Southeastern Prince Edward Island: A Drive of its Historic Shores

The rocky shores and peaceful bays of Prince Edward Island’s southeastern region have centuries of maritime history. On this driving tour, you’ll explore historic fishing communities, discover the island’s Scottish and Acadian heritage, and visit three of PEI’s most significant lighthouses.

The tour starts and ends at the Charlottetown Visitor Information Centre, where you’ll learn about the city’s central role in Canada’s formation. You’ll drive across the Hillsborough Bridge into Stratford, then follow the winding coastal roads through Vernon Bridge, Orwell, and Belfast – all communities with deep Scottish roots dating back to the early 1800s. Along the way, you’ll discover remnants of PEI’s shipbuilding era and see how erosion is reshaping the island’s shoreline.

The tour concludes with a visit to Panmure Island Lighthouse, the oldest wooden lighthouse on PEI, before returning to Charlottetown via the rural farmlands of central Queens County.

During this three-hour journey, you’ll have a chance to:

• Admire the red sandstone cliffs and soil that give this charming corner of Canada’s smallest province its distinctive landscape
• Walk up the spiral staircase of Point Prim Lighthouse, which has guided ships safely into Charlottetown Harbour since 1845
• Learn about the 1803 arrival of the Selkirk Settlers, Scottish Highlanders who transformed southeastern PEI into the most Scottish place outside of Scotland
• Discover how tensions between Scottish and Irish settlers led to the Belfast Riot of 1847, the island’s deadliest
• Visit Wood Islands Lighthouse and learn about PEI’s fascinating rum-running history during its 47-year prohibition period
• Drive across the causeway to Panmure Island to explore its historic lighthouse and beautiful beach
• Pass by thriving lobster fishing wharves where you can often purchase fresh seafood directly from fishermen
• Learn about the various industries that have sustained islanders through the centuries, from shipbuilding to farming to tourism

This scenic coastal drive reveals how PEI’s unique history, friendly communities, and stunning landscapes continue to charm visitors from around the world.