Bathurst

Located on the picturesque coast of Chaleur Bay, Bathurst serves as a cosy gateway to the Acadian Peninsula and an ideal starting point for exploring the nature of New Brunswick. This city attracts travelers with its calm rhythm and northern charm, offering convenient access to the main attractions of this region of Canada. You can get here in various ways: by taking a quick flight, embarking on a scenic train journey, or choosing a road trip by car.

The fastest way to reach the region is to take a flight to the regional Bathurst Airport (ZBF), which receives domestic flights. The terminal is located just a few kilometers from the city centre, allowing travelers to begin exploring the local beauty almost immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are unavailable, consider flying to neighboring transport hubs. The nearest alternatives are airports in the towns of Bonaventure (about 53 km in a straight line) and Charlo (approximately 65 km), from where it is easy to reach your destination by rented transport.

Travelling by rail is an excellent way to enjoy the landscapes of the eastern part of the country. Bathurst is served by the national VIA Rail network: the famous train The Ocean, running between Montreal and Halifax, makes a stop here.

The railway station is located within the city limits, ensuring a comfortable arrival for tourists without the need for complex transfers. This is a convenient option for those who prefer a measured pace of travel and wish to avoid driving a car.

Bus services connect the region with neighboring settlements, offering a budget-friendly travel option with the opportunity to admire the views from the window. A popular route runs from the town of Charlo: the bus covers the distance of about 82 km in approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

Trips are usually comfortable and allow you to reach the coast of Chaleur Bay without unnecessary hassle. This is a reliable choice for tourists travelling around the province without personal transport.

A trip by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops in the most picturesque places of New Brunswick. The shortest route leads from the town of Charlo: a road of about 77 km will take less than an hour, averaging 50 minutes with light traffic.

Travelers departing from Bonaventure will have to drive 230 km, which usually takes about 2.5–3 hours. The route from Gaspé is longer — around 410 km and 5 hours on the road, but the beautiful coastal landscapes fully compensate for the time behind the wheel.

To ensure your trip to Bathurst leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. This city in New Brunswick is distinguished by its hospitality, but preparing for changeable weather and knowing local nuances will make your holiday much more comfortable.

1. Dress for the weather. The climate here is maritime and humid. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so be sure to bring a windbreaker and comfortable layered clothing.
2. Car rental. This is the best way to get around. Although the city centre is compact, the main natural beauties and beaches are located at a distance, and public transport does not reach all areas.
3. Language environment. New Brunswick is officially a bilingual province. In Bathurst, many residents speak both English and French fluently, so communication will not be an issue.
4. Finances. Canadian Dollars (CAD) are accepted everywhere. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in most places, but having some cash for small shops is useful.
5. Road safety. Be especially careful when driving at dusk and at night: there is a high probability of moose wandering onto the highway in this region, which is very dangerous.
6. Tipping. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount if service is not automatically included in the check.
7. Electricity. Standard North American sockets (Type A and B) with a voltage of 120V are used. Travelers from the UAE will need a power adapter/converter.
8. Local delicacies. Do not miss the opportunity to taste fresh seafood, especially lobsters and scallops, for which this region is famous.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Acadian coast, enjoying every moment of your journey.