road trip in nova scotia

The ultimate Nova Scotia road trip: A one week itinerary

Iconic lighthouses, impressive coastal scenery, colourful fishing villages and experiencing east coast hospitality are just a few highlights of a Nova Scotia road trip, which is why this corner of Canada is so beloved.

Thanks to the province’s compact size it’s possible to see most of the highlights in just one week, which includes a couple of days exploring one of the world’s best driving destinations, the Cabot Trail.

This 7 day Nova Scotia itinerary has it all, from easy-going experiences like visiting historical landmarks and wine tasting, to spellbinding hikes and extreme rafting in the Bay of Fundy.

NS route planner

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 1-2: Halifax

The main airport is in Halifax, which makes the capital city a natural place to grab your rental car and kick off a trip to Nova Scotia.

It’s worth spending a couple of days here to check out the main attractions in Halifax , go whale watching, grab a donair or lobster roll and enjoy some live music at one of the bars along Argyle Street.

Get a lay of the land by strolling along the four-kilometre Harbourwalk, which winds along the colourful waterfront overlooking the Bedford Basin which is fed by the Atlantic Ocean.

Wander past the Historic Properties where three blocks-worth of warehouses and Victorian-era buildings dating back to the 1700s have been beautifully restored, and continue along the wharf all the way down to the Farmers’ Market and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.

Other fun things to do in Halifax include:

• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the doomed Titanic, since Halifax was the closest major port to where the storied ship sank.
• Alexander Keith’s Brewery: This brewery was founded in 1820 by Alexander Keith, who served three terms as the mayor of Halifax. While production has since moved to a larger location away from Lower Street, actors in period costumes take guests around the historical property and outline the company’s history and brewing process. In true east coast fashion, there’s also musical entertainment, stories and lots of beer samples. Click here to book
• The Citadel: This star-shaped fort overlooking the harbour was built in 1749 to protect the city, and is essentially responsible for the founding of Halifax since the British military was drawn to the easily-defendable perch on what is now called Citadel Hill.
• Halifax Public Gardens: Located along Spring Garden Road, these Victorian gardens span 16 acres in the heart of the city and have fountains, 140 different species of trees, gardens overflowing with vibrant flowers, carpet beds and statues.

Where to stay in Halifax

• The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites: This grand property has an incredible location across from the public gardens, down the street from the Citadel, and a short walk to the waterfront. There’s underground parking on-site, a bar and restaurant, and the rooms are clean and elegant. Click here to book
• The Westin Nova Scotian: The location can’t be beat, as the Westin is right on the waterfront a quick walk from attractions like Pier 21 and the farmer’s market. The luxe rooms feature their signature Heavenly Beds, and amenities include a gym, indoor pool and hot tub. Click here to book

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 3: The Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route

Halifax to lunenburg: 75 minutes/100 km.

Hit the road to discover one of the best places to visit in Nova Scotia: the Peggys Cove lighthouse, found along the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route.

The 339 kilometre route winds along the coast between Halifax and Yarmouth, passing quaint fishing villages, beaches and picturesque lighthouses. Instead of doing the full drive, many people opt to stop in historic Lunenburg instead, which is what’s recommended if you only have one week in Nova Scotia.

The Peggy’s Cove lighthouse is one of Canada’s most photographed landmarks, thanks to its dramatic perch on a bed of boulders framed by St. Margaret’s Bay. While most people make a beeline for Peggys Point Lighthouse, it’s also worth spending a bit of time wandering around the tiny fishing village. 

Head down to the waterfront to watch locals reel in the likes of mackerel, tuna and lobster, check out the boats, nets and traps lining the shallow waters of the cove, then duck into the local gift shops and art galleries to pick up some east coast handicrafts.

There’s also a spa with a hydrotherapy circuit including a steam room, outdoor plunge pools and a sauna, which opened at Oceanstone Resort near the waterfront. 

Other great stops once you continue along the Nova Scotia South Shore is beautiful Queensland Beach, the seaside resort village of Chester, and the cute town of Mahone Bay.

Aim to arrive in Lunenburg in the early afternoon, to allow plenty of time to explore the town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps best known as being home to the famous racing schooner The Bluenose which is featured on the Canadian dime, most of the action in this seafaring spot is found along the waterfront.

Fun things to do in Lunenburg include:

• Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic: Visitors can explore retired fishing schooners in the working wharf, learn how to shuck a scallop and take a selfie with the skull of a giant fin whale.
• Lunenburg historic district: The narrow Montague, Pelham and Lincoln streets in old town Lunenburg are lined with the bright facades of shops and restaurants, and have plaques designating heritage properties dating back over a century.
• Ironworks Distillery: Nova Scotia’s first micro-distillery produces more than a dozen spirits, including award-winning rum and fruit liqueurs using local ingredients like Nova Scotia apples, Saskatoon berries, raspberries and blueberries. Learn about the distilling process, and enjoy some free tastings on site.

Where to stay in Lunenburg

• Rum Runner Inn: Located in the heart of Old Town Lunenburg, rooms at the Rum Runner Inn have great water views (be sure to request a balcony room to make the most of your stay). Click here to book
• Lunenburg Arms Hotel: The harbour is just one block away from this top-rated property, which has huge, well-appointed rooms with great views. The main sites are within walking distance, and there’s also a spa. Click here to book

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 4: The Annapolis Valley vineyards

Lunenburg to wolfville: 75 minutes/106 km.

The next leg of this Nova Scotia trip heads north to the picturesque Annapolis Valley , a region renowned for its pretty towns and vineyards. Its acidic l’Acadie grape thrives in cold temperatures, producing Tidal Bay which is a local favourite named for the first Nova Scotia wine appellation.

The charming town of Wolfville is at the centre of it all, and home to Acadia University and the Grand Pré National Historic Site which has a UNESCO designation.

Cute B&Bs, ivy-coloured buildings and grand, historic homes make this a wonderful place to stay overnight, and use as a base for visiting the Nova Scotia wineries and spots like the Annapolis Cider Company.

Book an organized Wolfville winery tour, bike or drive to the local vineyards which include:

• Luckett Vineyards: As one of the most established Annapolis Valley wineries, this operation overlooking the Gaspereau Valley produces up to 13-thousand cases of wine per year. There’s a beautiful tasting room and outdoor restaurant, and visitors love the bright red phone booth that was shipped straight from England and nestled among the vines.
• Gaspereau Vineyards: This cute spot has a big red barn as its tasting room, towering walls of wine, and is surrounded by vibrant green vineyards. Gaspereau Winery is best known for its crisp Rieslings and fruit-forward wines, and has live music on the outdoor patio.
• Domaine de Grand Pré: Grand Pré Winery is often the first stop on a Wolfville wine tour since it’s closest to town, and is the oldest farm winery site in Atlantic Canada. There’s a tasting room, fine dining restaurant, and tours highlighting the grape hybrids that are unique to the wineries in Nova Scotia.

READ MORE: The best spots for fall foliage in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley

To book guided experiences of the Wolfville wineries, check out Grape Escapes and Go North Tours which offer packages that include a guide, tasting fees, transportation and food. Tours run from May through October.

Where to stay in Wolfville

• Blomidon Inn: This charming property was built as a private residence in 1881, and has been operating as an inn for the last century. A long, flower-lined winding driveway leads to the stately entrance, onto the wooden front porch outfitted with rocking chairs which are the perfect spot to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail. Those wanting to splurge should book the inn’s so-called “Honeymoon Cottage” which has its own entrance separate from the main house. The cottage boasts a parlour, huge bedroom, private garden, and even a bathroom outfitted with a two person jacuzzi tub. Click here to book
• Old Orchard Inn & Spa: This large hotel has plenty of amenities including a pool, hot tub, outdoor patio and tennis courts. There are great views since it’s close to the Bay of Fundy, and surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Click here to book

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 5: Bay of Fundy tidal bore rafting

Wolfville to maitland: 75 minutes/98 km.

Wolfville is on the shores of the Minas Basin, which feeds into the Bay of Fundy. Twice a day, this natural tidal bore phenomenon sees the water literally pile up on itself, completely changing the flow. The collision of the tide and river creates the tidal bore, resulting in mammoth, churning waves in spots that were tranquil sandbars just moments before.

You can see it from above in Cape Split and Cape d’Or, or experience it first-hand during an exhilarating tidal bore rafting adventure which is one of the most fun things to do in Nova Scotia for those who aren’t afraid to get soaking wet.

Starting from the banks of the Shubenacadie River near Maitland, guests hop in a zodiac and are guided past the towering red rock formations lining the bay, and will have a chance to walk on the sandbars before they get swallowed up by the changing tide.

It isn’t long before the boat ride feels like being on a roller coaster, as you cling to the sides to avoid being toppled out by the waves!

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 6-7: Drive the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island

Maitland to sydney: 4 hours/340 km.

One of the best things to do in Nova Scotia is driving the Cabot Trail, a 300-kilometre loop that circles the coast of Cape Breton. The remarkable scenery shows off some of the east coast’s best landscapes, while highlighting the history of the area’s Scottish roots.

The Cabot Trail drive can technically be done in half a day, but that wouldn’t allow much time for stops. Instead, plan to spend two days of your Nova Scotia vacation here to properly enjoy the waterfalls, dramatic rocky coastlines, vibrant bays and beaches around the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Globe Guide tip: Drive the Cabot Trail route counter-clockwise, so your view isn’t obstructed by oncoming traffic and it’s easier to pull off the highway.

Some of the top places to include on a Cabot Trail itinerary are:

• Ingonish: This is one of the most developed areas, and there are plenty of fun things to do including golfing at the scenic Highland Links Golf Course, relaxing on sandy Ingonish Beach, and hiking Franey loop or Middle Head trail.
• Skyline Trail: If you only do one hike along the Cabot Trail, make sure it’s the Skyline Trail. The 7.5 kilometre pathway hugs the coastline around the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and has breathtaking views looking down at the highway. Moose sightings are frequent, and other wildlife in the area include bears, whales and eagles.
• Chéticamp: Chéticamp is one of the larger towns along the trail, with plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and sightseeing cruises. The Acadian fishing village is also the gateway to the Chéticamp campground in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where visitors can pitch a tent or relax in an equipped campsite or oTENTik.

Cabot trail accommodations

• Keltic Lodge: The views of the Atlantic Ocean are fabulous at this hotel in Ingonish, which dates back to 1940. There are a variety of rooms and cottages, and amenities include a heated outdoor pool, restaurants and the golf course. Click here to book
• Silver Dart Lodge : Guests rave about this serene spot in Baddeck, which overlooks the Bras d’Or Lakes and has easy access to walking trails. Some of the bright, spacious rooms in MacNeil House and Silver Dart Lodge include options like multiple bedrooms, kitchenettes and chalet-style accommodation. Click here to book

Once you’ve completed the Cabot Trail loop, head back to Halifax which marks the end of the ultimate, one week Nova Scotia road trip.

This article was written in collaboration with Tourism Nova Scotia

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• Happy harvest! Fun things to do in the Annapolis Valley during fall
• Finding hidden waterfalls in the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark
• 10 incredible Canadian road trips you need to take
• 5 amazing places to visit on a southern New Brunswick road trip

SHARE THE PINSPIRATION! CLICK THE IMAGES BELOW TO PIN:

This post may contain affiliate links, which Globe Guide receives compensation for at no additional cost to you.

About The Author

Tamara Elliott

3 thoughts on “the ultimate nova scotia road trip: a one week itinerary”.

It’s a shame that the writer didn’t include the South West area of the province, beautiful beaches, lighthouses, history, and the best seafood in the province. It’s not really a completed tour of NS without that area.

Tell me more please

yes, you have to stop at Digby and try their scallops.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

8 Must Do Nova Scotia Road Trips: Itineraries, Tips + Maps

The destination of your next road trip? Nova Scotia, Canada. At least, it should be!

This East Coast province may look small( ish ) on the map, but it actually has over 13,000km of coastline as well as mountain plateaus, lush valleys, 3000+ lakes and more.

As well as the outstanding scenery, you’ll find friendly locals, authentic small town charm and plenty of fresh, locally produced food.

Oh, and the world’s highest tides, 12 species of whales, 4 UNESCO Heritage Sites, 2 UNESCO Biospheres, 2 National Parks, 13 National Historic Sites and 1 Dark Sky Preserve! I could go on, but I think you get the idea.

In this post, I’m going to be sharing seven of the very best Nova Scotia road trips, with detailed route information featuring things to do and places to visit. JR and I have visited every place mentioned, most recently on a two month long road trip across the entirety of the province.

Nova Scotia is located on Megumaagee, land of the Mi’kmaq. This post published February 2021, updated November 2022.

Nova Scotia Road Trips

To give you a taste of what’s to come, here are some highlights of each Nova Scotia road trip (you can also skip to each itinerary directly)

• The Annapolis Valley (2 to 3 days) – Wolfville, Grand-Pré, Cape Split, Fort Edward, Look-Off, Annapolis Royal
• Digby Neck and Beyond (3 to 4 days) – Brier Island, Long Island, Digby, Annapolis Royal, Port Royal, Bear River, Kejimkujik National Park
• Yarmouth and Acadian Shore (2 to 3 days) – Acadian Village, Cape Forchu Lighthouse, Mavillette Beach, Smugglers Cove, Port Maitland Beach, Église Sainte-Marie, Belliveaus Cove
• South Shore (3 to 4 days) – Peggy’s Cove, Lunenberg, Mahone Bay, Oak Island, LaHave Islands, Risser’s Beach, Liverpool, Kejimkujik Seaside, Shelburne, Black Loyalist Heritage Centre
• Eastern Shore (2 to 3 days) – Lawrencetown Beach, 100 Wild Islands, Memory Lane, Taylor Head Provincial Park, Sherbrooke Village, Canso Islands
• Antigonish and the Cape George Scenic Drive (1 to 2 days) – Downtown Antigonish, Mahoneys Beach, Ballantyne’s Cove, Cape George Lighthouse, Arisaig Lighthouse, Arisaig Provincial Park, Keppoch Mountain
• Cabot Trail (3 to 4 days) – Chéticamp, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Skyline Trail, Fishing Cove Trail, Pleasant Bay, Jack Pine Trail, Ingonish, Franey Trail, Baddeck
• Bay of Fundy (2 to 3 days) – Burntcoat Head Park, tidal bore rafting, Five Islands Provincial Park, Parrsboro, Cape D’or, Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, Joggins Fossil Cliffs

At the end of the post, you’ll find two more Nova Scotia road trips featuring complete circular routes of the province:

• Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary (2.5 weeks)
• North/South Spotlight (8 days)

Please note that I have not included Halifax in any of these Nova Scotia road trips – it deserves a post of its own! If you’re visiting from outside Nova Scotia, I’d suggest spending at least two days exploring the city. My recommendations for things to do in Halifax are here!

This post was written in partnership with Tourism Nova Scotia. It includes some affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of these links, I may receive a small percentage at no extra cost to you.

The Annapolis Valley – 2 to 3 days

The Annapolis Valley is a rich, agricultural region located on the west coast of Nova Scotia. Small towns and villages dot a patchwork landscape of farms, vineyards and fields, all backdropped by the extraordinary Bay of Fundy (home of the world’s highest tides).

The artsy yet regal town of Wolfville (C) , an hour’s drive from Halifax, is an ideal first stop. From here, you can easily explore some of Nova Scotia’s best wineries (try the Magic Winery Bus !), breweries, cideries and distilleries.

A short drive away is the foodie mecca of Port Williams (D) , where local produce is king (think honey, gin, freshly made pasta and more). Just up the road is the simply named Look-Off (E) , where you can take in panoramas of the fields and ocean beyond.

If you want to stretch your legs, consider the 16km round trip hike to Cape Split (F). This may sound long but the trail is almost flat all the way to the end, where the rugged tip of the Cape dramatically falls into the Bay of Fundy.

The Annapolis Valley is home to a number of National Historic Sites –  Fort Anne   (G) and Port Royal (H) in Annapolis Royal, Grand Pré (B) near Wolfville and Fort Edward (A) in Windsor. Annapolis Royal itself is also steeped in history, with over 120 heritage buildings and worth the detour from the Wolfville area on longer road trips.

Essential details

Total distance: 200km Where to stay: Micro Boutique Living in the heart of downtown Wolfville Where to eat: The Noodle Guy in Port Williams, Crush Pad Bistro at Lucketts Vineyards Detours and extensions: Take a trip to Burncoat Head Park to walk on the oven floor and see red ‘flowerpot rocks.’ Or for a bit of excitement, consider a tidal bore rafting adventure

Read More: A Weekend in Wolfville – Nova Scotia’s Coolest Small Town

Digby Neck and Beyond – 3 to 4 days

If you’re looking for a nature-focused off the beaten path adventure in Nova Scotia, this may be the one!

Digby Neck is a 30km long peninsula extending into the Bay of Fundy from the town of Digby (A) itself. Long Island (B) and tiny Brier Island (C) are found at the end, accessible by short vehicle ferries. Natural beauty is the main draw here, with the ocean never being far away.

Whale watching is a must do activity, with humpbacks commonly seen nearby (just one of twelve species visiting the Bay of Fundy!) If you prefer wildlife spotting on land, this area is a popular migration spot for birds.

As well as sharing a wonderfully laid back vibe, Long Island and Brier Island both have excellent hiking trails and coastlines featuring beautiful basalt columns (the best example being Balancing Rock ).

Back on the mainland, make a short detour up to Annapolis Royal (D) . In addition to a number of notable National Historic Sites , this distinguished town has over 120 heritage buildings (and a great brewery ). Be sure to also drop into Bear River (E) . This tidal village on stilts is as characterful as it is small.

Outdoor adventure awaits in Kejimkujik National Park (F) , where you can camp under Nova Scotia’s darkest skies, paddle an intricate lake system ( guided tours available) and hike to beautiful waterfalls. It’s also possible to connect with Mi’kmaw culture, with canoe building demonstrations.

Total distance: 250km Where to stay: Brier Island Lodge on beautiful Brier Island Where to eat: Kalen’s Takeout in Digby, Lighthouse Café on Brier Island Detours and extensions: Backtrack to the Bay of Fundy and then head to Wolfville (see above itinerary) or continue along Highway 8 from Kejimkujik to the South Shore

Read Next: Brier Island, Nova Scotia’s Hidden Gem

Acadian Shore – 2 to 3 days

In my mind, Nova Scotia’s southwestern coast is the most underrated area in the province. Imagine beautiful coastal scenery, an abundance of fresh seafood, pretty lighthouses and a vivacious blend of Acadian and English culture.

You first stop is the Historic Acadian Village of Nova Scotia (A) . This beautiful living museum by the sea offers the chance to immerse yourself into the life of local Acadians back in the early 1900’s.

A short drive from Yarmouth will bring you to the uniquely shaped Cape Forchu Lighthouse (B) . This red and white ‘apple core’ light sits on a headland, surrounded by hiking trails and epic views. Time your visit right and there’s the chance to see a sunset too!

As you travel north from Yarmouth, bilingual signs and the tricolour flag (with yellow star representing the Virgin Mary) welcome you into la Baie Sainte-Marie , home of Nova Scotia’s largest Acadian community. North America’s largest wooden church, Église Sainte-Marie (F), is here, plus other heritage sites.

There are fabulous beaches along this coast too, with Port Maitland beach (C) and Mavillette beach (D) being great examples. Belliveau Cove (G) is another ideal place to stop, featuring 5km of looping trails along salt marshes and shingle beach. Pretty Smuggler’s Cove (E) was used by rum runners during the prohibition era.

While exploring the Clare region, be sure to look out for informal seafood suppers, listen to the local dialect of Acadian French and have a taste of râpure (also known as rappie pie ), a classic Acadian comfort food dish made of meat and potatoes.

Total distance: 140km Where to stay: Argyler Lodge in Lower Argyle Where to eat: Keeper’s Kitchen at Cape Forchu, La Cuisine Robicheau in Saulnierville Detours and extensions: Consider starting at Cape Stable Island instead. This laid back place (accessible via causeway) hosts Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse as well as a 1,500 ‘drowned’ forest. On the way to the Acadian Village, you could also stop at the Shag Harbour Incident Interpretive Centre to learn about the 1967 UFO crash

South Shore – 3 to 4 days

This 250km stretch of coastline south of Halifax is absolutely packed with gorgeous scenery and things to do, which is why it’s my top road trip choice if you’re short on time. Some sections are busy in summer, but there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy solitude as well.

Leave Halifax early to arrive at Peggy’s Cove (A) before most visitors arrive. Once you’ve taken in those iconic granite rock and lighthouse views, head past infamous Oak Island (B) to the picture perfect churches of Mahone Bay (C) . The colourful port town of Lunenburg (D) is just a short drive away.

With the most popular sights ticked off, it’s time to explorer the quieter side of the South Shore. Stretch your legs at Ovens Natural Park , where a trail leads above and into rugged ocean caves. To continue along the coast, take the cable ferry (one the last remaining in Nova Scotia) across to LaHave (E) .

If you like beaches, you’ll love this next section. In fact, you may even be overwhelmed by the number of beautiful white and golden sand stretches of sand! Some of my favourites are Risser’s Beach (F) , Summerville (H) and Kejimkujik Seaside (I) .

For a deeper insight into Nova Scotia’s history, I’d recommend stopping in the towns of Liverpool (G) and Shelburne . Just outside the latter is Birchtown , once home to the largest settlement of Black Loyalists (former slaves offered freedom by the British) in North America. If you go to just one museum on the South Shore, let it be the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre (J) .

Total distance: 275km Where to stay: Smugglers Cove Inn in Lunenburg Where to eat: LaHave Bakery in LaHave, Quarterdeck Grill in Summerville Detours and extensions: Make a real road trip of it and complete a circuit by travelling the Acadian Shore towards Digby. Along the way, take the trip to Cape Sable Island at the very tip of southern Nova Scotia. Be sure to visit ‘the Hawk, ‘ a white sand beach featuring 1,500 year old petrified tree stumps and views of Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse.

Read Next: 13 of the Best Beaches in Nova Scotia, Canada

Eastern Shore – 2 to 3 days

The Eastern Shore starts just north of Halifax but feels like a world away. There are no busy tourist traps here, just plenty of authentic fishing villages and beautiful sandy beaches. The road stays close to the coast, which means great views and also a lot of twisty turns!

If you’d like to have a go at surfing, head to Lawrencetown Beach (A). There are a number of surf schools here with rentals and lessons.

For beauty, my top pick is Martinique Beach (B) . Living up to its exotic sounding name, Martinique features a sweeping, 5km long stretch of white-sand. Further north, Taylor Head (D) is also worth a stop.

More idyllic beaches can be found within the 100 Wild Islands  archipelago, which borders part of the Eastern Shore (between Clam Harbour and Taylor Head). If you don’t have your own boat, you can still reach these pristine paradise islands by joining a kayak tour.

For something a little more cultural, check out the Memory Lane Heritage Village (C) and Sherbrooke Village (E) . These community focused projects depict life on the Eastern Shore during the late 19th century (Sherbrooke) and 1940’s (Memory Lane).

At the upper end of the Eastern Shore is the Canso Islands National Historic Site (F) , preserving the remains of the oldest fishing port on mainland North America. As well as an interesting visitor centre, it’s usually possible (in non-Covid years) to take a free boat trip out to Grassy Island to walk amongst the ruins of a fort.

Total distance: 340km Where to stay: Liscombe Lodge in Liscomb Where to eat: The Cookhouse at Memory Lane, Henley House Pub & Restaurant in Sheet Harbour Detours and extensions: Continue on to the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island (info below) or head towards Pictou and the Northumberland Shore

Read More: Kayaking the 100 Wild Islands, Eastern Shore

Antigonish and the Cape George Scenic Drive – 1 to 2 days

This short Nova Scotia road trip is worthwhile as a weekend getaway trip or a side adventure on the way to the Cabot Trail.

Starting (and ending) in Antigonish, this picturesque driving route follows the edge of a triangular shaped piece of land jutting into the Northumberland Strait.

Antigonish may be small, but much more vibrant than you may imagine due its status as a regional centre and university town. Spend one full day here (we have several suggested itineraries ) before starting the Cape George Scenic Drive .

If you haven’t already, stop at Antigonish Landing (B) for a 4km walk along the river. Continue to Mahoneys Beach (C) , the first of many lovely sand beaches on this stretch of the drive.

The next stop is Ballantyne’s Cove (D) – take a break to explore the beach and enjoy some seafood (more details below). The Bluefin Tuna Interpretive Centre is also worth a look.

After Ballantyne’s Cove, the road starts to curve as it ascends up to Cape George Lighthouse (E) . Perched at the top of 100m high cliffs, Cape George Lighthouse hosts commanding views of the Northumberland Straight and Cape Breton Island.

Consider starting a hike at nearby Cape George Point Day Park . 37km of looped paths can be accessed from here. Otherwise, continue onto Livingstone’s Cove Wharf Park (F) to see far reaching vistas of the road ahead.

Another lighthouse awaits in Arisaig (G) as well as a provincial park (H) . The main attraction of the latter is the rare exposed section of Silurian rock, featuring 400 million year old fossils.

The final stops on this scenic drive are Big Island Beach (I) and Keppoch Mountain (J) , a four season recreational area featuring 40km of non-motorized paths.

Only have one day to spare? Start the Cape George Scenic Drive in the morning and return to Antigonish in the late afternoon for drinks at one of the local breweries and dinner at the Townhouse .

Total distance: 136km Where to stay: Fossil Farms Oceanside Resort in Merigomish Where to eat: The Townhouse in Antigonish, Fish and Ships take-out in Ballatyne’s Cove Detours and extensions: If you’re still craving beach time, head to beautiful Pomquet Beach Provincial Park (15 mins east of Antigonish). Consider combining this trip with the Cabot Trail, see below for details

Cabot Trail – 3 to 4 days

The Cabot Trail is a 298km driving loop on Cape Breton Island, where Nova Scotia’s highest mountains meet the sea. This scenic drive is an adventure in itself. Expect to be pulling over often for the views! This is the ideal road trip if you love the outdoors.

There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, whale watching, camping and kayaking along the way. The most popular hike is the Skyline Trail (C) . Ballpark two hours for the 6.5km return distance, which leads through meadows (watch for moose) to a headland with sweeping ocean views.

Other awesome day hikes include the Jack Pine Trail (F) and Franey Trail (H) , both near Ingonish. For an overnight hiking adventure, check out Fishing Cove (D) . The 12km return trail leads down to a pretty seaside campground, with ocean views from most tent pads.

Besides all of these outdoor activities, you can also experience local Acadian, Canadian and Scottish culture and cuisine in fishing villages like Baddeck (I) , Chéticamp (B) and Ingonish (G) . Pleasant Bay (E) is another of my favourite places to stop, as it features a gorgeous pebble beach.

One place that is certainly worth the detour (180km, about two hours) from the Cabot Trail is the Fortress of Louisbourg (J ).

This National Historic Site is a living museum portraying French colonial life in the 18th century featuring costumed actors and restored buildings (barracks, working bakery, blacksmith etc). If you have any interest in history, Louisbourg is a MUST!

Total distance: 365km Where to stay: True North Destinations in Pleasant Bay (or the Fortress of Louisbourg itself!) Where to eat: Aucoin Bakery in Petit Étang, Coastal Restaurant in Ingonish Detours and extensions: Consider attending a cèilidh in the Mabou area , southwest of the Cabot Trail. For a real off the beaten path adventure, head to Meat Cove, at the very tip of Cape Breton Island. The campground here has some of the best views anywhere in Nova Scotia

Bay of Fundy – 2 to 3 days

This Nova Scotia road trip showcases the Bay of Fundy’s world record breaking tides, from the power of the tidal bore created by them to the fossils revealed underneath the ocean floor.

Start your adventure at Burntcoat Head Park (A) . If you time it right (check tides here ), you’ll be able to walk on the ocean floor and marvel at the bright red ‘flowerpot rocks’ created by the receding ocean.

You can experience the power of the Bay of Fundy yourself on a tidal bore rafting adventure (B) in nearby South Maitland. When the tide comes in, the Shubenacadie River becomes a rollercoaster of standing waves and whirlpools. You’ll leave soaked, exhilarated and smiling ear to ear.

On the other side of the Bay of Fundy, stop at Five Islands Provincial Park (C) to admire the 90m red cliffs. Continue on to Parrsboro (D) , which is famous for fossils and minerals.

Admire the airy views and lighthouse from remote Cape D’or (E) before heading towards Cape Chignecto Provincial Park.

There are two hiking trailheads here, Red Rocks and Eatonville (F). The latter has a 2.6km loop that takes in the dramatic Three Sisters sea stacks .

The final stop on this route is Joggins Fossil Cliffs (G) , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out the museum or walk the beach. Keep your eyes peeled, there’s the chance to stumble across 310 million year fossils (like this visitor did in 2020!)

