Prince Edward Island: Green Gables House & Preserve Co. Tour

Summary

Anne’s house, red cliffs, laughter at Rustico Wharf and sweet jam scents

You’ll walk through Anne’s world at Green Gables Heritage House, wander shaded trails in Prince Edward Island’s countryside, watch fishermen at Rustico Wharf, and taste fresh preserves at a local shop—all with stories from your guide along the way. This half-day tour leaves you time for your own discoveries back in Charlottetown.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so much nostalgia in a place I’d never been. Prince Edward Island looked just like the old book covers — softer, maybe, with that washed-out June sky. Our guide, Mary, had this way of telling stories that made you lean in. She pointed out the rolling farmland as we left Charlottetown (I kept trying to spot a fox or something but only saw cows). The drive was quiet except for her voice and the sound of tires on wet pavement — it rained a little at first, which somehow fit.

Green Gables Heritage House is smaller than I pictured but it smells like wood polish and damp grass. There were kids running around pretending to be Anne; I think one of them actually recited lines from the book? We wandered down Lovers’ Lane (it’s real), and I kept brushing against wet leaves. The trails felt private even with other visitors around. Mary told us about L.M. Montgomery’s life — she said the author used to sneak off here as a girl when she needed space. I liked that detail.

We stopped at Rustico Wharf next, where fishing boats bobbed under heavy clouds. A fisherman waved at us with two fingers — not sure if that means something special here or just “hey.” Mary explained how lobster traps work (I still don’t get it). The air smelled salty and faintly metallic, mixed with diesel from the boats. Then we swung by the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company for tea and jam samples — I bought a jar of wild blueberry because it tasted like summer mornings somehow.

The day trip to Green Gables from Charlottetown isn’t long — maybe four hours? But it lingers more than you’d expect. On the way back, I watched water bead on the window and thought about how places can feel familiar before you’ve really known them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Green Gables and Island Highlights

• Tour Green Gables Heritage House
• Walk Lovers' Lane and Haunted Wood trails
• Photo stop at red cliff, PEI National Park
• Visit Rustico Wharf and learn lobster fishing
• Shop at The Preserve Co.
• Pass by Charlottetown for brief tour

Top questions

How long is the Green Gables tour from Charlottetown?

The tour lasts about four hours round-trip from Charlottetown.

Is admission to Green Gables Heritage Place included?

Yes, entry fees for Green Gables Heritage Place are included in the tour.

Do you visit Prince Edward Island Preserve Company on this tour?

Yes, there is a stop at the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company for samples and shopping.

Are there photo stops along the way?

Yes, there are photo opportunities at PEI’s red cliffs and Rustico Wharf.

Is transportation provided during the tour?

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle is included throughout the tour.

Will there be a guide during the day trip to Green Gables?

A knowledgeable driver-guide provides live commentary during your trip.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and includes short walks.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your half-day includes pickup in Charlottetown by air-conditioned vehicle, entry to Green Gables Heritage Place with its trails and gift shops, guided stops at Rustico Wharf and local oyster farms, plus time at Prince Edward Island Preserve Company for tea or jam—before heading back downtown with plenty of afternoon left for exploring on your own.