About the Area
Long a picturesque fishing port with stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, North Rustico is also one of the most central locations for all points within Prince Edward Island. Here, you’re close to the Island’s famous lobster suppers and deep sea fishing excursions, and only a 20-minute drive from the capital city of Charlottetown. You’re even closer to Cavendish and its family-friendly activities and impeccable beach at Prince Edward Island National Park. Located mid-Isle, both tips of the Island are easily accessible, with Tignish to the west, and East Point to the east.
Rustico
Rustico is the oldest Acadian settlement in Prince Edward Island, and was one of the first communities established in "La Nouvelle Acadie" following the Treaty of Paris in 1763. The Inn itself is one of eight major historic sites in the area, all within walking distance: The Doucette House, St. Augustine's Church, The Pioneer Cemetery, St. Mark's Anglican Church, Belcourt Centre, Clifford's Lane, and the Farmers' Bank which houses exhibits illustrating the early days of the Rustico Acadians.
Farmers' Bank of Rustico & Doucet House Museums
While staying at The Barachois, visit these wonderful historic sites that serve as a legacy of the past and commemorate the determination and ingenuity of the Acadians.
Embracing Our Natural Spaces
Our Central Region offers some of the most stunning vistas in the world. Further inland, our rolling green hills and scenic farmland will keep your camera busy. Our local cuisine includes some of the freshest seafood available anywhere in the world and is caught daily, in season, from Rustico Harbour. If golf’s your game, Prince Edward Island has courses to suit all skill levels and budgets, including several courses considered among the best in Canada.
Scenic Heritage Roads, Trails and Nature Places
The narrow, red clay lanes of the Island are special places — each with a story. They are a unique part of our heritage and are captivating in variety and vista, providing panoramic views of the countryside, as well as glimpses of rural life. Native hardwoods such as sugar maple, red maple, beech and red oak are some of the trees contributing to the canopies that arch over many roads. Spruce, pine and hemlock provide contrast and depth, while coexisting next to open areas featuring lupins, black-eyed Susans, daisies, Queen Anne’s lace, and a host of other wild flowers create an abundance of bloom. The wildlife in PEI is as varied as the vegetation acting as home for foxes, squirrels, snowshoe hares and a vast array of song birds. PEI has truly embraced conservation through responsible development of nature trails and areas that embrace and respect wildlife areas. Our National and Provincial parks are part of a unique natural eco-system that offers new learning, soft adventure and restorative exploration on foot or bicycle.
Designated Scenic Heritage Roads
The designation of Scenic Heritage Roads became possible in 1987 when the Provincial Government passed regulations under the Planning Act limiting activities that may take place there, with the intent of protecting and preserving some of these scenic and cultural refuges. As of 2005, eleven of these special places have become Designated Scenic Heritage Roads.
