The Maritimes: Nova Scotia
Colourful fishing villages, seaside hiking trails, a famous lighthouse and a Prohibition-era rum-running town all await you on this week-long trip that shows off Nova Scotia’s most iconic highlights. From the rocky shores of Peggy’s Cove to the Skyline Trail of Cape Breton, you’ll discover why this corner of Canada is so beloved by all who visit. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg, tour the historic town of Baddeck, hear local Cape Breton music with its signature fiddle, drive the spectacular Cabot Trail and shop for locally made Mi’kmaq arts and crafts, all before finishing up on Prince Edward Island.
7 days, from
$2,595
per person
GROUP SIZE
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Details
Countries Visited:
Canada
Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights)
Transportation: Private Vehicle
Included Meals:
- 6 breakfasts
- 1 lunches
- 2 dinners
Group size: Minimum 1, Max 12
Minimum Age: 15
See for yourself why the charming fishing town of Peggy’s Cove is one of the most photographed places in Canada.
Join a local guide for a walking tour of historic Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk the stunning coastal trails of Cape Breton Highlands National Park and follow the Skyline Trail mountain pass out to sweeping sea views.
Take a tour of the historic town of Baddeck, which marks the start (and end) of the famous Cabot Trail and is where Alexander Graham Bell had a summer home.
Itinerary
Welcome to Halifax! Your tour starts today with a welcome meeting at 10am before you head to historic Lunenburg on the South Shore, one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Mahone Bay and nearby Blue Rocks on a leader-led walking tour and learn about this old fishing community that’s become a hub for artists and photographers. Enjoy some free time exploring the old town centre, which is a National Historic Site of Canada. And since Lunenburg was a rum-running town in the days of Prohibition, make sure you take the time to sample of the local brews. Head back to Halifax in the late afternoon and meet later in the evening for an optional dinner if you wish.
Take a trip to famous Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village that is one of the most photographed places in all of Canada – for good reason! Rocky outcrops, the crashing Atlantic, colourful fishing boats and that famous red-tipped lighthouse are what you expect to see on Maritimes postcards. Follow your local leader along the Peggy’s Cove Rock Walk, which meanders along the barren coastline that glaciers created some 12,000 years ago. Grab lunch in the village (your own expense) – perhaps a creamy seafood chowder or fresh lobster roll.
Today you will drive from Halifax to Baddeck, but not without a stop at the excellent Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Center. Located in the heart of a development owned by Millbrook First Nation, it tells the story of the Millbrook Mi’kmaq and the important role they played and continue to play in the Maritimes. Don’t miss the gift shop which sells beautiful traditional arts and crafts. On arrival in Baddeck, relax and settle into your hotel for the next two nights.
Today offers a big day of discovery and adventure. Start with a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to gain insight into the life and work of this inventor, scientist, and teacher who is arguably best known for inventing the telephone. Then drive along the Cabot Trail and stop for a leisurely hike within Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Skyline Trail is the park’s signature hike, which leads out to spectacular sweeping views over the sea. If it’s a nice day for driving, your leader will take you further along the Cabot Trail – a 4 hours’ drive, but with plenty of beautiful stops along the way. Enjoy a picnic lunch while you’re out along the trail before returning to Baddeck for the night.
Drive from Baddeck to Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island and the smallest provincial capital in the country. It’s the perfect destination to explore on foot when you arrive in the late afternoon. Stroll alongside the picturesque harbour or take in the leafy parks and Victorian-era streets lined with gabled houses. Tonight you may like to join your group for an optional dinner and toast your adventure.
You’re free to leave at your leisure today, or spend some more time exploring Charlottetown on your own. If you’re joining our Maritimes Prince Edward Island & New Brunswick tour for a combo trip, you’ll meet your group here today in Charlottetown.