Feb 10, 2012

Presentation of Prince Edward Island



Prince Edward Island, located on Canadian’s eastern shore, just north of the Nova Scotia peninsula, is Canada’s smallest and the least populated province

Prince Edward Island Coast

Prince Edward Island Coast

It measures 2194 square miles (5,683 square kilometers), and is a home to approximately 141,000 people. Its two major towns are Charlottetown with around 32,000 inhabitants and Summerside with about 15,000.

History of Prince Edward Island

The island was named after Prince Edward (1767 – 1820), the fourth son of King Goerge the Third who carried the title of Duke of Kent and Strathearn and was also father of Queen Victoria. The island modern history starts with arrival of French in 1534 as they settled there the first European colony called Acadia.

However the island changed hands during Seven Years War between England and France and most of original inhabitants were forced to vacate the island. As the war ended in 1763, it officially became British under the Treaty of Paris.

The British called their newly acquired colony St. John’s Island, and it stayed with that name until November 29, 1798 when it was changed to its present form.

Cavendish Beach boardwalk

Cavendish Beach boardwalk

Geography of Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island has a very pastoral feel about it with rolling hills covered with a tall and lush green grass. Farming on the island is done on a very small scale so most of it is left untouched making it perfect for nature lovers. Its coast line is made of long white sandy beaches that are interrupted by red colored sandstone cliffs.

The climate of the island is continental with mild summers where the highest daily temperature rarely raises above 30 degrees Celsius. Its winter months have an average daily high of -3.3 degrees Celsius making it a much comfortable place than the majority of Canada’s cold interior.

Wildlife of Prince Edward Island

The island’s beauty and comfortable climate attracts millions of visitors every year. Its appeal to tourists dates back to 19th century when it was one of the most desired vacation spot for British nobility. This long lasting tourist tradition is shown in great hospitality that the island is proud to offer.

Most tourists are delighted with beautiful and tranquil beaches. In addition to the island being home to some wonderful Golf courses, visitors can also choose among numerous other relaxing outdoors activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hunting, canoeing, and sailing.

Cavendish Beach

Cavendish Beach

Food lovers, in addition to exceptional dining based on local fresh seafood delicacies, can also enjoy Summerside Farmer’s Market which is held every Saturday and unites majority of local food producers. There they offer organic veggies, fresh fruits, and other local specialties that include cheese, fish and locally raised meat.

Tourism in Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is also home to large number of festivals and special events. Actually there is something special going on all year around with not to be missed Jazz and Blues festival in August which encompasses workshops as well as late night performances.

Even more impressive is CAVENDISH BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL held every year from July 6th to July 8th. This country music even regularly attracts large crowds of music lovers that come to hear performances of industries most talented singers, many of whom are notable Grammy winners.

Sunrise on Charlottetown

Sunrise on Charlottetown

Those that prefer theater can enjoy Harbourfront Theatre Festival that lasts throughout the summer and features first class theater productions and stand up comedies.

Visitors will also be delighted with Summerside Lobster Carnival held from 6th to 15th of July every year.

With such diversity of possible activities and cultural richness, Prince Edward Island has something special to offer to everyone. So it is no wonder then, yet again, it has become one of top tourist destination.

By Wolverine Prince Edward Island 2 Comments Tags: , ,