Exploring Prince Edward Island's Camino: A Walk Along the Island's Coastline in Canada

Exploring Prince Edward Island's Camino: A Walk Along the Island's Coastline in Canada

The Prince Edward Island (PEI) Camino, also known as The Island Walk, is a captivating 700-kilometre loop trail that encircles the picturesque province of PEI. Inspired by the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain, this trail offers a unique blend of physical activity, nature, and contemplation, making it an ideal destination for solo adventurers seeking a serene, manageable multi-day hiking adventure [1].

The PEI Camino caters to moderately fit individuals with a daily hike of approximately 20-25 kilometres, typically lasting 4-7 hours. Unlike the busy Camino, the PEI version provides a tranquil, crowd-free experience, offering a more solitary and reflective journey [1].

The trail showcases PEI's rural charm, beautiful pastoral landscapes, serene coastline with iconic red sandstone cliffs, and lovely beaches. Friendly locals add to the welcoming and safe atmosphere, often stopping to offer assistance or rides if needed [1].

One of the prettiest sections of the trail is the stretch from Kensington to St. Peter's Bay, which offers scenic views and varied nature. The route also passes by 63 lighthouses, the highest concentration in North America, many of which have storied histories [1].

The PEI Camino starts in Charlottetown and winds through small, picturesque towns like Cavendish and seaside towns like Summerside, Anglo Tignish, and Elmira. Hikers can access major centres like Charlottetown, which are equipped with hospitals, and the island is accessible by air, ferry, and the 12.9 km Confederation Bridge [1].

The trail was created by Bryson Guptill, a member of the Board of Island Trails, after he completed Portugal's Rota Vicentina and the Camino de Santiago. In 2022, 'pilgrims' planning to do some or all of the walk can receive an Island Walk passport, similar to the credential issued by the Camino de Santiago [1].

The trail is just starting to gain popularity, with about 50 people doing the walk in 2021. Accommodations along the PEI Camino provide multi-night stays and drive walkers to and from the trail each day, allowing for a lighter pack. September and October are recommended as the best time to do the PEI Camino [1].

For solo travellers, PEI offers a special and unique experience. The island's slow, unhurried pace and close-knit community make it a perfect destination for women seeking a peaceful getaway. Small homestays and bed and breakfasts are common, providing opportunities for solo travellers to meet others and feel supported [1].

PEI is also seeing an increase in people moving to the island, and local figures like Nate Irving, a fisherman turned tour operator, encourage newcomers to be nice and treat people the way they want to be treated [1]. Irving, whose family has lived on PEI for generations, arriving from Scotland in 1779, regales visitors with stories of his fishing days, including sightings of various marine life, on his food truck tours [1].

One such historical site is the Cape Bear Lighthouse, built in 1881, where Marconi Operator Thomas Bartlett received the 'first in Canada' distress call from the Titanic on April 14, 1912 [1].

Despite the occasional rain shower, such as the relentless rain experienced by one solo adventurer who forgot rain gear, PEI remains a special place for those seeking a peaceful, scenic adventure [2]. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a solo traveller looking for a unique experience, the PEI Camino is certainly worth considering.

The PEI Camino, with its rural charm and tranquil atmosphere, is perfect for solo travelers seeking a unique blend of physical activity, nature, and contemplation, as they traverse the trail and explore the picturesque province of PEI on foot. This multi-day hiking adventure offers the opportunity to experience a peaceful getaway, visiting local homestays and bed and breakfasts, and discovering historical sites like the Cape Bear Lighthouse.

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