PEI's North Cape Coastal Drive covers 350 kilometres of the Island's western side. Mont Carmel sits in the Évangéline Region along that touring area, so a stay there puts you within reach of the coast, small communities and several stops on the drive. You do not need to complete all 350 kilometres in one day.
Tourism PEI estimates about five hours of driving for the full route without stops. Plan extra time for museums, meals and beaches. If you are staying more than one night, choose a few places that interest you and leave the rest for another day.
If you have only one day, choose one group of stops. West Point and O'Leary give you a lighthouse, beach and museum. North Cape and Skinners Pond combine a coastal trail with a music stop, if the Stompin' Tom Centre is open. Either way, check opening hours before you leave.
What can you see around West Point and O'Leary?
West Point Lighthouse and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park make a natural pair. The lighthouse has a museum, and visitors can climb 72 stairs to its lantern deck when it is open. Cedar Dunes is beside it, with a beach along the Northumberland Strait. Check the lighthouse and park schedules before leaving, since their facilities operate seasonally. Lifeguard hours at Cedar Dunes vary, so check the current beach report if you plan to swim.
In O'Leary, the Canadian Potato Museum tells the story of PEI's potato industry through exhibits and antique farming equipment. Visitors can also see the museum's Big Potato sculpture.
What can you see at North Cape and Skinners Pond?
North Cape is the Island's northwest tip, where the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait meet. The Black Marsh Nature Trail, wind turbines and Wind Energy Interpretive Centre are among the things to see there. Check conditions before setting out on the trail.
Skinners Pond offers another possible stop on the way to or from the tip. The Stompin' Tom Centre Homestead & Schoolhouse has exhibits about the Canadian singer and a programme of music and events during its operating season. If a performance interests you, check the calendar first and plan that outing around its time.
Where can you stay for the North Cape Coastal Drive?
Heron's Nest Sanctuary in Mont Carmel is one place to stay while exploring western PEI in sections. It is a one-room bed and breakfast in Brian and Beverly Cooper's home, about twenty minutes from Summerside. Breakfast is included, served from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and there is free parking at the property.
The guest room sleeps up to two people and has a double bed. The bathroom, kitchen and common areas are shared with the hosts.
Before you set out, check current opening dates for the stops you have chosen. Some attractions and park facilities are seasonal, and a performance needs a specific date. For room photos, amenities and current availability, see the Heron's Nest Stay page, which links to booking on Airbnb.
