Halifax

Arrive in Halifax. This attractive city is a bustling hub of art galleries, shops, museums, restaurants, sidewalk cafes and vibrant nightlife, centred around the picturesque waterfront. Officially founded in 1749 the history dates back even further, to times of the Mi’kmaq Natives, European Fishermen and the early Acadians, who came long before the British.  On your second morning enjoy a city tour and take in the sights. In the afternoon you could take a Harbour tour or a visit the excellent Maritime Museum of the Atlantic with its collection of the memorabilia collected from the Titanic is strongly recommended.

2 nights in Halifax.

Halifax to Lunenburg

Collect your car and drive the south shore along the Lighthouse Route. En route visit Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village surrounded by bare granite and coastal barrens and home to Nova Scotia’s most visited lighthouse. Continue on to Mahone Bay, a relaxing seaside town known for its quiet beauty and pretty churches. Further along the route you will arrive in Lunenburg, a unique town in terms of architecture. Whilst here visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, situated on the waterfront and the Lunenburg Marine Park.

1 night in Lunenburg.

Lunenburg to Kejimkujik National Park

Drive along the shore towards Yarmouth and then head inland through the pretty Arcadian forest to Trout Point Inn. Nestled next to the Tusket River, every room has a water view and you are encouraged to unwind and forget the cares of the outside world!  It is essential to reserve for dinner well in advance - the food here is excellent. 

There is a wonderful visitor centre at Kejimkujik, which houses replicas of the native tools, found by archaeologists, dating back 4500 years ago.  Wander through groves of 300-year-old hemlock trees, follow a trail to an abandoned gold mine, or visit an overgrown farm. The main park has 15 day trails to choose from ranging from short riverside strolls to half-day hikes.

2 nights in Kejimkujik National Park.

Kejimkujik National Park to Annapolis Royal

A short drive to the coast and Annapolis Royal which boasts spectacular views of the Annapolis Basin.  Take time to explore Annapolis Valley, including the Fort Anne National Historic Site, Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens and the HMCS/CFB Cornwallis Military Museum.  The Digby Neck area is one of the best places to see whales in the area. You are likely to see the widest variety of different species here including the rare Right Whale.  Cruises depart from Tiverton at 1300.

2 nights in Annapolis Royal.

Annapolis Royal to Wolfville

Follow the Evangeline Trail as it passes orchards, historic towns and fishing villages. The trail takes its name from the epic poem 'Evangeline', which was inspired by the expulsion of the Acadians and penned by Longfellow. Wolfville is known as the cultural and intellectual centre of the valley and is home to many boutiques and good restaurants. Originally know as Mud Creek, it got its name in 1830 when two granddaughters of Judge Elisha DeWolfe convinced their postmaster uncle that a more suitable name was needed. The Robie Tufts Nature Centre, The Acadia University Art Gallery, Randell House Museum and the Grand Pre National Historic Site are all worth a visit.

2 nights in Wolfville.

Wolfville to Tatamagouche

According to Mik'Maq legend, Glooscap was a giant god-like man who lived on the high bluffs of Cape Blomidon, overlooking the Bay of Fundy.  He was created by Gisoolg (the Great Spirit Creator) and brought to life with a lightning bolt striking sand. Today you follow the Glooscap Trail to Truro at the very tip of the Bay of Fundy. From Truro continue on to Tatamagouche, a vibrant community where old Victorian buildings mix with  the modern. 

Use Tatamagouche as a base to explore the Sunrise Trail Heritage Trail.  For the more adventurous Tatamagouche is the water sports capital of Nova Scotia. Enthusiasts will enjoy sailing, kayaking, and wind surfing on the Bay.  There is an optional excursion of Tidal Bore Rafting from Truro. Aboard a powered zodiac, this is an exciting trip on one of the most powerful bodies of water in the world. 

2 nights in Tatamagouche.

Tatmagouche to Baddeck

Continue along the Sunrise Trail to Pictou - the birthplace of New Scotland. Continue over to Cape Breton via the Canso Causeway.  The most notable local resident of Baddeck was Alexander Graham Bell and you can visit the National Historic Site named after him.  Also spend time exploring the famous Cabot Trail, one of the most spectacular drives in all of Canada. The trail winds around the rocky splendours of Cape Breton’s northern shore, ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The park has 26 hiking trails ranging from 20-minute short walks to challenging hikes through stunning mountain and coastal landscapes.

2 nights in Baddeck, Cape Breton Island.

Baddeck to Charlos

Explore the southern shore of Cape Breton. Enroute visit Glace Bay which is the start of the Marconi Trail, named after Guglielmo Marconi who sent the first transatlantic wireless message from here. Follow the trail to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest historical reconstruction in North America. Continue along Marine Drive, passing through many picturesque villages and communities including Guysborough - an inviting community with distinctive architecture overlooking Chedabucto Bay.

1 night in Charlos Cove, Cape Breton Island.

Charlos Cove to Halifax

Depart Charlos Cove and take time to visit both Goldboro, once the best goldmining district in the province and Sherbrooke Village, home of the fascinating living history museum. The Museum is a re-enactment of village life in old Nova Scotia. From there,  take a leisurely drive back to Halifax. En route visit Musqodoboit Harbour & Valley, a haven for nature lovers, and Martinique Beach. You will drop off your rental car at the airport ready for your flight home.