Photo: Airbnb

See Canada's Atlantic Coast at These Beautiful Airbnbs Along VIA Rail's 'The Ocean' Route

Canada Epic Stays
by Hannah D. Cooper Jul 10, 2023

Operated by VIA Rail, “The Ocean” strings together 13 cities and towns in Atlantic Canada. Originally “The Ocean Limited” this 800-mile journey has provided a scenic, comfortable, and sustainable method of getting from Montréal, Québec, to the Port of Halifax, Nova Scotia, since 1904.

Traveling from Montréal to Halifax (or vice versa) in one swoop takes 22 hours and you have the choice of Economy or Sleeper Plus. However, breaking the passage up with one or two stopovers means immersing yourself in the culture and Great Outdoors of Canada’s Québec and Maritime provinces. These Airbnbs along Canada’s VIA Rail “The Ocean” train route are an awesome upgrade to one of North America’s most beautiful railway journeys.

We hope you love these Airbnbs aLong Canada’s VIA Rail “The Ocean” route! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Elite penthouse in Old Montréal minutes from Gare Centrale

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
This breathtaking duplex in Montréal, QC, will shock you with its designer decor and knockout city views from the roof terrace. The interiors are bathed in natural light from double-story windows and a glass roof while indoor and outdoor fireplaces make this a four-season Airbnb on Eastern Canada’s Ocean train line. Montréal Central Station and all the downtown attractions are within walking distance.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $1,082 per night

Book Now

Industrial loft in Downtown Montréal near Ocean terminus

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
An alternative Montréal Airbnb for solo wayfarers or couples, this rustic urban loft is a vision in exposed brickwork and raw materials. A shelving unit sections the sleeping zone while modern necessities include a Nespresso machine and slick Wi-Fi. Close to Gare Centrale and the Old Port, downloading the BIXI app and getting around on two wheels is recommended.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $269 per night

Book Now

“Floating” Airbnb with an indoor swing in Québec City

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Only three and a half hours from Montréal, Sainte-Foy is where to disembark for the legendary Aquarium of Québec. One of the most unique rentals along the VIA Rail Ocean train route, this magical loft is worth a detour to the capital of Eastern Canada’s Québec province. Climb into the leafy mezzanine and for the sensation of drifting above a jungle canopy. Besides the private balcony, you’ll share the boho roof terrace.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $240 per night

Book Now

Riverview studio Airbnb in Rivière-du-Loup, QC

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Spend the night in this snug apartment with a private balcony and you’ll be rewarded with a sunset display over the Saint Lawrence River. In lieu of an alarm clock, anticipate being woken up by the scent of pastries and eclairs fresh from the oven of the downstairs bakery. Only a five-minute cab ride from the Rivière-du-Loup train station and boat terminal for whale-watching tours while Waterfalls Park is walkable.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $75 per night

Book Now

Lakefront chalet with private dock in Rimouski

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Get to grips with Atlantic Canada’s naval history with a stopover at Rimouski, Québec: home of the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site and the Onondaga submarine. Although you’ll need to rent a car, this chalet on the shore of Lac à l’Anguille is worth the gas money. Simple yet comfortable, the Airbnb has direct access to the water and a fleet of kayaks and pedal boats at your disposal.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $171 per night

Book Now

Craftsman cottage on the riverfront near Mont-Joli, QC

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Mont-Joli is a jumping-off point for exploring the Gaspé Peninsula. Pick up a hire car from the airport and embark on a mini road trip along the Navigator’s Route (Route 132) before bedding in at this timber haven. Oozing ambiance from every corner, the clawfoot tub and cushy reading nook are the standouts. Pups can stay at this dog-friendly Airbnb and guests of all ages will appreciate the games console in the lounge.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $303 per night

Book Now

Family-friendly Airbnb in Matapédia near salmon fishing

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
The meeting point of the Matapédia and Restigouch salmon rivers, Matapédia, QC, is a Shangri-la for fishers. This idyllic riverside cabin is a five-minute walk from a sport fishing spot while kayak rentals are available from the village. Mountain biking, skiing, and snowshoeing are available seasonally. Comprising one double and one bunk room, the cottage features a patio and an outdoor playground for kids.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $148 per night

