We’ve been waiting for it since September.
And now, summer 2015 so close that we can practically smell the sunscreen.
After the brutally torturous winter, we have no choice but to make the best of every second of it.
Here are 14 places to consider visiting this summer.
1. Prince Edward County, Ontario
Thanks to the addition of the Drake Devonshire, Ontario’s Prince Edward County is hotter than ever. A weekend road trip-worthy short drive from Toronto and Montreal, Prince Edward country is home to wineries that can rival those of Niagara, local antique and artisanal shops, many hiking trails, and, of course, the beaches at the famous Sandbanks Provincial Park.
2. Le Pays de la Sagouine, New Brunswick
Just north of Moncton, get lost in time in a piece of paradise known as Le Pays de la Sagouine. Based on the plays and literature ofAntonine Maillet, the village features authentic theatre, music, food, and drink – all presented by actors donned in authentic Acadian costume.
3. The Bow Glacier Falls Trail in Banff National Park, Alberta
If you’re looking for a workout with a view, hit the Bow Glacier Falls Trail in Banff National Park. The half-day hike takes you over gorges, through rocky terrain, over crystal blue water, and to the picturesque Bow Glacier Falls. Make sure your phones and cameras are fully charged – you won’t want to miss these photo opps.
4. Tombstone Territorial Park, the Yukon
If you’re heading north (way north) this summer, make sure to hit Tombstone Territorial Park in the Yukon. It features rugged peaks, hidden valleys, crystal lakes, glaciers, and wildlife. You can either stop by the park for the afternoon or for a multi-day, sunset-filled backcountry adventure. 
5. The Capilano Suspension Bridge, British Columbia
In the middle of towering evergreens, yet just minutes from Vancouver’s city centre, you’ll find the very Instagram-worthy Capilano Suspension Bridge. The historic bridge crosses the Capilano River and a walk across it is filled with stunning views of the West Coast rainforest. If you’re in the mood for a little thrill, you can also try the Cliffwalk.
6. Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
If you’re a lover of both ocean views and seafood, make a stop in Peggy’s Cove this summer. You’ll inevitably take it down a notch when you find yourself wandering the quaint, rural fishing village. Don’t leave without the essential Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse shot for Instagram. 
7. Muskoka, Ontario
Even if you aren’t fortunate to own a multi-million dollar cottage on one of the big Muskoka Lakes, if you live in Toronto you need to hit Muskoka at least once this summer. There are many resorts to choose from if you want to take in some of the country’s most beautiful lakes and sunsets, including the JW Marriott, Cleveland’s House, and Taboo Resort.
8. The Rideau Canal, Ottawa
The Rideau Canal is just as fun in the summer as it is in the winter, when it’s open for skating. Once your sick of touring the Parliament Buildings, the canal offers everything from fishing, cycling, hiking, and canoeing, to shopping at the local seasonal market.
9. Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, Alberta
If you find yourself in Jasper National Park this summer, don’t leave without a visit to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake. The piercing turquoise lake is known for its unique water colour and for the three breathtaking glaciers that surround it. The stunning Spirit Island remains one of the most photographed places in the world.
10. Old Quebec, Quebec City, Quebec
For the closest thing to a European vacation without leaving the country, plan a road trip to Quebec City; specifically, the historic Old Quebec. Here, you’ll find horse-drawn carriages, street entertainers, singers, artists, cute cafes and, of course, the Chateau Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world.
11. Tofino, British Columbia
Did you know that we have some of the world’s best surfing in our own backyard? Tofino is known as much for its surf as it is for its breathtaking scenery. You can whale and bear watch in the area – or just lose yourself in a book on the beach. Oh, and the seafood’s not too shabby either.
12. Big Muddy Badlands, Saskatchewan
For a “wild west” experience that will make you forget you’re in Canada, add Saskatchewan’s Big Muddy Badlands to your summer travel bucket list. Here, you’ll find outlaws, roaming cowboys, and the infamous Castle Butte, a 60-metre sandstone and clay formation.
13. Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
Tap into your outdoorsy side and plan a weekend camping in the historic Bruce Peninsula National Park. The park features some of the province’s best hiking trails, the most stunning sunsets and sunrises, and no shortage of Great Canadian wildlife sightings.
14. Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island
If you find yourself in Prince Edward Island this summer, you have to hit Cavendish Beach – even if the water is too cold to swim. Complete with its red sandstone cliffs, dunes, and breezy shorefront, the town of Cavendish was the inspiration behind the Anne of Green Gables series. If you’re in town July 10-12, you can hit the Cavendish Beach Music Festival too.
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