If you’re looking for an incredible fall getaway that combines stunning seaside views, east coast charm, and historic luxury, let me introduce you to one of Canada’s most magical seaside resorts: The Algonquin Resort in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick.
I had the absolute pleasure of spending 3 incredible days at the Algonquin in October, and it completely blew me away.
Between the historic charm, cozy coastal atmosphere, and warm East Coast hospitality that you find here, the Algonquin quickly became one of my favourite hotels in Canada.
It’s the kind of place that feels special the moment you arrive, and continues to capture your heart more and more the longer you stay there.
I loved my stay at the Algonquin Resort so much, that I couldn’t help but put together this guide to share with you what a special place this is. I hope it convinces you to add The Algonquin Resort to your Canadian travel bucket list!
Before we get started, if you’re looking to explore more of Canada’s east coast, I’ve also got these guides for you to check out:
- 18 Incredible Things to do in Charlottetown in the Fall
- 34 Incredible Things to do in Shelburne County, Nova Scotia
- 32 Best Things to do in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
- 9 Best Restaurants and Places to eat in Cape Breton (along the Cabot Trail)
And be sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. I share a lot of travel content on those that never make it to the blog!
The Algonquin Resort: A Historic Seaside Escape
The Algonquin Resort has been welcoming guests since 1889, and you can feel that history as soon as you step foot on the property
From the historic building with it’s grand entrance, sweeping veranda, and iconic red roof, to the view of the Bay of Fundy… It’s the kind of place that makes your jaw drop, and makes you whisper to yourself “wow” over and over again.
Inside, the Algonquin Resort is the perfect mix of elegance, luxury, and comfort. You’ll find crackling fireplaces, rich wood details, and quiet corners that make you want to curl up with a book and a hot cup of cocoa. If you ask me, it’s exactly the kind of cozy vibes you want to wrap yourself up in during the fall season.
It’s one of those rare resorts that manages to feel both luxurious and completely comfortable at the same time, and you immediately feel at home.
Getting to the Algonquin Resort
St. Andrews is about 1.5 hours from Saint John, 1.75 hours from Fredericton, and around 5 hours from Halifax, so it’s easy to to drive from either of these cities.
I flew from Montreal to Fredericton, and then we drove from the Fredericton airport straight to the Algonquin Resort.
The drive itself is beautiful between Fredericton and St. Andrews, especially in fall, so the drive went by very quick.
I’d say the easiest ways to get here are to fly to either Fredericton or Saint Johns, rent a car, and drive the rest of the way. But of course, it depends how far (or close) you’re coming from!
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Visit the Algonquin Resort
Fall is a magical season on its own, but fall at the Algonquin is just breathtaking.
The crisp ocean air, colorful leaves, and cozy fall touches throughout the resort make it feel like you’re the star of your very own fall themed Hallmark movie. You’ll find pumpkin displays and seasonal decor around every corner, cozy corners throughout the resort to relax in, and crackling fires providing the perfect ambiance on a chilly fall day.
Fall here is perfectly cozy, and completely aesthetic.
Beyond being incredibly beautiful during the fall, St. Andrews is much quieter this time of year. It’s a great opportunity for you to enjoy the town without the summer crowds, and really get in a peaceful, relaxing holiday (which is exactly what I needed).
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a cozy girls trip, or just to unwind on a solo retreat, it really is the perfect place for a fall getaway.
And it’s the kind of place that once you leave, you feel fully well rested and rejuvenated.
Highlights from my stay at the Algonquin Resort
Here are some of my favourite experiences from my stay at the Algonquin Resort that really made this trip unforgettable.
1. Afternoon Tea at the Algonquin Resort
If you love afternoon tea, you can’t miss the afternoon tea at the Algonquin Resort.
The Algonquin Resort’s afternoon tea is available every day from 12-4pm. It’s such an enjoyable experience!
During your tea you’ll get to enjoy a tiered cake stand filled with exquisite cakes and pastries, warm scones, and dainty sandwiches. They feature fresh, local ingredients, and even have seasonal flavours like pumpkin spice!
The afternoon tea experience itself is $67 per person, and includes a cake stand per person, and a pot of tea. They had some really unique flavours and I loved the Chicken Bones Black Tea which does not, in fact, have anything to do with bone broth like I thought it would. It’s actually inspired by a popular New Brunswick candy called Chicken Bones!
I love that the tea service is available every day, so no matter when you visit you’ll be able to take advantage of this lovely experience.
I will also mention that during the summer you can enjoy the afternoon tea on the veranda which is absolutely beautiful!
2. Incredible Dining and Cocktails that Celebrate the East Coast
Foodies will be heaven at the Algonquin. I knew I was going to be well fed with all sorts of incredible seafood (it is the east coast after all), but I didn’t realize just how well fed!
