The 10 most beautiful sunsets in Canada

I firmly believe that the best things in life are free.

It's hard to remain indifferent to Mother Nature's gifts. Whether it's watching the sunrise, enjoying a picnic at sunset, stretching out under a starry sky or listening to the sound of the waves, my heart is always filled with gratitude when I am lucky enough to experience one of these magical moments.

For this article, I wanted to share with you the 10 most beautiful sunset spots in Canada.

Whatever your road trip in Canada, there's a good chance you'll pass through at least one of these places.

#1- Kamouraska

According to National Geographic magazine, the Bas St-Laurent region has the second most beautiful sunsets in the world after Hawaii.

If you only have time for one stop in the region, I recommend visiting Kamouraska, considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec.

Explore this picturesque spot in the afternoon and enjoy a front row seat for the sunset at the end of the day.

To live the moment like the locals do, head to Avenue Leblanc. That's where they gather every evening to contemplate the flamboyant colours dancing over the St. Lawrence, sitting on one of the benches along the promenade.

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#2- Vermilion Lakes

Vermilion Lakes is a series of three lakes just a few minutes' drive west of the town of Banff, in the Canadian Rockies. To get there, take the 4.3-km scenic road called the Vermilion Lakes Parkway.

You will want to make several stops along the way to enjoy the sublime landscapes.

For postcard-perfect photos, sit on one of the observation docks and photograph the sunset with Mount Rundle, an emblem of Banff National Park, in the background. Your photos are sure to be the envy of many.

#3- Grand Bend

Rumour has it that National Geographic also listed Grand Bend sunsets among the most beautiful in the world. Written proof is nowhere to be found, but I like to believe it's true!

Here are 2 magnificent beaches where you can cozy up on a blanket and enjoy the show:

• Pinery Provincial Park Beach: This 10-kilometre beach is simply beautiful and boasts a breathtaking view of Lake Huron. In addition, the park offers many activities: hiking, fishing, canoeing, biking, and more.
   

• Grand Bend Main Beach: Accessible from Main Street West, this beach is perfect for families!
   

One thing is certain, wherever you choose to go, you'll have front row seats to watch the sunset with both feet in the sand.

#4- Vancouver

Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver looms a thrill-seekers paradise. Grouse Mountain, known as the "Peak of Vancouver", offers an incredible panoramic view of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

For a jaw-dropping sunset, take a ride in the Skyride gondola up to a height of 1,250 metres. Once at the top, the stunning view will take your breath away!

In summer, if you're feeling energetic, you can take the Grouse Grind hiking trail rather than the Skyride. This challenging hike is affectionately called "Mother Nature's Stairmaster" because of its steep grade and total elevation gain of approximately 2,800 feet.

Distance: 3 kilometres
Time: +/- 2 hours
Elevation gain: 853 metres
Level: Difficult

For the romantic at heart, I invite you to book a table at the famous Observatory restaurant. Be sure to plan your reservation to coincide with the sunset, and get ready for the ultimate romantic dining experience!

#5- Toronto

Toronto is the largest city in Canada. Fortunately, its 17 islands afford a little peace and quiet for locals and tourists alike.

Each year, over 1.2 million visitors come to explore the islands' long beaches and numerous hiking trails.

For a memorable sunset, make your way to Center Island, the most popular of the islands. I suggest you rent a bicycle and ride until you find a quiet spot by the edge of the water.

From there, you will be able to quietly admire the Toronto skyline against an orange background.

#6- Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on Vancouver Island.

This lovely city, named in honour of Queen Victoria, provides the perfect combination of history and modernity.

My favourite place to enjoy sunsets in the area is definitely the top of Mount Tolmie. The viewpoint is easily accessible by car - practical after a long day of sightseeing!

Once at the top, a 360-degree view of the ocean and the city awaits you.

Now imagine this view under the setting sun. I guarantee you an evening that will remain etched in your memories for a long time to come.

#7- Percé

At sunrise or at sunset, the village of Percé is simply charming. Nestled at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, the village owes its name to the iconic Rocher Percé, considered the natural emblem of Gaspésie.

Several hotels and restaurants offer scenic patios. What could be better than watching the sunset over a good meal, glass of wine in hand?

Here are 2 good addresses worth remembering:

• La maison du pêcheur: THE most beautiful patio with a view in the village, in my opinion. The restaurant is just seconds from the main wharf. Every dish is delicious, especially if you love seafood!
   

• Paqbo: The newly renovated restaurant of the Riôtel Hotel is located right on the waterfront. Whether you eat inside or out, the view of the Rocher is incredible! For foodies, I assure you that you will get your money's worth. Everything is delicious, absolutely everything! You can trust my taste buds, because as a perk of the job, we often get tasting menus...

#8- Tofino

Located on Vancouver Island, right on the Pacific Ocean, Tofino is a jewel of the Canadian west coast.

This small village, ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in Western Canada, boasts exceptional beaches!

My absolute favourite place to enjoy the surf and the sunset is Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park. The beach stretches for several kilometres and is bordered by an impressive rainforest.

To get there, follow Highway 4 through Pacific Rim National Park.

Allow plenty of time as the scenery along the way is truly beautiful. You will certainly want to stop a few times.

Pack a picnic supper and settle in for the evening. You may even be able to watch the surfers in the distance.

#9- Ile du Cap-aux-Meules

Cap-aux-Meules Island is the gateway to the archipelago that forms the Magdalen Islands. As it is the port of arrival for the ferry, it is often here that visitors encounter Magdalen Islanders ("Madelinots") for the first time.

At sunset, the reddish tint of the sandstone cliffs is naturally accentuated and the result is breathtaking.

Here are my 2 favourite spots to enjoy the show:

• Cap du Phare du Borgot, in the village of L’Étang-du-Nord.
   
• La Belle Anse, in the village of Fatima.
   

The Magdalen Islands offer simply stunning scenery, yet not many Quebecers have the chance to visit this little corner of paradise.

If you want to get off the beaten track and meet friendly and authentic people, this is the destination for you!

#10- Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of my absolute favourite places in Canada. In fact, the National Geographic Traveler (which by now needs no introduction) named the park as one of the world's top travel destinations in 2017.

For an unforgettable sunset, I invite you to take the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. You will be whisked 700 metres to the summit, where a stunning view of the impressive Bow River awaits.

Gondola tickets aren't cheap, I'll grant you that. We're talking $49 for adults and $25 for children between the ages of 6 and 15. That said, a view like this is priceless, I promise you.

And there you go!

Grab your camera, invite your best travel buddy, and collect the beautiful moments that Mother Nature has to offer.

What spot in Canada would you add to this Top 10 list?

Don't hesitate to share your ideas in the comments below.