magnificence, culinary delights, and deep-rooted traditions, provides a really genuine New Brunswick expertise. It’s one that may stick with you lengthy after you allow.
So pack your luggage, convey your urge for food, and prepare to discover one of many Maritimes’ hidden gems!
Getting There and Round
Château Moncton Resort & Suites: It’s a 30-minute drive from Cap-Pelé to Château Moncton, an upscale resort set on the banks of the Petitcodiac River a brief stroll to downtown Moncton.
We actually loved our keep at this Moncton resort. Along with the complete breakfast, riverview rooms, free parking and prime location on the strolling and biking riverside path, it’s a chief spot for viewing the pure phenomenon of the tidal bore.
The tidal bore is a pure phenomenon the place the Bay of Fundy’s highly effective tides power a wave of water up the Petitcodiac River, reversing its movement. The wave could be so massive it could actually even be surfed!
Test charges and availability of Château Moncton on Reserving.com
Le Griffon (Shediac): For a sublime keep within the coronary heart of Shediac, Le Griffon Mattress and Breakfast is a romantic choice for {couples}. This historic house is close to Pascal Poirier Park (house to Atlantic Canada’s largest weekly out of doors market) in addition to eating places, boutiques, galleries and cafés.
Test charges and availability of Le Griffon Mattress and Breakfast on Reserving.com.
Vacation spot Moncton-Dieppe: Get journey and occasion concepts at www.destinationmonctondieppe.ca
Tourism New Brunswick: Get maps and plan your journey at https://tourismnewbrunswick.ca
Cap Acadie: There’s a wealth of details about group markets, motosports and different points of interest on the official Cap Acadie web site.
Automotive Leases: You’ll want a automotive to get to Cap-Pelé. It’s a simple 30 minute drive from Château Moncton.
We lease our vehicles on Discovercars.com. It’s a web-based automotive rental reserving web site that compares charges from a number of firms to seek out the most effective deal.
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Dividing her time between Canada, Guatemala and Mexico (or the closest tropical seaside), Michele Peterson is the founding father of A Style for Journey. Her award-winning journey and meals writing has appeared in Lonely Planet’s cookbook Mexico: From the Supply, Nationwide Geographic Traveler, Fodor’s and 100+ different publications.
Learn extra about Michele Peterson.