The Prettiest Place In The World
By: Shreya Manikandan
Nestled snugly between mainland Canada and Nova Scotia is a quaint little island with captivating scenery, salted air, and the enchanting sentiments that inspired L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. Growing up, I lived vicariously through her descriptions of the tranquility and magic of Prince Edward Island (PEI) with whimsical names such as Lover’s Lane, White Way of Delight, or Lake of Shining Waters. While I thought she had taken some creative freedom in describing what seemed like paradise, the island undeniably holds a tangible happiness and warmth that must be savored.
Anne Shirley Cuthbert, the elusive, quirky main character of Montogomery’s beloved literary saga describes her initial discernments on the island:
“Below was a little valley and beyond a long, gently-rising slope with snug farmsteads scattered along it. From one to another the child’s eyes darted, eager and wistful. At last they lingered on one away to the left, far back from the road, dimly white with blossoming trees in the twilight of the surrounding woods. Over it, in the stainless southwest sky, a great crystal-white star was shining like a lamp of guidance and promise.”
The red sand cliffs, rolling hills, and cotton-candy skies of the tiny, but mighty island soon became the motive of her imagination and sense of nostalgia. Though I don’t have her fiery red hair, I do share her fiery sense of curiosity and adventure with my travels. Now, like Anne, I also consider PEI a fond reminiscence, and can hardly wait to visit again.
This past summer, my family made the marathon drive from Boston to PEI, stopping along the way in the Bay of Fundy and New Brunswick. Once we crossed the 8 mile Confederation bridge over the Atlantic Ocean, I immediately understood the emotive power that the horizon held. Suddenly I was Anne Shirley, frolicking through the whirlwind of fairytale backdrops, my head was always turning, catching the sights of cows along the majestic seascapes, horse-drawn carriages going down roads, and the vibrant colors of the island enveloped me.
During our four days on the island, we delved into natural beauties, literary references, cultural indulgences, and as Anne would have approved, a vivid imagination and wonderment through it all. Embracing the spirit of exploration, we even stayed in a small, bright red, yurt at the top of a small hill, surrounded by lupines and the sounds of chirpy birds.
The best part about the island is the limitless picturesque views — just outside our lodging were lush meandering trails looking upon flower fields and coastlines. The purples and pinks of wildflowers contrasting with the bright green grazing fields, and the reflection of the ocean all under blue skies with puffy clouds were straight out of a painting.
A day at Thunder Cove Beach restored everyone’s childlike carefree spirit and astonishment. My sister and I blew bubbles by the beach, swimming till our fingers turned pruny. The sunset was priceless after an afternoon soaking in the sun, and my hair was turned wavy by the salty air. Golden hour led to a striking pink and orange sky, which reflected endlessly over the sea. The terra cotta sea stacks shone in their divinity. As the evening progressed, the pinks turned into a dark lavender, the bright moon peeked through, illuminating the beach and two foxes taking a romantic stroll (perhaps) under the bright stars that suddenly appeared.
The Dunelands trail at Cavendish beach was yet another heavenly stroll, rambling through the veins of PEI. The overcast skies added to the serenity and distantly, the sounds of ocean waves reaching high tide and getting louder echoed. The long grass swayed to the rhythm of the wind, the slight rustling accompanied by a soft whistling. The sky darkened, and without warning, a thick downpour engulfed us. It was like we were inside a giant rainstick; I felt like a peacock, revitalized, spreading my feathers and laughing through the shock.
While my favorite memories of the trip were arguably those spent immersed in the raw environment, visiting the Anne of Green Gables museum, as well as L.M. Montgomery’s birthplace were fascinating insights and a full circle moment. Leaving the countryside of the island and venturing into more of a social hub led us to Victoria Row in Charlottetown, with its antique stores and boutiques adjacent to libraries, historic churches and the city hall radiating a lively cultural atmosphere. We enjoyed an amazing culinary experience, as well as purchasing mementos to remember our trip by.
As Anne fondly describes it, PEI is the “prettiest place in the world,” and I must wholeheartedly agree. As our trip came to an end and we journeyed back home, I found myself already planning my next visit to this idyllic canvas.
Shreya Manikandan is a sophomore at Cornell University from Andover, Massachusetts, majoring in Human Biology, Health, and Society. One of her favorite travel destinations is Guatemala because of the pristine scenery and diversity of wildlife.
