Day 1
Fly to Halifax, NS
Arrive in Halifax and transfer independently to your hotel for a two night stay in this vibrant oceanside city.
Day 2
Halifax, NS
A day to explore Halifax, with its fascinating maritime history and lovely walkable downtown. Stroll to the top of the Citadel which has guarded the city since the 18 century. Visit one or two of the fascinating museums charting the history of the city which amongst other things was the first responder for the Titanic.
Day 3
Halifax, NS – Western Shore, NS (47 miles)
Pick up your hire care and then drive along the Lighthouse Route to the picturesque fishing community of Peggy’s Cove and it’s famous lighthouse. Then continue along the coast to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, founded in 1753 and is one of the best surviving British colonial towns in North America. Take the short drive to the Oak Island Resort where you can enjoy the facilities such as the indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub and mini golf.
Day 4
Western Shore, NS – Kejimkujik National Park – Digby/ Smith’s Cove, NS (98 miles)
Indulge in a picturesque cross-country drive that connects the rocky south shore with the verdant Annapolis Valley. Marvel at the breathtaking panoramas while passing through expansive woodlands punctuated by serene lakes. Delve into the wilderness of Kejimkujik National Park, tracing the centuries-old Mi'kmaq canoe routes or embarking on hikes along the trails that wind through its forested heartland. Journey alongside the Annapolis Basin, where remnants of the historic Anglo-French colonial rivalry await exploration. Overnight in Digby/ Smith’s Cove for two nights.
Day 5
Digby/ Smith’s Cove, NS
Discover this idyllic fishing port that resembles a scene from a postcard, featuring a lively harbor that serves as the base for the world's largest scallop fishing fleet. Digby stands as Nova Scotia's beloved summer resort, as well as the largest urban hub in the vicinity. Positioned gracefully on the Annapolis Basin, it offers picturesque views of Digby channel, where the Basin's waters converge with the Bay of Fundy.
Day 6
Digby / Smith’s Cove, NS – Ferry from Digby to Saint John, NB – Fredericton, NB (75 miles on land)
Enjoy a delightful ferry journey across the Bay of Fundy to Saint John, renowned for boasting the world's largest tides. While in Saint John, take a moment to visit the intriguing Reversing Falls. Then continue northbound inland to Fredicton for your overnight stay. If time, you may want to drive just beyond Fredericton, where you'll find King's Landing Historical Settlement, an immersive historical community reenacting everyday life in the 19th century.
Day 7
Fredericton, NB – Fundy National Park – Moncton, NB (153 miles)
Embark on an exploration of renowned covered bridges as you make your way to Fundy National Park. Uncover the wonders of Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, or make a stop in Shediac, famously hailed as the lobster capital of the world, offering the ultimate experience of the region's finest lobster dishes.
Day 8
Moncton, NB – Charlottetown, P.E.I (102 miles)
Before departing Moncton, don't miss the Magnetic Hill's intriguing phenomenon. Explore the British and Acadian heritage of New Brunswick's Northumberland coast. Discover architectural gems like Dorchester and visit the French fort of Beausejour at the Nova Scotia border. Stop by the Cape Jourimain Nature Centre for a glimpse into the region's cultural and environmental diversity. Cross the Confederation Bridge to reach charming Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island, Canada's smallest province.
Day 9
Charlottetown, P.E.I
Enjoy a day of leisure exploring Charlottetown's Victorian homes and graceful squares. Serving as the island's commercial hub, the city's harbour facilitates the shipment of abundant produce from the neighbouring fertile farmlands. Despite its modern-day atmosphere, Charlottetown retains a colonial seaport ambiance, reflected in its charming areas like Great George Street and Old Charlotte Town.
Day 10
Charlottetown, P.E.I – Ferry from Woods Islands to Caribou – Baddeck, NS (170 miles on land)
This morning you’re heading to Wood Islands to pick up the ferry to Nova Scotia, across the Northumberland Strait take the ferry for the crossing which takes just over an hour. You’re then going to drive up to Cape Breton Island in the north east of Nova Scotia. It’s a beautiful route, taking you through the vast Bras d’Or Lake region.
Day 11
Baddeck, NS – Sydney, NS (50 miles)
The trip around the northern edge of Bras d'Or Lake is brief today, leaving ample time to either pause in the quaint lakeside villages or proceed directly to the seaport of Sydney. Consider taking a while to explore local art galleries like the Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design or delve into the city's past at the Miner's Museum.