Total distance: 300km Where to stay: Cresthaven by the Sea in Maitland Where to eat: Harbour View Restaurant in Parrboro, Lightkeeper’s Kitchen  at Cape D’or Detours and extensions: Looking for an adventure? The Cape Chignecto Trail is a 51km circular route offering spectacular panoramas of the Bay of Fundy. It takes three to our days to hike, with four cabins and seven campgrounds along the way. Click to read a full guide

Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary – 2.5 weeks

Of course, you can combine all of these Nova Scotia road trip into one ‘ultimate’ route. It would look a little bit like this, when starting and ending in Halifax:

This ‘ultimate’ Nova Scotia road trip would be about 2.5 weeks in length (18 days), with the total distance around 2500km.

I would break that down as follows –

• South Shore : 3 days
• Yarmouth and Acadian Shore : 2 days
• Digby Neck/Annapolis Royal/Kejimkujik National Park : 3 days
• Annapolis Valley : 2 days
• Bay of Fundy : 2 days
• Antigonish and the Cape George Scenic Drive : 1 day
• Cabot Trail : 3 days
• Eastern Shore : 2 days

This would involve a pretty busy itinerary; expect to be ‘on the go’ every day. Please note that this itinerary does not account for any time in Halifax.

If you have more time available to you to explore this road trip route, all the better.

Nova Scotia is a place to slow down and take as many side roads as possible! I would personally add another day to the South Shore, Digby area, Cabot Trail and Eastern Shore.

As mentioned, we’ve spent more than four months road tripping Nova Scotia over the years and I’d happily go back tomorrow. There’s still so much more to see!

If you’re looking for even more recommendations to add to this road trip, consider:

• Pictou – the “birthplace of New Scotland” with Hector Heritage Quay
• Tatamagouche – charming small town with many local food producers
• Melmerby Beach – stunning 2km long beach
• Inverness – famous scenic golf course, great beach
• Stellarton – Museum of Industry  with Canada’s oldest steam locomotives

North/South Spotlight – 8 days

If you are short on time, consider this condensed version I call the ‘North/South Spotlight.’

This Nova Scotia road trip route also starts and ends in Halifax and breaks down like so:

• South Shore – 2 days
• Acadian Coast – 1 day
• The Annapolis Valley / Bay of Fundy – 2 days
• Cabot Trail – 3 days

This is fast but features most of Nova Scotia’s must visit places on a circular route. The total trip distance is just under 2000km.

Of course, I recommend you to stay longer in Nova Scotia (because it is incredible!) but if you simply can’t, this road trip features all of the highlights you’ve probably heard about – Lunenberg, Peggy’s Cove, Cabot Trail – as well as some beyond the beaten path gems such as la Baie Sainte-Marie and Burntcoat Head.

Road Trips in Nova Scotia: Top Tips

• Drive carefully. While there are some high speed highways, many of Nova Scotia’s rural roads are twisty and narrow
• Take the side roads. Slow down your trip by turning off the highway – you’re sure to find some hidden gems!
• Look out for wildlife. Large animals (such as moose) may be on the road at any time, but more likely at dusk and dawn
• For the most part, Nova Scotians are really, really friendly. Prepare to be stopped by people while exploring. We even had people invite us home for dinner!
• Plan ahead. Make accommodation and camping reservations in advance to avoid disappointment
• Don’t overcrowd your schedule. Rushing around is never fun and, besides, you’ll want to have a bit of flexibility to investigate recommendations from locals!
• Here for the lobster? No problem! No matter what time of year you choose to road trip in Nova Scotia, there’s always lobster to be found. In a pinch, head to Sobey’s (local supermarket chain) and they will cook you a lobster while you shop!

Nova Scotia history and culture

The history of Nova Scotia is probably more varied than you may expect and that’s exactly why I want to give you a very quick overview before you dive into the nitty gritty of road trip planning!

The first residents of Nova Scotia were the Mi’kmaq , who called their home Mi’kma’ki. Some of the place names used today are Mi’kmaw (such as Shubenacadie).

A contingent of French explorers landed in 1605 and established Port Royal, one of the first European settlements in North America.

Soon, groups of French settlers arrived farm the land. They called it ‘Acadie’ ( idyllic place) and themselves ‘ Acadian ‘ ( read more about Acadians here ).

The French and British fought over Nova Scotia over a century. The Acadians wanted to stay neutral but the British wouldn’t allow that and consequently deported the Acadians in an act called the ‘Great Upheaval’ or ‘Expulsion’ (1755).

The revolution in America in the 18th century brought thousands of British Loyalists to the shores of Nova Scotia, including a large continent of former black slaves called Black Loyalists. They were promised freedom in exchange for fighting for the British. 

Scottish and Irish immigrants arrived in huge numbers in the 19th century, attempting to escape famine, overcrowding and discrimination.

Other posts you may find helpful with your trip planning:

East Coast Canada Road Trip | 2 and 4 Week Itineraries

13 of the Best Beaches in Nova Scotia, Canada

5 of the Best Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

Canoeing in Kejimkujik National Park: A Must Do in Nova Scotia

11 of the Best Nova Scotia Campgrounds

A Weekend in Wolfville – Nova Scotia’s Coolest Small Town

6 Fast and Fun Hikes in Nova Scotia, Canada

In Search of Different: 4 Unique Nova Scotia Wineries

Ultimate Two Week Coastal Quebec Road Trip Itinerary

Adventure in your inbox

Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter and receive a round-up of our latest outdoor adventures plus other exciting beyond the beaten path destinations 

We never share your information with third parties and will protect it in accordance with our  Privacy Policy

Check out these recently published articles next

Sunshine Coast Trail Huts Guide: The Best Places to Stay

Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip: 24+ Great Places to Stop

Spirit Island: Complete Guide with Map, Paddling Details, Boat Tour + More

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Tuesday 12th of March 2024

Wondering what your “must sees” are in 2-3 days time visiting Nova Scotia. We have about a week to plan, but want to visit Acadia National Park as well. It will be early October.So trying to plan and split accordingly! Any advice is great appreciated. Thanks!

Sunday 17th of March 2024

Hi Rebecca,

With just a couple of days in Nova Scotia, I would visit Halifax, Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg. You'll get a taste of the fishing history/culture as well as beautiful coastal views. If you're not a city person, I'd still go to Peggy's Cove (preferably early or late in the day, as it is a busy place) and Lunenberg and then keep heading south. Gorgeous beaches and lots of seafood.

Thursday 17th of August 2023

I just found your article and absolutely loved the information and your writing! My wife and I are headed to NS the 3rd week of September for 10 days and will be taking your advice on many of these locations! Quick question about whale watching. Are the tour companies still offering tours at this time of year? Any suggestions of where to take one out of?

Many thanks! Rich & Theresa Wood Virginia

Friday 18th of August 2023

Thanks so much for your kind comments! Yes, there are still tours running at that time of year so you may be able to fit it in! Did you see our whale watching in Nova Scotia post? Tours continue running on Brier Island until early October and on Cape Breton Island until mid October.

Marybeth Cantrell

Saturday 13th of May 2023

Hi Gemma- I am not seeing a lot of information in your blog on Cape Breton…am I missing something? I just finished my itinerary for Antigonish and the Cape George scenic drive and just started glancing at your information about Cape Breton. Can you direct me if I am missing it? Thank you, Marybeth

Sunday 21st of May 2023

Hi Marybeth,

Good spot! No, we don't much specific information on Cape Breton. Not for any particular reason, w3've just written about other places more :) Thanks for checking!

Tuesday 18th of April 2023

Hello- We will be driving from Houston to Nova Scotia arriving in Amherst. We would like to follow your Ultimate Nova Scotia itinerary but not sure where to start following your itinerary coming from that direction. Any help you could provide would be very helpful. Love your itinerary and the detail!

Wednesday 19th of April 2023

@Gemma, While researching Nova Scotia I read that we should drive counter clockwise so the ocean is always closer to us on the highway for better views. Any thoughts on that? And why do you suggest Cape Breton first? Of course it’s the place I’m most looking forward to seeing cause we are BIG on national parks. We have been to 62 of the 63 US National Parks so we only have one left. We have also been to several of Canada’s National Parks as well so we are looking forward to visiting Cape Breton. I love reading blogs when I get ready to travel and yours on Nova Scotia was by far the most informational and organized.

Thanks for the kind comments! That is a good question. Personally, I would head up to Cape Breton Island first. I would then go down to the Eastern Shore and/or Halifax and then to the South Shore. I hope that makes sense!

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

We're coming to Nova Scotia for 8 days in July with 2 small kids. We've also set aside a separate 5 days for Cape Breton, and 16 days for Newfoundland. I'm a bit overwhelmed with what we could see and do in NS and would like it to be a contrast to Newfoundland. Any suggestions on which of your short itineraries would be good to combine? And if we did the South Shore would it be worth basing ourselves in Lunenberg rather than Halifax? Thank you - your itineraries are really helpful!

Monday 6th of March 2023

Completely understand why you must be overwhelmed! Apologies for the late reply - we have been on holiday in a remote area with limited internet. My partner and I have discussed your question at length. JR was previously a Maritimes tour guide and has also visited Newfoundland, so he has a good base of experience to compare the two.

Together, we came to the conclusion that completing a full circuit of southern Nova Scotia would provide a good contrast. That would include a loop to/from Halifax, taking in the South Shore, Yarmouth area, a side trip to Kejimkujik National Park and the Annapolis Valley.

The Acadian culture around Yarmouth and Wolfville is distinctly different to Newfoundland. Kejimkujik National Park, with its lakes and Indigenous culture, also offers something a little different. Yes, some of the coastal landscapes will be similar but on the Bay of Fundy side (Yarmouth and further north), the tides are the largest in the world so that is certainly unique!

If you'd prefer not to tour around, Lunenberg does offer a decent alternative to Halifax. It is, however, a lot smaller and dining/accommodation choice will be more limited. A few nights in Yarmouth may work well for you - there's a good selection of hotels and services here.

I would highly recommend driving some of the smaller coastal road sections along the South Shore, such as the 331, as they offer wonderful views and insights into local fishing village culture.

The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Canada , Popular , Road Trips

Updated On: March 18, 2023

Looking for the very best things to do on a  Nova Scotia road trip? Nova Scotia is our favorite place to visit on the East Coast of Canada. After extensively traveling the entire province by car from North to South, we’ve had many grand adventures.

This road tirp itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Nova Scotia and offer unique ideas of what to see and do.

Table of Contents

Road Trip to Nova Scotia

We’ve broken it down this Nova Scotia itinerary into sections with maps so you can plan which part of the province you want to see during your visit.

The main airport for Nova Scotia is Halifax and it is a 2 1/2 hour flight from Toronto. You can rent your car directly at the airport. To rent a car for your road trip around Nova Scotia, check out this car rental comparison site for prices and availability.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary Map

We’ve had the pleasure of exploring most of the province and feel it is time to share our picks for the very best things to do in Nova Scotia on a road trip.

For more on Nova Scotia travel , Check out our complete list of Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Day 1 – Halifax

Most trips to Nova Scotia will begin in Nova Scotia’s Capital city, Halifax. Halifax. And it is worth staying in the city for at least a couple of day.

Halifax has a bustling waterfront filled with attractions, restaurants, and scenic views. The Canadian Museum of Immigration is the star attraction at Pier 21 located along the beautiful Halifax Harbourfront.. Here you’ll learn of the fascinating history of immigration to Canada.

One day in Halifax is definitely not enough but if you only have one day, these are the not to miss sights.

• Alexander Keiths Brewery Tour – this is a fantastic and fun brewery tour in the heart of downtown Halifax.
• Halifax Waterfront – You can see a lot of the best things to do in Halifax along the waterfront. The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is Canada’s answer to Ellis Island in New York . This is where the majority of immigrants came through. You can trace your ancestry at this interactive museum.
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic – A superb interactive museum detailing the history of shipping and the East Coast Maritime heritage. Plus, there’s a great display on the Titanic.

When you are finished at the water, head up to Halifax Citadel National Historic Site . A fort founded in 1749, it’s an excellent place to watch the sunset or if you are a history buff, take atour here during the day. .

There are plenty of things to do in Halifax and we recommend spending another day here. Check out the Best Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Where to Stay in Halifax: The Haliburton  and Delta Halifax

Day 2 – Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

Heading Southwest from Halifax, your first is  Peggy’s Cove  located just 45 minutes from the Halifax. Peggy’s Cove is one of Nova Scotia’s most visited attractions and crowds can be huge here!

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is a beautiful setting. The lighthouse stands on 400 million-year-old rock stretching out to the sea, was created by molten lava bubbling up from the surface of the earth. The fishing village of Peggy’s Cove is a picturesque community dating back to 1811 and there are plenty of things to do here besides visiting the lighthouse.

• Read our full post about all the things to do in Peggy’s Cove here.

Where to stay in Peggy’s Cove

We recommend staying overnight in the area and visiting at sunrise. Tour buses don’t arrive until late morning, so if you stay over and get to the lighthouse early, you’ll have it all to yourself before moving on to your next stop.

We really enjoyed our time at   Oceanstone Resort which just outside of Peggy’s Cove and makes for a great home base.

Click here  for your google map of our complete South Shore road trip route

Day 3 – Mahone Bay to Lunenburg

After leaving Peggy’s Cove your next stop will be Mahone Bay is a must-stop on any Nova Scotia Road Trip. It has been named one of the prettiest small-town downtowns in Canada. It’s easy to understand why.

The most famous landmark of Mahone Bay would definitely be the famous Three Churches. The three spires along the waterfront are a popular stop for photographers.

Here you can stop for lunch and browse the downtown shops of Mahone. Make sure to stop by the Haskapa Berry Store to learn about this superfood. Try the Haskapa gin, it’s delicious!

After driving from Peggy’s Cove, you’ll have the afternoon and evening in Lunenburg. Lunenburg is one of only two urban centres in North America to have the honour of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunenburg is famous for its painted houses creating a rainbow of colours along the waterfront. The pastel buildings all must adhere to a strict code to keep the town beautiful.

If you arrive early enough, join an afternoon Walking Tours  to learn of the mariner history of Lunenburg and to discover its Victorian architecture . It ends at the waterfront memorial dedicated to the fishermen and mariners that lost their lives through the years.

From here, walk over to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic while keeping an eye out for the Bluenose II. It makes its home in Lunenburg when it is not touring around the country. And after you are done, it is easy to find a spot for dinner to try some Nova Scotia fresh lobster or seafood.

• Where to Stay in Lunenburg – Lunenburg Arms Hotel is located downtown Lunenburg. This boutique hotel overlooks Lunenburg Harbour and is walking distance to all of the Top Attractiosn in Lunenburg.

Lighthouse Route in Nova Scotia – Map

Click here to get the map route from Lunenburg to Yarmouth

Day 4 – Blue Rocks to Liverpool

There is a lot to cover today, so you will want to wake up early before sunrise. On your way out of Lunenburg, take a detour to the picturesque fishing village of Blue Rocks. Nothing says “East Coast” more than a fishing village lining the bay with fishing lodges and lobster traps reflecting in the waters and shimmering rocks in the bay.

It is only 10 minutes from Lunenburg, so if you want to go back to town for breakfast or to pick up a coffee, that is a good option. When you are finished, you will still have a full day to explore the Lighthouse Route of Nova Scotia that runs from Lunenberg to Yarmouth.

LaHave Ferry

After leaving Lunenberg or the Blue Rocks it is a thirty-minute drive time to the LaHave River where you will make your way south. When doing this portion of your road trip through Nova Scotia, be sure to use the LaHave Ferry rather than driving around, it will save you a lot of time.

The La Have Ferry is one of the last remaining cable ferries in the country and it operates 24 hours a day. ( note between 11:30 pm and 05:30 am it is on call.) It’s just a quick 5-minute journey, but it is wild to see a cable pulling a ferry across the river.

La Have Bakery

While in LaHave, stop in at the LaHave Bakery for some sweets. The Victorian-era building sits on the waterfront serving fresh baked goods and coffee. It’s the perfect place to stock up on road trip goodies.

Crescent Beach

The water may be cold on the Nova Scotia coast, but Crescent Beach is a beautiful setting. Plus it’s the only beach in Nova Scotia that you can drive on. At 2.5 km long, you can easily find a spot all to yourself to enjoy a picnic or do some sunbathing before moving on.

Tonight you get to relax in the historic town of Liverpool. Liverpool is home of the  Privateers. Privateers were private citizens who were commissioned to “ carry on all forms of hostility permissible at sea .” They patrolled the waters of Nova Scotia during the war of 1812.

Liverpool houses The Four Point Lighthouse which is free to visit and is the 3rd Oldest Lighthouse in Nova Scotia. There’s kayaking along the Mercy River and plenty of hiking along the shore. Located along the lighthouse route, it is a popular stop any Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary.

• Where to Stay in Liverpool : Lanes Privateer Inn
• Where to Eat in Liverpool: La Vista Restaurant in Lanes Privateer Inn

Day 5 – Liverpool to Yarmouth

As you continue along the Lighthouse Route, the next stop is Shelburne. You may not have heard of Shelburne, but it is the third-largest natural harbour in the world!

During the American Revolution, 3000 Loyalists settled in Shelburne from New York City making it (at one time) the fourth-largest community in North America! Visit the Shelburne Waterfront Heritage District and the Shelburne County Museum that highlights the Loyalist history of the area.

Yarmouth is the major urban centre of Southern Novaa Scotia. It is a popular Halifax destination as ferries operating from Portland Maine land here at Yarmouth.

The Cape Forchu lighthouse is the star attraction of Yarmouth and is Nova’s Scotia’s second most visited lighthouse after Peggy’s Cove. What makes this special is that it is free from crowds compared to Peggy’s Cove. It may be popular, but when we were there, we saw only two other people!

We didn’t find a lot of other things to do in Yarmouth and instead preferred our stay outside of town at Ye Olde Argyle Lodge where we could do some hiking and kayaking.

Where to Stay in Yarmouth

• Where to Stay near Shelburne and Yarmouth : Ye Olde Argyler
• Ye Olde Argyler was a full-service lodge in a beautiful setting. They offer kayaking trips from there too!

See our complete south shore road trip of Nova Scotia.

Day 6 – Annapolis Valley

Working your way up the Bay of Funday Shore takes you to the Annapolis Valley. It is fast becoming a major wine-producing route in Nova Scotia. Take your time to explore the coast discovering the Acadian history here at Port Royal and Grand Pré. Here you can explore several National Historic Sites – Fort Anne, Port-Royal, and Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens.

On your way stop in Digby for lunch to enjoy some scallops.

It is then time to move on to Wolfville where you’ll spend the night. Wolfville is a great place for exploring the up-and-coming wine region of Nova Scotia. It is an easy drive to explore the Wine Region of the Annapolis Valley from Wolfville and then make your way back to the charming town to relax at your historic accommodation.

Where to Stay in Wolfville :  Blomidon Inn – The Blomidon Inn is a beautiful grand historic BnB with ornate luxury accommodation. We loved our dinner complete with Nova Scotia wine pairings in the grand old dining room.

Day 7 – The Bay of Fundy

It is now time to drive directly to the Bay of Fundy for a walk on the ocean floor. The Bay of Fundy is home to the world’s highest tides. It moves 100 billion tons of water every 6 hours! 

That is more than all of the freshwater rivers in the world combined! The tides can reach 16 metres (52 feet) with an average range of 35 to 55 feet.  And the horizontal range can be as much as 5 kilometres in places.

You Have plenty of options to explore the Bay of Fundy and it can add either one to four days to your Nova Scotia Itinerary depending on what you choose. Either way you are going to love this coastal drive.

Burntcoat Head Park

From Wolfville, you can drive directly to Burntcoat Head Park to see the world’s highest tides. Burntcoat Head is Nova Scotia’s answer to New Brunswick’s Hopewell Rocks. For three hours on either end of low tide, there is a window where visitors can explore rock formations and sea beds that are normally covered in water. This 3-acre park has hiking trails, a lighthouse, and an interpretive center making it a great way to spend an afternoon.

If you time it right you might be able to enjoy two iconic Bay of Fundy attractions in one day. After exploring Burnthead Coat Park, head to the Shubenacadie River for some tidal bore rafting.

Tidal Bore Rafting

If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, Tidal Bore Rafting at the Shubenacadie River is an action-packed way to experience the high tides of the Bay of Fundy.

We went with  River Runner’s  rafting adventures and had an amazing time riding the waves as the 100 billion tons of water flowed with force into the river creating rapids and whirlpools.

One minute you are walking on the riverbed floor and the next you are rushing into the rafts to grab the waves as they come in. It’s the most fun you’ll ever have on the Bay of Fundy.

• Read all about it a t  Rafting the World’s Highest Tides
• Watch our video:  Tidal Bore Rafting
• Where to Stay: We also stayed in a cottage owned by  River Runners , making for a full day of adventure ending with a barbecue and relaxation nearby.

If you feel that you have experienced enough of the Bay of Fundy, it’s now time to move on and you can spend more time on the Cabot Trail or the Eastern Shore. If not, we have a couple more adventures.

Day 8 – Three Sisters

The Three Sisters on the Bay of Fundy cannot be missed. The Three Sisters are huge sea stacks jutting out from the sea. When the sea is low, they are massive, but when the tide comes in, you can kayak through them.

Kayaking Three Sisters

You have two options here at the Three Sisters. One you can book a kayaking trip to paddle out to the sea stacks or you can simply hike the trail at Chignecto Provincial Park to See the Three Sisters and the high sea cliffs from above.

• Watch our video of the two-day adventure
• Book this tour with   Nova Shores Adventures  out of Advocate Harbour .

It was one of the best kayaking trips we’ve ever taken in our lives. We camped on a secluded beach on the Bay of Fundy and spent two days exploring its sea caves, sea stacks and sea cones.

Cape Chignecto Provincial Park

If kayaking and camping isn’t your thing and you don’t have two nights to go camping, you can still view the Three Sisters from above. The 5.5 km trail system (3.4 miles) follows an easy trail to state of the art wooden viewing platforms offering views of the Three Sisters.

But you will also see amazing views of sea cliffs, Eatonville Harbour and beaches. The scenery from this trail is awe-inspiring and when we visited, there was nobody else there!

Where to Stay in Advocate Harbour near Three Sisters :  Driftwood Park Retreat

Day 9 – Day Ceilidh Trail

Ceilidh Trail is the cultural centre of Nova Scotia and a perfect addition to your Nova Scotia itinerary. Here you will learn about fishing traditions and Celtic heritage.

Celtic Music Interpretive Centre

Before you travel Cape Breton Island, check out the Celtic Music Centre to learn of the history, culture, and music of the Island. It will give you a better understanding of Nova Scotia’s heritage and you can chat up the locals when you pop into a pub for a pint. There are daily performances, interactive exhibits, and demonstrations.

Lobster Tour in Port Hood

Gillis Lobster Tours and Charters  will take you out on an actual lobster boat to check traps and see what its like to run an operation in Nova Scotia’s main fishing industry.

This fascinating Lobster Tour in Port Hood teaches how lobsters are caught. There are many rules for catching and keeping lobsters. You’ll learn about conservation, what size is legal to catch, how they are stored, and how small lobsters can simply swim right out of the traps.

Watch our full video of the Lobster Tour.

Not only is it interesting, it’s a beautiful boat trip to explore the shores of Nova Scotia. When it’s all done, try your hand at mackerel fishing (you can catch and release or take a few home for dinner) and make a stop at Port Hood Island.

Glenora Distillery Tour

The Glenora Distillery is the first single malt whiskey distillery in North America.

Take a tour of the distillery to learn how the whiskey is made and have a taste to see what you want to buy. The locals claim that the Glenora Stream is so clean and fresh it is said to be the water of life. The pure water makes for perfect spirits!

Lobster Boil

When in Nova Scotia, you must try lobster. They have perfected serving lobster every way imaginable. From lobster poutine, to lobster bisque, and lobster soup. But the best way to enjoy fresh Nova Scotia Lobster is with nothing at all.

If you get the chance, set up shop at a local eatery and enjoy a fresh lobster boil with lobsters straight out of the ocean. No butter, no salt just pure clean meat.

Where to Stay on the Cleidhe Trail

Tonight’s accommodation is at the Micro Boutique Living Resort downtown Antigonish.

Cape Breton

There is no doubt that Cape Breton is the top attraction in Nova Scotia because of the Cabot Trail coastal drive. Rated as one of the best road trips in the world, Your Nova Scotia road trip could consist only of Cape Breton Island. Visitors flock to the trail to witness its breathtaking views, enjoy its world-class hikes and take in the scenic lookouts along the drive.

Tip : Drive counterclockwise along the trail for the best views and to be on the outside lane for views. From the Cleidh Trail you may be tempted to drive straight and do the Cabot Trail clockwise, but instead make your way to Baddeck to start your Cabot Trail Journey.

We wrote an in-depth guide to the Cabot Trail , but here are some of the highlights below that you can see. Be sure to check out the full guide.

Day 10 – Cabot Trail in Baddeck

You’ll spend the night here in Baddeck and you have a choice of a few excursions nearby.

Baddeck is an important stop on the Cabot Trail because it was home to Alexander Graham Bell’s summer house. Built on the site of his cottage named “Beinn Bhreagh”, Gaelic for “Beautiful Mountain.” Learn about his famous inventions like the telephone and his work with Hellen Keller .

North River Kayaking

Whenever we visit Nova Scotia, we always try to put a kayaking trip on our itinerary. A good stop on the Cabot Trail for kayaking is the North River. North River Kayaking offers half-day, full-day, and overnight tours and we had so much fun with them.

If you are travelling along the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, this is a must stop.

Uisge Ban Hike

Another hike we enjoyed was heading out to the Uisge Ban Waterfall. Located just outside of Baddeck Uisge Ban (pronounced Ishkaban)  is an easy 1 1/2 km stroll to a beautiful waterfall.

It goes through a mossy forest meandering along a running stream. If you are in the area visiting Alexander Graham Bell’s House, be sure to stop here.

Where to Stay in Baddeck: The Inverary Resort is an excellent place to start the Cape Breton portion of your Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary. Enjoy a cocktail ceilidh with live music and drinks overlooking the lake, indulge in rich Nova Scotia Seafood at the Lakeside Restaurant or enjoy a fun pub setting at the Stonehearth Publ

Day 11 – Ingonish Beach

After you’ve explored everything you want in Baddeck, it’s time to head north to Ingonish Beach where you’ll spend the night.

The Keltic Inn  looked like an amazing place to stay, but being on a road trip , we stayed at an oTENTNIK on Ingonish Beach.

oTENTNIKs are run by and can be  booked through Park’s Canada.  They are the perfect accommodation for families on a Nova Scotia Road Trip, or for couples (sleeps up to four adults or 2 adults four children) looking to spend some time outside, but not ready to rough it too much.

Everything you need for camping is supplied, so if you want a night or two of camping, but don’t have the gear, this is the way to go.

Here you can relax on the beach taking in the views, or you can head out for a hike.

Middlehead Trail

The Middlehead Trail is a popular hike on the Cabot Trail. It is located just beyond the historic Keltic Lodge at Ingonish Beach. The 3.8 km (2.4 miles) loop follows a long peninsula stretching to the Atlantic Ocean. The peninsula separates to bays of Cape Smokey and Ingonish Island.

• Time: 1 – 2 hours

At night enjoy a Lantern walk put on by Park’s Canada where you’ll walk through the settlement of Ingonish learning about the early settlers in this stylized tour with a haunting theme.

Day 12 – Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Today is your day to explore the Cabot Trail and take in all of the scenic views and lookouts along the coast. The 300 km loop of the Cabot Trail, weaves around the coast of Cape Breton. With incredible views overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence, hiking trails, waterfalls, campgrounds, and scenic lookouts it is a must for anyone traveling to Nova Scotia.

It’s one of the premier places to go whale watching in Nova Scotia and you’ll see bald eagles along the route too! Keep an eye out for the amazing scenic lookouts as you drive along the coast. See our full breakdown of the best things to see on the Cabot Trail

Skyline Trail

The Skyline Trail is the most popular hike on the Cabot Trail so crowds can be a problem, but we suggest getting around this inconvenience by hiking it at sunset like we did. It is a great way to end your day of exploring the Cabot Trail. The hike is a 7.5 km loop and we suggest giving yourself at least 2-hours to take n the view and make stops. The trail itself is well marked with an excellent boardwalk leading down to different viewing points.

• See our  full hike along the Skyline Trail  to plan your visit.
• Where to Stay  – Island Sunset Inn at Margaree Harbour

Tonight stay at Margaree harbour where you’ll enjoy a delicious lobster dinner with Nova Scotia Wine.

Day 13 – Guysborough to Tangier

This under-appreciated destination is not on a lot of Nova Scotia Itineraries, but something tells me it will soon be very busy.

Authentic Seacoast Distillery

We started our trip at the  Authentic Seacoast  Distillery where we hopped on golf carts to explore the golf course located on the water.

It was then time to tour the state-of-the-art distilling and brewing facility where we learned how they make their award-winning spirits and craft beer. You can rent a bicycle and take a spin on the TransCanada Trail . A perfect way to spend the afternoon.

