Day 1
Fly to Halifax NS
Arrive in Halifax pick up your hire car and make your way to your first hotel. Shake off your flight with a walk around the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (included in your Parks Canada Discover Pass). Or if you have arrived by lunchtime, we recommend the harbour cruise to see this vibrant water community, which we can pre-book for you and departs at 2pm.
Overnight: Standard - The Barrington Hotel or Hampton Inn by Hilton, Halifax; Upgrade - The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites or Homewood Suites, Halifax
Day 2
Halifax NS to Baddeck NS (217 miles)
Head eastbound through Nova Scotia to the picturesque Cape Breton Island for an overnight stay in Baddeck. Make time to explore the beautiful national and drive the stunning Cabot Trail.
Overnight – Silver Dart Lodge & Macneil House Suites or Inverary Resort or similar
Day 3
Baddeck to Sydney (49 miles) – ferry crossing to Port aux Basques
The ferry departs around late morning then you have a six-hour cruise across the Cabot Strait to enjoy the seascapes and birdlife. Check into your hotel for the night and enjoy dinner in the charming Port aux Basques
Overnight: St. Christopher’s Hotel Port aux Basques
Day 4
Port aux Basques to Rocky Harbour / Norris Point (207 miles)
Set out on the Trans Canada Highway towards the stunning UNESCO recognized Gros Morne National Park. En route you could stop in picturesque Corner Brook for lunch and visit the Captain James Cook National Historic Site before continuing on to your hotel in the Gros Morne area. You might also want to stop at one of the visitor centres today to give you an overview of the area and attractions.
Two nights: Ocean View Hotel Rocky Harbour or Sugar Hill Inn Norris Point
Day 5
Gros Morne National Park
A full day to enjoy the spectacular Gros Morne National Park. We would recommend the Western Brook Pond boat tour which we can pre-book for you (see the Optional Excursions tab for details). It’s a two hour cruise through a spectacular glacier-carved land-locked fjord, with waterfalls cascading from 2000 feet. It departs early afternoon, so you’ll have time in the morning for a hike through the glorious national park.
Day 6
Rocky Harbour NL to Twillingate NL (265 miles)
Today travel across central Newfoundland where large inland lakes and deep forests create a primeval landscape. Reaching Twillingate, marvel at the magnificent coastline, historical and picturesque streets set amidst a lush countryside. In the waters off the coast, look for whales, dolphins, harp seals, seabirds throughout the season and possibly icebergs in the spring and early summer
Two nights: Anchor Inn Hotel or Alphabet Fleet Inn B&B
Day 7
Twillingate
A day at leisure to explore the local attractions, such as the fascinating Twillingate Museum detailing a rich maritime history and cultural heritage. For the adventurous, take a hike on the scenic trails of Long Point Lighthouse where incredible ocean views and the iconic Newfoundland coastline provide perfect photo opportunities. We would recommend booking the “Whale, Icebergs & birds” boat tour to spot superb wildlife and enjoy the seascapes.
Day 8
Twillingate NL to Charlottetown NL (126 miles)
On the coastal drive to Gander today, you may wish to stop at one of the many small galleries along the way or make a photo stop to capture the incredible landscapes. Stopver in Gander, famous for its airport and role during 9/11 as a refuge for stranded flights - the basis for the wonderful musical "Come from Away". Continue to the Terra Nova National Park region, its protected lands renown for ancient forests, abundant wildlife, and great hiking trails for all abilities.
Overnight: Clode Sound Motel and Restaurant
Day 9
Charlottetown NL to St.John’s NL (151 miles)
Take time today to explore the towns and attractions along the route, such as the Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site. Upon arriving in St. John’s, the city greets visitors with its signature colourful historic houses on Jellybean Row and the iconic Cabot Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and ocean.
Two nights: Sandman Signature St. John’s Hotel; Or upgrade to Alt Hotel St. John’s or JAG Boutique Hotel
Day 10
St.John’s NL
St. John’s is a unique and important city in Atlantic Canada, with several historic attractions, plus a superb live music scene and great restaurants. Visit some of the intriguing National Historic Sites such as the Cape Spear Lighthouse and the battlements of Signal Hill. A short trip south brings you to Bay Bull’s where could take a puffin and whale watching tour. Or perhaps opt for a walking tour of this charming small city.
Day 11
Today it’s time to head home. You can either fly from St. John’s airport or drive to Argentia and take the ferry back to Nova Scotia (not included).
