Activities
There is so much to do on Brier Island, and yet, in the very best way, there is nothing to do! A large section of the island is owned by the Nature Conservancy of Canada. While plants and wildlife are protected, the land is open to all for hiking, photographing and getting in tune with oneself. Keep an eye out for our black-backed gulls who, for some reason, have taken to roosting at the top of trees! At Pond Cove, there is an incredible beach where you will more than likely be the only ones there, except at low tide, when you will see the heads of curious grey seals bobbing on the surface of the water. There are three grey seal colonies around Brier Island.
National Geographic calls Brier Island one of the "Five Best Places in the World" to go whale watching. There are three whale watching tour companies on the island that provide excursions by boat or Zodiac. All companies are staffed by personnel with extensive marine knowledge and experience. They will give you an in-depth insight into the bio-diversity of the Bay of Fundy. Speaking of the Bay of Fundy, these are the highest tides in the world. Around Brier Island, the tides are some 9 metres high. At the end of the Bay,they reach 18 metres. Brier Island is a migratory path for over 200 bird species and has plant specimens which are only found here. At the end of your day, you may find that one of your favourite activities is to sit on a Muskoka chair on your patio with a beverage in hand, and to reflect on how lucky you are to be in this paradise by the sea. Please place your cursor on the desired picture. Click on the same page to view all the activities with their descriptions as a slideshow.
Another beautiful coastal trail (approximately 25 min.) will lead you to Seal Cove, where a substantial colony of seals (around 65) resides. The best time to see them is at low tide, when they settle on the rocks and take in the sun. They are definitely worth watching for a while. Listening to their banter and interactions is captivating.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada has built numerous beautiful coastal trails around Brier Island. They range from 1/2 hour to 3 hours long. You will marvel at the protected natural beauty of the island.
This UNESCO Biosphere is home to a variety of sheep, goats, alpacas and a miniature horse, and various other animals. You can get fresh eggs on the premises, watch a rug hooking demonstration, or even sign up for a couple of lessons. Vicki also has a beautiful studio where she sells unique and local crafts.
Pond Cove is a beautiful, unblemished beach. There are no amenities whatsoever, but no problem! It is only 4 km from the apartment. The fresh water pond behind the beach (hence the name) flows into the ocean. Curious seals make a regular appearance at the beach, but not to worry, they keep their distance!
Westport offers two whale watching companies to take you on a guaranteed sighting trip. Should you not see any whales, you will receive tickets for another trip (no money back). A Zodiac trip is also available for people who prefer being right on the water. We have been on these trips several times and every occasion was breathtakingly different. An absolute MUST! Brier Island Whale Watch & Seabird Cruises http://brierislandwhalewatch.com Mariner Cruises www.novascotiawhalewatching.ca
The famous Balancing Rock is a natural wonder which attracts the attention of thousands of visitors each year. Located on Long Island, across from Westport, the trail to the rock showcases numerous indigenous plants and trees. It is well worth the outing.