Day 12
Sydney, NS – Ferry from North Sydney to Port-Aux-Basques – Port-Aux-Basques, NL (20 miles on land)
Consider setting aside some time in the morning to take a leisurely stroll along the breathtaking boardwalk before setting off for the ferry docks and embarking on your full-day voyage across the Cabot Strait. While aboard the ferry, keep an attentive eye out for the enchanting sight of whales, dolphins, and the white puffins and birds of prey that inhabit the magnificent cliffs. Immerse yourself in the unfiltered magnificence of the Atlantic as you make your way to Port-Aux-Basques, where you'll disembark from the ship.
Day 13
Port-Aux-Basques, NL – Rocky Harbour/ Cow Head, NL (203 miles)
Today, journey along the eastern coast of the island, meandering through charming towns and villages nestled amidst the rugged shores and ancient coastal forests. Consider a stop at the picturesque Corner Brook for a delightful lunch and a brief exploration of the town before resuming your travels towards your hotel in the Gros Morne area. Check into your hotel in Rocky Harbour/ Cow Head for two nights.
Day 14
Rocky Harbour/ Cow Head, NL
Dedicate the following two days to fully immersing yourself in the wonders of Gros Morne National Park, recognized as a World Heritage Site owing to its glacier-carved mountains. Engage in invigorating hikes along the trails leading to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain, where you can revel in the panoramic vistas of the Tablelands. Delight in the tranquillity of fishing villages nestled amid towering cliffs and steep fjords. Make the most of the diverse array of activities, such as observing wildlife like the Arctic hare, black bear, lynx, and caribou.
Day 15
Rocky Harbour/ Cow Head, NL – Gander, NL (230 miles)
Embark on an eastward journey today, traversing the core of the island, where the majestic forests and rocky formations transport you to an ancient, primordial terrain. En route, you'll encounter small waterfront towns like South Brook, which originated as forestry and game settlements, now thriving communities that embrace and showcase the island's natural splendour. Your travels culminate in Gander, historically recognized as one of the vital airports during the Second World War.
Day 16
Gander, NL – Terra Nova National Park – Clarenville, NL (91 miles)
Whilst travelling to Clarenville, indulge in the serenity and natural wonders of Terra Nova National Park. Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness as you venture along the extensive network of hiking trails or opt for a coastal exploration by sea kayak. From the vantage points of hills and secluded beaches, witness the graceful presence of minke, pilot, and humpback whales swimming near the shore, with occasional sightings of dolphins and orcas gliding through Bonavista Bay. If you wish to spot moose, black bears, and foxes, a simple hike into the marshes and forests of the interior will offer rewarding glimpses of these creatures.
Day 17
Clarenville, NL – St. John’s, NL (123 miles)
Enjoy a picturesque drive along the Trans-Canada Highway leading you to St. John's. Journey along Conception Bay, where the echoes of piracy and the era of tall ships still permeate the air. The frequent mist adds a mystical charm to the parks and villages dotting the landscape. Continue your exploration to St. John's, the vibrant provincial capital, where the vividly painted streets rival the breathtaking allure of the encircling hills. Overnight in St. Johns for two nights.
Day 18
St. John’s, NL
Today, take the opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of St. John's and its neighbouring vicinity. One of the oldest cities in North America, St. John's harmoniously blends a dedication to innovation and advancement with a deep appreciation for its historical roots. Meander through the steep, narrow lanes of the old town and ascend Signal Hill to soak in the panoramic views. Marvel at the abundance of historic landmarks and buildings and partake in the vibrant atmosphere of the city's various annual festivals and events.
Day 19
St. John’s, NL – Ferry from Argentia to North Sydney (100 miles on land)
Bid farewell to Newfoundland and cross the Avalon Peninsula to catch the ferry back to Nova Scotia. You will be sleeping overnight on this 14-hour ferry trip, and have plenty of time to enjoy the crossing, spotting marine life and taking some final photos. Overnight on the ferry.
Day 20
Sydney, NS – Liscomb Mills, NS (163 miles)
Upon disembarking the ferry, venture a brief distance south along the coast to Liscomb Mills. Upon settling in, take some moments to discover the charm of the town and relish the captivating vistas of the windswept coastlines. Renowned as a haven for hikers, the area boasts an array of trails that meander through the forested perimeters and along the waterways that flow into the Atlantic.
Day 21
Liscomb Mills, NS – Halifax, NS (107 miles)
Head off early morning to Halifax International Airport for your flight home.