Coastal Adventures Eastern Shore Kayaking

A Nova Scotia road trip is never complete without a great adventure and our tour ends with a kayaking tour with Coastal Adventures along the Eastern Shore. The Eastern Shore offers impressive kayaking along the rugged shore.

Taking you through sea stacks and sea caves, exploring islands, and hiking along beaches. Owner Dr. Scott Cunningham is the author of Sea Kayaking Nova Scotia and runs Atlantic Canada’s foremost sea kayaking operation.

Where to stay: Tonight you can stay directly at Coastal Adventures log cabin. It’s a wonderful places to make a base.

From here you can do some mussel picking just before sunset at Murpheys Campground or you can go for a hike on a local favourite, the Liscomb River Trail. The 9.6km trail has a suspension bridge that overlooks a fish ladder and waterfall.

• Book your  kayaking tour now. 

Day 14 – Back to Halifax

It is your final day of your two week Nova Scotia Road trip and time to head back to Halifax where you can spend the evening walking along the waterfront, enjoying a night on Argyle Street at one of the pubs. Check out all the things to do in Halifax here.

Nova Scotia is a province filled with adventure, culture and impressive scenery. It is one of our favourite places to visit in Canada and we hope that you add it to your Canadian travel itinerary too!

It is an amazing place for a road trip. No leg of the drive takes more than 3 hours giving you plenty of time to see the sights without having to spend too much time in the car. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Nova Scotia Road Trip today!

You won’t be disappointed!

Are you taking an east coast road trip? Have you been to Nova Scotia? What is your favourite road trip that you’ve taken?

Save to Pinterest:

Have you been to the East Coast of Canada ? What are your favourite things to do in Nova Scotia?

Read About Nova Scotia:

• Explore the Nova Scotia South Shore – Halifax to Yarmouth
• Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia – The World Highest Tides
• Nova Scotia Pictures that Will Make You Want to Visit Right Now
• Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide
• Where to Stay in Nova Scotia – Our Favourite Accommodation
• 11 Not To Be Missed Stops on the Cabot Trail
• Tips for Hiking the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton

See more Great Canadian Road Trips

• 13 of the Best Canadian Road Trips – That We’ve Done
• Sea to Sky Highway – Best Stops from Vancouver to Whistler
• Dempster Highway Road Trip – Yes You Can Drive to the Arctic
• The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip
• Niagara Falls Road Trip – The Best of the Niagara Parkway
• Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary

Our trips to Nova Scotia have been sponsored by Tourism Nova Scotia. For more information on things to do in Nova Scotia visit the  Nova Scotia Tourism Website. 

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

19 Best Things to do in Winnipeg, Manitoba

34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

20 Best Things To Do in Windsor, Canada in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

24 thoughts on “The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary”

I am planning a trip with my travel trailer to Nova Scotia 2023. Would the roads you drove be suitable for an RV? Are there RV campgrounds near the places you list in your travels there?

I would highly recommend stopping into Amos Pewter while in Mahone Bay. The artisans create jewelry, tableware, home decor but are probably best known for their Christmas ornaments. They have a variety of series (from Santa’s reindeer to and beach treasure and Autumn treasures). Every year they add a new design to their annual collector ornaments.

wow such an amazing article thanks for sharing.

wow!! Scotia is the perfect place to get rid of the boredom of the mind after the pandemic over. I’m obsessed with the church on mahoney bay. I hope one day I can visit there.

Love this! Your blog is so clean and organized! I’ve not yet had the opportunity to travel so I really appreciate your blog! I feel connected to places I’ve never been. Thank you so much for sharing this lovely post!

These pictures are so nice. Looking forward to your post on halifax

Very surprised you didn’t cover the Fortress of louisbourg or the Miners museum in Glace Bay. You also missed Bell museum in Baddeck and the Highland village.

My daughter and I did almost your exact tour 12 years ago – it was amazing – but you have missed out telling people about the North Shore Last year both myself and my daughter and her family moved to New Glasgow We can’t understand why no one pegs this area along with all the other beautiful north shore towns as a tourist attraction – it has so much to offer!

I personally believe a trip to Nova Scotia would absolutely include a tour of the Sydney Harbourfront , with the Big Fiddle, the Cruise Ships, Harbor tours and Restaurants, the Miners Museum and Restaurant in Glace Bay and absolutely without question The Fortress of Louisbourg , a National Historic Site of Canada and the location of a one-quarter partial reconstruction of an 18th-century French fortress at Louisbourg on Cape Breton Island.

Where’s Digby , the scallop capitol of the world? Plus the islands below Digby for whale watching and so much more!

You missed the entire Northen Shore of our province.. it is just as historic (Pictou) Amherst. Antigonish ), beautiful (as the rest of the province and less crowded than Peggy’s Cove, or Lunenburg,) and friendly as the rest of Nova Scotia. We are chock full of great places to eat, stay, swim, sunbathe, explore, photograph, enjoy, relax.

INGONISH BEACH – OTENTNIK , very nice

Great source of information man. Now it’s very easy for me to find out what would be my next step trip for this year. Thanks for sharing this wonderful article.

H D&D, thanks for coming up with a detailed guide on this relatively quieter but nevertheless beautiful part of Canada. Look forward to hearing more about other parts of Canada as well.

Stopping over at Peggy’s Cove is an amazing road trip experience. I’ve never been a lighthouse. These are all amazing things to do. Thanks for sharing this amazing guide.

The Dave And Deb have gone through so much thinking and research for writing this article. Thank you for sharing this great article with us. This blog is worth to read. Keep sharing this kind of post in the future. I’m also an author. So if you have time, I invite you to have a look at my site. Have a nice day!

This is amazing blog. Great photographs and organized blog. This destination seems like amazing place to go for road trip.

I spent every summer growing up at Black Brook. I loved your descriptions and all of your pictures, and you have a beautiful smile. Thank you for the info. I think it’s time to go back and bring my new husband!

This is amazing thank you. I think we are going to follow it next month how long was this done over ? Just want to get an idea of time 😉

Nova Scotia is now in my list of must visit places! Great post and videos are making it more interesting!

Such a peaceful place, this Nova Scotia! Thanks for the share.. This was a lovely read!

Nice tourism object in Scotia ! Have a nice trip !

We are planning a camping trip to Maine summer 2019, but after reading this post, we might have to add Nova Scotia! The trail recommendations, highlights, and maps are great starting places for our planning. Thanks!

Thanks for sharing your Nova Scotia trip.

10 Day Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary (with Maps)

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: March 24, 2024

Nova Scotia is the ideal province in Canada for road trips and scenic drives because you’re never far from the ocean. You get to enjoy gorgeous coastal scenery all around this beautiful province.

There’s a reason Nova Scotia is known as Canada’s Ocean Playground! Fishing, beachcombing, and whale watching are popular attractions you’ll want to make time for during your maritime road trip. Or just eat a ton of seafood like I did!

Enjoy the long summer days exploring the beauty of Canada’s east coast with this Nova Scotia road trip guide.

You can adjust the trip itinerary to suit your needs and add extra days as you desire.

10 Day Itinerary Nova Scotia Road Trip

This ten day road trip itinerary around Nova Scotia is planned with the idea of exploring a region, spending the night, then moving on to the next location.

You can always add more days if you want to take it slower and immerse yourself in the culture. Alternatively, you can do a section of the road trip and stay in one place for the duration of your trip.

I traveled around Nova Scotia solo but you’ll find this guide is perfect for planning your family summer vacation too!

Most people fly into Halifax so that’s where we’ll start with this ten day itinerary for Nova Scotia.

This post contains compensated links and I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. See my disclosure about affiliate links

In This Article:

Day 1 – Halifax

Halifax – Capital of Nova Scotia

Pick up your rental car at the airport and drive to downtown Halifax (30 minutes) to explore the waterfront region. If you arrive late at night spend the night and you’re ready to explore the next day.

I stayed at the Hollis Halifax Doubletree , overlooking the harbor, a great location.

Check the latest hotel deals and prices in Halifax Nova Scotia now

Waterfront along Halifax boardwalk – Tall Ship Silva

Popular Halifax Attractions

• Waterfront – Beautiful place to walk and if the Blue Nose II is in harbor book a trip – check the schedule here
• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site – Citadel Hill with its star shaped architecture once guarded Halifax
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic – Explore Halifax maritime history at this waterfront museum
• Fairview Cemetery – Final resting place of over 100 victims of the Titanic
• Halifax Public Gardens – Beautiful Victorian era gardens opened in 1867, the year of Canadian Confederation

Overnight Halifax: Hollis Halifax or the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront are both good choices. View more Halifax hotels here .

Day 2 – Halifax to South Shore

Peggy’s cove – lunenburg – blue rocks – ovens natural park – hirtle’s beach.

Total driving time 3.5 hours

From Halifax you’ll drive 45 minutes to Peggy’s Cove to visit one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks .

The Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots in Canada.

The iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse in Nova Scotia is a popular tourist attraction in Nova Scotia

From Peggy’s Cove drive 100 km (60 miles) to the historic town of Lunenburg Nova Scotia. The downtown area near the harbor is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lunenburg is an attractive town with Victorian era houses painted in bright colors. The view from across the water on Tannery Road is wonderful.

Lunenburg is a popular Nova Scotia road trip destination with its brightly painted historic buildings

Eat lunch at one of the seafood restaurants, I tried Grand Banker Bar and Grill and it is excellent. Walk off your lunch along the harbor.

There are two museums you should visit in Lunenburg:

• Knaut-Rhuland House at 125 Pelham Street will give you a glimpse into the early days in Lunenburg.
• Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic at 68 Bluenose Drive

If the Bluenose II tall ship is docked at Lunenburg, you can hop aboard and get a look at the ship for FREE! There are also paid boat tours available – check the listings for more info

Blue Nose II in Nova Scotia open for tourists to walk aboard

Next drive 10 minutes from Lunenburg to Blue Rocks and walk the shoreline or take a sea kayaking trip. There are bunches of islands nearby, so the water is usually calm.

Pleasant Paddling will rent you a kayak or you can sign up for one of their guided tours. Traveling by myself I opted for the guided tour and I enjoyed it a lot.

Beautiful Blue Rocks Nova Scotia – small fishing village near Lunenburg

Now take a drive from Blue Rocks to the Ovens Natural Park and enjoy a hike along the cliffs, plus you can try panning for gold on the beach. Read my full post about Ovens park here

From Ovens park drive to beautiful Hirtle’s Beach – only 12 km away – and enjoy a walk on the beach, watch for seals surfing in the water.

If you are into hiking, I highly recommend the Gaff Point hike – the trailhead is at Hirtle’s Beach! This was my favorite hike in Nova Scotia but it’s not for everyone.

Check out my Gaff Point hike video to see the variety of terrain on this hike.

Gaff Point trail view of Hirtle’s Beach from the hill

Take a scenic drive to Bridgewater and spend the night. Dine at the River Pub at 750 King Street.

In the morning grab some cookies at Weagles’ Bakery at 15 Victoria Road (they open at 6 am). Cookies are the perfect road trip snack. For a full breakfast I suggest Fancy Pants Café at 807 King Street.

Overnight in Bridgewater at Best Western or the Lighthouse Motel overlooking the LaHave River.

Check availability and the latest deals on hotels in Bridgewater .

Day 3 –  South Shore to Yarmouth

South shore –crescent beach – kejimkujik seaside – cape sable island – yarmouth.

Total of 3.25 hours driving time

From Bridgewater drive to Crescent Beach – 20 minutes or so. Crescent Beach is the place for windsurfing, kitesurfing, or regular board surfing. Enjoy walking the beach.

I found several sand dollars on this beach. As you may have guessed from all the surfing, it gets very windy at Crescent Beach!

From Crescent Beach to Kejimkujik National Park Seaside – 75 km (45 miles) takes about 45 minutes.

Hike out to the seashore and watch the waves crashing into shore.

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside Nova Scotia Canada features coastal hikes

Kejimkujik to Cape Sable Island is a scenic 1 hour 10 minutes drive. I enjoyed exploring Cape Sable Island and visiting a couple of the beaches.

The Hawk Beach at low tide exposes the petrified stumps from a former forest.

Walking this sandy beach, you can see the Cape Sable Lighthouse, the tallest in Nova Scotia at 31 m (101 ft).

Cape Sable Lighthouse is the tallest in Nova Scotia at 31 m (101 ft)

Fill your belly at the JB’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant – it’s located on the left side just before you cross the causeway over to Cape Sable Island.

They have great food and wonderful staff.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops at JB’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant in Barrington NS South Shore region

Cape Sable Island to Yarmouth – 75 km – around an hour. Yarmouth is another Nova Scotia coastal town and its located on the southwest tip of the Nova Scotia peninsula.

In Yarmouth visit the Cape Forchu Lighthouse and Museum – a wonderful place to watch the sunset.

Have dinner overlooking the harbor at Rudder’s Seafood at 96 Water Street.

In the morning The Shanty Café opens at 6 am to help you break the fast – Shanty Café is located at 6B Central Street in downtown Yarmouth near the waterfront.

Overnight Yarmouth – find the latest hotel rates and availability here .

Day 4 – Yarmouth to Annapolis Valley

Digby – annapolis royal – wolfville.

Total driving time 2 hrs 50 minutes

The drive from Yarmouth to Digby – 100 km (60 miles) should take you just over an hour.

Do you love lobster and scallops? If so, Digby is your happy place! Home to the famous Digby scallops and delicious Atlantic lobster too.

July 2 – 4, 2021 you can enjoy the Lobster Bash in Digby. If you are around in early August, you’ll want to attend the Digby Scallop Days Festival – August 5 – 8, 2021.

Digby to the historic town of Annapolis Royal – 30 minute drive. Annapolis Royal is a charming coastal town with a lot of history – the early European settlers arrived in the area in 1605. The Mi’kmaq First Nations peoples have lived in the area for over 10,000 years.

Popular Annapolis Royal Attractions

• Visit the only Tidal Power Plant in North America
• Fort Anne National Historic Site
• Port Royal National Historic Site
• Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
• Abundant historic buildings – 135 registered heritage buildings in a town with a population of around 500 people

Downtown Wolfville Nova Scotia mural of boat and pocket watch

Annapolis Royal to Wolfville – 1 hour 15 minutes driving time.

Wolfville was once home to some of the Acadians, later expelled by the British – many of them later settled in the land around Lafayette Louisiana .

2020.01.09 Editor’s Note/Correction. Thank you to Richard Riddell Comeau for the following:

Acadie was all of the Maritimes and much of the Gaspé Peninsula. Grand Pré, near what is today Wolfville, was one of our homes. The “Cajuns” of Louisiana are part of an Acadian diaspora which reaches across the globe. There were Acadians that either avoided expulsion or returned after expulsion to the Maritimes to live. Acadian people and culture are alive and well in Nova Scotia and throughout the Maritimes. Vive l’Acadie!!   ~ Richard Riddell Comeau

Nowadays around the Annapolis Valley there are several wineries within easy access from Wolfville.

Explore the wine region and enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in downtown Wolfville. Try The Naked Crepe – good eats!

Overnight Wolfville – Wolfville hotel options and latest deals

You can visit the Grand Pre Historic and UNESCO site just a few km from Wolfville.

Day 5 – Bay of Fundy to Northumberland Shore

Walton lighthouse – bay of fundy – truro – tatamagouche – pictou.

Total driving time: 3.5 hours

Wolfville to the Bay of Fundy – Burntcoat Head Park – 1 hour and 10 minutes – 90 km (56 miles)

Watch the biggest tides in the world! It’s amazing to walk on the ocean floor and where only 6 hours earlier the water reached up to the rocky coastline.

Bay of Fundy is a must visit in Nova Scotia.

Exploring the ocean floor near the flowerpot at Burntcoat Head Park on Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia

In between tides at Bay of Fundy drive to Walton Lighthouse and enjoy lunch at the Walton Pub – 20 minute drive.

Burntcoat Head Park to Truro – 50 minutes – 60 km (36 miles)

Truro to Tatamagouche – 45 minute drive (50ish km/30ish miles) Take a walk on the beach at Rushton’s Beach Provincial Park in Tatamagouche.

Truro to Pictou – birthplace of New Scotland – 45 minutes – 65 km. The first Scottish immigrants landed in 1773.

At Hector Heritage Quay in Pictou step aboard a replica of the Hector – the tall ship that arrived in Pictou with the first immigrants from Scotland – more info on Ship Hector .

Interested in tracing your family tree and Scottish heritage – visit the McCulloch House Museum and Genealogy Centre.

Overnight in Pictou – Find the latest deals and hotel reviews here .

Day 6 – Northumberland Shore to Cape Breton

Antigonish – port hood – mabou – cheticamp.

Total driving time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Pictou to Antigonish  will take about 45 minutes on the road.

In Antigonish if you are in the mood for a hike to stretch your legs check out Fairmont Ridge Hiking Trail for a 10 km (6 miles) out and back trail.

Next drive from Antigonish to Port Hood on Cape Breton Island. Grab some lunch at the Clove Hitch Bar and Bistro at 8790 NS Trunk Road 19.

Road sign for The Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

The drive from Port Hood to Mabou is only 10 minutes. Mabou is a good choice if you want to add on an extra night to the trip because it’s a hotbed for music.

The village of Mabou has a population of around 1,200, with a few options for accommodation so check the Mabou website for listings – and check out the music events in Mabou.

Mabou to Cheticamp takes about an hour to drive. Cheticamp is just outside of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You’ll need to buy a pass to visit the park but it’s totally worth it!

In Cheticamp you’re only a 20-minute drive from Skyline Trail – hike it at sunset for beautiful coastal views.

Stay in Cheticamp overnight – check for Cheticamp hotels here .

Day 7 and Day 8 – Cape Breton Island

Pleasant bay – cabot’s landing – meat cove – white point – ingonish.

Total driving time: 3 hours

I know some people drive the Cabot Trail in one day, but you won’t have much time at all for the beaches, coastal hiking trails, or filling your face with seafood and local beer. Spend some time enjoying Cape Breton!

From Cheticamp drive to Pleasant Bay (40 minutes) and do some whale watching.

Grab a cup of coffee at the Pumpkin Patch. ..and some fudge. They also sell organic body care products…but coffee and fudge are important road trip products.

There’s also a cool looking art shop in Pleasant Bay – it wasn’t open when I visited town though. But take a look at Timmons Folk Art Studio at 22 Harbour Road if you visit Pleasant Bay – handmade souvenirs are the best!

Timmons Folk Art Studio Pleasant Bay Cape Breton NS

From Pleasant Bay you can stop at Cabots Landing Provincial Park and visit the beach where Cabot is thought to have landed.

Cabots Landing Provincial Park in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

After visiting Cabots Landing you may as well continue on to Meat Cove – the northernmost community in Cape Breton.

There’s some good hiking around Meat Cove and great food awaiting you at The Chowder Hut .

View of Meat Cove Beach from the deck of the Chowder Hut Restaurant

After you satisfy your hunger get back on the road and visit the town of Cape North then continue to White Point for a scenic drive along the Nova Scotia coastline.

From there you’ll pass Neil’s Harbour and continue on to Ingonish where you’ll spend a couple of nights so you can explore the area.

Ingonish Beach at dusk Cape Breton Nova Scotia

Enjoy the beaches, hiking, and scenic coastal drives around Ingonish. I hiked a few trails in Cape Breton and visited Ingonish Beach in the evenings.

There’s a golf course at the Celtic Lodge in Ingonish and the lodge features live music events at the Arduaine Restaurant and the Highland Sitting Room.

Three great hikes around Ingonish are Jack Pine Trail, Middle Head Trail, and Broad Cove Mountain – get info on these and more hikes in Cape Breton here .

Find hotel deals in Ingonish and check availability here – they book up fast! If you want to stay closer to the beach check these listings . I stayed in a cute little cabin in Ingonish .

Day 9 – Cape Breton Ingonish to Baddeck

Total driving time: 90 minutes

Baddeck is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site so you’ll want to spend some time at the museum. The town of Baddeck is beautiful, enjoy exploring and tasting your way through town.

Hike the Uisge Ban Falls at 715 North Branch Rd Baddeck Forks.

Enjoy one last seafood dinner at the family owned Baddeck Lobster Suppers located at 17 Ross Street near the Baddeck Harbour.

Find the perfect hotel in Baddeck now!

Day 10 – Cape Breton to Halifax

Baddeck to halifax.

4.5 hours total driving time

On the road again for another scenic coastal drive from Baddeck to Halifax . It’s time to gather your wonderful memories of road tripping in Nova Scotia and fly home.

Split up the drive with stop in picturesque Guysborough and get some road trip snacks at Days Gone By Bakery at 143 Main Street – about 1 hour 40 minutes from Baddeck.

Readers have pointed out that this road trip is missing the eastern shore region. That is a great excuse for another trip to Nova Scotia for me!

For now you can check the Nova Scotia tourism info for a 3-day itinerary along the eastern shore here .

Alternate Route Baddeck to Halifax via Eastern Shore

5.5 hours total driving time

This route will take you to Guysborough and Sherbrooke and along the eastern shore. As folks have mentioned there is plenty to see in this region of Nova Scotia.

There are several beautiful beaches on the eastern shore .

Taylor Head Beach at Taylor Head Provincial Park is gorgeous! There are also hiking trails along the coast, Spry Bay Loop is an awesome hike.

Clam Harbour Beach at Clam Harbour Provincial Park is another excellent stop along the eastern shore.

Martinique Beach is the longest beach in Nova Scotia and popular with surfers. During summer months you can take a surf lesson and rent all the gear right at the beach parking lot.

Lawrencetown Beach at Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park is another popular surf spot. And you can hike the Atlantic View Trail here as well.

Enjoy your east coast road trip exploring beautiful Nova Scotia!

If you have any tips or suggestions for places to stop on the way please let me know in the comments section below.

Thank you for reading and happy travels!

Read these related posts to plan your Nova Scotia trip!

• 15 Cool Places to See in Nova Scotia This Summer
• 9 Cape Breton Hikes on the Famous Cabot Trail Nova Scotia
• Amazing Blue Rocks Nova Scotia Sea Kayaking Experience of a Lifetime
• Cape Breton Accommodations Cabot Trail Cottages Hotels Nova Scotia
• Hirtle’s Beach Gaff Point Trail Nova Scotia Best Coastal Hike
• Ovens Natural Park Sea Cave Trail and Campgrounds Nova Scotia
• Walton Lighthouse Nova Scotia – Last Original in Hants County

Save this for later on Pinterest at share!

Friday 3rd of February 2023

We are planning a trip summer 2023 -wonderful ideas - do you happen to have one full map with the route

Solo Trips and Tips

Friday 11th of August 2023

Sue, Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed reading the blog. Both PEI and NS are absolutely gorgeous in summer and I predict you will have a spectacular road trip! Please, eat some seafood for me :) Cheers, Susan

@SoloTripsAndTips,

Hi Susan we're coming to NS and PEI in 2 weeks time from the UK. Your blog has been fantastic to read and has given us loads of tips for our roadtrip. We are there for 2 weeks, and like you, don't expect to cover everything on offer in that time. Thank you again very helpful blog

SoloTripsAndTips

Saturday 4th of February 2023

Hi Kathi, I do not have a full map of the entire route. GoogleMaps only allows so many stops so it's difficult to map out a long route. I hope you have an amazing Nova Scotia road trip this summer! Cheers, Susan

William MacKay

Wednesday 6th of July 2022

I am a native Nova Scotian and there is so much more than you were able to cover that would be of interest to others. The section of the province from Truro along the Bay of Fundy to Parrsboro, and Amherst around to Tatamagouche. Includes the Fossil Cliffs at Joggins where dinosaurs are found, area around Parrsboro where gemstones and geodes are found and interesting rockhounding and the very highest tides in the world at the head of the Bay. Springhill with a miners museum, and museum to Canadian singer Anne Murray. Nearby is the Blueberry capital of Oxford where Nova Scotia's famous wild blueberries are processed and shipped around the world. Amherst the Town on the border before crossing into New Brunswick, Amherst is an historic Garrison town. From Amherst along the Northumberland Strait to Tatamagouche. World famous Fox Harbour Golf resort is in the area. On Cape Breton Island your tour did not include a visit to Fortress Louisburg a short drive from Sydney or a drive through the coal mining towns out to Glace Bay. Also to follow the picturesque Highway 4 from Sydney along the Bras d'Or Lake to St. Peters, a side trip to Isle Madame, and around to Port Hawkesbury. St. Peters was originally settled by the Portugese and then by the French and is one of the oldest continually settled communities in North America. There is an interesting Canal there and two small museums as well. History attributes settlement to 1626.

Susan Moore

William, Thank you for your comment. All of these are excellent suggestions to add to a Nova Scotia itinerary. And you're certainly correct that there is so much more than I was able to cover with a 10-day road trip itinerary, but it's a good starting point for people planning their travels to this amazing province!

I'm actually back in Nova Scotia now, visiting more places including Truro, Joggins, Parrsboro, Cheticamp, Baddeck, and a bunch more. I plan to add some more road trip itineraries to cover specific regions of Nova Scotia and also a longer itinerary for people who can spend 3 weeks or more exploring Nova Scotia.

Thanks again for your suggestions on places to visit. Cheers, Susan

Howard farmer

Wednesday 6th of April 2022

Hi im going to nova in may 2022.. my tour is very similar to yours but i take in briers island just west of digby and dundee east of port Hawkesby.. main area is im staying at knotty pines just above ingonish harbour.. then on to sydney via baddeck... from there i hug the coast to port dufferin and the wonderfully named Marmalade Studios.. overlooking the atlantic before heading to halifax... like you i booked all my stops before hand and used trailfinders to put it together.... i can't wait to see ol blue at lunenburg, whale watching and the rum factories wineries and of course lobster. Fantastic article by you that ive downloaded to refer to whilst im touring in my hire car... many thanks.. howard farmer england..

Howard, thanks for reading my blog from all the way across the pond! You've put together a great itinerary for your road trip around Nova Scotia, it's going to be an incredible adventure. I hope you have a most wonderful time in Nova Scotia. I'm glad you found this article a useful reference for your trip planning, enjoy your travels! Cheers, Susan

Denis Frenette

Saturday 15th of February 2020

Sounds like a nice trip.

Denis, Thanks for reading the blog. There's so much to see in Nova Scotia, looking forward to visiting again in the fall. Cheers, Susan

Lisa MacPherson

So I have read all the comments, you certain didn't have time to hit all the places you could have in our lovely province! There is one I would love for you to see, it is a coastal community between Barrington and Yarmouth on the South Shore, it is called Pubnico (it encompasses several communities), a jewel you will never forget and while you are there don't forget to visit the Red Cap Restaurant and motel have a piece of pie ;) you will meet some lovely people especially if you go around 7pm when the locals gather for coffee and a chat! The Acadien museum is also a good place to stop and visit to get a feel for the history of the area. Enjoy your month in NS lol you will need at least that much time next visit!!!

Lisa, Thanks for commenting. You had me at pie :) I will add your suggestions to the big list for next trip. I'm putting together my itinerary for a fall road trip and you're right a month or more is needed! I think I may split it up with a week or so in Nova Scotia before I go to Newfoundland and then 3 weeks when I get back. Looking forward to my next trip! Cheers, Susan

The perfect 10-day Nova Scotia road trip itinerary (+map)

If your image of Canada is one of candy-striped lighthouses , lobster rolls and spectacular sherbert coloured sunsets then it’s highly likely you’re thinking of Nova Scotia .

This corner of Canada is dominated by quaint fishing villages , rainbow-coloured clapboard houses and a wild and rugged coastline . It’s a beautiful and charming place where the locals are welcoming, the food is delicious and the living really is easy.

Nova Scotia, which is Latin for “New Scotland”, is one of the Atlantic Provinces of Canada . The province, along with New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, forms part of what is also called the Maritimes provinces , or simply the Maritimes for short.

It’s an easy destination to travel around and a great place to enjoy a road trip ; distances are not excessive, driving is easy and, if you avoid the peak of summer, you will often have the roads to yourself. Your only issue will be trying to do too much, leaving you frazzled at the end of your holiday rather than relaxed!

Here’s how to start planning a road trip around Nova Scotia .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy for more details.

Where is Nova Scotia? 

Table of Contents

Nova Scotia is a province on Canada’s east coast . As well as the mainland territory, it includes over 3,800 coastal islands . It’s connected to the province of New Brunswick by a narrow strip of land and to Cape Breton Island by the Canso Causeway. To reach Prince Edward Island, one of the other Maritimes, you must travel by ferry.

It’s an easy to travel to; less than seven hours by plane from London into Halifax and two hours from Toronto . If travelling by car then most visitors arrive in Nova Scotia overland by car from New Brunswick, arriving into Canada from Maine.

The above map highlights the main towns and cities (in yellow) and the main sights not located in a town or city (in green).

Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary 

There are various ways that you can enjoy this road trip. You can complete the entire loop stopping at every destination listed or you can pick and choose the destinations that appeal most to you. 

