A Taste of the Maritimes
Self-drive tour
Embark on a journey to discover the highlights of the Canadian Maritimes! Travelling in a circular route, experience many of the natural wonders, historic centres and fascinating cultures representing some of the oldest communities in the country. Halifax retains its prestige as the modern centre of commerce for eastern Canada, while still celebrating its history and traditions. The Western Shore and Digby reflect the iconic face of the region, with picturesque lighthouses and whales breaching just off the coast. The charming streets of Saint John echo the elements of its colonial past, while Charlottetown embodies the small city charm of the east.
In Charlottetown, visitors can enjoy exploring the historic waterfront on foot. Charlottetown might be a small city, but it’s bursting with big energy and infectious island vibes. It’s got all the charm and hospitality Prince Edward Island is famous for, plus culinary experiences and an arts and culture scene that take visitors by surprise—in the best way possible. Soak in the romance and nostalgia of our postcard-perfect streetscapes. Wander along a boardwalk where lobster boats and sailboats cosy up.
Finally, Baddeck serves as the hub from which to explore the Cabot Trail – a stunning 300km odyssey of epic coastlines and primaeval forests. Scenic drives of half a day or less leave ample time for exploration of local areas.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13&14
Day 1 : UK-Halifax
Arrive at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, collect your car and make your way to your downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure for exploring this bustling oceanside city. Overnight in Halifax.
Day 2 : Halifax
Halifax is located on one of the world’s largest natural harbours and bears all the hallmarks of both a modern and historic city. You can discover its proud maritime heritage in the many museums and along the waterfront area, which includes the restored Historic Properties. Independently visit the fortress at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site that has guarded the city since the 18th-century, the Public Gardens or perhaps sail on a harbour cruise aboard the Tall Ship Silva. Overnight in Halifax.
Day 3 : Halifax to Western Shore (75 km)
Drive along the Lighthouse Route to the fishing community of Peggy’s Cove. This picturesque fishing village is surrounded by bare granite and coastal barrens with trails leading to its famous lighthouse. Continue along the coast and perhaps stop in the port of Lunenburg for a visit to the renowned Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic before arriving in Western Shore. Overnight in Western Shore.
Day 4 : Western Shore
A day at leisure to enjoy the facilities of your hotel, or independently pay a visit to the Oak Island Municipal museum and learn how this small island is rumoured to have been a site of buried treasures for centuries. Overnight in Western Shore.
Day 5 : Western Shore to Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site / Digby (158 km)
Take the scenic, cross-country drive linking the rocky south shore with the lush Annapolis Valley. Relish the amazing views as you traverse extensive woodlands dotted with lakes. Perhaps take some time to explore the wilderness of Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site along the centuries-old Mi’kmaq canoe routes or follow the hiking trails into its forested heartland. Travel along the Annapolis Basin, boasting relics of Anglo-French colonial rivalry. Overnight in Digby.
Day 6 : Digby to Saint John (80 km - land only)
Enjoy a ferry ride across the Bay of Fundy to Saint John, famous for having the world’s largest tides. Arriving in In Saint John, check into your hotel and take the day to explore the downtown area. A vibrant culture reverberates around this small town. Restaurant patios offer beautiful views and fresh ocean breezes to spend the day relaxing. Overnight in Saint John.
Day 7 : Saint John
A second day at leisure in St. John to perhaps visit one of the many small museums and galleries in town, or take a trip to the famous Reversing Falls – a trick of the tide that seems to reverse the water’s current. Or perhaps take a scenic drive to Fredericton to visit the King’s Landing Historical Settlement – a role-playing historic community depicting everyday life in 19th century. Overnight in St. John.
Day 8 : Saint John to Moncton (152 km)
Today you can explore popular covered bridges en route to Fundy National Park. Discover Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park Marvel at the most dramatic tides in the world, revealing the sea floor and towers of naturally carved stone on your self-guided tour. Afterwards, perhaps visit Shediac, the lobster capital of the world, where one can taste this delicacy at its best. Overnight in Moncton.
Day 9 : Moncton to Charlottetown (164 km)
Before leaving Moncton we suggest a stop at Magnetic Hill where you can put the car in neutral to experience the illusion of being pulled uphill by a ‘magnetic force.’ The Northumberland coast of New Brunswick has a rich British and Acadian heritage — it’s yours to discover today if you choose to travel through the architectural gem of Dorchester and visit the French fort of Beausejour at the Nova Scotia provincial border. Near the base of the Confederation Bridge is the Cape Jourimain Nature Centre, a community-operated ecotourism and environmental education facility, open to the public displaying the cultural history and environmental diversity of the region. Cross to Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, but you’ll be surprised by the abundance of adventure and activity that awaits. Explore fishing villages, charming small towns, sprawling farming communities and thriving urban centres. Let lighthouses guide you along scenic coastal drives with seaside restaurants, endless beaches, the national park, and artisan studios. Charlottetown is a quaint, walkable city full of culture, festivals and events, artisan shops, and world-class restaurants.
Day 10 : Charlottetown to Baddeck (272 km, land only)
Today’s journey takes you past Orwell Corner Historic Site to board the ferry across the Northumberland Strait to Nova Scotia. Drive through tranquil scenery and small communities that continue to celebrate Nova Scotia’s Scottish, Mi’kmaq and Acadian identities. Continue into Cape Breton Island through the magnificent highland scenery that surrounds Bras d’Or Lake, and drive to the delightful resort community of Baddeck. The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is dedicated to the life and works of Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone. Overnight in Baddeck.
Day 11 : Baddeck
A scenic highlight of this trip is to drive the Cabot Trail into the highlands of northern Cape Breton. The trail runs past lochs and glens settled by Scottish Highlanders and along scenic coastlines settled by Acadians. You will meander through the rugged Cape Breton Highlands National Park enjoying stunning views of sea-swept headlands, steep cliffs and tranquil beaches. Hiking trails lead into the interior of the park where stunning vistas appear at each turn. Return to Baddeck through the lush Margaree Valley. Overnight in Baddeck.
Day 12 : Baddeck to Halifax (351 km)
A day of leisurely travel across the heart of Nova Scotia. Perhaps stop for lunch in either the small town of Truro or Antigonish for a taste of peaceful Maritimes life. Continue on to the port city of Halifax, renowned for its long and fascinating history and great importance to the East Coast. Overnight in Halifax.
Day 13&14 : Depart Halifax - Arrive UK
Check out of your hotel and drop off your car at the airport before taking your homeward flight.
