Authentic Nova Scotia

Itinerary Highlights

Discover Halifax's vibrant waterfront and museums showcasing it maritime and immigration history
Nova Scotia has over 8000 miles of coastline dotted with picturesque villages and harbour towns such as Peggys Cove and Lunenberg
Follow the Evangeline Trail, a coastal route alongside the shore of the magnificent Bay of Fundy; the landscape is teeming with birds, wildlife and wild flowers
Spend a day at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest historical reconstruction in North America
Best time to travel May - October

What's Included

Accommodation Throughout
Car Hire
International Flights

15 nights from £3,405 per person

Sophie

Travel Specialist

01244 433 057

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Nova Scotia has over 8000 miles of coastline and is almost surrounded by ocean, so much of your time will be spent on or near the water during a holiday here. Learn of the province’s maritime history at Halifax’s Maritime Museum, visit charming seaside and fishing villages such as Peggy’s Cove and Shelburne, and take picture postcard photos of the numerous lighthouses dotted along the coast. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich and diverse culture that includes Celtic, Gaelic, Acadian, African and Mikmaq influences. Enjoy Nova Scotia’s stunning scenery, fresh seafood and lively musical entertainment ranging from bagpipes to fiddlers.

Itinerary

Day 1 UK to Halifax

Arrive in Halifax, Nova Scotia’s Provincial Capital. The afternoon is free for you to explore this attractive city and waterfront which is a bustling hub of art galleries, shops, museums, restaurants and sidewalk cafes.

Staying at

Patio garden at Halliburton Hotel, Halifax

Day 2 Halifax

Today is free for you to explore Halifax's attractions and Historic Properties, Spring Garden Road, Province House and much more. Why not visit the excellent Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to see the unique collection of the memorabilia collected after the tragic Titanic disaster? Another popular attraction is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. In the evening we recommend the Grafton Street Dinner Theatre – entertaining you with music, comedy and interactive characters.

Staying at

Day 3 Halifax to Lunenberg (60 miles)

Lunenberg

Departing Halifax along the south shore Lighthouse Route, you will have time to stop en route at the picturesque fishing village of Peggy's Cove to see Nova Scotia's most visited lighthouse. Further on you will come to Mahone Bay, a picture-perfect seaside town renowned for its beauty and churches. Afterwards you will arrive at Lunenburg, the region’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, and what is widely touted as one of the most beautiful towns not just in Nova Scotia, but in all of Canada. Staying at: Alician B&B

Day 4 Lunenberg

Today is free for you to explore this delightful area. Established in 1753, Lunenburg proudly preserves the original layout of a planned colonial settlement. A great way to take in the sights is on a guided walking tour or a “Trot in Time” horse and buggy ride – a 35-minute journey from the waterfront area that weaves back and forth through the streets. Staying at: Alician B&B

Day 5 Lunenberg to East Kemptville (120 miles)

East Kemptville, Nova Scotia

Continue along the Lighthouse Route and visit historic Liverpool, located at the mouth of the Mersey. Known as the Port of the Privateers, Liverpool has a rich and colourful history with over 31 historic sites dating back to 1763, and can easily be explored on foot. The scenic drive to East Kemptville takes you through beautiful bays and picturesque fishing villages, including Shelburne with its eye-catching waterfront district. Staying at: Trout Point Lodge

Day 6 East Kemptville to Annapolis Royal (80 miles)

Annapolis Royal

Today takes you to Yarmouth, once the second largest port in Canada. This historic seaport dates back to the Viking era. Follow the Evangeline Trail, a coastal route alongside the shore of the magnificent Bay of Fundy; the landscape is teeming with birds, wildlife and wild flowers. Annapolis Valley is known as wine country and overlooks the spectacular Annapolis Basin, the gateway to the Bay of Fundy and New Brunswick. Staying at: Queen Anne Inn

Day 7 Annapolis Valley

There are several attractions and activities in the Annapolis Valley, such as whale watching at Brier Island or a visit to Fort Anne National Historic Site, the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens or the O'Dell House Museum. Stroll along the delightful waterfront boardwalk or drive to the spectacular inland Kejimkujik National Park, which boasts over 100km of trails providing numerous opportunities to explore the variety of forests, lakes and rivers.

