How to get to Charlo

Charlo is a picturesque settlement in Canada, located on the shores of the Bay of Chaleur, attracting lovers of peaceful relaxation and nature. You can reach here via various routes: from direct rail services to an exciting drive through beautiful coastal regions. Regardless of the chosen route, the journey to this cosy corner will be an excellent start to your acquaintance with the local atmosphere.

Although the small local Charlo Airport (YCL) operates in the region, for regular passenger flights, travellers more often choose larger nearby hubs. A convenient option is flying to the city of Bathurst (ZBF), located approximately 65 km from the destination, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

An alternative can be the airports in the cities of Bonaventure (YVB) and Mont-Joli (YYY). It is worth noting that the distance to Bonaventure (65 km) is measured in a straight line across the bay, so the actual transfer by car will take longer due to the need to drive around.

For enthusiasts of scenic rail journeys, there is excellent news: Charlo is served by The Ocean train from VIA Rail, which runs between Montreal and Halifax. The presence of its own station allows tourists to arrive directly at the town with maximum comfort, enjoying views of Canada from the carriage window.

If the direct train schedule does not suit you, you can travel to major stations in the neighbouring cities of Bathurst or Mont-Joli. From there, the remaining part of the journey to the bay coast is easily covered by taxi or rental car.

Bus services provide a reliable and budget-friendly way to reach the region from neighbouring settlements. One of the fastest routes leads from the city of Bathurst: a comfortable bus covers the distance of 82 km in just 1.8 hours.

For travellers departing from more distant points, a trip from Mont-Joli may be suitable. The travel time will be about 5.2 hours, during which you will cover around 209 km, observing the changing landscapes of the province.

A journey by car offers complete freedom and the opportunity to enjoy the region's picturesque roads. The shortest and fastest route runs from the city of Bathurst: covering the distance of 76 km takes approximately 0.8 hours (less than 50 minutes).

Routes from the city of Bonaventure (about 1.9 hours on the road, 154 km) and from Mont-Joli (approximately 2.3 hours, 200 km) are also popular. The roads here are of good quality, and having a car will allow you to easily explore the surrounding attractions after arrival.

To ensure your visit to Charlo goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for planning your trip.

1. Seasonal clothing. The weather on the coast is changeable, so the principle of layering is relevant at any time of the year. Be sure to bring a windbreaker for protection against the sea breeze, even if you are travelling in summer.
2. Transport. Public transport within small settlements is not widely developed. It is highly recommended to rent a car to move freely between beaches and nature parks.
3. Currency and payment. The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Cards are accepted in most places, but having some cash for small shops or tips is always useful.
4. Language environment. New Brunswick is Canada's only officially bilingual province. Locals often speak both English and French, so knowing basic phrases in both languages will be a plus.
5. Nature safety. Wild animals, especially moose, may be encountered in wooded areas and on highways. Be extremely attentive behind the wheel at dusk and dawn.
6. Tipping. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave tips of 15–20% of the bill amount, as they are usually not included in the check.
7. Connectivity. Mobile coverage is good, but the signal may be lost in remote natural areas. Download offline maps in advance.
8. Local cuisine. Be sure to try fresh seafood, especially dishes made from fish caught in the Bay of Chaleur — this is the region's hallmark.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on relaxing in this hospitable Canadian corner.