If you don’t have enough time to visit everywhere, for example, then you may choose to just explore the south shore from Halifax stopping in at some of Nova Scotia’s most famous places including Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg . 

Or you may choose to spend more time in the Great Outdoors, exploring the incredible Bay of Fundy followed by some hiking in Kejimkujik National Park .

The idea with this itinerary is to allow you to customise your trip according to how much time you have and your own interests.

In terms of how long to spend in each place, I would recommend the following:

• Halifax: 2 nights
• Bay of Fundy area: 2 nights
• Annapolis Royal: 2 – 4 nights depending on how much time you want to spend exploring Kejimkujik National Park
• White Point: 2 – 3 nights depending on how much time you want at the beach. You may also choose to base yourself here for longer and take day trips along the south shore.
• Lunenburg / Mahone Bay: 1 – 2 nights

Depending on what time you arrive, you may want to pick up your car rental straight away and head off, saving your time in Halifax for the end of your trip. This is what I did and it worked very well.

This itinerary is for anyone travelling to Nova Scotia whether you are a solo traveller, holidaying as a couple or have the kids in tow. If you are travelling with children then I’ve made a note below of places and activities that are family-friendly.

Use this road itinerary as a guide and start planning your trip to Nova Scotia.

Halifax 

The friendly, colourful capital of Nova Scotia is the cultural hub of the region and home to some excellent museums, delicious restaurants and and picture-perfect coastlines. 

Start your visit at the Halifax Waterfront , popular with visitors and Haligonians (as the locals are called) alike. At 4km (2.5-miles) long, it’s one of the longest urban boardwalks in the world and home to snacks stalls, museums, artwork, shops and restaurants. 

It’s also where you’ll find two of the city’s best museums; the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic . 

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

If you only have time to visit one museum in Nova Scotia’s capital city make sure that it is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 .

Between the years of 1928 and 1971 almost one million people from around the world immigrated to Canada through Pier 21 . The museum details the history of immigration in Canada . 

The permanent exhibit is divided into two parts on the second floor and there is a third space on the ground floor used for temporary exhibits. 

The Canadian Immigration Hall tells the story of 400 years of immigration to Canada and includes objects and stories collected from immigrants through the ages. It’s quite text heavy in parts – so younger children might find it a little hard going – but if you have the time to read and listen to some of the perusal stories, it is very moving.

There are interactive points along the way where visitors can record their families’ cultural traditions and see if the would pass the Canadian citizenship test. 

The Pier 21 Story is more interactive and tells the story of immigration to Canada when Pier 21 was still active. You can dress up in historical costumes , read first-person accounts of immigrants, board a train car similar to the ones that newly landed immigrants would continue their journey in, see a replica dining room from a ship travelling to Canada, and step inside a recreation of the assembly hall where people would wait for immigration officials to clear them for entry. 

It’s an excellent museum that covers an emotive topic in a sensitive and thought-provoking way. 

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is the oldest and largest Maritime Museum in Canada and tells the story of the people and events that have shaped the province as well as its relationship with the sea. 

Highlights include the exhibition dedicated to the tragic Halifax explosion that occurred on 6 December 1917. The steamship Mont-Blanc, inbound from the Atlantic carrying 2600 tons of high explosives bound for France, collided with the Norwegian ship Imo in The Narrows, a channel leading to Bedford Basin. The resulting explosion killed 1,782 people and injured an estimated 9,000 more. 

The museum exhibition explores the events leading up to the disaster and the aftermath. 

The other exhibition well worth seeing is the one dedicated to the Titanic . When the unsinkable ship did sink, the survivors went to New York and all those who perished were transported to Halifax. The exhibition explores how the cable ship crews braved challenging conditions to recover the bodies and invented an ingenious system for identifying many of the victims. 

Many of the crew kept pieces of ship wreckage and much of these are on display including pieces of wrecked woodwork that were carved into picture frames or paperweights. One of the most moving displays is that of a pair of leather children’s shoes. 

Other Halifax Highlights

• If you’re visiting Halifax with kids then the  Halifax Harbour Hopper tour  is a must. This fun tour in an amphibious vehicle takes in the main city sights by land and by water.
• Built on the large hill overlooking the harbour was the Citadel, a fortress constructed to protect the city from attack. Today the  Halifax Citadel National Historic Site  is a national site and museum. Join a tour with a guide dressed in historical costume and learn all about the history of the city from the first settlers to today.
• Take a ride on the  Halifax-Dartmouth ferry , the oldest saltwater ferry in North America, and the second oldest in the world. Visit Dartmouth on a weekend and you can explore the  Alderney Landing Market . The  Dartmouth Harbourwalk Trail  is fun for a short cycle or longer walk.
• Learn about the tragic history of  Africville , one of the 52 separate historic black settlements in Nova Scotia. The  Africville Museum , housed in a replica of the church that was destroyed when the community residents were forced to leave their homes – is definitely worth a visit. 
• Give the kids some green space to run around in the  Halifax Public Gardens , a 16 acre Victoria city garden in the heart of downtown Halifax. 
• The  Halifax Seaport Market  is a favourite with locals and visitors alike, it takes place on Saturdays from 8am and Sunday from 2pm at Pavilion 23 along the boardwalk. Another fun weekend market is the Brewery Market held on a Saturday morning. 

Where to stay in Halifax

I stayed in Halifax the night before leaving Nova Scotia and had a very comfortable – and convenient – night’s stay at the ALT Hotel at the airport. This is a good choice if you are departing the city the next day and have an early start.

If you’re looking to stay in Halifax itself then take a look at these recommended properties.

The above map indicates both hotel and holiday rental options in Halifax.

Where to eat in Halifax 

One of the best meals I had in Nova Scotia was at the Bicycle Thief , along the boardwalk in Halifax. The Italian-inspired menu makes the most of the region’s abundance of fresh seafood – order the seafood stew when you go!

Other restaurants that come recommended by locals include:

• Drift  (although this might be better suited for dining without the kids)
• Blue Nose II
• Five Fishermen before becoming a restaurant in the 1970s, the building was a morgue and took in bodies from both the Titanic in 1912 and the Halifax Explosion in 1916 and ghostly sightings are not uncommon!

The Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy lies between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and is famous for its tidal variations , the largest in the world. At the Bay of Fundy you can see two high and two low tides every day ; the average time between a high and low tide is six hours and 13 minutes. There are myriad places to base yourself to explore this area and unique phenomenon.

Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre

There are various places you can stop as you drive north from Halifax. One of the best places to learn about the famous Fundy tides and tidal bore (the strong tide that pushes up against the river and current) is at the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre in South Maitland.

The displays explain how the “reversing river” works and, if you’re lucky, you can witness the tidal phenomenon yourself while there. There is a tidal observation deck where the tide bore passes by, changing direction and rise 10 feet in a short amount of time.

Tidal bores take place in just a few locations around the world so don’t miss the opportunity to see this while you are in Nova Scotia. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous then you can even try tidal bore rafting .

The centre is open from mid-May to mid-October  and has details on when high tide and low tide will take place.

Burntcoat Head Park 

It’s roughly a 30 minute drive from the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre to Burntcoat Head Park , home to the world’s highest recorded tides.

Before arriving at Burntcoat Head Park, you’ll pass through the small village of Maitland , home to Canada’s oldest general store, Frieze & Roy . Pop in if you can but don’t worry if you don’t have much time, it’s very much a general store with little to acknowledge it’s claim to fame.

Burntcoat Head , however, is much more impressive. The park is one of the best places to see the incredibly fast moving tidal waters of the Bay of Fundy in action.

Visit at low tide and you can walk along the ocean floor and around the sea stacks caused by tidal erosion. Nicknamed ‘flower pots’ for the trees growing out of the brown stacks, they’re highly popular with photographers – amateur and professional alike!

When the tide comes in, watch the ocean floor disappear as the waters rise by up to 16m (53ft). You can check for tide times on the park’s website .

A fun option for kids is to join an Ocean Floor Adventure and learn all about life under the bay when the tide is out. 

Burntcoat Head Park is closed during the winter, so the best time to visit Burntcoat Head is from mid-May to mid-October .

Walton Lighthouse

It’s a short drive from Burntcoat Head to Walton Lighthouse , which was built in 1873 and was once the brightest lighthouse on the upper Bay of Fundy, guiding ships to the port of Walton. Climb the two steep stairs to the top for uninterrupted views of the basin as well as a chance to see the original ‘methane’ lighthouse lamp, powered by a wind-up clock mechanism.

Where to stay to explore the Bay of Fundy

I stayed at the excellent Flying Apron Inn & Cookery , run by extraordinary convivial hosts Chris and Melissa. They have five double bedrooms and it’s a great place to stay if you are travelling with older children.

As well as being a B&B, they offer cooking lessons run by professional chef Chris (these are either hands-on or the type of lesson where you sit, watch and drink wine while Chris demonstrates how to prepare a three-course meal). Even if you don’t stay here, however, do stop in for a meal as their restaurant is excellent.

Other options for families looking to base themselves in this area include Shangri-La Cottages in Burntcoat have three cottages including one that sleeps 4 people and another that sleeps 6. 

Travel to Annapolis Royal via Grande-Pre, the Annapolis Valley and Hall’s Harbour

The Evangeline Trail runs along the Bay of Fundy coastline and is scenic drive that winds its way through the quaint villages, bountiful orchards and verdant vineyards of the Annapolis Valley. The trail is named after the fictional character Evangeline brought to life by American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his 1847 poem Evangeline, A Tale of Acadie , which tells the plight of the Acadian people.

The Annapolis Valley is beautiful, a patchwork of fields in varying shades of green. This is the richest agricultural region in Atlantic Canada and was once known as the breadbasket of Colonial Canada . Still today the region grows an abundance of fruit and vegetables, much of which can be found in the local cafes, restaurants and farmers markets.

This region is also becoming known for its wine (grapes have been cultivated here for wine since the 1600s but the modern wine industry only started in 1978).

Tidal Bay is the region’s signature white wine as we’ll as its first and only appellation wine. Myriad regional winemakers each produce their own version; vineyards submit their wannabe wines for judging and, if they pass the test, are allowed to use the name Tidal Bay.

I stopped in at Planter’s Ridge , a lovely winery with a small tasting room overlooking their vineyards. I had tried their excellent L’Acadie  white wine (red wine lovers take note, the region is much more well known for its white wines than its reds) at the Flying Apron and loved it.

Their tasting room also has a small menu with small plates such as oysters, beef carpaccio and Newfoundland shrimp salad on the menu. More kid-friendly are the locally sourced chefs and charcuterie plates.

Tangled Garden 

These delightful gardens are the perfect place to explore with children. The fairtytale-like gardens were started by Beverly McClare some thirty years ago when the plot of land was little more than a rundown house with five trees.

Today the Tangled Garden is a whimsical destination packed full of trees, plants, ferns and herbs that is a joy to explore. Visitors are handed a map to help navigate the gardens, which include the Reflection Room (a small pond with a fountain), the Tossed Salad Garden (where herbs are grown) and the Labyrinth.

Award-winning jams and jellies made using herbs for the garden are for sale in the garden shop.

Next door to the Tangled Garden is the Just Us! Coffee Roasters , Canada’s first fair trade and organic coffee roaster, who also make very good pastries.

Grand-Pré National Historic Site

To truly understand the history of Nova Scotia you really need to visit the  Grand-Pré National Historic Site . This was one of the most moving and informative stops on my Nova Scotia itinerary.

Located north of the town of Wolfville , the Grand-Pré National Historic Site is a park dedicated to the Acadians who settled here from 1682 to 1755.

The Acadians originally came from France , primarily from the rural areas of the Vendee region of western France. They arrived in what is now known as Nova Scotia and settled, working the land, building dykes and living and working peacefully with the local Miꞌkmaq people . The site today is located at the former Acadian village of Grand-Pré and the area is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Between 1605 to 1713 , ownership of the land occupied by the Acadians changed hands seven times between the British and the French. Despite these tumultuous times, however, the Acadians maintained a position of neutrality.

In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht handed over the territory permanently to the British. However, fighting between the two sides resumed in 1744 at which point the British decided to expel anyone not loyal to the crown. The result was Le Grand Dérangement , the forcible explosion of the Acadians from their homeland.

Between 1755 and 1763 more than 10,000 Acadians were removed from their homes in present day Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Grand-Pré is the area most closely associated with the deportations and the National Historic Site explores this historical event in detail.

There are three main parts to the site ; a museum that details the Acadians lives in the region, a very good film that explains Le Grand Dérangement, and a memorial church that represents the church of the Acadian village.

The church is where in 1755, 418 men and boys aged 10 and older were held summoned before being held hostage and then deported. Today, the church has a series of paintings showing Acadian life before, during and after deportation

Hall’s Harbour

It’s a small but worthwhile detour to stop in at Hall’s Harbour before you continue along the coast.

Hall’s Harbour is a petit, perfectly-formed fishing village positioned along the Bay of Fundy. The fishing village dates back to 1779 when it was used by Captain Hall and his privateers as a base. At one point the port was filled with clipper ships that would arrive with spices and other goods to trade with the locals who would arrive from the valley by horse and buggy ready to barter.

Today Halls’ Harbour is most famous for the Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound , a working lobster pound the buildings of which dates back to the 1820s; pop in for Lobster Poutine , Lobster Nachos or a Lobster Roll and watch the world famous tides roll in.

At low tide the wharf is dry with fishing boats resting on the seabed until the sea rises as much as an inch a minute.

My favourite stop in Hall’s Harbour was Parker’s General Store , which has been owned by the same family for 120 years and is one of the oldest stores in Canada . Today the shop stocks works by some 30 local artists and items range from jewellery and paintings to woolly gloves made from discarded jumpers and hand-carved wooden spoons. Each artist has a small bio featured alongside their work.

The highlight, however, was the shop’s manager , Madonna who is an absolute delight. Having lived in Hall’s Harbour for 40 odd years she is a wealth of local knowledge.

Parker’s General Store is open from early May until the week after Canadian Thanksgiving and again for a brief Christmas shopping period.

Annapolis Royal 

It’s well worth spending a couple of days exploring Annapolis Royal and its surrounds . Originally called Port Royal, this area was home to some of North America’s earliest European settlers . Today it’s a small but lively waterfront community where colourful clapboard buildings house excellent restaurants, cafes, independent stores and even a theatre.

Fort Anne National Historic Site

A short walk form the heart of town is the Fort Anne National Historic Site , once the most contested piece of land on the continent.

A settlement was first established here in 1629 by Scottish settlers but was abandoned to the French just a few. years later. Conflicts didn’t end there, however, Fort Anne was the site of thirteen attacks , seven changes of hands, and the ratification of the Treaty of Boston.

The remains of the fortification that you see today was designed by French military architect Vauban (he was responsible for many a French citadel including this one in Blaye and this in Arras ). Today you can walk along the bulwarks and battlements that are today mostly grassed over and visit the old officer’s quarters which now holds a museum.

It’s an interesting lesson in Canadian history but if you’re visiting with kids then the Port Royal National Historic Site is much more interesting.

Port Royal National Historic Site

On the other side of the Annapolis River , a 15 minute drive from Annapolis Royal, is the Port Royal National Historic Site .

Founded by Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons and Samuel de Champlain in 1605, the settlement was the first permanent European settlement north of St. Augustine, Florida . Between 25 and 45 men lived here until 1613 when the British arrived and torched the settlement to the ground.

The 17th century French colony was rebuilt in 1939 using the techniques and tools that were originally used during the construction. It opened for visitors in 1941 and is today the best way to get a feel for what life was like for early European settlers .

Staff are on hand dressed in costumes and characters including the blacksmith, carpenter and governor who would have once lived here.

Visitors are welcome to wander around and, unlike many museums, you can touch and handle items, sit on chairs and even wear the governor’s hat for a photo. It’s one of the best things to do in Annapolis Royal and a wonderful way to really experience an important part of Canada’s history.

Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens 

The Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens have only been open since 1981 but they look as if they’ve been here much longer. The grounds showcase the methods, designs, materials and plants used to create local gardens tracing the history of the town.

The grounds are divided into various sections and include a Rose Garden , home to more than 1800 species, a Victorian Garden and a Butterfly Garden . There’s also an example of an Acadian dyke and a replica Acadian house designed using evidence from local archaeological excavations.

For kids there’s a fun scavenger hunt to follow.

Where to stay in Annapolis Royal

I stayed in A Seafaring Maiden , a charming bed and breakfast located in Granville Ferry , across the river from Annapolis Royal.

The heritage property dates back to 1881 was once home to Captain Joseph Hall . Today it’s run by Bill and Ann Marie Monk who are very welcoming hosts. The property has three double bedrooms so it’s a good option if you are travelling with older kids or teens.

If visiting during the summer months then the Raven Haven Beachside Family Park is a 4-acre campground and family park with swimming, outdoor activities, boat launch, washrooms and more. 

See more places to stay here .

Where to eat in Annapolis Royal

Several people recommended  The Whiskey Teller  before I even arrived in Annapolis Royal and I’m very glad they did, this is a really fun place to eat with very good food. Their speciality is roasted chicken , cooked over a custom-built wood fired rotisserie that is fed with apple and birch wood. Fried Brussel sprouts are another speciality and they are delicious! At weekends they have live music upstairs.

Sissiboo Coffee Roaster is a very good coffee shop and the Germany Bakery serves German baked goods as well as breakfasts, lunches and dinners. You can find more dining recommendations here .

Kejimkujik National Park

South of Annapolis Royal is Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site , or Keji for short. This striking wilderness area is the perfect place to explore some of Nova Scotia’s natural beauty .

The park is actually divided into two sections ; there is the main park, located 18km from the village of Caledonia, and then there’s Kejimkujik Seaside , which lies almost 100km southeast of the main park. Don’t get confused between the two! 

The main park offers lots of ways to get out and about in nature including 15 day-hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty. If you’re short on time then the Mills Falls Bridge is less than a 5km return walk across easy terrain. The trails are open throughout the year.

The area was used by the Mi’kmaq for thousands of years who travelled between the Bay of Fundy and the Atlantic Coast via the many waterways in the area. As they traversed the canoe routes , the Mi’kmaq left stone carvings, or petroglyphs , of their day to day lives on slate outcroppings. You can see these today on guided tours. 

Other ways to explore the park include by bike and by canoe or kayak . Check the official website for details. 

Kejimkujik National Park can be visited as a day trip from Annapolis Royal , en route to the South Shore or you may choose to spend a night or two in the park.

Accommodation in Kejimkujik National Park

There are campsites throughout the park as well if you want to stay overnight – or longer. Some are serviced and others are more rustic. Camping is not allowed from November to April.

Keji also offers a number of accommodation options if you’re up for adventure but not so keen unsleeping under canvas. 

The park is home to one yurt , that is perfect for a couple of a small family; a handful of rustic cabins that have bunk beds but no plumbing, running water or electricity; and oTENTik tents , a cross between a tent and a rustic cabin that comes with beds and furniture.

The newest accommodation type in the park are the five Ôasis pods ; tear drop-shaped pods that can sleep two adults and up to two children. 

All of these accommodations can be booked online. 

Budding astronomers will be pleased to hear that Keji was designated a Dark-sky Preserve in 2010, meaning its clear nights offer unobstructed, spellbinding views of the stars, planets and moon. 

The South Shore

Nova Scotia’s beautiful South Shore is known for its white sandy beaches, its picturesque fishing villages and its 40-plus lighthouses, It’s most famous for the colourful town of Lunenburg and the charming fishing village of Peggy’s Cove but really there are so many lovely places to stop along this route that you really are spoiled for choice.

White Point Beach Resort

If driving from Kejimkujik National Park then White Point Beach Resort is a good place to stop for a couple of days or more.

This beach resort has been welcoming guests since 1928 with many families returning year upon year. I loved this resort; it felt like an old school summer camp , the kind usually seen in movies. In fact, the small cottages and main lodge felt very Dirty Dancing at times, the movie made famous by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray.

The resort has a wide variety of accommodation options , a host of activities on offer and is right on the coast making it a great spot for families looking for time by the beach.

It’s a popular spot for surfing , despite the chilly Atlantic waters, but you can also borrow kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards to use on the resort’s lake. The resort also has a golf course.

This is a great option for families looking for a beach holiday and you can easily base yourself here and then take day trips to explore places along the south shore.

Easy day trips from White Point Beach Resort include the town of Liverpool , a coastal town famous for privateering and the artistic community of LaHave by the water. There’s a great bakery here, LaHave Bakery , good for picking up a coffee and lunch. You’ll find a number of craft and art shops here too. Near Petit Riviere is Green Bay beach.

It takes about an hour via the main highway to reach the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Lunenburg . For a more scenic route, however, take the #103 road, which will take you via LaHave. A free car ferry runs every half hour (check during low season) across LaHave river.

The former rum running and ship building port town of Lunenburg is undoubtedly one of the province’s most picturesque and you can easily spend a full day here. Clapboard houses painted a rainbow of colours stand proudly along the hilly streets, facing towards the bay. There are some lovely shops, lots of delicious seafood restaurants and a distillery or two.

One word of warning, if you visit Lunenburg during the height of summer it will be  busy . Time your visit for early autumn, however, and the streets (and restaurants, and shops) will be much calmer.

Lunenburg Walking Tour

Lunenburg was first established in 1753 and remains today the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America.

The best way to learn more about the Old Town is on a walking tour with Lunenburg Walking Tours . These hour-long tours (they can run a bit longer) are a great introduction to the town , filled with stories about how Lunenburg was settled.

Old Town Lunenburg has retained its original layout and there are even houses still inhabited by descendants of the first founding families. Along the way you’ll learn why the window on top of the pink ‘wedding cake’ house was called the ‘widow’s watch’ and what exactly the ‘Lunenburg bump’ is.

The group also offer other walking tours including a Haunted Lunenburg tour , including one that is family-friendly. 

Bluenose II

Lunenburg was home to the most famous ship in Canadian history , the Bluenose.

The fishing and racing ship was launched in March 21 and quickly became one of the fastest ships to have ever set sail. For 18 years she won every race she entered and came to symbolise Nova Scotia’s prominence in the fishing and shipbuilding industries. In 1937 her imaged was added to the Canadian dime and has stayed there ever since. 

In 1946, however, the Bluenose struck a reef off of Haiti and sank. In 1963 the Bluenose II was launched, built by many of the same people who had worked on the original ship at the shipyard in Lunenburg. You can see her today, proudly docked in the town, and even go out for a sail on her. Two hour cruises are available twice daily in season. See the website for details . 

Ironworks Distillery

Stop by the Ironworks while you are in Lunenburg, a micro-distillery located in an old marine blacksmith’s shop that made the ironwork for both the original Bluenose and Bluenose II.

Today the distillery produces a range of small batch spirits including vodka made from apples grown in the Annapolis Valley and various liqueurs made from local berries. They offer tastings as well as behind the scenes tours. 

Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic 

The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic is great way for kids – and their parents – to learn more about the life of fishermen . Housed within an old fish processing plant , the museum invites visitors to explore retired fishing schooners, including Theresa E. Conner, the last of its kind to be built in 1937 before after trawlers were introduced. 

Just a few minutes away from Lunenburg by car is the village of Blue Rocks , a perfectly formed fishing village with blue slate rocks on the edge of the ocean. Apparently the fish shack sitting in the middle of the water (you can’t miss it!) is one of the most photographed buildings in the county!

Where to stay in Lunenburg

River Ridge Lodge is a B&B just outside of Mahone Bay and a great option for exploring Lunenburg and beyond. They have rooms that sleep four people. 

The Lunenburg Inn is a beautiful home and the oldest inn in town – they’ve been welcoming guests for almost 100 years. Rooms are double so it’s a good option if you are travelling with an infant or have older children who can have their own room. 

Smuggler’s Cove Inn & Suites has a range of bedrooms including rooms with two double beds. The property is located in the heart of town, across from Lunenburg’s famous docks. 

The Salt Shaker Deli & Inn receives fantastic reviews and has a number of bedrooms that would work well for families including a Superior King Suite that sleeps up to four people. Downstairs is the Salt Shaker Deli that serves delicious fresh seafood overlooking the waterfront. 

Where to eat in Lunenburg

Many of the local Lunenburg restaurants form part of the province’s ‘Chowder Trail’ , a collection of restaurants around Nova Scotia that serve up rich, creamy homemade chowders packed full of fresh local seafood. Your can collect stamps in a booklet along the way and when you collect 10 stamps you win a free t-shirt and entry for the Chowder Enthusiast Draw . 

If chowder is not your thing, however, don’t worry as Lunenburg has plenty more to offer. I had a delicious lunch at the Salt Shaker Deli & Inn . I couldn’t resist the chowder but there are lots of other delicious things on the menu. Not surprisingly the menu is very seafood-heavy.

Other recommendations include The South Shore Fish Shack , home to reputedly the best fish and chips in town. Half Shell Oysters and Seafood is the place to go for raw oysters from both Nova Scotia and around the maritimes. They also offer other dishes such as tacos. For breakfast head to the Savvy Sailor Caf e and for a really, really good coffee No. 9 Coffee Bar , who also bake outstanding cinnamon rolls. 

It’s a quick 15-minute drive from Lunenburg to Mahone Bay , a pretty town originally settled by German and French farmers and today bursting with Nova Scotian charm . It’s named after a mahonne, a type of French barge once favoured by the privateers who navigated the local waters. 

It’s particularly famous for its three churches that stand shoulder to shoulder along the waterfront. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church is the oldest, dating back to 1869. It was followed by St. James’ Anglican Church in 1887 and then Trinity United Church in 1923. 

Visit Mahone Bay in October and you may catch the town’s annual Scarecrow Festival when the streets come to life with over 250 hand-made life-size scarecrows. Sure, it may sound a little odd but it is also incredibly charming.

The Barn is a fantastic place for good strong coffee and deliciously indulgent homemade cakes. 

I stayed at the Kitch’Inn , which has three very comfortable double rooms and is next door to Betty’s , a friendly restaurant that does a mean trade in wood fired pizzas at the weekend. 

Peggy’s Cove

The tiny rural fishing village is one of the jewels in Nova Scotia’s crown, largely owing to its majestic lighthouse . There are over 160 historic lighthouses in Nova Scotia but this one is definitely the most photographed . 

Set on a headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean , waves crashing against mighty granite boulders, this tall, lonely lighthouse is the Nova Scotia that you see on postcards. It’s not surprising, therefore, that during peak season coach loads of visitors arrive eager to snap a shot. 

Visit off season however and while you won’t have the town to yourself, there will certainly be far fewer people on the characterful streets (look out for the characterful names such as Lobster Lane).

Things to do in Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove lighthouse is undoubtedly the main attraction. Once you’ve captured that iconic shot on film (or, rather, smartphone) then take a closer look and you’ll discover the Post Office inside the lower level of the lighthouse. Remember to bring your letters or postcards to send home! 

Other sights include the sculpture carved by William Edward de Garthe , a Finnish-born Canadian painter who lived and worked in Peggy’s Cove, documenting the lives of the local fishermen as well as the wild and woolly landscape. 

Perhaps his most impressive work – and the one that you can see in Peggy’s Cove today – is the sculpture dedicated to the town’s fishermen . Carved on a 30-metre long granite rock it features 32 fishermen, their wives and children, and even his pet seagull. You’ll find it behind his house almost directly opposite the tourist office. 

From here walk along towards the lighthouse and you’ll pass The Buoy Shack housed within a building once used to salt fish. It’s run by an ex-fisherman is packed full of marine-related souvenirs and knick-knacks, many of them handmade from old fishing equipment . 

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, however, it’s worth having a look inside to see the ancient whale jaw bone and ribs that are on display. 

Continue wandering and you’ll see that a handful of the traditional clapboard fishermen houses have been turned into shops but this is still very much an active fishing community (which is why you will also see signs asking visitors not to enter certain areas). 

If you want to get out on the water then you can organise a boat ride from near the small harbour. 

Where to eat in Peggy’s Cove

Opposite the lighthouse is the Sou’Wester , a large restaurant favoured with tour groups. If you prefer something a little more low-key then order a delicious lobster roll from Tom’s Lobster Shack . 

Peggy’s Cove to Halifax

From Peggy’s Cove it’s a speedy 16 minute drive back to the capital and the end of your Nova Scotia road trip (and possibly the start of your next adventure).

Share this post:

About the author.

Katja Gaskell

The Perfect Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on July 5, 2020

Nova Scotia is a province that is just begging to be road tripped around. With 13,300kms of coastline through idilic fishing villages, rolling hills, sprawling farm land and more. If you are taking a Nova Scotia road trip there are several key places that you will want to visit. Halifax, the South Shore, the Annapolis Valley, Bay of Fundy, Cape Breton and everywhere in between. Here is my suggestion for the perfect Nova Scotia road trip itinerary.

Table of Contents

Arriving in Nova Scotia

Most likely you will be arriving by car from New Brunswick or by plane. Either way my suggestion is to start in Halifax to begin your Nova Scotia road trip. Spending your first couple of nights in Halifax you can explore the city, and get used to the time zone.