Day 8 Annapolis Royal to Wolfville (68 miles)

Wolfville

Take the Evangeline Trail to the charming university town of Wolfville, known as the cultural and intellectual centre of the valley and home to many classic shops, boutiques and fine dining. The town’s self-guided Heritage Home Walking Tour passes stately homes, each with its own unique architecture. Taste wine and learn about grape growing at the Domaine de Grand Pré Winery.

Staying at

Front parlour at Tattingstone Inn, Wolfville

Premium Suite at Tattingstone Inn, Wolfville

Day 9 Wolfville to Wallace (140 miles)

Wallace, Nova Scotia

Your journey will take you along the Glooscap Trail on to Truro, known as the ‘hub of Nova Scotia’. In 1975 The Guinness Book of World Records listed Burntcoat Head in the Minas Basin, as the site of the greatest average tide of 47.5 feet with an extreme range of 53.6 feet. You can witness this daily phenomenon at the Burntcoat Head Park. From the Historic Village of Maitland, to the Walton Lighthouse and the sweeping vistas around the Cheverie community, Highway 215 is rich in natural beauty and things to do. Staying at: Fox Harb'r Resort

Day 10 Wallace

Wallace, Nova Scotia

Today you can explore the region and visit the many art galleries, museums, craft and gift shops and great beaches. Places of interest include Jost Vinyard, Balmoral Grist Mill and the Sutherland Stream Mill. The area is the watersports capital of Nova Scotia where you can enjoy swimming, boating, sailing, kayaking and wind surfing on Tatamagouche Bay. Staying at: Fox Harb'r Resort

Day 11 Wallace to Ingonish (238 miles)

Ingonish, Nova Scotia

Today you will visit the historic town of Pictou. Known as the birthplace of New Scotland, it was here that the province's first Scottish Highlanders landed aboard the ship ‘Hector’ in 1773. The award-winning waterfront incorporates Hector Heritage Quay, where you will find a full-scale replica of the Hector. Continue to Cape Breton via the Canso Causeway and onto Baddeck. This scenic village overlooks the beautiful Bras d'Or Lakes. Staying at: Lantern Hill & Hollow

Day 12 Ingonish

Ingonish, Nova Scotia

Spend a full day on the spectacular Cabot Trail, one of the greatest drives in all of Canada. Take the drive in a counter-clockwise direction winding around the rocky splendour of Cape Breton's northern shore before ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are several points of interest where you can stop en route such as the L’Eglise St. Pierre historic church, Les Trois Pignons Museum and the Dr Elizabeth LeFort Gallery. Staying at: Lantern Hill & Hollow

Day 13 Ingonish to Louisbourg (110 miles)

Louisbourg, Nova Scotia

On your drive to Louisbourg take time to stop and visit the Miners Museum and Marconi National Historic Site. The main attraction today is the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest historical reconstruction in North America and the town of Louisbourg. Hear the cannons and muskets fire, watch the changing of the guard and meet the villagers at this meticulously preserved and recreated French fortification of over 250 years ago. Staying at: Louisbourg Harbour Inn

Day 14 Louisburg to Charlos Cove (160 miles)

Charlos Cove, Nova Scotia

Today you will leave Cape Breton Island and cross the Canso Causeway, driving along the Eastern Shore and following the Marine Drive Route with its rugged coastline, tranquil bays and beaches. We suggest stopping off at Guysborough - an inviting neighbourhood with distinctive architecture overlooking Chedabucto Bay before arriving at Charlos Cove. Staying at: Seawind Landing

Day 15 Charlos Cove to Liscomb Mills (74 miles)

Liscomb Mills, Nova Scotia

Your destination today is Liscombe, reached via a scenic coastal drive. Here you can choose from many outdoor activities such as sea kayaking, harbour tours and canoeing; perhaps opt to take the short drive to visit Sherbrooke Village – a typical Nova Scotian Village from the 1860’s where most of the interpreters are dressed in period costume. Staying at: Liscomb Lodge

Day 16 Liscomb Mills to Halifax (101 miles)

Take a leisurely drive back to Halifax, visiting Musquodoboit Harbour & Valley en route. If time permits visit Martinique Beach, the longest beach in the province. Continue to Halifax Airport where you will drop off your car rental and get ready for your onward journey.