Journey to St. Louise De Kente, New Brunswick

By Melanie C. Richard

The travel industry is full of luxurious destinations and relaxing five-star hotels. But for travelers looking for an escape altogether different, one filled with history, exciting new culture and hands-on adventures, then St. Louise De Kente is the perfect destination. Situated along the eastern shore of New Brunswick, Canada, this beautiful coastal town is filled with historical monuments frozen in time, natural beauty and a richly woven culture.

After a defeat over the French by the British in 1797, over 5000 Acadians were exiled. They migrated south, along with Irish and Scottish settlers, eventually founding St. Louise De Kente. New Brunswick now has the largest Irish festival in the world as well as the Festival Kagibougette in August, a huge celebration for the National Acadian day and infamous beach parties, with campfires and midnight swims.

While in town be sure to visit the 1878 grotto “Our Lady of Lourdes” a small shrine on the Kouchibouquac River, while staying at the many accommodations ranging from lovely bed and breakfast to the Ever Green Acres Campground. A cozy hideaway set in the forest, with a great selection of hiking trails, a heated pool and a little soap shop, this campground is only minutes away from the world renowned Kouchibouquac National Park. This national park’s name comes from the Micmac expression meaning “river of the long tides”. View the sparkling coast, with its 15-mile system of ever changing barrier dunes, pristine forests, meadows, salt marches, bogs and lagoons; the rustic beauty is astonishing. Animals like the endangered piping plover as well as moose, deer, black bears, beaver, fox and coyotes, can be seen from the trails designed for biking and walking as well as winter sports. Spend the day at the Kelly beach swimming or digging for clams, walking the Bog trail, picking wild berries or rent a canoe to explore the lagoons along the river.   The sights at Kouchibouquac are endless; from sea to sound to stream, the experience is unforgettable.

Travelers can wander up and down the sun-dappled shores via the Acadian Coastal Drive to get a fill of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a short trip north to become the ultimate lobster connoisseur while fishing, cooking and sampling the traditional fisherman’s meal at Shediac Bay. For a more laid back cruise, go aboard an elegant yacht and savor renowned wines while overlooking sunset on the Bay. Visit the historical town on the Acadian peninsula set up to resemble 1755 and stay at the Hi Campbelton hostel, a light house overlooking the sea. On the way be sure to travel through the world’s longest covered bridge, 1282 feet when it crosses the Saint John River at Hartland. Journey South and stay at the Hi Alma hostel surrounded by fog shrouded shores, steep coastal cliffs and hidden waterfalls in Fundy National park.

This experience is for the traveler who needs a taste of adventure. The spirit and energy of St. Louise De Kente is calling. Stay awhile.