Note: If you are arriving on the ferry from PEI start at day six. If you are arriving on the ferry from Maine start at halfway through day four.

If you are arriving by plane you can pick up a rental car from the airport or take a taxi or public bus to the city. Once you are ready you can pick up a rental car in Halifax. The most central car rental locations in the city are the Budget Car and Truck Rental located in the Metro Park parking garage on Hollis Street or the Avis Car rental on Grafton Street.

Halifax Accommodations:

The Westin Nova Scotian and the Halifax Harbourfront Marriott are the two best Halifax hotels that will give you the greatest views of the harbour from your room. Be sure to book harbour views or request them on checkin. They are also both located on either ends of the waterfront boardwalk which are great locations in the city. If you are looking for something more central in between the two chose the The Hollis Halifax A Doubletree by Hilton . Bonus you get warm cookies when you check in.

Road Trip Day One: Halifax

Enjoy breakfast in your Halifax hotel or visit one of the city’s popular cafes. One of the best ways to get to know a new city is to take a quick bus tour of it. In Halifax take a tour onboard the Harbour Hopper, an amphibious vehicle tour boat. The Harbour Hopper gives you a one hour fully narrated tour taking you through downtown Halifax and showing you all of the main sites and sounds. Then it splashes into the harbour where you learn about the Halifax Explosion, our history with the Titanic and more.

For lunch on day one I recommend grabbing a bite to eat along the waterfront in the Salt Yard. The Salt Yard is a bunch of outdoor kiosks serving everything from lobster rolls to poutine, pizza, beaver tails, ice cream, fish and chips and more. It is the perfect place along the waterfront to grab a bite while on the go.

Afterwards I recommend walking along the waterfront boardwalk and visiting the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia to see a lot of great local, Canadian, and International art work. Another option is a visit to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic that explores Nova Scotia and Canada’s nautical past. The museum also has a great exhibit on the Halifax Explosion and is home to the largest collection of wooden artifacts from the Titanic.

If Art Galleries and museums aren’t your thing then I recommend checking out the Alexander Keith’s Brewery. Alexander Keith’s beer has been brewed in Halifax since 1826. Visit the brewery to learn all about about how the beer is made, it’s history, and learn about their new craft beers currently being brewed. Also enjoy some live entertainment from the tour guides.

For dinner check out The Mercantile Social one of the newer restaurants in the city. This uniquely decorated restaurant serves great drinks and even better food. It is also one of the top instagram spots in Halifax . Grab some fish tacos for an appetizer then enjoy a tune poke bowl or a truffle penne. To finish off the night head back to the waterfront to grab drinks at the Stubborn Goat beer garden. If you are in the mood for live music head to the Lower Deck pub where they have live entertainment seven nights a week.

Road Trip Day Two: Halifax

If it is a Saturday or Sunday head to Edna’s early for one of the best brunches in the city. If Edna’s is too busy then grab breakfast to go from the Halifax Seaport Farmers market.

Your first visit for the day should be to one of the top things to do in Nova Scotia , the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Located in the middle of downtown overlooking the harbour the Citadel has some of the best views in the city. The current fort was completed in 1856 however there has been some kind of fortification on this location since 1749.

The fort is open year round but there are more things to see and do from spring to fall. This is also when the 78th Highlanders re-enactors guard the fort. Visit the fort and explore the grounds, take a guided or self guided tour and learn about Halifax’s history. At 12noon, head to the top of the fort for the ceremonial firing of the noon gun. The gun is fired daily to announce the changing of the shifts.

For lunch head towards the Spring Garden road area where you will find unlimited options to eat. Grab sushi at Sushi Nami Royale, enjoy Italian at La Fresca or grab a fried chicken sandwich or brisket nachos from the Black Sheep. For more of a leisurely lunch on a nice day head a few blocks over to Argyle street and grab a spot on a patio of one of the many restaurants and pubs nearby. A Halifax patio in the summer months is the perfect place to enjoy a meal, a few drinks and do a little people watching.

Following lunch grab an ice cream from the Dairy Bar on the corner of South Park street and Spring Garden road. Then take a walk through the Halifax Public Gardens. Enjoy the flowers and see if you can spot the Titanic floating in the pond.

Spend your afternoon exploring the city shopping in the areas around Spring Garden Road and Barrington Street. Some recommended boutique shops to check out are Sweet Pea, the Biscuit General Store, The Vault for jewellery, The Black Market and Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia for locally made crafts and souvenirs.

For your last dinner in the city there are endless options for dining. If you want artisanal pizza, pastas and salads head to Morris East on Morris Street. They also have the most delicious house made s’mores for dessert. For a fancier dining experience head to the Bicycle Thief down on the waterfront. They serve an Italian menu with the freshest pastas, seafood and great cocktails. Their outdoor patio is located right on the harbour as well. If you want to go really, really fancy make a reservation in advance for the Stories Restaurant. Located in the Halliburton Boutique hotel this white tablecloth restaurant serves up some of the best food in the city. The scallops are highly recommended.

Road Trip Day Three: South Shore

Pick up your rental car  and make your way to the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Your first stop should be to Peggy’s Cove. The drive from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove will take you 45minutes if you follow the Lighthouse Route / Prospect Road. This route is the scenic option winding along the coastline. If you get a bit car sick you might want to skip it. Instead drive there via the 103 highway taking exit 5 for Peggy’s Cove.

Peggy’s Cove is still a working fishing village to this day but also thrives on tourism. There are a bunch of small souvenir shops, lots of photo spots and places to grab a bite to eat. If you want to grab something on the go I suggest a lobster roll from the Peggy’s Cove Lobster U-Cook truck. Looking for just a snack then definitely get an ice cream from DeeDee’s. If you want a sit down lunch you can go to the Sou’ Wester with great views of the lighthouse. Be warned however that it is often packed with groups from tour buses. Instead I might recommend the Rhubarb Restaurant just a couple minutes down the road. They have delicious lobster rolls , chowder, fish cakes, baked goods and lots of other great things on the menu.

Next Stop: Mahone Bay to Lunenburg

After lunch make your way to the St. Margaret’s Bay road and head left towards Mahone Bay. The St. Margaret’s Bay Road is also scenic and winding. Once again if you get car sick you can take the 103 highway until you hit exit 10 for Mahone Bay. This drive will take you about 1 hour.

Mahone Bay is most popular for its iconic churches lined up next to each other overlooking the bay. This quaint small town is perfect for an afternoon stroll and boutique shopping. If you are getting thirsty make your way to the Saltbox Brewery for a craft beer on their patio or pick some up to go. If you are looking for a coffee or tea check out the Biscuit Eater Cafe and Books.

After Mahone Bay you should head to the small town of Lunenburg. Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage town and is a popular stopping place. The town is filled with colourful homes with the unique design feature the Lunenburg bump. For the best views of the town drive around the harbour near the golf course. There you can get a great view of the town skyline with all of it’s colourful buildings, boats and fishing shacks from across the water.

A main attraction in Lunenburg is the Ironworks Distillery. Ironworks makes everything from rum to brandy, gin, vodka and more using as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. Visit them for a tour and enjoy a few samples then take a bottle or three home. One of their coolest products is the Around the World Rum which has literally sailed on a ship around the world. A more affordable option is their boat rum which ages in barrels on a barge in the Lunenburg Harbour.

For dinner in Lunenburg head to the Salt Shaker Deli. This casual restaurant features menu items like Lobster Mac & Cheese, a smoked salmon club, lobster roll, gourmet pizzas and lots of great local beer and cider on tap. Their small outdoor patio also offers great views of the Lunenburg waterfront on a sunny day.

Lunenburg Accommodations:

There are a bunch of small hotels and B&Bs in Lunenburg for you to chose from. The Smugglers Cove Inn is a great one to check out and is centrally located in the town.

Road Trip Day Four: Annapolis Valley

For breakfast in Lunenburg head to the No 9 Coffee Bar for a coffee or tea with a fresh scone or breakfast sandwich.

Take your time this morning and explore Lunenburg by foot. Enjoy all of the colourful buildings, visit the cute little shops, and explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. You can even step onboard the iconic Bluenose sail boat docked along the waterfront if it is in port. Once the fastest racing schooner in the world the Bluenose is now an ambassador for Nova Scotia. It is also featured on the Canadian 10 cent coin.

Visit the South Shore Fish Shack  for lunch and dine on the BEST fish and chips around. They also have a great lobster roll and other delicious food options like burgers, clams, scallops and lobster rolls.

After lunch it’s time to get back on the road and head towards the valley and the Bay of Fundy. The Annapolis Valley area of Nova Scotia is full of beautiful farmland, cideries, distilleries and lots of vineyards. Taking highway 12 the drive should take about 70mins and lead you to Kentville, Nova Scotia. Kentville is a small town and is home to the Maritime Express Cider Co. which you should definitely stop and visit to enjoy a sample of all of their fresh ciders on tap or grab some to go.

Explore the Annapolis Valley area and head to the Look Off just outside of Canning on top of North Mountain. Here you will see great views over the valley and Minas Basin which is part of the Bay of Fundy. In the Port Williams area check out the unique water fountain behind the big red barn near Church Street off of Hwy 358. Made from over 100 water faucets arranged like a tree it is really cool to see.

While driving around the area this is also a great time to stop in to a few of the many vineyards in the area. (Always drink responsibly and have a designated driver.) There are even bus tours available that will take you on a guided tour to multiple vineyards. Local Nova Scotian wine makes a great gift to take home. Learn about our red and white wines, ice wines and even our own appellation called Tidal Bay.

For dinner make your way to the Port Pub and Bistro in Port Williams. They serve local craft beer from Sea Level Brewing and great pub food.

Annapolis Valley accommodations:

For budget accommodations look into staying at the Old Orchard Inn . If you have a bit more money to spend then stay in one of the many beautiful B&B’s in the area. The Blomidon Inn in Wolfville is a favourite of many.

Road Trip Day Five: Shubenacadie

Sleep in at your cozy B&B and enjoy the morning. Now is also a great time to visit more vineyards in the Wolfville area. Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards has tastings available that go along great with their wood fired oven pizzas for lunch. If you prefer beer and cider more than wine then be sure to visit the Church Brewing Co. for lunch. Once a church, now a brewery this pub and restaurant has the best chicken sandwiches.

Another great cidery in the area to visit is the Annapolis Cider Company. Located on the main street in Wolfville, their ciders are so fresh and great to take home for later.

Once you have had your fill of cute B&B’s, farmland, vineyards and more make your way towards the Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Cottages. The drive from Wolfville to the cottages will take about 1hr and 20minutes. At the Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort you will truly be able to experience the power of the Bay of Fundy.

Note: Be sure to book your stay and rafting tour far in advance. The high tide times vary each day so be sure to pick a high tide time that best fits your schedule.

The Bay of Fundy is home to the highest ocean tides in the world and twice a day they rise and fall by 43feet on average. When the tide rises it is so powerful that it creates a tidal bore and changes the direction of the Shubenacadie river. The tidal bore forces the water to go back up stream as the tide rushes in. When this happens for one hour twice a day the craziest currents and rapids are created in the river. At the Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort they have turned this phenomenon into an exhilarating experience where they take guests out to ride these insane waves and rapids in zodiacs.

If possible the best idea is to schedule a morning rafting trip. That way you can arrive the day before and stay overnight. The cottages available have full kitchens so that you can bring your own food to cook for yourselves. Or you can book one of their Fundy Tides & Fireside packages depending on when you visit that include a seafood lunch paired with local wines on the river floor before the tide rises on your tour as well as lobster dinner, rum tastings and one nights accommodation.

If this all sounds a bit too adventurous for you then skip this option completely and make your way to Cape Breton from the valley.

Shubenacadie Accommodations:

The Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Cottages are located along the Shubenacadie river. This 180 acre property has 13 cottages, an above ground swimming pool and miles of groomed hiking trails.

Road Trip Day Six: Cape Breton

Wake up this morning ready for a once in a lifetime adventure. Meet your group and suit up in your rain gear and life jackets for your tidal bore rafting experience. Be warned you will get soaked and possibly a bit muddy. Old clothes and shoes are recommended so you don’t ruin your nice things. Also the closer it is to a full moon the bigger the waves and bigger the fun.

Following your thrilling tidal bore rafting adventure wash up and check out to begin your road trip to Cape Breton Island.

Depending on where you are driving from (Wolfville or Shubenacadie) the road trip to Cape Breton will take you roughly 4-5hours. A great place to stop along the way for a bite to eat is the University town of Antigonish, home to St. Francis Xavier University. This small town is also home to Peace By Chocolate a Canadian immigrant success story run by a Syrian family. The Hadhad’s escaped the war to make a new lives for themselves in Canada and now operate an extremely popular chocolate company. If you have time stop by their small chocolate shop at 32 Bay street.

Drive the Cabot Trail

After a quick stop in Antigonish continue on to Cape Breton Island. The most popular thing to do in Cape Breton is to drive the Cabot Trail through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. If you don’t have much time you can drive the trail in one day. However for the best experience do this trip in at least two nights if not three. The Cabot Trail makes a ring around the western side of Cape Breton island. It is hotly debated as to whether driving clockwise or counter clockwise is best to see it. For the purposes of this guide we are suggesting that you drive clockwise starting in the village of Chéticamp.

After your long day of rafting and driving to Cape Breton check into your hotel or B&B in Chéticamp for the night. For dinner in Chéticamp head to Le Gabriel Restaurant and Lounge for casual pub fair and seafood.

Cheticamp Accommodations:

Silver Lining Inn is one of the more recently renovated and updated accommodations in the area. Chéticamp is greatly dependent on tourism however airbnbs are making it harder for locals to find places to live. If you can, please choose to stay in a hotel or B&B here verses a nightly vacation apartment rental.

Road Trip Day Seven: The Cabot Trail

Start your day with a great continental breakfast at your accommodations, the Silver Lining Inn.  Spend the morning exploring Cheticamp. Visit Les Trois Pignons to learn about the history of the area and the local Acadians. Explore the local art galleries and folk art shops to see a bunch of unique local art. Grab lunch at L’Abri great little restaurant and cafe. Their lobster rolls are definitely recommended.

Following lunch make your way into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are a lot of great view points and rest areas to visit as you drive along the trail. The best place to hike close to Cheticamp is also the best hike in the whole park known as the Skyline trail. On your way through stop at the Parks Canada Chéticamp visitor centre to pick up your park pass which costs $7.90CAD a day for adults or $16CAD per family/group. Kids under 17 are free. Seasonal passes are also available.

If you want to plan in advance you can also  book tours and experiences through the visitor centre or Parks Canada website. Two great recommendations for the Cheticamp area are the Learn to Lobster Boil experience and the Skyline trail hike tour for sunset .

Road Trip Day Eight: The Cabot Trail

Check out of your accommodations and head along the Cabot Trail. Stop at various view points, watch for wildlife like bears and moose, and enjoy more hikes. As you drive the Cabot Trail you will go in and out of the National Park. Every time you come out of the park you will end up in another small cute town. I definitely recommend checking out any folk art you see along the way and recommend adding a stop at the Timmons Folk Art shack in Pleasant Bay.

The drive from Chéticamp to Baddeck is only 3 hours but there are many places to stop and things to do along the way. If you want to take your time to enjoy the many hiking trails, perhaps go zip-lining and limit your driving you can stop half way to spend the night. The Blue Bayou Resort has geodesic domes in Dingwall that are a fun glamping type of accommodation to stay at for a night or two.

A great spot for lunch today is the Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay. The oysters and lobster rolls are definitely recommended. For dinner after you have checked in to the Blue Bayou Resort you can BBQ with your own food on charcoal pits. If you would rather a restaurant enjoy a nice meal at the Markland Coastal Beach Cottages.

Cabot Trail Accommodations:

The Blue Bayou Resort is a great way to go camping and have a unique experience under the stars but with running water.

Road Trip Day Nine: Baddeck

Begin your morning in Dingwall with breakfast at Danena’s Bakery & Bistro. For your last day on the Cabot Trail make your way through the small villages of Neil’s Harbour, Ingonish and Baddeck. Your drive will have more scenic views of the Atlantic ocean along the way. If you have time you can even stop and go whale watching. Take a tour with Ingonish Whale Watching tours for the chance to see pilot whales, humpback whales and more.

In Ingonish visit the Groovy Goat Farm & Soap Company to pet some goats and buy locally made soaps. Next door is the Periwinkle Cafe which is a great stop to grab a coffee and check out their small shop filled with cute seaside themed art and jewelry.

The last stop of your Nova Scotia road trip should be the village of Baddeck. Baddeck is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site which has a museum highlighting his many works and experiments. Alexander Graham Bell spent half of his time living in Baddeck and is now buried there as well.

Another popular spot to visit in Baddeck is Big Spruce Brewing a craft brewery that focuses on brewing with organic grain and hops. Visit for a flight of their delicious beers and try their new hard seltzers.

For your last night have dinner at Baddeck Lobster Suppers, one of the best lobster dinner experiences in Nova Scotia. Put on your lobster bib and dig into a lobster served with all you can eat mussels and chowder plus a dessert for $50. Or just a lobster dinner for $36. Other options include Atlantic Salmon, grilled strip loin, and Cape Breton snow crab.

Baddeck Accommodations:

One of the best places to stay in Baddeck is the centrally located Inveraray Resort . The resort is located on a beautiful 11acre property along the Bras d’Or Lake.

Road Trip Day Ten: Halifax

Downtown Halifax is about a 3hour and 45minute drive from Baddeck. Make your way back to the city leisurely for the end of your trip. If you are interested in one more great stop before you leave Cape Breton explore Fortress Louisbourg. It is a 90min detour to north eastern Cape Breton but this historic fortress is a must see. Take a guided tour to learn about the French and British which both occupied the fortress. Learn how to fire a canon or even learn about the history of rum with a taste test as well.

From Fortress Louisbourg your drive back to Halifax will take just under 5hours.

When is the best time to road trip through Nova Scotia?

Spring, summer and fall are definitely the best times to road trip through Nova Scotia because of the warmer weather. A lot of places outside of Halifax are also seasonal operations. In the winter months everything you want to see and do might not be open or available.

If you had to pick one specific time to road trip around Nova Scotia then the best time is fall because of all of the foliage changing colours. The leaves are so beautiful that Cape Breton even has a festival called Celtic Colours to celebrate them. This is an extremely busy time to visit however so be sure to book far in advance.

If winter is your only time to visit then definitely visit in February during the South Shore lobster crawl . February is the middle of the South Shore’s lobster season and is when some of the tastiest lobsters are caught. If visiting in winter be sure to pack warmly and be prepared for potential snow storm delays.

The Best Tips for a Nova Scotia Road Trip

• Fill up your car with gas in the city and more populated areas. The farther you get away from highly populated areas the higher the gas prices.
• Always get full insurance on your rental car and if it’s your personal car consider having CAA.
• Be on the look out for animals especially in more rural areas. Nova Scotia has a lot of road kill from raccoons to porcupines, pheasants, deer, coyotes and more. You also never know when you might come across a bear, moose or something else.
• Pack extra snacks and water and keep them secure from animals when parked in rural areas.
• Don’t leave expensive items out in the open, either take them with you or hide them. Nova Scotia is a very safe province but people can always be tempted by opportunity.
• If you are taking your personal car get a tune up and oil change before you depart. This will hopefully help prevent any issues while on the road.
• Have a day bag or overnight bag. If you are stopping at a new place every night it can be frustrating dragging a suitcase around. Bring a day bag or overnight bag that you can stuff essentials into to bring inside your accommodations. That way you have less to carry and less to worry about leaving behind. Always bring your valuables inside.
• Keep a small garbage bag in the car so you can keep it clean. This will make the ride more enjoyable and will help prevent littering.
• Have a great play list. If you want to listen to some Nova Scotian musicians I recommend checking out: Joel Plaskett, Matt Mays, Classified, the Rankins, Bara McNeils, Anne Murray, Feist, Jenn Grant, Natalie McMaster, Ashley McIssac, Matt Minglewood, The Stanfields, David Myles, Gordie Sampson, Rita McNeil, Neon Dreams and Mo Kenney. These artists will give you a wide range of music genres to enjoy. For some Nova Scotia specific songs listen to Barrett’s Privateers by Stan Rogers or Love This Town by Joel Plaskett . Definitely don’t listen to Hello City by the Barenaked Ladies … they hated Halifax.
• For your road trip around Nova Scotia you should have cell phone service the majority of the time. However in the more rural areas there may be some spotty patches of service. A good tip is to open your Google maps and pin the places you are traveling to and your accommodations. Then type in the search bar at the top “okmap”.  Your phone will then download the map info for the area so it is still useable even without phone service. Lastly screenshot your accommodation’s address and phone number just in case.
• Avoid driving at night just as a general rule of thumb. It is safer to drive in the daylight, especially when it is on roads you haven’t driven before.
• Check the weather each day so yo know what to be prepared for on the road and what to wear.

There is so much more to see  and visit in our beautiful province but this is the ultimate Nova Scotia road trip for your first time. Leave room in your schedule to be flexible and spontaneous for the best road trip. You never know when you might strike up an interesting conversation with a local. Or spend an hour stuck behind a moose that won’t move in the road.

Where do you dream of visiting in Nova Scotia?

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later!

Cailin is a born and raised Nova Scotian with a passion for exploring the world and her home province.

You Might Also Like

A Guide to Ferries in Nova Scotia

Tips for Moving to Nova Scotia

Ultimate Guide for Fall in the Annapolis Valley

Hello, I am originally from Louisiana and would love to visit Acadia where my ancestors came from. Any tips on that area and what to see

Thanks Iris

Hello Iris, Yes I actually just explored that area and will be writing about it soon. Please let me know if you have an specific questions. Thanks!

Hello, We will only have a week in Nova Scotia. Which part of this trip would you recommend leaving out in order to shorten the trip (we definitely want to see Cape Breton)? Thank you!

That is a tough question! I would give yourself 2-3 nights in Cape Breton. 1-2 nights in Halifax and then either the South shore or Annapolis Valley!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Best Instagram Spots in Halifax

The 10 best hiking trails in nova scotia, recent posts.

• Winter in Western, Newfoundland
• Where to see the Solar Eclipse in Nova Scotia
• A Sustainable Trip To Halifax’s Eastern Shore

Last Updated on July 5, 2020 by Cailin

The best road trips to explore Nova Scotia

Jan 1, 2022 • 6 min read

Discover the wild Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia on a road trip © Compassionate Eye Foundation / Hero Images / Getty Images

Ocean views, delicious seafood , and friendly people are the foundation for the best road trips in Nova Scotia , often combined with a tour of Nova Scotia’s neighboring maritime provinces: Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick . 

The best time to visit Nova Scotia is June to September if you love warm weather, and October for crisp air and blazing autumn colors. Although Nova Scotia is small (it would take roughly 8 hours to drive the entire length of the province,) this doesn’t mean you should rush through. Instead, roll down the driver’s side window and plan for relaxed, easy days exploring small friendly towns, beautiful white-sand beaches , and stunning coastal scenery. This beautiful part of North America has plenty of bang for its buck when it comes to places to visit .

A taste of the Annapolis Valley and the South Shore 

  Start – Halifax (round trip); Distance – approx 217miles/350 km (allow 3-4 days)

Starting in Halifax , zoom up highway 101 to Wolfville in the Annapolis Valley , once known as the “apple barrel of the British Empire,” home to several award-winning wineries, with fantastic tasting rooms, restaurants, and touring opportunities. Hike Cape Split or explore Blomidon Provincial Park , then head to Hall’s Harbour to eat delicious lobster, while watching the world’s highest tides rise (or fall) on the Bay of Fundy.

For your next leg, head straight down through the province toward the south coast and head for the charming towns of Chester, Mahone Bay, and Lunenburg where you’ll find small inns, boutiques, bakeries, cafes, folk art – and a healthy dose of ghost and pirate lore.

Head back to Halifax via the Aspotogan peninsula and the beaches of Bayswater, Hubbards, and Queensland. This time, take the slow road: Highway 3 (not the 103). Turn right at Tantallon and visit the lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove . If you stay overnight here, you’ll have bragging rights, most tourists only visit Peggy’s Cove for an hour or two. Your reward: both a sunset and sunrise in Nova Scotia’s most iconic place. 

Queens, Shelburne, Yarmouth and the Acadian Shore

  Start – Halifax; End – Yarmouth; Distance – approx 236miles/380 km (allow 4 days)

Although Nova Scotia is officially an English-speaking province, there are pockets of strong Acadian French culture where families still speak, play music, and cook the Cajun way. One of the best ways to experience Acadian culture is through a Nova Scotia road trip that explores the tourist region of Yarmouth and Acadian Shores – home to old-growth forests, stunning beaches, and some of the darkest skies in North America. 

From Halifax, travel through the white sand beaches of Queens and Shelburne County, exploring the historic towns of Liverpool, Shelburne, and Birchtown, home of the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre . Turn the corner at Barrington, toward the Acadian shore, where highlights include the Tusket Islands, Cape Forchu Lighthouse, Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse , beautiful Mavillette beach , and Église Sainte-Marie – the tallest wooden church in North America.

If you want to continue your East Coast road trip south of the border, a high-speed CAT ferry can take you from the town of Yarmouth to Bar Harbor, Maine (USA) in 3.5 hours. 

Beaches and islands of the Eastern Shore

  Start – Halifax; End – Sherbrooke Village; Distance – approx 121miles /195km (allow 2 days)

The Eastern Shore is hardly a hidden secret. Lawrencetown Beach has long been a surfer’s paradise with reliable year-round waves, while further along the shore, Clam Harbour Beach has been the location for Nova Scotia’s biggest sand-castle competition for almost half a century. 

But lately, there has been a resurgence of enthusiasm for this cool, atmospheric coast. The superb white sand and hiking trails of Taylor Head Provincial Park are a dream for nature-lovers , while the pristine, untouched beaches of the 100 Wild Islands are perfect for camping and kayaking. For families, Memory Lane Heritage Village and Sherbrooke Village have exciting historical programs for all ages. 

Whale watching road trip: Digby to Brier Island 

Start – Digby; End –Westport; Distance – approx 43miles/69 km (allow 1-2 days)

The beautiful fishing town of Digby is best known for its extra-large, plump scallops. Nova Scotia road-trippers can approach Digby from the east via the Annapolis Valley or from the southwest via the Acadian shore. Alternatively, you can get there from neighboring Saint John, New Brunswick by a 2.5-hour ferry ride aboard the MV Fundy Rose . 

From Digby, a road trip to the whale-watching and birding mecca of Brier Island makes a wonderful one or two-day excursion that includes two very brief ferry journeys. Along the way, explore the Balancing Rock Trail, Brier Island Coastal Trail, and Seal Cove. These interesting coastal hikes, charming ferries, friendly whales, and the undulating roads themselves make a journey to Brier Island one of the best road trips in Nova Scotia. 

The Cliffs of Fundy and the Northumberland Shore

Start – Halifax; End – Pictou; Distance – approx 225miles/362 km (allow 3 days)

Travel from the capital Halifax to the “upper left” corner of the province to explore the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark and the charming, artsy town of Parrsboro, only 45 minutes from the New Brunswick border. Thrills here include the Fundy Geological Museum , the “bubbling tides” phenomenon at Partridge Island and the general magnificence of the world’s highest tides as seen from Five Islands Provincial Park .

After you’ve explored the cliffs of Fundy, meander north to the town of Tatamagouche for more art, quirk and history. Swim the warm waters of Rushton or Melmerby beach, or visit a lavender farm before ending your trip in Pictou, with a side trip to Stellarton/New Glasgow to visit the cheerful Museum of Industry .

Once this road trip has ended, you can continue east toward Antigonish and Cape Breton, or cross over to the red-sand paradise of Prince Edward Island via the Caribou – Wood Islands Ferry. 

Nova Scotia’s best road trip: the Cabot Trail

Start – Baddeck; End – Cheticamp; Distance – approx 130 miles/210km (allow 2-3 days)

There’s something about the way the sun moves over the mountains in the Cape Breton Highlands, pushing shadows and ethereal light across the mountains, and sending slices of sunlight onto the road as you drive. The locals call Cape Breton “God’s country” while seasoned travelers compare its mountains to Hawaii, New Zealand or the Scottish Highlands. Despite its diminutive size, Nova Scotia has some of the most stunning national parks to be found in Canada .

The Cabot Trail, considered one of the best drives in the world, is a well-paved, winding highway that weaves in and out of Cape Breton Highlands National Park , passing through several local communities along the way. Don’t miss the Gondola and tree walk at Cape Smokey, whale watching in Pleasant Bay , and the famous Skyline Trail – an easy hike near the fishing village of Chéticamp.

Set aside at least two or three days to drive this legendary Nova Scotia highway. Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers and slow-travelers will want to stay in Cape Breton for a week or more.

You might also like:  Top 15 free things to do in Nova Scotia Lighthouses, whales and fishing villages: 10 best places to visit in Nova Scotia   How to spend a perfect weekend in Halifax

This article was first published Oct 12, 2021 and updated Jan 1, 2022.