The Algonquin’s restaurant and bars highlight the best of East Coast dining, and everything I tried while I was there was absolutely delicious.
One of my favourite things? The martini they serve with an oyster on a silver platter. It’s such a fun and memorable touch, elevating a classic martini with a bit of east cost flair.
Of course there’s all sorts of incredible seafood to enjoy, whether it’s something casual like a lobster roll in the lounge, or oysters, mussels, or a lobster tail and steak in the dining room. Every meal I had here was incredible.
And if you don’t enjoy seafood, there’s plenty of options for you too!
I also really enjoyed the breakfast at the Algonquin, which is served until 11am. I really appreciate when a resort doesn’t end their breakfast service at 10am, which allows you to have a bit more of a slow morning and really enjoy your vacation! Their breakfast menu features staples like eggs benedict and full english breakfasts, plus more unique items like Turkish eggs.
Whether you’re starting your day or winding down with a drink by the fire, the Algonquin Resort does dining right, and you definitely won’t go hungry here!
3. Your Room at the Algonquin Resort
If you’re the kind of traveller who loves modern comforts, you’ll love the rooms at the The Algonquin Resort. I stayed in a newly-renovated room that was incredibly spacious and had the most comfortable bed.
I’ll be honest: I had the best sleep of my life in that bed.
My room also opened up to a private terrace (yes, you’ll want your morning coffee out there) and inside there were all the comforts you need for a perfect vacation: plush robes, room service available if you’re feeling lazy, and thoughtful touches that make you feel totally pampered and relaxed.
If you’re planning your stay, I’d highly recommend requesting a room with a terrace or balcony. The little extra outdoor space made a big difference for me, and I loved having a glass of wine out on the terrace.
4. Relaxing by the Fire
One of my favourite things to do in the fall and winter months, is relaxing by a crackling fire. And I absolutely love staying at hotels and resorts that have fires to curl up by in the main areas. The Algonquin Resort has many!
There are numerous fireplaces to enjoy inside, and also outdoor fire pits which give you all sorts of places to warm up and get cozy.
I spent my first afternoon at the Algonquin playing chess by the fire, enjoying a martini, and it was honestly the perfect way to start off the trip. Add on an order of their delicious charcuterie & cheese board and you’re set for the ultimate fall afternoon.
At nightime the resort offers s’mores at their outdoor firepits (yes, they offer nightly s’mores!) which was a highly loved activity by all, both young and old.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Resort Activities
If you like to mix your relaxation with a little adventure, the Algonquin has you covered.
The resort has a ton of activities available for you to do on and off site, so you’ll never get bored when you’re here.
You can play a round of golf on their beautiful course, which is award winning and has some of the most incredible views, go biking, or enjoy some of the on site games.
If you feel like doing something a little more daring, you can even try a cold plunge in the Bay of Fundy like the locals do. It’s definitely chilly, but it’s one of those “once in a lifetime” experiences you won’t forget!
There’s also tennis courts (and yes they have the equipment so you don’t need to bring a racket!), an indoor and outdoor pool (the indoor pool has a waterslide), and easy access to nearby trails.
There’s a kids club too, and nightly movie screenings, so there’s something for everyone, no matter the age.
Whether you’re spending your day outdoors or cozying up inside, there’s always something to do at the Algonquin Resort, and that’s one of the things I loved most about staying here.
6. Ghost and History Tours After Dark
One of my biggest highlights though, was the nightly ghost and history tours that the resort offers!
Twice a night, guests can meet in the lobby and be brought on an hour long ghost and history tour throughout the property. It’s so much fun!
On the tour you’ll learn all about the history of the hotel, the devastating fire they had, the ghosts that haunt specific rooms (and which rooms those are!) and more.
The Algonquin has some pretty fascinating stories, and if you love a good spook there are some really great ghost stories here.
It’s the perfect mix of fascinating and eerie, and I left knowing so much more about the resort’s past.
7. Nightly S’mores and Fireside hangs
I’ve mentioned this already, but honestly it deserves its own section because I just love that it’s offered to all guests every night!
If you’re visiting the Algonquin Resort in the fall, this is going to be your new favorite part of the day.
Every evening, guests gather around the outdoor firepits to make s’mores, and the vibe is just the best. You’ve got the fire crackling, the ocean breeze, and everyone chatting and laughing under the night sky.
It’s such a wholesome, cozy tradition, and honestly one of the moments I’ll remember most from this trip.
It was such a great opportunity to connect with some of the other guests, and make some new friends.
8. Taking a Trip Across the Ocean Floor to Minister’s Island
If there’s one off resort activity that you have to experience while staying at the Algonquin Resort, this is it. And the best part is, the resort has an on-site shuttle that will take you there!
Minister’s Island is an Island just off the coast of St. Andrews that can only be reached during low tide. When the tide goes out, you can actually drive across the ocean floor to reach Minister’s Island. This means it can only be accessed for a few hours each day!
