Prince Edward Island (PEI) may be the smallest of Canada’s 10 provinces, but it is rich in history and beauty. Originally home to the Mi’kmaq people, the island was later settled by the French and then captured by the British in the Seven Years’ War. Renamed St. John’s Island and later Prince Edward Island, after the son of King George III, it has a population of around 177,000 people, though this number can more than double during the peak tourist season from June to September.
PEI is well-known for its picturesque lighthouses, with 63 in total, 35 still in use, and nine open to the public. The oldest lighthouse on the island, Point Prim, dates back to 1845. The island is also famous for its association with Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables.” Born and raised on PEI, Montgomery’s story of the 11-year-old orphan Anne Shirley has been translated into over 30 languages and sold over 50 million copies worldwide. This year marks the 150th anniversary of her birth, celebrated with a special commemorative coin by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Visitors to PEI can enjoy Montgomery-themed literary tours, including a visit to L.M. Montgomery’s Cavendish National Historic Site of Canada. This site is home to the Green Gables Heritage Place, the setting for the novel, as well as Montgomery’s own home. Avonlea Village, a living museum with replica houses from the book, is also located there. The island is proud of its seafood offerings, particularly its oysters, lobsters, and mussels. The annual PEI International Shellfish Festival, held in Charlottetown every September, is a four-day celebration of the island’s culinary delights.
To work off some of the delicious seafood, visitors can explore the Confederation Trail. Created from the island’s abandoned railway lines, the trail offers over 290 miles of trails for walking, hiking, running, or cycling. It provides an opportunity to experience PEI’s rugged cliffs, beautiful shores, and quaint fishing villages such as Summerside and Victoria-by-the-Sea. Cavendish Beach, a must-see spot on the trail, encapsulates the natural beauty that Montgomery so loved about the island.
Prince Edward Island is a place of peace and tranquility, as described by Montgomery in her writings. Walking along the shores or the winding red roads of PEI in a summer twilight allows visitors to connect with the soul of the island. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious seafood, and literary connections, PEI offers a unique and inviting destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. Whether exploring historic sites, dining on fresh seafood, or taking in the scenic trails, PEI is sure to capture the hearts of those who visit.
