Borden-Carleton: Arrive at the Confederation Bridge

Borden-Carleton is connected to the Confederation Bridge: at 12.9 kilometres long, it is the world’s longest bridge over ice-covered water and connects New Brunswick with Borden-Carleton. For travellers, several themes stand out here—the arrival at the bridge, hiking and cycling trails, and the island’s railway and maritime history. If you’re looking for a hotel in Borden-Carleton, these themes can help you choose a location that suits your travel plans.

Arriving and finding your way around Gateway Village

Gateway Village serves as a welcome centre and recommended stop for arrivals via the Confederation Bridge. Before crossing, travellers can refuel and buy snacks and souvenirs there. The Borden-Carleton Visitor Information Centre is located in the heart of Gateway Village, right beside the bridge.

Gateway Village is also associated with a local treat: COWS ice cream is available at kilometre 18. Along with its facilities for a break before crossing and the Visitor Information Centre, the village is a practical part of arriving in the area. The bridge itself opened to traffic on May 31, 1997.

Hiking and cycling: two different trail connections

The 110-kilometre section of the International Appalachian Trail on Prince Edward Island begins in Borden-Carleton. The Confederation Trail has a different connection to the community: its link to the Confederation Bridge is also in Borden-Carleton. The trail is suitable for hiking and cycling in three seasons of the year. The trails can therefore be distinguished by their respective focus: the starting point of the island section is the International Appalachian Trail’s specific connection to the community, while the Confederation Trail is notable for its connection to the bridge and the activities mentioned.

Bridge views and history at Marine Rail Historical Park

Marine Rail Historical Park is an interesting place to learn more about the railway and maritime history of Prince Edward Island. The Marine Rail Park also offers views of the Confederation Bridge. A large red heart is a popular Instagram backdrop with locals and visitors alike. This spot brings together a view of the bridge, a photo opportunity, and a historical theme.

Culture in Prince County

Prince County also offers distinctive cultural experiences. Tignish Cultural Centre houses a museum with artefacts and documentation on local history and culture. Sea Rescue Interpretive Centre showcases and explains the heroic deeds and disasters of times past. Tryon Museum explores the history of Indigenous, Acadian, and early European settlement in the region; a nature trail connects historic sites in the area and offers insights into the Tryon River watershed.

Green Park Shipbuilding Museum & Yeo House focuses on Prince Edward Island’s long-standing shipbuilding industry. A guided tour takes visitors through a restored Victorian house. The site also includes a historic schoolhouse and blacksmith shop, where visitors can learn about 19th-century trades. The themes range from shipbuilding and historic buildings to the region’s earlier settlement histories.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Bedeque, Kensington, O'leary, Tignish, Summerside, Miscouche, Prince Edward.

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