Once you’re on the island, you can explore the historic buildings, walk the trails, and enjoy some incredible Bay of Fundy views. It’s a must visit while you’re in St. Andrews and makes for such a unique experience.
After all, how often can you say you’ve driven across the ocean floor?
9. Exploring Downtown St. Andrews
The town of St-Andrews-by-the-Sea is absolutely charming! I fell in love with it right away.
You can easily walk or take the shuttle from the resort to explore downtown, which is filled with colorful shops, cozy cafes, and ocean views around every corner.
It’s honestly such an east coast Gilmore Girls type town, and everyone in St. Andrews is so friendly. (By the way, if you’re looking for more Gilmore Girls east coast vibes you will also love Shelburne County, Nova Scotia)
I loved grabbing a latte and strolling along Water Street, popping into local boutiques, and chatting with the friendliest shop owners. It’s the kind of town that makes slow down and just enjoy.
The walk from the Algonquin Resort to downtown St. Andrews only takes about 10 minutes, and it’s such a pretty walk.
I loved admiring all the beautiful homes and fall foliage along the way.
There’s also a LOT of deer in St. Andrews, so you’ll get to see some along the way! We saw 2-4 deer every time we made the walk into town.
10. Epic Sunrises and Sunsets by the Sea
The sunrises and sunsets in St. Andrews were absolutely magical, I would go back again just to see these!
I just happened to be downtown in St. Andrews when we had the most beautiful sunset that turned everything an orangey gold hue. It was absolutely stunning.
Although I wasn’t up early enough to enjoy the sunrise most mornings (I was on vacation after all, a girl’s got to enjoy her a sleep), we had an absolutely epic sunrise the morning we left which made me wish I had gotten up a little earlier the days before.
Whether watching the sun set over the Bay of Fundy, or the sun rise from the comfort of your own balcony, there’s no denying that the sun and sky put on a show here.
11. So much to do Beyond the Resort
While you could easily spend your whole stay without leaving the property at the Algonquin Resort, there’s also so much to explore around St. Andrews by-the-Sea.
Beyond exploring the charming downtown, if you have extra time you should definitely visit Kingsbrae Garden, go whale watching, or check out the Huntsman Marine Science Centre. Beyond visiting Minister’s Island of course!
12. The Indulge Food and Wine Festival
If you’re planning a fall trip to the Algonquin Resort, you should try to plan it around the same time as the Indulge Food & Wine Festival.
The Indulge Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of all things local, including delicious food, fine wine, craft beer, and good times. If you’re a big foodie, you’re going to absolutely love this festival.
I was lucky enough to be staying at the Algonquin during the festival, and got to experience some of the fun events that they run.
One evening felt a little like grown-up trick-or-treating: hopping between restaurants and shops in downtwon St. Andrews and tasting small plates, wine, cocktails, and discovering hidden gems around town. There was live music, people dancing and laughing in the streets, and everyone was having a great time.
Another highlight was a big buffet style lobster dinner at the Algonquin Resort which was absolutely indulgent.
If you’re planning to visit in October, definitely check the festival’s schedule, book your tickets early (popular events sell out), you won’t want to miss this!
Why the Algonquin should be on your Canadian Bucket List
The Algonquin Resort is one of those rare places that really has it all and leaves you wanting to come back time and time again. It combines history, beauty, and that feeling of complete relaxation you only get when you’re somewhere truly special.
It’s luxurious, but not pretentious, and every corner of the resort feels like it’s designed to make you slow down and just be present.
To be able to enjoy such a beautiful resort, that’s also in such a beautiful part of Canada is special, and it’s something I hope everyone will get to experience at some point in their lives.
Whether you’re visiting in fall for the cozy vibes, summer for the sunshine, or winter for a peaceful escape, you’re going to love your time at the Algonquin Resort as much as I loved mine.
Final Thoughts
The Algonquin Resort really is one of those places that captures everything I love. A little history, a lot of charm, luxury while not being pretentious, great food and cocktails, and endless ways to relax and unwind.
From the cozy fires to the friendly staff, to those sunsets that stop you in your tracks, it’s the kind of getaway you’ll remember forever.
I hope this guide has convinced you that the Algonquin Resort needs to be on your bucket list. It really is a special place, and I’m already dreaming about my next visit!
If you’re looking to explore be explore more of Canada’s east coast, don’t forget I’ve also got these guides for you to check out:
- 18 Incredible Things to do in Charlottetown in the Fall
- 34 Incredible Things to do in Shelburne County, Nova Scotia
- 32 Best Things to do in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
- 9 Best Restaurants and Places to eat in Cape Breton (along the Cabot Trail)
Thank you to The Algonquin Resort for the incredible hospitality and for arranging such a wonderful trip for us. As always, all thoughts and opinions in this article are my own.
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