Explore related stories

Apr 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Experience some of Canada's epic scenery with these fantastic driving routes.

Dec 18, 2021 • 7 min read

Dec 7, 2018 • 6 min read

Feb 2, 2016 • 4 min read

Apr 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 11, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

• Czech Republic
• Falkland Islands
• Latin America
• New Zealand
• North America
• South Georgia
• Kilimanjaro
• Adventure Travel
• Archaeology
• City Guides
• Itineraries
• Portrait Photography
• Tips and Advice
• Travel Photography
• Travel Stories
• Unhelpful Guides
• Wildlife Photography
• Work With Me

The Perfect Nova Scotia Road Trip In 5 days

I did this five-day Nova Scotia road trip as a guest of Tourism Nova Scotia. I was not paid for this post and the tourism board has had no say in what I wrote here. All opinions are my own and I don’t accept freebies or payment in exchange for positive reviews.

All prices are correct at time of writing. I wrote this piece myself based on my own first-hand experiences. It was not written by AI, so any errors you find are, I’m afraid, my own.

Contents (click to view)

For a small province, Nova Scotia packs one hell of a punch. Dramatic coastal landscapes, historic towns and colourful fishing harbours, six UNESCO sites, sensational food, beautiful places to stay, welcoming people… they even have beaches and, in the summer, perfect weather! Travel in Nova Scotia really does give you pretty much everything.

Since it’s relatively small compared with other provinces in Canada , the best way to get around Nova Scotia is on a road trip. The roads are good, there’s very little traffic, and distances are short, meaning you can see and do a lot without spending all your time driving.

That said, there are masses of places to visit in Nova Scotia, and if you only have five days or a week, you definitely won’t be able to fit everything in. That’s why I’m here to help!

I did a 5-day Nova Scotia road trip, taking in most of the main highlights. It was pretty packed and of course there was a lot we left out, but I felt like this was a really great introduction to the province, and if you’re looking for a Nova Scotia itinerary, you could do a lot worse than following this guide.

About this Nova Scotia road trip itinerary

This itinerary was crafted by a fabulous lady named Pam Wamback. Pam grew up in Nova Scotia and now works for the tourism board – so there’s basically no one in the province who knows more about things to do in Nova Scotia than her.

Pam calls this her Golden Circle Nova Scotia tour , basically meaning that this is a circular route taking in all the highlights of Nova Scotia, from lighthouses and lobsters to landscapes and legends. If you’re looking to explore Nova Scotia and get a taste for this amazing province, its food, history and people, this is as good as it gets. Genuinely.

Search for more Nova Scotia tours here .

Introducing Nova Scotia

The second smallest province in Canada after Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia is about three-quarters of the size of Scotland, or twice the size of New Hampshire, with a population of about 1 million.

Located on Canada’s eastern coast with dramatic landscapes shaped by the powerful Atlantic, the province is made up of the Nova Scotia peninsula, Cape Breton Island and 3,800 other islands, and enjoys a stunning 8,000 miles (13,000 km) of coastline.

Thanks to its position on Canada’s Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia built its culture and heritage around the sea, with fishing and shipping the two major influences in the region’s development. In the 17 th and 18 th centuries it was also a crucial strategic location for French and British colonial expansion. In fact, the name actually means ‘New Scotland’, and you can still see many traces of this dramatic history as you travel in Nova Scotia.

Did you know: Nowhere in Nova Scotia is more than 42 miles (67 km) from the ocean!

Where did we go on our Nova Scotia Road Trip?

Here’s a summary of where we went on our five-day trip round Nova Scotia.

• Day 1: Arrive Halifax . Depending on what time you arrive, explore Halifax Waterfront.
• Day 2: See Halifax on a Harbour Hopper tour and visit the Maritime Museum. After lunch, drive to Oak Island with a stop en route at Peggy’s Cove.
• Day 3: Take a boat tour to learn about the mystery of Oak Island . Lunch in Lunenburg followed by a walking tour. Then drive to Summerville Beach with time for a walk on the beach before dinner.
• Day 4: Free time to relax or go for a swim at Summerville Beach . Then head to Kejimkuik National Park to see historic petroglyphs and go kayaking or cycling. Later, drive to Annapolis Royal .
• Day 5: Walk around Annapolis Royal and then drive to Halls Harbour for a tour of the lobster pound and fresh lobster for lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Grand Pré National Historic Site . Wine tasting and stay overnight at the Grand Pre Winery .
• Day 6: Drive back to Halifax and fly home, or continue your journey to New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Cape Breton Island.

Nova Scotia 5 day itinerary: the details

And now it’s time to dive in! Here is, step-by-step, everywhere I went and everything I saw, did and ate during my five days in Nova Scotia.

Day 1/ Halifax

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will arrive by air to Halifax Stanfield International Airport, which is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Halifax. Pick up your rental car from the airport and drive to your hotel.

I flew from the UK and landed at about 6 pm, but if you arrive early in the day you’ll have plenty of time to explore some of the city on your first day.

Things to see and do in Halifax

As the provincial capital, Halifax boasts a rich heritage dating back to its founding in 1749 as a strategic British military outpost. Over the centuries, it evolved into a bustling seaport and a key player in maritime trade. The city played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and both World Wars, serving as a major naval base, and traces of its rich and sometimes violent history are easy to find as you explore.

Today, Halifax is a welcoming and walkable seaside city that’s a charming blend of maritime history and modern style. Elegant 18th- and 19th-century architecture sits alongside modern towers of glass and steel, and the city has a generous helping of treelined streets, acclaimed restaurants, charming hotels, pavement cafes, galleries and museums.

Top places you could visit on your first day include:

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site : Discover Halifax’s military history and check out the epic views at this iconic fortress, perched 70 metres (230 feet) above the waterfront.
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: This fascinating museum covers Nova Scotia’s seafaring history, including a moving Titanic exhibit (more about this below).
• Halifax Waterfront: Wander along the waterfront promenade and explore the shops, street food stalls, historic boats and beautiful seaside views.
• Art Gallery of Nova Scotia: Discover Canadian and contemporary art in this cultural institution.
• Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market: North America’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market.

Or why not try a small group walking tour of Halifax to help you get your bearings?

Where to stay in Halifax: Muir Autograph Hotel

Enjoying what may well be the best location in Halifax, right on the waterfront promenade, the brand-new and very fancy Muir Autograph hotel has 109 gorgeous rooms with sea views and bespoke, made-in-Canada furniture, as well as a high-end wellness centre, spa pool and art gallery. I loved this hotel because my room was huge, everything was immaculate, and I could walk out the front door and be at the sea in about 30 seconds!

Where to eat in Halifax: Drift at the Muir

I know it might be considered a bit lame to eat in the hotel restaurant, but Drift  is not your average hotel restaurant. Serving classic Atlantic Canadian dishes, but done really, really well, this is where to come for your first taste of Nova Scotia’s epic cuisine. The freshly-baked brown bread with onion butter was just the start, and my caught-that-morning halibut, baked in butter and served on a bed of bubble and squeak, definitely set the bar high for the rest of the trip (don’t worry, I wasn’t disappointed later!).

Day 2/ Halifax to Oak Island via Peggy’s Cove

Morning: halifax harbour hopper tour.

The Halifax Harbour Hopper is a fantastic way to see all of the city’s main sights in 60 minutes. The iconic amphibious vehicles were once used to transport troops and weapons during the Vietnam War, but have now found a new home taking tourists from city streets to ocean waves and back again.

The tour starts by driving around the downtown area, passing landmarks such as Citadel Hill, the Victorian Public Gardens and St. Paul’s Church, while the hilarious host gives you engaging commentary and fascinating facts about Halifax’s maritime history.

Then you drive down to the waterfront and keep going – the splash as you plough straight into the harbour is a hairy moment, especially if, like me, you’re holding an expensive camera! The car-now-boat then cruises around the harbour so you can enjoy the sea and cityscape views and learn more about key moments in the city’s history, before bringing you safely back to dry land.

Most interesting thing I learned: One of the most famous events in Halifax’s history is the Halifax Explosion. On December 6, 1917, two ships collided in Halifax harbour. One of them was carrying a cargo of ammunition which caught fire and catastrophically exploded, killing more than 1,900 people and devastating the city. It’s said to be the largest man-made explosion before the atom bomb was invented.

Top tips for the Harbour Hopper Tour: sit on the right for the best views, avoid the front four rows if you don’t want to get splashed and bring a jacket. It typically feels 5 to 10 degrees colder on the water.

Late morning: Downtown Halifax

The Harbour Hopper Tour only takes 90 minutes, so you should still have time before lunch to do a bit more exploring. Here’s what I did:

Wander Halifax Waterfront. With 2.5 miles (4 km) of boardwalk, the waterfront is a wonderful place for a leisurely stroll. With sparkling sea views, historic ships, street food stalls, restaurants and bars, masses of public art, cute shops and places to sit and relax, you can easily spend several hours here.

Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic . I was really keen to see their world-famous Titanic exhibition. When the doomed liner hit an iceberg in 1912, Halifax was the closest major port and many of the recovered bodies and pieces of wreckage were brought here. There’s a moving display of artefacts including a perfectly-preserved deck chair, pieces of carved woodwork, and even clothes and shoes of some of the ill-fated passengers.

Alongside all this, there’s also a fascinating exhibit about the Halifax Explosion and masses more on Halifax’s seafaring history.

Where to eat in Halifax: Waterfront Warehouse Restaurant

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Maritime Museum is the Waterfront Warehouse , which was once used to repair ocean-going tugboats. Today it’s been converted into a legendary restaurant offering the chance to feast on Nova Scotia’s world-famous seafood, plucked fresh from the water. No food miles here!

I’m not a big seafood eater but I love to try all the local food when I travel, so I was delighted when we were served a massive seafood platter with fresh scallops, mussels, clams and a whole lobster, meaning I got to taste all of it! For my main I had poutine – a classic Canadian icon featuring chips usually topped with gravy and cheese curds – but here given a Nova Scotia twist of cheesy sauce and – yes! – lobster. Don’t worry if you don’t like seafood though, there are meat and pasta options too.

After lunch: drive to Peggy’s Cove

About an hour by car from Halifax, Peggy’s Cove and lighthouse is one of the most photographed places in Canada. And when you see it, you’ll understand why. Huge granite rocks, weathered smooth by the ocean’s battering, are topped by a graceful red-and-white lighthouse, balanced alone like a figurehead on the prow of a ship.

Nearby, the village itself is a picture-perfect array of rainbow-coloured clapboard houses, craggy coves piled with lobster pots, weather-beaten fishing boats and charming artisan shops.

It’s very beautiful, but I did get a bit annoyed with all the tour groups crowding around the base of the lighthouse. Guys! Everyone wants to photograph the damn thing! Step back!

You only need an hour to wander the village and take some photos – but if you do have more time and the forecast’s looking good, I highly recommend sticking around for sunset, when most of the tour groups will have left and the setting sun behind the lighthouse will be sensational.

Stay: Oak Island Resort, Western Shore

Drive for another hour along the coast from Peggy’s Cove and you’ll reach the Oak Island Resort and Conference Centre , in the Western Shore area, overlooking Mahone Bay. The three-storey hotel has 102 recently renovated guestrooms and 10 chalets for families, plus a marina, golf course, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, tennis court, and loads of activities on offer.

It’s not as fancy as the Muir Hotel in Halifax, but it’s welcoming and comfortable and, perhaps most importantly, it’s the perfect base for tomorrow’s adventure…

Where to eat: Oak & Oar Eatery

There aren’t loads of places to eat around Western Shore, but the hotel’s Oak & Oar restaurant has lovely bay views and serves an excellent selection of meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes paired with local Nova Scotia wines. The special of the day was halibut, but since I ate that yesterday and was craving vegetables, I went for a delicious chickpea curry.

Day 3/ Oak Island to Summerville via Lunenburg

Morning: boat tour of oak island.

Oak Island is a small, private island just across the water from the Oak Island Resort. It’s not much to look at, but it’s home to the world’s longest-running and most expensive treasure hunt, still going after more than 200 years!

Legend says that in 1795, three men saw a light coming from the island and rowed over to investigate. There they found clues that suggested someone – possibly pirates or the Knights Templar – had buried a vast fortune in treasure there, though what or how much no one knows for sure.

Excavations have only served to increase the mystery – uncovering artefacts, cryptic symbols and unexplained objects that have no reason to be here. Six people have died trying to find the treasure – but it remains elusive.

Today the story is so famous that there’s a long-running TV show about the quest: The Curse of Oak Island, now filming its 11th series. Some people say the real treasure is actually all the money that’s been made from tourism as a result of the mystery and TV show!

Since the island is private you can’t land there, but Salty Dog Sea Tours run fascinating boat cruises so you can learn about the mystery and this region’s dramatic pirate history.

Tony, our lively boat captain and guide, is an archaeology diver on the series. He showed us some amazing historic coins and other artefacts he’s found from other shipwrecks. This whole area is a shipwreck graveyard, which is why many people believe the stories of the treasure are true.

Lunchtime: Drive to Lunenburg

It only takes half an hour to drive from Oak Island to Lunenburg , one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can have lunch before taking a walking tour.

If you have time, make a quick stop in Mahone Bay , another very pretty waterfront town with brightly-painted houses and, in September, a hilarious and creative scarecrow festival. It’s a lovely place to wander around, admire the views, and maybe grab a snack or a souvenir in one of the quirky shops.

Where to eat in Lunenburg: Grand Banker Bar and Grill

Conveniently located right on Lunenburg’s waterfront, the Grand Banker has a huge menu with masses of fresh seafood and fish options. But if, like me, you fancy meat for a change, you might want to try the cleverly-named Lunenburger: 6 ounces of local beef, smoked mozzarella, bacon, lobster and tarragon butter sauce, all crammed into an artisan bun and topped with a bacon wrapped scallop!

Afternoon: Lunenburg Walking Tour

After lunch, it’s time to explore the famous town. You can easily wander around by yourself, but if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything and get all the best stories, I recommend booking a walking tour with Lunenburg Walking Tours.

Founded in 1753, the UNESCO town of Lunenburg is a living museum of 18th-century architecture, featuring well-preserved historic buildings painted in vibrant hues.

First established as a British settlement, the town thrived on shipbuilding, fishing, and trade – the source of its wealth as well as many of its woes. A sobering monument on the waterfront bears the names of the many citizens, whole families and even entire ships, lost at sea. The iconic Bluenose racing ship, symbolizing Canadian maritime prowess, was built here in 1921.

The hour-long tour will show you the most important sites including St. John’s Anglican Church , a wooden church recently restored after a devastating fire, and the stunning Lunenburg Academy, known as ‘the castle on the hill’. The town’s history was brilliantly brought to life by our energetic guide June, and I really enjoyed hearing her stories.

Late afternoon: drive to Summerville Beach

On the way out of Lunenburg, take Tannery Road to the iconic Lunenburg photo spot, where you can admire the magnificent view of the town’s colourful skyline across Lunenburg Harbour. If you haven’t dawdled for too long, you should still arrive at your next stop in time to stretch your legs with a walk along the beach before dinner.

Summerville Beach

Did you know that Nova Scotia has beautiful beaches? I certainly didn’t, but I discovered that Summerville Beach is up there with the best – a mile-long stretch of white sand, fringed by dunes and evergreen forests and looking out over a shallow, protected bay that’s perfect for swimming.

In summer, temperatures here can hit 30 degrees, but it’s a huge beach so it’s never crowded, making Summerville a surprisingly brilliant beach destination . And if you visit in autumn as I did, you can still enjoy calm weather and clear skies, perfect for soaking up some of that Vitamin Sea. I even went for a swim!

Where to stay in Summerville Beach: The Quarterdeck

The idea of Canada as a beach destination may have been new to me, but people have been coming to the Quarterdeck for more than 85 years. Today the place has been modernised, with a selection of 58 rooms, villas and apartments, many of which are newly-built or recently-refurbished in a rustic, beachy style. The room I stayed in also had a sea view balcony, and there’s a recreation hub with indoor and outdoor pools, fitness equipment and a lounge. The beach is just a short walk away.

Where to eat: The Quarterdeck Grill

The Quarterdeck Grill is just along the road from the accommodation, and is something of a local icon serving classic Nova Scotian food. I was craving something healthy, so I ordered the vegan harvest bowl with kale, beans and sweet potato – obviously balanced out with a ‘Trapped Lobster’ cocktail! The jalapeno and cheddar biscuits (more like small cheesy scones) with honey butter are something of a signature starter – don’t miss them!

Day 4/ Summerville Beach to Annapolis Royal via Kejimkujik

Morning: drive to kejimkujik.

You might want to enjoy a lie-in and a leisurely breakfast back at the Quarterdeck, or if the weather’s nice, I recommend nipping down the beach for a bracing morning swim. Then it’s time to pack up and resume your Nova Scotia road trip by heading an hour inland across the peninsula to Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site .

I doubt you’ll be bored of stunning coastal views, but Kejimkujik makes a nice change anyway: a scenic inland wilderness with dense woodland crisscrossed by hiking trails and waterways once used by the Indigenous Mi’kmaq people. They carved their presence into the rocks here, and the historic petroglyphs they left behind, which date back between 300-1000 years, are one of the reasons why this is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can spend the whole afternoon here doing whatever takes your fancy – exploring some of the 40 hiking trails (keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!), going mountain biking, or renting a canoe or kayak from Whynot Adventure and taking it out on one of the many waterways used for thousands of years by the Mi’kmaq people.

If you want to see the petroglyphs, you’ll need to take a guided tour as non-native people are not allowed to wander the protected areas alone – and to be honest you’d need help spotting them! We were shown around by Mi’kmaq guide Nick from Parks Canada who pointed out many of the different designs included faces, stars, a whale and even a boat.

Where to eat in Kejimkujik National Park

You could stop en route and pick up a picnic, but we swung by the park’s new Lakeview Café & Eatery and ordered from their menu of pizza, burgers and sandwiches. Our host Pam pronounced the lobster roll ‘very good’ – high praise indeed!

Afternoon: Drive to Annapolis Royal

It’s only about 40 minutes from Kejimkujik to your next destination – the historic town of Annapolis Royal . Yay for all those short Nova Scotia distances!

Established in 1605, Annapolis Royal is a colourful town set on the south bank of the Annapolis River, that claims the title of the oldest permanent European settlement in North America. Originally founded as Port Royal by the French, the area changed hands between the British and French many times, before eventually being handed back to the British in 1713 under the Treaty of Utrecht. The town was then renamed Annapolis Royal and was the capital of Nova Scotia until it was moved to Halifax in 1749. 

As you drive into town, you’ll quickly get a sense of its historic feel, with grand colourful clapboard houses lining the roads, as well as the 17-acre historic gardens and the former British military base at Fort Anne National Historic Site .

Where to stay in Annapolis Royal: Hillsdale House Inn

The quintessential Annapolis Royal historic house, Hillsdale House Inn  was built in 1859 as a travellers’ inn, and it still welcomes visitors today. Each of the 13 individually-decorated rooms is a charming and quirky mix of historic charm and modern comforts, each with its own style and fascinating features like four-poster beds, antique furniture and some fabulous wallpaper!

We drew keys at random and I was very happy with the room I got, but if you get the chance, make sure you take a tour and check out some of the other gorgeously decorated rooms as well!

Where to eat in Annapolis Royal: Restaurant Compose

Taking a break from all that seafood, Restaurant Compose is run by a lovely Austrian chef and serves an innovative menu of Austrian dishes with a Nova Scotia twist. Yes of course you can still order the lobster risotto (and it was delicious), but I recommend the schnitzel! With a waterfront setting, it’s also a gorgeous place to enjoy a glass of local wine as you watch the sun set on the fourth day of your Nova Scotia road trip.

Day 5/ Annapolis Royal to Grand Pré via Halls Harbour

If you didn’t have time the previous day, make sure you take a wander around the beautiful town of Annapolis Royal. Head to the Historic Gardens, learn about Mi’kmaq, French and British history at Fort Anne, or simply do what I did and walk around the waterfront and main streets taking photos of all the stunning houses.

Morning: Drive to Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound

Since it must have been at least 24 hours since you had lobster, it’s time for some more! Hall’s Harbour , about 75 minutes’ drive along the coast of the Bay of Fundy from Annapolis Royal, is a working lobster pound, where fishermen bring their catch to be weighed, sorted and shipped.

Here, as well as buying all the lobster-themed souvenirs you can carry from the gift shop, you can take a tour to learn everything you ever wanted to know about lobsters (plus a whole lot more).

My favourite lobster fact? I learned that lobsters can be right or left handed, depending on which of the two front claws is bigger. The larger of the two is the strong ‘crusher’ claw, used for – yes – crushing, and the smaller claw is the ‘pincher’ claw, for holding stuff.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can choose your lunch out of the tank and it’ll be taken away to be cooked for you. But if you don’t fancy wrestling a lobster, don’t worry – there are plenty of wraps, burgers and fish baskets to choose from. Though as you might expect the vegetarian options are decidedly limited!

Afternoon: Grand Pre National Historic Site

It’s only 40 minutes’ drive from Hall’s Harbour to Grand Pre, the final stop on your epic Nova Scotia Road trip.

During the 17 th century, this area was home to the Acadians. Descended from the first French immigrants, they settled here and established homes and farms, using clever engineering to reclaim land from the sea and create fertile, irrigated soil for farming. They were peaceful and non-partisan, trading equally with the French, British and local Mi’kmaq.

But by the mid-18 th century the British controlled this area and were at war with France, and they didn’t trust the Acadians because of their French roots. Even though they had done nothing wrong and had been living there for over 100 years, in 1755 the British rounded them all up and forcibly deported them in a tragic event known as Le Grand Dérangement or the Great Expulsion. Over 11,000 were evicted and around 5,000 died of starvation, disease or in shipwrecks.

You can learn more about Acadian history at Grand Pré National Historic Site , named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012. Watch a short film that tells the stories of some of the families, discover their impressive agricultural skills, and visit the Memorial Church. If you want to spend the night here, you can sleep in the park in one of the new oTENTik rustic cabins.

For many descendants of those first Acadians, Grand Pré represents their ancestral homeland and the symbol of the ties that unite them.

Where to stay and eat: Grand Pré Winery

This fertile land wasn’t only good for the Acadians. The Annapolis Valley, where Grand Pré sits, enjoys a microclimate with mild temperatures that are great for growing grapes. So where better to spend your last night in Nova Scotia than at The Inn at Grand Pré Winery , where you’ll be able to taste some of the best local wines alongside some pretty spectacular food. My tuna tartare and fillet steak were sensational!

The inn itself was extensively renovated in 2021, with gorgeous modern rooms and a communal kitchen and lounge area.

Day 6/ Drive back to Halifax 

It’s only an hour from Grand Pré back to Halifax, and just like that, your Golden Circle Nova Scotia Road Trip is over! Depending on where you’re headed next, you could spend some more time in Halifax, head east up to Cape Breton Island or north to Prince Edward Island, or explore beautiful New Brunswick.

One thing I know for sure, there’s a whole lot more to see in Atlantic Canada than can possibly be managed on a 5-day road trip, so I’m just going to have to go back!

Inspired? Check out some similar Nova Scotia tours here.

Some Nova Scotia FAQs

Is nova scotia a country.

Apparently this is a frequently-asked-question on Google, so I’m putting it here, even though I’m pretty sure by now you know the answer! Sing it with me… Nova Scotia is not a country, it’s the second-smallest province of Canada.

Is Nova Scotia worth visiting?

If you’re asking this question, you clearly haven’t been paying attention to this post! There really is something for almost everyone – whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, a nature lover or a city fan. So yes Nova Scotia is definitely worth visiting at least once!

How long do you need for a Nova Scotia Road trip?

How long is a piece of string? Nova Scotia has masses to see and do and I reckon you could easily fill two weeks, especially if you wanted to head up to Cape Breton Island as well, and maybe take it at a slightly slower pace. That said, I felt that I really saw and did a lot on this five-day tour, and although I didn’t see everything, I got a really great taste of the place. And now I have a good reason to come back and see more!

When is the best time to visit Nova Scotia?

For the best weather, you’ll want to visit between May and October. Winters can be harsh and snowy with rough weather along the coasts. Summers are hot but also can get more crowded, so if you want cheaper prices and fewer people, try visiting in May or October. When we visited in October we still had bright sunshine and very pleasant temperatures.

Where to next?

If you enjoyed this post, why not check out some of my others?

• A Perfect Guatemala Itinerary In 10 Days, 2 Weeks Or 3 Weeks
• A Dream Itinerary For Sri Lanka In Two Weeks
• 11 Things To Do On A Thessaloniki City Break in Greece
• An Epic Uganda Itinerary In 2 Weeks
• A Turkey Road Trip On The Gorgeous Aegean Coast

Liked this post?

Social shares help support my hard work! You can share via the buttons at the bottom, or pin this handy Pinterest Pin. Thank you!

Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

Further Reading...

Nature Vacations: 25 Amazing Places For An Outdoors Adventure

Things to do in Pembrokeshire: Coast, Castles and More

Yaxha Guatemala: The Magical Mayan Ruins You Need To Visit

Using the canon r5 for wildlife photography: a full review, leroo la tau in botswana: see the incredible zebra migration.

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Passport & Pixels is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

• Destinations
• Work With Us

Perfect 7 Day Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary (Halifax & The South Shore)

Planning a Nova Scotia road trip anytime soon and looking for the perfect itinerary? We’ve got you covered for your Nova Scotia travels picking out some of the finest destinations to explore on our 7-day Nova Scotia road trip itinerary starting and ending in Halifax. 

Covering charming seaside villages, unique experiences, and some of the most famous Nova Scotia destinations including the Bay of Fundy, Peggy’s Cove, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more as we take you on a journey through Nova Scotia’s mainland along the south and Acadian shores up through the west and the Bay of Fundy before returning in a perfect loop back to Halifax where you’ll have a day to explore the capital maritime city.

We loved the stops we made on this Nova Scotia itinerary so much that we even came back a few months after our first trip and again! (One of these days we will make it to the Cabot Trail, I promise!).

Disclaimer: This post contains commisionable links!

Nova Scotia Travel Tips

Our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary focuses on the mainland heading through the South Shore and the west. We recommend taking your time and adjusting our suggested Nova Scotia destinations mentioned on this itinerary to your specific interests if needed.

Renting a Car & Driving Tips

The best way to explore the different Nova Scotia destinations on this Nova Scotia itinerary road trip we recommend renting a car in advance. We personally recommend renting your car with Expedia, you can check rates here.

One thing that’s really nice about Nova Scotia is that gas prices are generally the same at every gas station, no one is really surging prices not even near the airport which makes filling the car back up before returning it as easy and convenient as ever.

There are a few tolls in Nova Scotia including the Halifax Harbour Bridges. Unlike the US where you can pay some steep fees to use a toll, they are only $1 CAD here! You will need to have cash though, so be sure to have some change on you.

The $1 coins are also known as ‘loonies’ because they have a loon on them. The $2 coin is a ‘toonie’. You will want to keep a few loonies or toonies on you for tolls at all times. 

When going through tolls be sure to go into the lane that accepts cash! If you don’t have the perfect amount, the teller can break change for you.

For the route we have you on for this Nova Scotia road trip we recommend driving along the Lighthouse Route . This route is from Halifax to Yarmouth. After that, you are no longer on the Lighthouse Route. We recommend following the routes that stay on the Lighthouse Route because these routes are more scenic. 

When is the Best Time To Visit Nova Scotia?

The best time to enjoy your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary is arguably between the months of May through October . This is when the weather is considered the most pleasant and mild. That being said, this is also the peak season to enjoy Nova Scotia destinations.

However, Nova Scotia travel can be enjoyed any season. If you plan on coming on shoulder or off-season in the winter be sure to check the weather and come with appropriate layers and outdoor apparel. You’ll enjoy having many of the Nova Scotia destinations to yourself as a tourist without the crowds.

Also, keep in mind some of the Nova Scotia destinations we mention on this itinerary do offer certain activities seasonally and if you come in the winter you may find some of the businesses close for the winter. It’s best to check ahead to ensure that you don’t run into any issues on your Nova Scotia road trip if you’re planning to come off season.

Also, not that Nova Scotia is mostly made up of coastline and you can have weather patterns that change rapidly and don’t always follow the weather forecast. You will want to come mentally prepared that it could be raining or foggy one minute and 15 minutes later the sun is out with big puffy white clouds.

Nova Scotia is known for its microclimates so there’s also a chance somewhere 5 minutes away is experiencing different weather than you! This was actually very interesting to witness in person and you’ll surely experience this on your Nova Scotia itinerary.

What to Bring to Nova Scotia

Some essentials to pack on your Nova Scotia road trip, no matter what season, are the following. However, no matter when you plan to visit be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly.

As mentioned before, the weather can change within 15 minutes, the forecast could be wrong, and you could also just drive 5 minutes away and experience a different climate altogether. 

It’s best to have these Nova Scotia travel essentials with you and available most times.

