10 underrated destinations in Canada everyone needs to visit in 2017

We all love experiencing new countries and cultures. But before you start planning your next vacation abroad, why not consider discovering our own extraordinarily beautiful country first?

As Canada gets read to celebrate its 150th anniversary, take this opportunity to learn more and take pride in the nation we call home.

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Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has explored the map of The Great White North to uncover some of the most underrated destinations you should visit this year in celebration of this major milestone.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Graced with the vibrant beauty of nature and 6,000 years of First Nations’ culture, Saskatoon is lined with miles of trails along the river waiting to be explored. Not to be missed is the Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Dubbed as the window into Canada’s rich history, the park offers visitors a link to the past that remains largely undiscovered.

A significant contrast to the city’s history and culture is its bustling riverfront, lined with restaurants, bars and sleek accommodations such as The James Hotel. This contemporary boutique hotel is centrally located in downtown Saskatoon next to many attractions.

Hamilton, Ontario

Located right between two popular tourist hotspots of Niagara and Toronto, Hamilton is often overlooked as a stopover destination. Little do we know, this quiet industrial waterfront city is also the waterfall capital of the world. The city of 500,000 residents is blessed with picturesque hiking trails surrounded by waterfalls and natural pools that have yet to be explored by many. No longer the “armpit of Ontario,” Hamilton’s vibrant culinary scene, quaint shops, breathtaking parkland and quirky accommodations has made it a travel-worthy destination.

One of the most unique stays is the century stone building in the village of Ancaster known as The Barracks Inn. The property is situated beside Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment and is within short travelling distance to miles of hiking trails within the conservation areas. A perfect getaway for outdoor lovers!

Tadoussac, Quebec

This pretty, little beluga whale watching village of Tadoussac is only a couple of hours drive from Quebec City. The charming village is home to all-things nature, making it the perfect place for outdoor lovers to be one with nature.

To truly get to know the village and its culture, stay at one of the many warm and friendly bed and breakfasts such as La Maison Harvey Lessard. Offering spectacular views of the majestic St. Lawrence River, you might be lucky enough to spot a pod of whales from your private balcony!

Churchill, Manitoba

Yes, yes. We know it gets ridiculously cold up there, but that’s the best part – because it’s so cold, it’s also the white, fluffy polar bear capital of the world! Located along the Hudson Bay, the city of Churchill is a natural wonderland for visitors. While it’s a long journey to get to this little town of barely 900 people, the trip is worth the while. From the elusive Northern Lights and Polar Bears to the unicorn of the sea, the Narwhal, Churchill is set to amaze.

One of the very few accommodations in this town is the Churchill Hotel and Guesthouse. This cozy property is fully equipped with various amenities including WiFi, free airport shuttle, car hire and restaurants to get you covered on days when temperature falls below zero degree.

Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador

Established only six years ago as a town in Newfoundland and Labrador, Fogo Island is a remote but absolutely one of the most magical places on earth. This spectacular looking island is known for all things peculiar like being promoted as ‘one of the four corners of the flat earth’ and having seven seasons! Albeit being isolated, this town has so much to offer. From iceberg watching and guided geological hike to boat building (don’t worry, you won’t be asked to stay afloat your own boat), these activities will provide visitors a different perspective to getting to know the island and its community.

If you are planning to extend your visit in the province but want to be close enough to Fogo Island, check yourself into one of these amazing Iceberg Properties set amidst the cliffs and enjoy the scenic beauty of this little town.

Canmore, Alberta

Located just next to the more popular ski city of Banff, Canmore is the quieter, less explored but just as mind-blowingly-beautiful neighbour. The lively mountain community proves to be a destination in its own rights with similar views of the iconic Three Sisters peaks. The main street of the city is lined with art galleries, unique shopping, dining experience, and bustling nightlife for the sleepless. Away from city, you are faced with endless fun, exciting tours and excursions including helicopter rides, water rafting, mountain biking and more.

In Canmore, even the accommodations are unique. Perched right at the base of the mountain, Mount Engadine Lodge is the perfect home away from home for you and your crew this summer. Surrounded by only lush greenery (no other hotels next to it), your peace and privacy is guaranteed.

Kelowna, British Columbia

Kelowna lies in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, the largest city on Okanagan Lake. From trail hiking to rejuvenating spa treatment, adventurous scuba diving to scenic winery tour, Kelowna is one of the very few cities that offer a vast contrast of activities for everyone.

Living by its tagline ‘Life in a Postcard’, the picturesque Hotel Eldorado is a tourist attraction on its own. Located just on the shores of Okanagan Lake, their famous boardwalk with breathtaking panoramic view of Okanagan Lake draws in throngs of local and international tourists alike. The iconic Kelowna hotel also features a beautiful vintage bath house style pool overlooking the lake.

New Brunswick (Yes, the entire province)

The entire New Brunswick province is made for those seeking a scenic road trip. This cultural Canadian Maritime Province is widely known for its tranquil scenery as you drive along the coast. The top four recommended drives – The Fundy Coastal Drive, the Acadian Coastal Drive, the Appalachian Range Route, and the River Valley Scenic Drive – will take you through some of the most spectacular points of the province where it is impossible to capture a bad picture.

Along these routes, you will find many adorable mom and pop owned bed and breakfasts such as the Sackville Bed and Breakfast and Moore’s Specialties where you can check in for the night before embarking on your journey the next day.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Canada is blessed with not one or five, but 18 magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites and Lunenburg in Nova Scotia is one of them. This picturesque costal village is renowned for its fishing culture and all the legacy that comes with it. Seventy percent of the original colonial buildings is with colourful façade from the 18th and 19th centuries is still well-preserved in the Old Town of Lunenburg, making the town one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Among the rows of brightly coloured buildings is the Mariner King Inn. Built in 1830, the newly renovated property is the perfect location for visitors to experience the peaceful town right from the heart.

Prince Edward Island (PEI)

If you’ve never played golf in the morning and fished your own lobsters and oysters for dinner, then you will have to pay Prince Edward Island a visit. Another of the Canadian Maritime Provinces, PEI offers some of the most unique coastal experiences. Once you’re done with fishing, cooking, cracking and eating lobster you caught aboard a luxury yacht, grab a bike and bike along The Confederation Trail and stop by the beaches for a relaxing summer afternoon.

You can easily start your day with a game of golf without driving anywhere if you stay at The Gables of PEI. Located right on Anderson Creek golf course, the property boasts an outdoor saltwater pool and extremely spacious living area that can house up to 13 guests!