Day 1
Fly to Halifax, Nova Scotia
Arrive Halifax and transfer independently to your hotel for a two night stay. Halifax is situated on one of the world’s largest harbours and has a rich maritime history.
Day 2
Halifax
Halifax, located on one of the world's largest natural harbours, blends modern and historic charm. Explore its maritime heritage through museums, the restored Historic Properties, and the 18th-century Citadel. Enjoy a Harbour Hopper tour, visiting landmarks like the Public Gardens, St. Paul’s Church, and the waterfront, followed by a scenic harbour cruise.
Day 3
Halifax to Western Shore/ Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia (47 miles)
Pick up your hire car and head of the city westbound. Drive the Lighthouse Route to Peggy's Cove, a picturesque fishing village surrounded by granite and coastal barrens. Explore trails leading to its famous lighthouse, then continue along the coast, stopping in charming villages like Chester before reaching your hotel.
Day 4
Western Shore/ Mahone Bay
Explore the charming town of Mahone Bay and stroll through historic Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If the Bluenose II is in port, you may have the chance to board this iconic schooner. Visit the Museum of the Atlantic or join a guided walking tour of the city.
Day 5
Western Shore to Digby/ Smith’s Cove, Nova Scotia (98 miles)
Enjoy a scenic drive across the rugged South Shore to the lush Annapolis Valley, taking in stunning views of woodlands and lakes. Explore Kejimkujik National Park, following ancient Mi’kmaq canoe routes or hiking trails into its forested core. Then, visit Annapolis Royal, former Port Royal, and tour Fort Anne or local galleries and shops. Later, continue to Digby on the southern shores of the Bay of Fundy, for your overnight stay.
Day 6
Digby/ Smith’s Cove to Wolfville/ Grand-Pre, Nova Scotia (86 miles)
Today, enjoy a scenic journey through the heart of Annapolis Valley along the Evangeline Trail. Highlights include the Bay of Fundy, lush farmland, vibrant vineyards, and apple orchards.
Day 7
Wolfville/ Grand-Pre to Moncton, New Brunswick (205 miles)
Today's journey highlights the natural diversity of the Maritimes, featuring rolling farmlands, dense forests, and coastal views as you travel from Nova Scotia to New Brunswick. The scenery shifts from vast landscapes to charming small towns as you near your destination.
Day 8
Moncton to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (102 miles)
Take the route to Shediac, known as the Lobster Capital of the World, then continue along New Brunswick's Northumberland coast, rich in British and Acadian history. Visit the Cape Jourimain Nature Centre near the Confederation Bridge to learn about the region's culture and environment. Cross the 13 km Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island and arrive in Charlottetown.
Day 9
Charlottetown
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Charlottetown’s Victorian homes and charming squares. Despite its 20th-century character, the city retains the feel of a colonial seaport, especially in areas like Great George Street and Old Charlottetown. In the afternoon, visit Prince Edward Island National Park and the iconic Anne of Green Gables House.
Day 10
Charlottetown to Baddeck, Nova Scotia via ferry (185 miles)
Today, drive through peaceful landscapes and small communities that reflect Nova Scotia’s diverse cultures. Arrive at the narrows of the Northumberland Strait, near the commercial hub of Port Hawkesbury, at the tip of St. George’s Bay. Continue through rolling fields and the Bras d'Or Lake lowlands, reaching Baddeck, the gateway to Cape Breton Highlands where you will stay for two nights.
Day 11
Baddeck
Take the scenic drive along the Cabot Trail into the highlands of North Breton, past lochs and glens settled by the Scottish Highlanders and along the scenic coastlines settled by the Acadians. Enjoy the stunning views of sea-swept headlands, plunging cliffs and tranquil beaches as you continue through the rugged Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Return to Baddeck for the evening.
Day 12
Baddeck to West Bay, Nova Scotia (54 miles)
Today drive south through charming maritime communities that still celebrate their Scottish heritage. Tour the Fortress of Louisburg, where you will enjoy the interactive demonstrations by staff in their historical costumes. You can have lunch here in one of period restaurants serving authentic meals of the original inhabitants. Continue onto Bras d’Or Lake, considered to be one of the best places to sail, and tonight you’ll be staying in West Bay.
Day 13
West Bay to Guysborough/ Charlos Cove, Nova Scotia (55 miles)
Today, enjoy a peaceful journey through Nova Scotia’s picturesque countryside and rugged coastline. Highlights include charming rural communities, serene lakes, and pristine beaches along Route 344, offering a tranquil and scenic drive. Overnight in Guysborough/ Charlos Cove.
Day 14
Guysborough/ Charlos Cove to Halifax (109 miles)
If time permits, visit the Liscomb Game Sanctuary, a 250-square-kilometer area of pristine Nova Scotian forest teeming with wildlife, including moose, deer, mink, and muskrat. Then, follow the scenic Marine Drive back to Halifax International Airport to drop off your car hire at the airport and fly home.
Please be aware that departure flights leaving from Halifax typically leave mid-morning. Why not extend your trip with an additional night in Halifax for ease of travel?