Rain jacket or poncho –  One of the best items you can bring on your Nova Scotia road trip is a small packable rain poncho or raincoat. I personally love my rain jacket because it also works well as a windbreaker on those windy days along the seashore. 

Umbrella – Another fail-proof item to carry around at all times on your Nova Scotia travels is an umbrella for the same reasons above. You never know when you might get some spots of rain so this can come in really handy along your road trip.

Extra layers – Even though we visited in the summer we were really happy we had some extra layers ready for when the weather took a change or for when the weather was cooler in the mornings and evenings. We recommend bringing a nice thick sweater or sweatshirt to have in addition to your rain gear even if you’re visiting in the summer. For all other seasons, packing and wearing layers is also very smart.

Alternatively, thermals are super easy to pack and can help you out if it’s extra chilly one day too! Especially if you’re visiting on a shoulder season.

Waterproof shoes –  We highly recommend bringing waterproof shoes with you on your Nova Scotia road trip because our itinerary has you going to places where you’ll need them including the Bay of Fundy. When the tides are low you can walk on the ocean floor and you’ll want waterproof shoes or water shoes so that you don’t get your regular footwear wet. These are also ideal for the wet and rainy weather conditions you’ll likely encounter at some point during your Nova Scotia travels, we prefer a nice rainboot .

Bug spray in summer –  The biggest mistake we made during our Nova Scotia itinerary was not bringing bug spray. The mosquitos get particularly active in the mornings and evenings along the coastline. 

Sunscreen –  It’s always a good idea to have sunscreen handy when you’re spending time outside. Especially if you’re planning any water activities. Even on an overcast day you can get a sunburn. Come prepared!

Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 of 7 days nova scotia itinerary: peggy’s cove.

Halifax to Peggy’s Cove along route 333: 41 km or 26 miles driving time ~1 hour

Start your itinerary with one of the most famous of Nova Scotia destinations at Peggy’s Cove. This small fishing community is one of the most popular photographed locations in all of Canada. 

The lighthouse here draws thousands of visitors a day and once you see it for yourself its no wonder why. Nestled on top of granite rocks along the sea, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is one of the most scenic and beautiful along the Lighthouse Route. 

The fishing village in Peggy’s Cove also makes this a worthwhile and must-see Nova Scotia destination. Dotted with colorful shops, restaurants, homes, and even cottage rentals there’s no shortage of charm here.

We recommend having dinner at Rhubarb Restaurant just a few miles away or enjoy the Lobster Feast Experience with Oceanstone Seaside Resort where you get to spend time learning about the local lobster at Ryer’s Pound, have a glass of local wine or beer at a locals-only spot in Peggy’s Cove, enjoy a fresh oyster and craft beer pairing, and ending with a private sunset lobster dinner along the ocean.

(The Lobster Feast is a summer program running from July to September, reservations in advance are necessary)

Important Safety Tip: Peggy’s Cove claims victims every year to those that don’t follow the warning signs to stay off the black rocks. Even if the sea looks innocent during your visit there’s a chance a rogue wave could come even on the calmest of days. Stay off the wet/black rocks and do not swim here. The undertow and current are very dangerous as well as the random rogue waves.

Overnight in Peggy’s Cove

On the first night of your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary, we highly recommend staying at Oceanstone Seaside Resort . Located just a 7-minute drive from Peggy’s Cove, this resort offers amazing oceanside rooms and private cottages with incredible views and a private beach and lighthouse view.

We had the most romantic cottage with an amazing view right from our bed. We loved the private beach where we could have a campfire and watch the stars. 

Right on the property is also Rhubarb Restaurant, an incredible local spot offering up great seafood and dishes.

Book Now on Booking.com | Compare Prices for Later on Hotels.com | View Rates on Expedia.com

Day 2 of 7 Days Nova Scotia Itinerary: Coastal Town Hopping & Lunenburg

Peggy’s Cove to Lunenburg along route 333: 128 km or 80 miles driving time ~1.5 hours

On your way to the next stop on our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary, you have some great options to stop along coastal seaside villages along the South Shore before getting to our final destination for the day in Lunenburg.

On your way from Peggy’s Cove to Lunenburg, there are some great Nova Scotia destinations to consider stopping at. Hubbards and Chester are both great quick stops for photos and witnessing quiet seaside towns and finally Mahone Bay is a great stop for a meal, shopping, and enjoying the picturesque scene here.

We recommend leaving in the morning and having lunch in Mahone Bay before heading to Lunenburg for the rest of the afternoon! You’ll want the time here, trust us!

Stop in Hubbards

We recommend spending the least amount of time here if you’re trying to stop at all three Nova Scotia destinations we recommend on your way to Lunenburg. This is more of a residential seaside town that doesn’t have many places for you to actually stop at other than pulling over and enjoying the quiet morning view of boats floating and reflecting off the shores.

There is a picturesque church and park here which has a small parking area which is a great place to park while you check out this tranquil scene. There’s also a chance you won’t see another tourist here as this is a bit off the radar for most visitors and you’ll likely encounter locals who are getting their morning walk or jog in around the water.

Tip: Drive down Shore Club Road to get to the spots mentioned above.

Make a Visit to Chester

Chester is an interesting stop during your Nova Scotia travels, a bit like Hubbards in the sense that you probably won’t encounter too many tourists here but worth stopping to see the charming downtown area where you can find cafes and shops to explore.

There’s a memorial park with a statue of a soldier and even a public saltwater pool that fills at high tide located right on the shores of the harbor that’s free to jump in for a swim.

Again, you don’t need much time here but this beautiful town is worth making a stop at even to recharge and get a coffee.

Tip: Drive down Queen Street to the waterfront and drive along South Street.

Visit Mahone Bay

Next, on our Nova Scotia itinerary on your way to Lunenburg if you’re only going to stop at one seaside village on the way this is it. The most famous views and photo spots here is across from the bay looking into town at the three churches lined up next to each other right along the water.

The New York Times even described this town and scene as “pretty as a picture” which makes sense because it is often photographed and you can easily see why.

Besides a few adorable churches, Mahone Bay also boasts great shopping along its independently owned stores, cafes, restaurants, and walk along the water. This is a great stop for lunch or a snack if you’re holding out until Lunenburg for a full meal.

Enjoy the Beauty of Lunenburg

One of our favorite Nova Scotia destinations we enjoyed on our entire trip was in Lunenburg. This UNESCO World Heritage Site town is a famous fishing village and one of the most picturesque and colorful towns we went to during our Nova Scotia travels.

You’ll want to make sure you have an ample amount of time here to enjoy weaving your way up and down the streets stopping in the different shops and even cafes. There are plenty of great options for where to eat here as well if you’ve built up an appetite hopping from one seaside village to another to get here.

We ate at the South Shore Fish Shack which has an incredible selection of seafood dishes and if the weather is nice you’ll enjoy the view from their outdoor deck and patio to eat.

Some other noteworthy spots not to miss and best things to do in Lunenburg include:

• St. Johns Anglican Church – This church is unmissable and one of the more interesting architectural buildings in the city. This is also considered the 2nd oldest remaining Protestant church in Canada.
• Bluenose II – This racing schooner is one of the most famous in Canada, you might even recognize it yourself because it’s actually featured on the 10 cent piece. The Bluenose II is a replica of the original Bluenose racing schooner. Sadly, the Bluenose wasn’t in Lunenburg during our visit but it is usually docked right at the waterfront most of the year.
• Bluenose Golf Club – Rather than golf here this is where you can find the best view of Lunenburg from across the water. Be sure to stop by so you can see the whole seaside town from across the way.
• Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – A great museum and exhibition with a collection that commemorates the fishing heritage and culture for Atlantic Canada.
• Ironworks Distillery – One of the unmissable Nova Scotia destinations to enjoy in Lunenburg is this distillery, also a stop on the Good Cheer Trail for those who are trying to fill up their passports. This distillery is run by a local couple who have specialty rums including the Rum Boat Rum where the barrels of rum age on a boat with the rocking of the ocean and currently they have some barrels of rum aging on a boat that’s making a trip around the world which will be bottled and sold as Around the World Rum when it returns. The distillery is gorgeous and worth a stop in itself for a tasting and this is a great option for a souvenir.
• Lunenburg Walking Tours – Check out this company for some of their great tour options from daily walking tours to spooky ghost tours in the evenings. Be sure to see if they are running their new special tour called Lunenburg Distilled (see below).

Lunenburg Distilled

One of the most unforgettable experiences we enjoyed during our Nova Scotia travels and road trip was the Lunenburg Distilled experience. Learn about the rum-running history of Lunenburg during the prohibition period in this immersive culinary experience. Visit the floating rum distillery on the water, sample local delicacies, enjoy a private tasting at Ironworks Distillery and relax while dining a multi-course meal on the Theresa E. Connor schooner. 

All of this takes place while learning the history, understanding the local culture, and eating an extraordinary meal. 

The Lunenburg Distilled Culinary Adventure is a must add item to your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary if you’re visiting from July – October. Be sure to check their program dates, if it doesn’t line up with your itinerary be sure to try another one of Lunenburg Walking Tours experiences.

Note: As of 2023, it seems as though this tour has been modified! It could change again, regardless the company that runs it is an excellent tour operator and it still is a similar tour that we’d do ourselves given the opportunity again!

Overnight in Lunenburg

We recommend staying the night in Lunenburg as there are so many things to do and see here on your Nova Scotia itinerary that you’ll have an action-packed day. A great option is the Lunenburg Arms Hotel which is where we stayed.

This vintage hotel has a great location right in the center of town and is easy to access wherever you need to go by foot plus many rooms have a harbor front view!

Book Now on Booking.com |   View Rates on Expedia.com

Day 3 of 7 Days Nova Scotia Itinerary: Blue Rocks & Along the South Shore to Summerville Centre

Blue Rocks to LaHave: 20 km or 13 miles driving time ~20 minutes |  LaHave to Summerville Centre: 73 km or 45 miles driving time ~50 min

On day 3 of our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary, we have you leaving Lunenburg for nearby Blue Rocks, a quaint and picturesque fishing village. After, continue on to LaHave Ferry Terminal where you can ride one of the oldest cable river ferries in Canada!

This is a leisurely day and since you’re along the south shore, if you’re visiting during comfortable weather, we recommend enjoying a kayak excursion on this day either from Blue Rocks or LaHave to experience the views of the Nova Scotia coastline from the water. Both suggestions will be below.

Just a few miles away from Lunenburg is another charming, small fishing community worth visiting. Blue Rocks is a Nova Scotia destination to miss on your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary. 

This is another one of those photogenic fishing communities that you’ll be thankful you have a camera on hand for. Blue Rocks is actually a very popular photography location and has inspired artists and photographers dating back to the 1940s and feels like it’s kept away modernization in the best way possible.

Spend some time checking out the tide pools at low tide and admiring the beautiful seaside fishing homes and facilities along the water.

This is a great place to do a kayaking excursion from and is considered one of the most desirable places to kayak. You can kayak to the islands off of Blue Rocks with Pleasant Paddling. Be sure to book in advance.

Enjoy LaHave

After checking out Blue Rocks on your day 3 of Nova Scotia travels head to the LaHave Ferry Terminal. Just a warning, this is easy to miss, the only indication of this ferry terminal is a sign along the road. We actually passed it and had to turn around, look for other cars who are pulled off to the side of the road waiting for the ferry. 

This ferry is one of the oldest cable river ferries in Canada and you can take your car on it to get you across the water to the otherside where LaHave is. There are ferries every 15-30 minutes and you’ll need $7 in cash to pay your way.

Once you’re in LaHave be sure to stop at LaHave Bakery where you’ll find an old fashioned bakery located in this historic LaHave Outfitting company building. This is a great stop for lunch and a coffee.

While you’re here be sure to check out the bookstore, local artisan shop, and skate shop in the same building. We showed up on a gorgeous day so sitting on the dock in one of the Adirondack chairs was a great way to enjoy our cup of coffee. There are also a few other shops dotted along the road selling local art and trinkets.

LaHave is also another excellent choice for kayaking as there are several islands and channels to explore. We did a half-day kayaking adventure with Cape LaHave Adventures who set us up with a knowledgable local guide with snacks and water for a four-hour journey hopping islands and paddling along seals. (They also have multi-day kayak tours available too)

Be sure to book your tour in advance.

Drive on Crescent Beach

Be sure to also check out Crescent Beach on your Nova Scotia itinerary, a crescent-shaped beach that stretches 2 kilometers that you can drive your car on!

This is one of the only beaches in Canada where you can drive on the shores of the beach. Even if you don’t have alot of time, this is worth doing even if you only make it halfway and need to turn around. 

Visit Liverpool, the Port of Privateers

Before making your way to Summerville Centre for the night you may want to break up your drive and stop at the historic town of Liverpool on your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary. 

Liverpool is most famous for its role in rum-running during the prohibition and is also known as the “Port of Privateers,” because of their role in history as one of  British North America’s leading privateer ports. This was pretty much legal piracy at the time since it was authorized by the government.

Besides having a fascinating history, this is a great place to take a nice waterfront walk and visit another lighthouse along the Lighthouse Route at the Fort Point Lighthouse.

You may also notice that the fire hydrants in town are also painted like privateers! 

Overnight in Summerville Centre

Continue to your next Nova Scotia destination for dinner and your overnight stay at Quarterdeck Beachside Villas & Grill . Located on a gorgeous white sandy beach you can enjoy a sunset on one of the prettiest beaches in Nova Scotia. 

We recommend staying and dining at Quarterdeck. Their restaurant serves up delicious local seafood and other dishes as well as great cocktails and local wines with views of the white sand beach.

There are different room types at Quarterdeck from the beachside villas to the apartment like style accommodation across the street. We stayed in one of the apartment like rooms and loved how spacious they were, it felt more like a home than a hotel.

This is a very comfortable option for where to stay along your Nova Scotia road trip.

Day 4 of 7 Days Nova Scotia Itinerary: Shelburne, The Lobster Capital, & Argyle

 Summerville Centre to Argyle: 120 km or 75 miles driving time ~1 hour 15 min

Next up on your Nova Scotia road trip itinerary are more historic fishing villages including the lobster capital of Canada and an area rich with Acadian history . 

We recommend planning lunch in Barrington, the lobster capital of Canada, then making your way down Cape Sable Island if the weather is clear and you have an ample amount of time before heading to the historic Acadian village and eventually to Argyle where you will spend the evening.

Stop by Shelburne, a Loyalist Colony

Shelburne is one of the more unique Nova Scotia destinations on our road trip itinerary. This town is famous for being a loyalist colony to the British crown during the American Revolution.

This seemingly small fishing village had up to 10,000 British loyalists during the American Revolution and then after the war within 20 years the population here decreased dramatically as many of the loyalists moved away. However, the town still has descendants of the first generation loyalists who reside here today.

You’ll see traces of that history while you explore the waterfront along Dock Street including the British flag painted on the crosswalks. 

Be sure to explore the different museums and shops along Dock Street including the Dory Shop Museum where the famous Shelburne Dory boats are made.

Eat Lobster at the Lobster Capital of Canada in Barrington

The next stop on our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary is the town of Barrington, or also known as the lobster capital of Canada! You’ll want to take full advantage of being in the lobster capital by enjoying a lobster feast here! We recommend trying Captain Kat’s Lobster Shack.

After you’ve had your fill on a delicious local lobster you can take a scenic drive on Cape Sable Island. If you are doing great on time be sure to go all the way to the Cape Sable Lighthouse. There are also some great beaches to stop along the way including Hawk Beach.

On your drive towards our next stop on our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary, there’s another mysterious Nova Scotia destination to check out, the Shag Harbour UFO sighting location  that took place on October 4, 1967. 

As you’re driving you can’t miss the giant sign indicating where the UFO sighting took place that shook everyone and even people to this day. We were told there are still surviving witnesses by the woman at the Barrington visitors center who still share their story about the sighting.

This is a fun or curious spot to add to your Nova Scotia travel stories from your trip!

Historical Acadian Village of Nova Scotia

Our next suggestion for where to go on your Nova Scotia road trip is the Historical Acadian Village of Nova Scotia or Le Village Historique acadein dela Nouvelle Ecosse on Pubnico Harbour. 

This is where you can go back in history to the early 20th century and see what an Acadian village and daily life looked like.  

Acadians are descendants of the French colonists in Atlantic Canada and the Northeast US who colonized this area between the 17th and 18th centuries. Between 1755–1764, the British colonists forcibly deported over 11,000 Acadians, one-third of which died from disease or drowning while others were deported to American colonies, France, and the Caribbean.

Many the Acadians were invited by the Spanish to migrate into Louisiana and the Acadians that are there to present day are originally from the Atlantic coast of Canada and Maine.

This town depicts life in the early 1900s and offers hands on exhibits you can participate in or watch actors in period costumes perform daily tasks from boat building to the blacksmith shop.

Overnight in Argyle

After getting a dose of what Acadian life was like we recommend heading to Argyle for your overnight stay and dinner at the Argyler Lodge & Restaurant.

Situated on the coastline with a gorgeous waterfront view of the nearby islands is where you can find a cozy, feel at home kind of accommodation.

Spend the evening listening to live Acadian inspired music with specialty local dishes and cajun-inspired seafood. We recommend doing the 4-course meal set that comes with a bottle of perfectly paired local wine.

Enjoy a slow, romantic evening near the waterfront with a bonfire and B&B style room that makes you feel right at home. In the morning, don’t miss out on the lobster omelet either, it’s fantastic.

Day 5 of 7 Days Nova Scotia Itinerary: Yarmouth, Digby, & Wolfville

 Argyle to Cape Forchu: 44 km or 27 miles driving time ~40 min | Cape Forchu to Wolfville: 246 km or 153 miles driving time total ~2.5 hours

Congratulations, you’ve just finished the Lighthouse Route on your Nova Scotia road trip! Once you’ve made it to Yarmouth, you’re no longer on the famous Lighthouse Route.

During this day on your Nova Scotia itinerary, you’ll covering alot of ground and be passing through the scallop capital of the world , visit Canadian National Historic Sites, drive along the famous Bay of Fundy where the world’s highest tides are, and end in the Annapolis Valley, home to the province’s wine region .

We recommend getting an early start and if you plan on whale watching in Digby you may have to cut out some stops. Keep in mind that most wineries in the Annapolis Valley close between 5-6 pm and only one stays open until 7 pm. If wine tasting is a part of your Nova Scotia travel plan then you’ll want to skip some of the earlier stops so you have enough time for wine tasting on your Nova Scotia road trip.

See Cape Forchu Lightstaiton in Yarmouth

Enjoy your morning at the last of the Nova Scotia destinations on the Lighthouse Route with a lighthouse! We recommend driving down to Cape Forchu Lightstation where you can visit what is considered an applecore lighthouse because of its shape.

You can visit the Lightkeeper’s house here, take a guided tour, visit the fog alarm building, and even eat at the restaurant here called the Keeper’s Kitchen.

If your Nova Scotia travel day doesn’t allow for much time, like ours, then we recommend just walking along the Leif Ericson trail for pretty views of the light station along the rocky coastal path.

We learned that the movie “The Lighthouse” was filmed here starring William Defoe and Robert Pattinson, which is a cinematic masterpiece. In the movie, however, they didn’t use the Cape Forchu Lightstation you’ll see on your visit. They built a prop lighthouse and removed it after the movie was finished filming, but you can recognize the landscape as it was filmed right here in Cape Forchu next to the light station.

Dig into Scallops in Digby

Next up on your Nova Scotia itinerary is the scallop capital of the world in Digby ! This is also home to some of the best whale watching tours in Nova Scotia. 

We recommend trying the world-famous Digby scallops in one of the restaurants on Water Street in downtown Digby. We tried the whiskey maple bacon-wrapped scallops from Shoreline Restaurant and they were heavenly. Nova Scotia successfully turned Scott from thinking he hated scallops to loving scallops on this trip. 

After eating a feast, be sure to walk along the Admirals Walk along the waterfront where you can see the scallop fishing fleet.

If you’re a fan of folk art, you can drive to see the Maud Lewis replica home just outside of Digby. The replica house was built as a shrine to honor the local folk artist’s legacy within 6-8km of the original home she painted and what was considered her greatest work of art. 

The actual home however is on display inside the Nova Scotia Art Gallery in Halifax.

Visit the Historic Annapolis Royal

Before making your way all the way to Wolfville on your Nova Scotia road trip where you can explore the wineries of the Annapolis Valley you’ll want to make a stop in Annapolis Royal where you can find Canada’s oldest National Historic Site at Fort Anne and visit the Annapolis Royal historic gardens.

When arriving to Annapolis Royal be sure to take a walk down St. George Street . This street is considered one of the oldest streets in North America, as a matter of fact, Annapolis Royal is the oldest permanent European settlement north of Florida in North America.

Be sure to visit the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens if you’re visiting in the warmer months where you can find an impressive rose collection and other gardens.

Afterward, you can visit one of the most fought over lands in North America at Fort Anne National Historic Site . This military fortress has been fought for and taken control over back and forth by the French and British for centuries. Fort Anne is also considered the oldest National Historic Site in Canada!

Check out the Cool Town of Wolfville

Our next featured Nova Scotia destination is in the Annapolis Valley, home to the province’s wine country and where you can check out different wineries.

There are around a dozen different wineries in the Annapolis Valley. Because we were trying to squeeze in just about everything on this long haul day of our Nova Scotia itinerary we only managed to visit two, Luckett Vineyards and Domaine de Grand Pre Winery. Both wineries mentioned also have restaurants if you’re ready for dinner after you do a tasting as well.

There are also wine tasting tours in the area, or you can do some self-guided tastings, many of the wineries are just a short drive from one another.

Did you know that Nova Scotia has its own appellation wine?  Be sure to try the Tidal Bay wine which is made only in Nova Scotia strictly from local grapes and has to pair perfectly with seafood to be considered a Tidal Bay wine. Just like champagne can only come from Champagne, France, Tidal Bay can only come from Nova Scotia.

Some are sweeter than others, most were pretty dry and amazing. During our Nova Scotia road trip we were told there were 12 different Tidal Bay wines, we tried around 5-6 and didn’t taste one we didn’t love! 

Don’t fancy wine tasting? Don’t worry, this Nova Scotia destination has way more to offer than wine.

• Grand Pre National Historic Site – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful place to visit in the Annapolis Valley. This site and center are dedicated to the Acadian history as it was an Acadian settlement in the late 1600s to mid-1700s. This is also the location of the Deportation of the Acadians. Walk around the interpretive center or enjoy the incredible view from the lookout point.
• Tangled Garden – Located at the Grand Pre National Historic Site are the therapeutic gardens and shop where you can buy herbs, jams, jellies, and other products sourced from the gardens.
• Downtown Wolfville – Downtown Wolfville also has a fun scene going on with different places to grab a drink or eat dinner. 
• Farmer’s Markets – Be sure to stop and pop in one of the farmer’s markets en route to Wolfville coming from Digby on Trunk 1. There are several back to back where you can check out the local produce, we were impressed by the size of some of the zucchini here or buy local baked goods, these are a fun stop along your Nova Scotia road trip. 

Get more ideas of what to do and things to do in Annapolis Valley in our guide!

Overnight in Wolfville

We recommend picking one of the beautiful Inns or B&Bs available in Wolfville during your Nova Scotia itinerary. There are several along the main road in Wolfville that are huge historic homes with rooms for guests.

We didn’t get to stay in one during our visit but we would be choosing to do this on our next Nova Scotia road trip. We recommend trying the Blomidon Inn , a beautiful and huge Victorian-style home.

Day 6 of 7 Days Nova Scotia Itinerary: Wine Tasting in the Annapolis Valley & Bay of Fundy

Wolfville to Burntcoat Head Park: 89 km or 55 miles driving time total ~1.2 hours | Burntcoat Head Park to Halifax: 95 km or 59 miles driving time total ~1.25 hours

On one of your final days of your Nova Scotia travels we recommend spending the morning slowly enjoying what you missed the day before near Wolfville around the Annapolis Valley. The previous day was a huge driving day compared to the others on your Nova Scotia road trip and trying to pack alot in.

This day gives you a chance to enjoy the Annapolis Valley before heading over to where the world’s highest tides were recorded at the Bay of Fundy in Burntcoat Head Park and finally ending your Nova Scotia itinerary day in Halifax for the evening.

Morning in Annapolis Valley

Start your morning in Annapolis Valley or Wolfville checking off or visiting any of the things you may have missed the previous day. 

Some of the wineries even open their doors for tastings as early as 10 am. This is a great chance to taste around more at some of the local wineries you may have missed the previous day.

This is also a great chance to visit the Farmer’s Markets if you missed out those on the day earlier too.

On the way to your next Nova Scotia road trip stop be sure to check out the Old Walton Lighthouse . It’s located in the town of Walton just 15 minutes before Burntcoat Head Park where you’ll be visiting the Bay of Fundy.

See the Dramatic Tides at the Bay of Fundy

Your next Nova Scotia destination on your itinerary is one of the most famous. The Bay of Fundy is home to the world’s highest tides located between both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The highest tides ever recorded here at Burntcoat Head Park at 56.7 feet!

While you’ll need to stay a half of a day to actually see the full swing of the tides you can visit during low tide and walk on the ocean floor. Every 13 hours 160 billion tons of water flow daily in and out of the bay. During low tide, you can carefully walk on the ocean floor and witness different marine life in the tidepools.

Note that you won’t be permitted to walk on the ocean floor anytime outside the summer months as its too dangerous. However, even if you do visit in the off-season months you can enjoy the old lighthouse on the property and view the Bay of Fundy from above.

You can easily enjoy some time here, just be aware that in order to see a dramatic change in the tides you’ll have to stay for hours.

Dining on the Ocean Floor at the Bay of Fundy

If you’re planning your Nova Scotia itinerary well in advance for the summer months we consider trying to reserve a spot on the Dining on the Ocean Floor Experience put on by the Flying Apron Inn & Cookery.

This once in a lifetime experience is in popular demand and there are very limited spots every summer to score one of the few spots in this culinary experience at one of the seven natural wonders of North America.

The experience is 6 hours long and has 4 courses including a lunch. You’ll be introduced to the area and learn about edible plants from a local before foraging around the property where you’ll spot some edible plants from the knowledge you just learned.

After you’ll enjoy a seafood boil lunch paired with local wine before wandering around the low tide and tide pools with local guides.

After, you’ll enjoy a once in a lifetime experience 3-course dinner prepared on the ocean floor where you’ll eat and watch the tide slowly roll in before having tea and coffee around a fire on the ocean floor.

This is one of those bucket list items and a really unique experience! They try to make the ticket process as fair as possible so anyone can enjoy this experience. That requires planning as far in advance as February. You can  subscribe to the Flying Apron Inn & Cookery’s newsletter  to get updates about the next season’s ticket reservation.

I’ll warn you, it’s highly competitive so when they give you the date that reservations are open you will want to be prepared and ready to call the number the moment it opens, leave a short message on their answering machine, and hope that you were one of the lucky ones who got to leave a message first and score a seat! Good luck to all of those who try!

Overnight in Halifax

After witnessing one of the seven natural wonders of North America you’ll want to head back to Halifax where you’ll be spending your last day on your Nova Scotia road trip exploring this incredible maritime capital city of the province.

We have two hotels we recommend as we stayed in both. They both have great locations that are walkable to most of the things you’d want to do in Halifax. 

Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites  is a great option for exploring Halifax.  The historic hotel is in a landmark building from 1928 with a gorgeous vintage lobby and reception area. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. You’re located directly across the Halifax Public Gardens and just a 10 minute walk to the waterfront.

Book Now on Booking.com  |  Compare Prices for Later on Hotels.com  |  View Rates on Expedia.com

Westin Nova Scotian  is another fantastic option for where to stay in Halifax. Located right along the waterfront and close walking distance to everything downtown in Halifax. The rooms are spacious and refined. There’s also a restaurant on-site and you’re right across from the Halifax Farmer’s Market.

Day 7 on Nova Scotia Itinerary: Explore Halifax

On the final day of your Nova Scotia itinerary, we recommend getting to know the amazing city of Halifax. There are so many opportunities for things to do and see here. We have highlighted some of our favorites. Be sure to check out our full guide to  things to do in Halifax  to plan your sightseeing day in the city more extensively.

Harbour Hopper Tour – Hop aboard an amphibious retired US Navy vehicle where you’ll cover all of Halifax by land and sea with a cheeky guide and captain who will tell you the history and overview of the city on this hour-long tour. This is fun for anyone and they even have wheelchair friendly spots on their tours.

Halifax Waterfront – Walk along North America’s longest wooden waterfront boardwalk right here in Halifax! There’s 4 km of boardwalk total and tons to do along it from shopping, eating, drinking, and museums! 

Sip Your Way Along the Good Cheer Trail – This is technically something you can do along your entire Nova Scotia road trip itinerary but you can find alot of the stops here in Halifax! The Good Cheer Trail is a passport with partnering distilleries, wineries, breweries, and cider spots that a participating in this fun, engaging way to explore the drinking scene of Nova Scotia. Grab a passport at any of the participating stops and collect stamps as you sip your way through the province! There are 19 in Halifax alone!