Book Now

Creative vacation pad steps from Water Street, Campbellton

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Sliding into New Brunswick territory, this homely Airbnb is within walking distance of Campbellton’s Ocean railway station and the vibrant waterfront. Brimming with personality – the homeowner is an artist – the unit is stocked with books and games plus there is a pop-up pool in the yard during summer. Nearby, Sugarloaf Park offers a lift service mountain bike park plus seasonal hiking and skiing.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $156 per night

Book Now

Atlantic Coast luxury lodging in Bathurst, New Brunswick

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
One of the coolest Airbnbs along VIA Rail’s Ocean train passage for larger groups, this gigantic home is located on Youghall Beach. A number of rooms – mini gym included – have Bay of Chaleur views plus there’s an indoor spa pool. Downtown Bathurst and the train station are 10 minutes away by cab while the Miscou Plains are a fun day out with a hire car.

Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $303 per night

Book Now

Comfortable Airbnb in Miramichi near nature spots

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Right in the heart of the Newcastle neighborhood in central Miramichi, NB, this sweet one-bedroom apartment is a 15-minute walk from the train station. The place is nicely furnished for a couple or solo explorer and has the perk of an in-unit washer and dryer. Hiking, canoeing, biking, and ziplining are available at French Fort Cove without needing to rent a car.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $112 per night

Book Now

Moncton apartment close to everything

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
A hub of cultural and outdoorsy activities, Moncton, NB, lets you sample the best of the Maritime provinces. The Transportation Discovery Centre is a fitting addition to any Ocean itinerary. This chic two-bedroom in one of Eastern Canada’s most walkable cities is minutes from the VIA Rail station. The Airbnb comes with basic cookware, high-quality linens, and a shared patio. There’s free parking if needed but you can Uber to Magnetic Hill in 15 minutes.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $133 per night

Book Now

Off-the-grid Nova Scotia nature retreat with hot tub

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
For a change of scene, rent a car and cast yourselves away to this romantic cabin with a wood-fired cedar hot tub. The lounge, kitchen, and loft bedroom are warmed by a wood stove and snowshoes are available during the winter months. A private walking trail leads you to Demoiselle Creek while Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park are less than 30 minutes away behind the wheel.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $164 per night

Book Now

Pet-friendly apartment in Downtown Amherst, NS

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Lodged on the first floor of a Victorian home, the star of this property is the Parisian-themed chamber. Practical and tasteful throughout, this Amherst Airbnb features built-in closets, laundry facilities, and an office. Dogs get their own bowls and are welcome in the yard while leashed. Consider renting a car and you can dip in and out of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. The Sunrise Trail (Route 6) isn’t to be missed.

Seven guests, three bedrooms
Price: $397 per night

Book Now

Modern Airbnb in Truro near Ocean train line

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Steps from the breweries and kooky stores of the “Hub of Nova Scotia”, the master bedroom in this 5-star vacation rental overlooks historic Inglis Place. The handsome kitchen is equipped with granite countertops and an island for sociable breakfasts. Tend aching muscles with a soak in the tub and savor the convenience of walking to Victoria Park, the banks of the Salmon River, and Downtown Truro.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $181 per night

Book Now

Harborfront living in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Watch the ships coming and going from bed at this hotel-standard apartment on the Halifax port. This contemporary condo comes with all the everyday trappings including a laundry room, dishwasher, and Keurig coffee maker. During your stay, you’ll have access to the Marriott Courtyard Hotel’s swimming pool, gym, and roof terrace. The perfect Airbnb to start or end a trip on Canada’s Ocean train route.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $241 per night

Book Now

Luxury Nova Scotia dome glamping on a private isle

Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb

 

See more photos
Round off your Atlantic Canada railway expedition with a night in this off-the-grid Airbnb. Thirty-five minutes from Halifax, this upscale geodesic dome grants epic views of the picturesque fishing community of Peggy’s Cove. You’ll decompress under the stars in your private hot tub before being lulled to sleep by the sound of the Atlantic Ocean. The island retreat also has a Scandinavian wood fire sauna shared among guests.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $252 per night

Book Now

Discover Matador