Ecotourism is a relatively new phenomenon that, as the current zeitgeist has been painting the world green, has gained a great deal of popularity in recent years. Ecotourism is generally be defined as responsible travel that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. Though tourism is one of PEIs main industries, Prince Edward Island has always been careful to promote the preservation of their rich natural heritage that has endured for tens of thousands of years. There are a plethora of ecotourism options to harvest in this pastoral land of plenty. Here are a few ideas for your trip that it would be a PEI pity to miss.
Bird Watching
With over hundreds of species to spot, from endless breathtaking beach vistas, PEI is a verifiable bird bonanza! Travelers arent the only ones who like to pass through PEIits on a major migration route, so, the best time of year for bird watching here is fall, where, combined with the many native species that are here year round, you can see over 333 species! Popular species to spot include the Great Blue Heron, Piping Plover, and Bald Eagle. There are over 42 bird watching hotspots to choose from in PEI, with beaches as easy to get to as following the call of a gull.
Agritourism
A proud staple of PEI is their farmlands, and the best way to enjoy them is first hand! Visit a farm and see how PEIs world famous potatoes are grown, or stop at a country market for fresh fruits, vegetables, and home-baked goodies. You can even tour a vineyard and learn how wine is made, or, if you are extra eager to farm it up to the fullest, you can stay in a farm bed and breakfast, or even stay at a local farm and help out for a few days. Food isnt the only pleasant thing that grows here; and the people are as pleasant as the pie (which, from raspberry to Acadian meat pie, is authentically delicious!)
Sightseeing
A visual feast of rich red sands, bright green fields, and glittering blue seas, PEI is a small island with big sight-seeing potential. You can enjoy some of the best views of PEI by visiting its lighthouses, which dot the islands coastline in many shapes and sizes, the oldest of which is Point Prim, built in 1846. Spectacular vistas are also seen from Prince Edwards Island diverse variety of beaches, and if youre a lover of great views, you may want to consider renting one of the many affordable beachside
cottages in PEI. Beachside cottages in PEI run an average of $1,000 per week! You can also take a drive into the past on one of the islands scenic heritage roads, where the Islands traditional red clay roads have been protected. Some of the Islands heritage roads include Jacks Road, John Doe Road, and the Country Line Road. Keep in mind that these roads are unpaved, so you probably dont want to attempt to drive on them too early in spring. Heritage roads are marked by brown two-tree symbols on the maps, which are distributed at any of the Islands many friendly Visitor Information and Welcome Centres, where counselors are available to help you plan your travels.
On a final note, Prince Edward has done a spectacular job of preserving its historic and natural heritage, and you should too. Carry out your garbage, keep your vehicles on the roads, and your feet on designated pathways. Also make sure to respect signs and zones for protection of wildlife.
