If Canada were a giant quilt, New Brunswick’s Acadian coast would occupy a charming, colourful  and delicious patch. Blessed with over 400 years of rich history, and an infectious joie de vivre, one can’t help but get swept up in this magical maritime region. Locals encourage your senses to run wild, while immersing yourself in the culture and flavours that have both defined and connected Acadians for generations.

LOBSTER CRUISE, THE ACADIAN WAY

Start your culinary adventure with an entertaining lobster-themed cruise, courtesy Shediac Bay Cruises. The 15-metre-long Ambassador is helmed by Ron Cormier—storyteller extraordinaire, and retired lobster fisherman—who offers lessons on how to catch, cook and eat lobster the Acadian way.

PRO TIP Come hungry because this Canadian Sig-nature Experience is a delectable day on the water.

EAT, DRINK AND BE ACADIAN-MERRY

The Pays de la Sagouine is a theatrical village in Bouctouche, complete with interactive kitchen. Hands-on, you’ll learn to make Pet de Soeurs, an Acadian cinnamon roll that literally translates to “nun’s farts.” Meanwhile, further north in Petit-Paquetville, pop into Fils du Roy, the first Acadian distillery opened by Sébastien Roy and his mom Diane in 2011. Here, flavours, even bottle art are inspired by the struggles and triumphs of Acadians over the centuries—stories Sébastien shares passionately with every pour.

Nearby in Caraquet, the Acadian village is a giant open-air museum where dozens of restored historical buildings, complete with costumed guides, portray the lives, customs and hospitality of Acadian families.

PRO TIP Come in August for the Festival Acadien de Caraquet (festivalacadien.ca), an annual celebration that’s been going strong for 60 years.

FOODIE SECRET

While in the village, book a cooking class with Madame Savoie for traditional Acadian dishes. Later, pop into the on-site Château Albert Hotel, and ask for pijoune, a boozy drink from gin, molasses and ginger.

PRO TIP Take your time, sip this delicious elixir, and savour the flavours to the last drop.

SWEET AND SAVOURY POUTINE

Classics such as Chicken Fricot and Coquille Saint-Jacques are a must, as is Acadian poutine. Here, there are two types of poutine to choose from, and both go beyond the typical French fries, cheese curds and gravy.

Poutine râpée is made from grated and mashed potato, boiled and stuffed with seasoned pork, usually enjoyed only on special occasions and holidays. Meanwhile, Poutine à trou (poutine with holes) is considered to be one of the most popular Acadian desserts, consisting of a flaky pastry typically filled with apple, raisins and cranberries. Holes are created at the top of each poutine, and after baking for 30 minutes, a sugar syrup is drizzled onto them, creating a mouth-watering combination of flavours.

Travel Planner

Direct flights to Moncton, New Brunswick are offered from Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. For more travel information about the Acadian region: tourismnewbrunswick.ca