Churchill, Manitoba

Whether you call it a "northern light" or the "polar bear capital of the world," there's no doubt that Churchill is pure Arctic beauty.

Located in northeastern Manitoba, on the shores of the Hudson's Bay, this town of about 963 people is the perfect place for northern adventures. Seasons are highlighted by the arrival of its most famous animal species – the beluga whale and the polar bear. The belugas arrive in summer to feed and mate, while the polar bears come in October and November to hunt for seals. To see the polar bears, take a local tour on an Arctic buggy across the snowy drifts. The ride is bumpy and the temperatures are cold, but the sight of the huge mammals is truly a unique experience. You'll also see plenty of other animals such as arctic hare, caribou, and seals, and bird species such as ptarmigan, sandhill cranes, and Arctic terns.

Besides wildlife sighting, Churchill offers dogsledding and excellent fishing in nearby rivers and lakes. Arctic grayling, sea-run trout, and northern pike are just a few of the distinctive species found around Churchill. Of course, if catching the fish isn't your thing, Churchill has a good variety of restaurants. With names like the Lazy Bear Café, you'll know you're getting authentic northern cooking. Don't forget to try one of the local specialties, Arctic char.

Churchill has its share of tourist sites, the most important of which is York Factory. Home to a major Hudson's Bay Company trading post, York Factory's exhibits will take you back to a time when the British and the French were engaged in a winner-take-all struggle to dominate the fur trade.

Of course, for everyday living, Churchill has what you need. It has an excellent recreation center with a bowling alley, curling rink, swimming pool, and arena. And, for the simplest of pleasures, sit outside on a clear night and watch the northern lights. Known to be particularly bright over Churchill, the lights will give you a taste of freedom no other place can offer.

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