Canada for couples

Canada is often overlooked as a romantic destination, which is part of its charm. It offers old-world streets without the long flight to Europe, mountain scenery that rivals anything in the Alps, and a warm, easygoing welcome. Distances are enormous, though, so the best Canadian trips focus on one region rather than trying to see the whole country at once.

The old walled city

For a taste of Europe in North America, few places compare with Quebec City. Wikipedia's article on Quebec City describes it as one of the oldest European settlements in North America, and notes that the ramparts surrounding Old Quebec are the only fortified city walls remaining in the Americas north of Mexico. Walking those walls together, then wandering down steep lanes to the lower town, feels wonderfully far from home.

The city changes character with the seasons. Summer brings terraces, street music and long light evenings. Autumn brings crisp air and colourful trees along the river. Winter is cold and snowy, but the old town is at its most magical then, with lights in the windows and warm cafés to duck into. If you visit in the colder months, pack properly: good boots, gloves and warm layers make the difference between a romantic stroll and a miserable one.

Making the most of it

• Stay inside or close to the old walls, so that you can walk everywhere and return to your room between outings.
• Take an early morning walk on the ramparts before the day's visitors arrive.
• Learn a few phrases of French. The effort is appreciated and adds to the sense of being somewhere different.
• Book one long dinner in a stone-walled restaurant, and let the evening take its time.

The Rockies and their lakes

At the other end of the country, the Canadian Rockies offer a completely different kind of romance: vast, wild and dramatic. Wikipedia describes Banff National Park as Canada's first national park, set in Alberta's Rocky Mountains, with many glaciers and ice fields, dense coniferous forest and alpine landscapes. Its mountain lakes, fed by that high country, are some of the loveliest sights a couple can share.

A mountain honeymoon here can be as active or as restful as you like. Some couples spend their days hiking to viewpoints and tea houses; others prefer scenic drives, canoe paddles on still water, and evenings by the fire in a lodge. Popular lakes can be busy in the middle of the day in summer, so go early or late, when the water is often at its calmest and the reflections at their best.

Mountain weather changes quickly. Even in summer, pack layers and rain gear, and check trail and road conditions before setting out. Wildlife lives here too, so keep your distance from animals and follow the park's guidance.

The Canadian side of Niagara

Niagara Falls sits on the border between Canada and the United States, and both sides have their devotees. According to Wikipedia's article on Niagara Falls, the largest of the three falls, Horseshoe Falls, straddles the international border and is also known as the Canadian Falls, and the larger and taller Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian side. Many couples find that the Canadian bank offers a particularly sweeping view of it. The falls have a long history as a honeymoon destination; read more in the Niagara Falls feature.

Other ideas for two

Beyond these highlights, Canada offers island getaways on both coasts, wine regions with lakeside vineyards, cosy country inns in maple forests, and cities with lively food and arts scenes. If you enjoy staying in small, characterful places, the guide to B&Bs and country inns offers ideas on what to look for. If you are combining Canada with a trip south of the border, the romantic USA guide has more inspiration.

When to go

Summer is the easiest time to explore, with long days and open roads, but it is also the busiest. Autumn is beautiful, especially where the leaves turn red and gold. Winter suits couples who love snow, skiing and fireside evenings. Spring can be muddy in the mountains but quiet and fresh in the cities. Whatever you choose, check that the places you want to visit are open in your chosen month, since some mountain roads and seasonal businesses close for part of the year.

Practical notes

Crossing a border, even a familiar one, needs the right documents, so check requirements well before you travel. Distances between regions are long, and flying between them is often more sensible than driving. And give yourselves time: Canada rewards couples who slow down, take the scenic route and linger over the view.