Halifax Harbour Ferry – This is the cheapest way to see Halifax by water! Take the Halifax Harbour transit ferry from the waterfront to Dartmouth where you can explore by foot and try some of the different beers and ciders at the different stops on the Good Cheer Trail all for $2.50 CAD for a round trip ticket!

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site – A National Historic Site in Canada and old fortification is a great place to visit during your time in Halifax. Plan your visit around 12 noon to see the daily canon go off!

We also recommend checking out some more great road trip ideas including these  Canada road trips in the fall  including the scenic Cabot Trail here in Nova Scotia!

Liked this post or found our 7 day Nova Scotia road trip itinerary helpful? We aim to make your Nova Scotia travels as easy as possible including some of the best Nova Scotia destinations from our visit! If you liked the post we encourage you to share on Pinterest below! Happy Travels!

GET 5 FREE  LIGHTROOM PRESETS

The Most Amazing Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Posted on Published: July 31, 2022  - Last updated: August 8, 2022

Categories Blog , Canada , City Guides , Nova Scotia , Road Trips , Small Town Guides , Transportation , Travel Guides

This is the ultimate Nova Scotia road trip itinerary that you’re welcome to steal for yourself! I embarked on an incredible road trip of Nova Scotia for a week and had a wonderful time. This Nova Scotia travel guide highlights a roundtrip adventure from Halifax visiting the South Shore, Yarmouth and the Acadian Shores, the Annapolis Valley and the Bay of Fundy.

Naturally, there are so many more things to do in Nova Scotia and places to visit not mentioned in this travel guide. With only 7 days in Nova Scotia, you need to choose one area of the province and focus on it. If you find yourself with two weeks in Nova Scotia, head up to Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail or add stops in the Northumberland Shore and Eastern Shore.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Here’s a brief rundown of this Nova Scotia road trip itinerary, driving roundtrip from Halifax. Most road trips in Atlantic Canada and Nova Scotia start in Halifax as that’s where you’ll be taking your flight. Spend your first day and night in Halifax, and then continue to make your way around the South Shore, Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, and the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley.

• Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg
• LaHave Ferry, Kejimkujik National Park and Shelburne
• Acadian Shores and Digby
• Wolfville and the Annapolis Valley
• Bay of Fundy

Table of Contents

Nova Scotia Road Trip Map and Itinerary

This handy Nova Scotia road trip map will help you plan your journey. You can  access the map here . Feel free to save it to your Google account and reference it when you’re plotting out your trip. I’ve added every road side stop, hotel, restaurant, cafe, attraction and activity to this map. Read about each stop in more detail in this travel blog post.

Getting Around Nova Scotia

First, you’ll need to find your way to Halifax. While some people might make the road trip from Toronto to Nova Scotia or parts of the USA to Nova Scotia, the easiest and quickest way to get to Halifax is by flying. Fly to Halifax and then pick up your rental car at the Halifax airport. Here’s where you’ll find the cheapest flights to Halifax and be able to compare prices to find the best rates.

Then, you will need a rental car for this Nova Scotia road trip. For this trip, I rented my car with Authentik Canada, who I highly recommend for a car rental in Halifax . Picking up the rental car at the airport was a very easy and smooth process. You can return the rental car back to the airport at the end of your trip or even arrange an alternate location.

Authentik Canada has a wonderful website with lots of Canada road trip suggestions. They have custom built itineraries to go along with the car rental, so it’s really easy to plan and book your experience. With Authentik, you can plan 100% of your trip online, get advice from local specialists, and enjoy tailor-made personalized road trips. They also rent out RVs , too!

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 1: Halifax

You’ve arrived in Nova Scotia and it’s time to explore Halifax! I recommend spending at least one day in Halifax before embarking on any Nova Scotia road trip. In this itinerary, we’ll spend a full day in Halifax at the start of the trip, and then another half day in Halifax at the end of the trip. If you’re looking for vegan food in Halifax, check out my Halifax vegan guide .

If you love guided tours and don’t want to plan too much today, you can always book a half day guided tour of Halifax . It includes stops around town, a trip to Citadel Hill, and a scenic drive to Peggy’s Cove. You’ll receive free time to explore and admire Peggy’s Cove, too.

Hydrostone District and North End

Do you love visiting different neighbourhoods of cities when you travel? I love going for walks around various districts of town, so I headed over to the Hydrostone District and North End of Halifax. The Hydrostone District is a National Heritage Site as the homes were all constructed with a similar English garden style theme after the Halifax Explosion in 1917.

There are many rows of colourful homes that remind me a bit more of Europe than Canada. Also, the Hydrostone Market showcases a row of interesting boutiques and restaurants that are open seven days a week. You can walk from downtown Halifax to the North End. Meander through main and residential streets on your way there to visit a variety of shops. You will also see many beautiful houses on the way.

Halifax Public Gardens

Halifax Public Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in the city, and one of the best free things to do in Halifax. Don’t miss adding this one to your Nova Scotia road trip adventure. Once you walk through the ornate wrought iron gates at the entranceways to the gardens, you’ll immediately feel any stresses of the day melt away. Wander down the various pathways to admire carpet beds, flowers, fountains and statues.

There are two concrete bridges overlooking the gardens, a collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, a tropical and cactus garden, a rose garden, and a decorative wooden bandstand. The bandstand is one of the focal points of the garden, built in 1887 and restored in 2011. It was dedicated to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and has been a venue for concerts for over 125 years. In fact, there were several violinists performing when I wandered through the park.

Halifax Citadel Historic Site

For the history buffs in the crowd, a trip to Halifax isn’t complete without a stop at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site . The Halifax Citadel has a unique star-shaped structure, and you can walk around the fortified walls to see impressive views of the complex and the city.

The 78th Highlanders and the 3rd Brigade Royal Artillery demonstrate what life was like for the soldiers and their families hundreds of years ago. There are many demonstrations happening regularly throughout the day. Take a self-guided tour around the fort and through the buildings. Allow yourself at least an hour or two to fully experience the site’s exhibits and attractions.

Street Art Downtown

Downtown Halifax has so much amazing street art to discover. There are colourful walls and murals around every turn, some covering full walls of buildings. Public art is everywhere in Halifax in the form of murals, sculptures, and even interesting lighting at night.

It’s easy to take a self-guided tour of the street art downtown. There’s a full guide here , so you can view as many as possible during your day in Halifax. I walked around for a couple of hours and combined this with stops at coffee shops and a wander around the Halifax Waterfront (some murals are on buildings at the waterfront).

Halifax Waterfront

One of the most popular places to visit in Halifax is the Halifax Waterfront. It has one of the world’s longest urban boardwalks spanning 4km, from Pier 21 at the Halifax Seaport to Casino Nova Scotia. You can also tour Georges Island National Historic Site by taking a ferry from the waterfront, which I have listed as an attraction at the end of this Nova Scotia road trip itinerary.

At the Halifax Waterfront, there are tons of dining options, opportunities to go shopping, or simply walk around and admire the views. You can rent bikes or kayaks from the waterfront area, too. If you find yourself with more time, you can take a ferry from Halifax to Dartmouth for even more urban exploring.

Where to Stay in Halifax: The Westin Nova Scotian

The Westin Nova Scotian is one of the best places to stay in downtown Halifax. It’s located right on the waterfront with views of Georges Island from your hotel room window. It’s a bright and modern place to stay with many great amenities, like complimentary Wi-Fi and an in-room mini fridge.

This hotel also has an indoor heated pool and a spacious fitness centre. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar. The location is fantastic as you can leave your car behind for the day and walk all over the city. If you choose, you can take a taxi from the airport to the hotel and pick your rental car the following day. There’s a rental car stand right inside this hotel.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

If you’d like to see even more places in Halifax, here is a handy map with many more accommodations and vacation rentals. Enter your desired travel dates for more accurate search details.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 2: Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg

If you didn’t end up visiting Peggy’s Cove yesterday on the half day guided tour that I recommended, here’s your chance. Start your road trip from Halifax by driving to the iconic Peggy’s Cove. Then, you’ll wander around beautiful Mahone Bay before venturing off to the colourful seaside town of Lunenburg.

Peggy’s Cove

Your first stop from Halifax is Peggy’s Cove. Peggy’s Cove is home to one of the most famous lighthouses in Canada and one of the top day trips from Halifax. We’re going to start our Nova Scotia road trip in a counterclockwise direction, venturing from Halifax down to Peggy’s Cove.

The Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is located in the tiny fishing village of Peggy’s Cove. There’s a large free parking lot for your car at the edge of the village. From there, it’s only a short walk through the village, past colourful homes and boats, to reach the lighthouse itself. You can walk on the rocks and admire the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse from several angles, even walking right up to it if you choose.

The next stop on this Nova Scotia road trip itinerary is Mahone Bay. If you love cute small towns, you need to visit Mahone Bay. Snap a few photos of this picturesque town from across the bay for views of its three churches and rows of houses. Then, venture into town for more colourful buildings, shops and restaurants.

The Barn Coffee & Social House is a cozy spot in town to grab a coffee. There’s a welcoming atmosphere with lots of seating, plus quirky decor all around. Some other places to check out in Mahone Bay: Saltbox Brewery, Tea Brewery (amazing tea shop), and Amos Pewter.

Lunenburg was on my Canadian travel bucket list for quite some time, and I’m so happy that I had the chance to finally visit. Old Town Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. 70% of the original colonial buildings are still standing today.

There are numerous streets to wander around with artisan shops, restaurants, breweries, cafes and more. I love seeing colourful buildings when I travel and you’ll see rows upon rows of them in Lunenburg. You can take a walking tour in Lunenburg for more details about its seafaring and rum-running history. Bluenose II may be in port when you visit Lunenburg. Of course, this is the famous vessel that you’ll see on the Canadian dime.

Where to Stay in Lunenburg: Salt Shaker Inn

The Salt Shaker Inn offers spacious yet cozy accommodations in the heart of Lunenburg. The rooms overlook Lunenburg Harbour with spectacular seaside views. There are four rooms in total. Two of the rooms are beautiful accommodations with private ensuite bathrooms that are perfect for couples. The other two rooms are multi-level suites with kitchenettes and sofa beds that can sleep up to four people.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 3: Kejimkujik and Shelburne

On day three of this Nova Scotia road trip, depart Lunenburg and head down to Shelburne. On the way, you’ll take one of the most unique ferries in the world. Stop at Kejimkujik National Park before ending the day in the historic village of Shelburne.

LaHave Ferry

Continuing this Nova Scotia road trip, take the LaHave ferry, one of the last remaining cable ferries in Nova Scotia. This short ferry ride connects East LaHave and LaHave in Lunenburg County. It saves you 35 minutes of driving, too! The ferry departs LaHave on the hour and ½ hour, and departs East LaHave on the ¼ hour and ¾ hour. You can walk or drive aboard the ferry and there is no cost.

Kejimkujik National Park

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is a brilliant place to connect with nature and Mi’kmaw culture. This is Nova Scotia’s only Dark Sky Preserve. Kejimkujik National Park Seaside is a protected wilderness on the Atlantic Coast with turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and plenty of coastal wildlife.

At Keji, you can view thousand year old petroglyphs, paddle along interconnected waterways, and hike through an important ecosystem. Go camping or stay in roofed accomodations: oTENTik, Ôasis, rustic cabin, or yurt.

It is possible to spend days at Keji, but you can visit for the day if you’re looking to do a hike or a paddle. I recommend spending at least a day or two here to fully experience the park. If you love outdoor activities, a trip to Kejimkujik is ideal for any Nova Scotia road trip itinerary.

Shelburne is a little town in Nova Scotia with a rich history. In fact, many movies and miniseries have been filmed here, including The Scarlet Letter and The Book of Negroes . For history buffs, don’t miss checking out the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, Shelburne County Museum, the Dory Shop Museum, and the Ross-Thomson House & Store. You can plan your visit to the museums by visiting the official website .

Go for a stroll down the historic waterfront. Pop into The Beandock Coffee & Collectibles for a bevvie. Charlotte Lane Cafe is an amazing restaurant in town. Chef Nakul Khan is inspired by flavours from around the world and prepares creative and delicious dishes. The food I ate here was one of my favourite meals from my entire Nova Scotia road trip. Don’t miss it!

Sandy Point Lighthouse (Shelburne)

Plan out your day so you can see the Sandy Point Lighthouse at sunset. It’s located on a sandbar at the entrance of the Shelburne Harbour. At low tide, there’s a sandy beach to enjoy and you can walk out to the lighthouse. When we visited, the lighthouse was surrounded by water and the fog just started to roll in. While you can see the Sandy Point Lighthouse at any time of day, the sunsets here are astoundingly beautiful.

Where to Stay in Shelburne: Cooper’s Inn

You have to stay the night in Shelburne at Cooper’s Inn ! It’s a sweet, centuries-old B&B in the heart of the historic village by the waterfront. There are several rooms and each are uniquely decorated with antique furnishings. I spent the night in the Morrison room with views overlooking the peaceful garden below. My room also had an ensuite bathroom with an old fashioned claw foot tub. There are also modern touches like a Keurig coffee maker and a flatscreen TV.

At 5:00pm, guests are invited to join the innkeeper, Amanda, in the garden for a glass of wine. The garden is a beautiful place that guests of the inn can enjoy anytime. There are colourful flowers in bloom and lovely garden decorations throughout. It is a great meeting place where you can gather with Amanda and others staying at the B&B.

Breakfast in the morning was delicious. I requested a vegan breakfast and they truly went above and beyond to prepare a tasty dish. Oatmeal, hashbrowns, toast with peanut butter, baked beans, fresh fruit…it was a feast! When you stay at the Cooper’s Inn, you’ll be truly impressed by the attention to detail and you’ll also be made to feel right at home.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 4: Shelburne to Yarmouth

On day four of this Nova Scotia road trip, we drive between Shelburne and Yarmouth, making some interesting stops on the way. Islands, lighthouses, and historic homes are the focus of today. Yarmouth is such a cute town, so make sure that you try to spend at least half of your day there.

Baccaro Point Lighthouse

Did you know that there are approximately 170 lighthouses in Nova Scotia? There are so many to see beyond the one at Peggy’s Cove. While the lighthouses themselves are all so unique, I love that pretty much every lighthouse comes with a gorgeous view, too.

The Baccarro Point Lighthouse is an important seabird watching site. Baccaro is the oldest place name in Nova Scotia, coming from the Basque word, “Baccolaos” (meaning cod-fish). Baccaro Point is the southernmost point of mainland Nova Scotia, and you will find this stately lighthouse there.

Cape Sable Island

Next, continue your Nova Scotia road trip to Cape Sable Island where you will be able to witness the Cape Sable Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Nova Scotia. There are a couple of vantage points where you can see the lighthouse, including The Hawk (or The Hawk Beach).

The Hawk is located on the most southerly tip of Cape Sable Island and it’s intriguing for reasons far beyond catching glimpses of the lighthouse. This white sandy beach is home to the 1,500 year old drowned forest. During low tide, take a stroll along this beach to see petrified the exposed tree stumps from the drowned forest. A portion of the Cape Sable Important Bird Area, an excellent birding area of Nova Scotia, is found at The Hawk.

Seal Island Light Museum

The Seal Island Light Museum is a museum and lighthouse replica in Barrington. You can learn about the history of the lighthouses on Cape Sable Island, Bon Portage and Seal Island. The museum is full of interesting exhibits, old lighthouse equipment and memorabilia.

There are stairs going up to multiple levels with more displays, and you can also climb to the top of the lighthouse. The light is standing but does not operate; however, it is interesting to climb the iron stairs to the top of the lighthouse regardless. This is also the only installed Fresnel lens in Nova Scotia. For fans of history and lighthouses, this is a worthy stop on Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Route.

Pubnico Harbour Lighthouse

Here’s another pretty lighthouse for you, the Pubnico Harbour Lighthouse. The original lighthouse dates back to 1853 and has suffered some natural disasters over the years. It was replaced in 1889, partially submerged by Hurricane Edna in 1954, and suffered flooding in 1971. The lighthouse became fully automated in 1987 and still operates today.

Downtown Yarmouth and its Historic Homes

Yarmouth is an adorable town in Nova Scotia and where we’ll spend the rest of the day and night. I suggest going for a walk around downtown Yarmouth by the waterfront and down the main street. You will see all sorts of cute shops, some street art and murals, and even a brewery. There are many historic homes on the neighbouring side streets that are very well kept. Here is where you’ll find a self-guided walking tour of the historic properties.

I spent a few days in Yarmouth while attending the TMAC Conference (Travel Media Association of Canada), so I got to know the town quite well. My favourite restaurants and cafes are Gaia Global Kitchen, Mr. Gonzalez Mexican Cuisine, and Sip Cafe. Heritage Brewing Co is a great place to meet with friends over a pint or a beer flight.

Cape Forchu Lighthouse

When you travel to Yarmouth, you must visit the Cape Forchu Lighthouse. It’s situated at the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia, and it is the light for Yarmouth and its harbour. It is a very unique and tall structure, and it’s possible to climb all of the stairs to the top.

The Cape Forchu Light has always been loved by tourists, although the locals took a while to take to the newer lighthouse (built in 1962). The new lighthouse looks drastically different from the old timber tower. The scenery surrounding the lighthouse is quite magnificent. Out of all of the lighthouses that I’ll mention in this article, go to the Cape Forchu Lighthouse if you can only visit one of them.

Where to Stay in Yarmouth: Comfort Inn

The Comfort Inn in Yarmouth is a clean and convenient accommodation with friendly staff members and an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast in the morning. It’s a pet-friendly hotel if you’re travelling with your pup. There’s free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a spacious bathroom and a flatscreen TV with many channels.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 5: Acadian Shores and Digby

From Yarmouth, we explore the Acadian Shores on our way up to Digby. There are an amazing collection of lighthouses on this stretch. Naturally, they all come paired with incredible views, and every lighthouse is unique with its own story.

Cape Saint Mary Lighthouse Park

It was a very foggy day when we drove to the Cape St. Mary’s Lighthouse. The scenery from this spot really reminded me of Ireland. There are rugged cliffs and mossy rocks around the lighthouse.

This lighthouse became fully automated in 1988 and was built in 1965. It is a square concrete tower and it may be the third lighthouse on this station. The first lighthouse was constructed at this site in 1868.

Smugglers Cove Provincial Park

Smuggler’s Cove Provincial Park is a scenic and pretty place to visit. You can stop here for a picnic and enjoy the views of the cove itself. This place was where liquor was smuggled during prohibition in the 1920s. The cove becomes inaccessible during high tide, but it can be reached during low tide. It was the perfect place for hiding alcohol! You can view Smuggler’s Cove from up above or climb down the 80 steps to the ocean floor during low tide.

Belliveau Cove Lighthouse

The Belliveau Cove Lighthouse was one of the smallest and cutest lighthouses on this Nova Scotia road trip. The light is still standing and operational, though it became automated in 1993. This red square tower was built in 1889.

Belliveau Cove is the name of the village, and the park is called Parc Joseph-et-Marie-Dugas. There is a 5km coastal walking trail to explore that meanders past shingle beaches and salt marshes. If you visit on a Saturday, you can also check out the local farmers market.

Gilbert’s Cove Lighthouse

Gilbert’s Cove Lighthouse is another unique lighthouse and location on the coast of Nova Scotia’s Acadian Shores. This is a square lighthouse keeper’s house with the lighthouse lantern on the roof. Most lighthouse keepers lived in a building separate from the lighthouse itself, but this one had everything located in the same building. There are only three lighthouses left of this type in Nova Scotia.

You can go for a walk around this lighthouse, including down the rocks to the water below. It’s a beautiful location for a picnic or a walk. The lighthouse was declared a Provincial Heritage Site in 1990.

Point Prim Lighthouse

The Point Prim Lighthouse sits on Prim Point, a rocky headland and the west entrance point for Digby Gut (a deep water passage between steep shores, leading to the Annapolis Basin). The Point Prim Light is a white tower with red vertical stripes. It was built in 1964, replacing The Fundy Light, which was destroyed by fire in 1873. The new light was moved farther back from the cliff than the original towers, and it is operational to this day.

If you find yourself with some extra time after following Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Trail, go for a wander around Digby. It’s a cute small town in Nova Scotia with shops and restaurants. The Digby Pier Lighthouse is right in the middle of town, should you wish to see another little lighthouse. You can also go for a walk on the Digby County Rail Trail.

Where to Stay in Digby: Admiral Digby Inn

The Admiral Digby Inn is a charming place to stay with picturesque views of the Annapolis Basin. Some rooms at the inn have balconies facing the sea. You can also book a private one or two bedroom cottage. The Admiral Digby Inn is close to all local attractions and activities and it’s only a short drive into downtown Digby.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 6: Wolfville and the Annapolis Valley

We depart Digby and the Acadian Shores on this Nova Scotia road trip on the way to Wolfville and the Annapolis Valley. Wolfville is an adorable town that’s a great home base for exploring the region. Spend your day in Wolfville and be sure to visit the nearby wineries of the Annapolis Valley.

It’s easy to fall in love with Wolfville. It’s a really cute little town in Nova Scotia that I’m certain that you’ll adore. There is a quaint downtown shopping street with cafes and restaurants. For craft beer fans, plan to stop at The Church Brewing Co for lunch and a pint. It’s a brewery and restaurant inside an old repurposed church.

The Wolfville Farmers Market is a popular attraction in town, especially if you visit on a Saturday for the weekly Saturday Farmers Market. There’s also a farm and art market store that’s open six days a week with farm fresh food, handmade gifts by local artisans, and health and beauty vendors.

Don’t miss a trip to the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens. There’s an outdoor garden with forest walking trails and an indoor conservatory inside the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre building. The botanical gardens is part of Acadia University and it is free to visit.

Annapolis Valley Wineries

Have you ever tried Nova Scotia wine? There are five regions of wine producers in Nova Scotia, but the Annapolis Valley is Nova Scotia’s wine country. You’ll find half of the wineries in Nova Scotia within this small region. There are 12 wineries in total, including Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards, Grand Pré Winery, and Luckett Vineyards.

If you are interested in a guided wine tour, this small group Annapolis Valley wine tour takes you to three award-winning wineries and provides roundtrip transportation from Wolfville, Halifax, Windsor, Dartmouth and other locations. Even if you don’t manage to have the time for a wine tour in Nova Scotia, be sure to enjoy a wine tasting at some point during your trip. The wine here is very underrated.

Where to Stay in Wolfville: Micro Boutique Living

Would you like to stay in your own apartment in Wolfville? Micro Boutique Living Wolfville features studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartments in the heart of downtown. These are self-catering apartments where you quickly check-in using your mobile device. They have fully equipped kitchens, queen beds, ample storage, private balconies, underground parking, and they’re also pet-friendly.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day 7: Bay of Fundy and Halifax

The Bay of Fundy is one of Nova Scotia’s most amazing natural attractions. These are the most drastic tide changes in the world and home to the world’s highest tides. You can witness the spectacular Bay of Fundy from both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, so I’ll show you where you need to go in Nova Scotia. Then, head back to Halifax for one final attraction on this Nova Scotia road trip guide.

Burntcoat Head Park

Burntcoat Head Park is one of the best places to experience the changing tides of the Bay of Fundy, much like Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick. This is where you’ll find the highest tides in the world and have the opportunity to walk the ocean floor.

You can visit Burntcoat Head Park at low tide and again at high tide. While it’s generally always six hours between the changing tides, the tide schedule changes on a daily basis. I recommend visiting the official website to check the tide schedule before you plan your visit, so you can plan accordingly.

There’s a walking trail around Burntcoat Head Park and a number of local attractions in the area. The Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre is a fantastic way to learn about the geology and history of the area. Walton Lighthouse is the only original lighthouse remaining in East Hants. There are also a number of galleries and shops featuring the works of local artisans.

There are a number of tour operators offering tidal bore rafting in Nova Scotia. While I haven’t had the chance to go tidal bore rafting yet, it’s really high on my bucket list. It’s a great way to experience the tidal bore and the rushing tides up close! No matter how you plan your visit, you must visit the Bay of Fundy on your Nova Scotia road trip.

Georges Island

After experiencing the Bay of Fundy, drive back to Halifax. It’s time to take a tour of Georges Island National Historic Site . Take a walking tour of the island and discover its defensive fortifications. You can even take a guided tour to the underground maze of tunnels beneath the island. These contain massive cannons and once stored the fort’s ammunition in a bomb-proof setting.

To get to the island, take the Ambassatours Gray Line ferry with numerous departures throughout the day. Plan to spend one to two hours on the island. Tour the tunnels, go for a self-guided walking tour of the island, and check out amazing views from the Georges Island Trail. Once you’re back in Halifax, spend the night at the Westin Nova Scotian once again before departing the next morning.

Want to see more photos of Nova Scotia?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

More Fun Things to Do in Canada

Looking for more of the best things to do in Canada and more Canadian road trips? Here are a few of our favourite trips around Canada:

• Gaspe Road Trip: 7 Days in the Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec
• Rocky Mountaineer Train Trip: From Vancouver to Banff
• 25 Best Road Trips in Ontario
• Beautiful Canadian Islands You Need to Visit

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

The Perfect Nova Scotia Road Trip Guide

Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or simply enjoying the coastal beauty, visit Nova Scotia and feed your adventurous soul. We spent one summer enjoying scenic wonders, maritime charm, and cultural delights as we made our way through Nova Scotia. I share here what I think is Nova Scotia’s perfect road trip. This guide will focus on discovering hidden gems, savouring local flavours, and creating memories against the backdrop of Nova Scotia’s breathtaking beauty.

Don’t have time to read? Pin it for later.

*Discloser: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through a link. More information

Where is Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia is a province located in eastern Canada. It is situated on the Atlantic coast. Nova Scotia is one of the maritime provinces of Canada and is known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and coastal communities. The capital and largest city of Nova Scotia is Halifax.

Why visit Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia has a deep maritime heritage. Discover historic lighthouses, visit maritime museums, and experience the vibrant fishing culture along its coastal communities. Here are several reasons why you might consider visiting Nova Scotia:

• Nova Scotia offers abundant outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to whale watching. Kejimkujik National Park and Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Nova Scotia is a paradise for seafood lovers. Indulge in fresh lobster, scallops, clams, and other delectable seafood dishes at local restaurants and seafood shacks.
• Drive the iconic Lighthouse Route, a scenic coastal drive that takes you past numerous lighthouses, charming fishing villages, and beautiful coastal landscapes.
• The Bay of Fundy is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Take a boat tour to witness the diverse marine life, including humpback and minke whales.

The Best time to visit Nova Scotia

The summer months (June to August) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, but the fall (September to November) is also popular for its colourful foliage.

How long Do I need to visit Nova Scotia?

Any time spent in Nova Scotia is enjoyable and will make lasting memories. If you plan on exploring all the province offers, a minimum of two weeks would be great. Our itinerary is intended for a three-week road trip covering most of Nova Scotia. This itinerary can be modified according to the time you have available to you and your preferences. It can be separated into clusters of regions to make several shorter road trips.

Perfect Road Trip Itinerary to Visit Nova Scotia

Our road trip itinerary takes us from Northern Nova Scotia in Amherst and east to Cape Breton Island, the Cabot Trail and Louisbourg. It then heads us west towards the capital, Halifax, and follows the southern shores of Nova Scotia. Then, exploring the western part of the maritime province, we return by the northern shores.

The itinerary includes all the significant landmarks of the province plus several lesser-known gems.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Cape Breton Island

Discover the beauty of Cape Breton Island. Cape Breton Island’s attractions showcase the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its communities. Whether exploring historic sites, enjoying scenic drives, or immersing yourself in cultural festivals, Cape Breton offers a memorable experience for visitors.

Cape Breton Island is located on the eastern shores in the far east of Nova Scotia. It covers 10 thousand square kilometres.

We road-tripped around the island, making our way clockwise, starting on the north shores, making our way east, and then exploring the island’s southern shores. We spent three days exploring the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and driving the Cabot Trail, then two days exploring the Bras d’Or Lake Region and one day visiting the famous Louisbourg Fortress. I recommend six days on the island to fully enjoy it.

Inverness Beach

• A beautiful sandy beach on the west coast of Cape Breton Island, known for its vast expanses, rolling dunes, and stunning sunsets.
• Relax on the beach,  walk along the shore, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Cabot Links Golf Course: A world-renowned golf destination

• The golf course is a championship-calibre layout that has gained international acclaim for its design, playability, and natural beauty of its setting.
• Cabot Links offers golf packages that may include accommodations, rounds of golf, and dining options, allowing visitors to enjoy a comprehensive golf getaway.
• The golf courses are set against the rugged Cape Breton coastline, providing golfers with stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes.

Glenora Distillery

• North America’s first single malt whisky distillery is located on the shores of Loch Ness (Glenville), and it offers guided tours, tastings, and a restaurant.
• Learn about the whisky-making process, sample local spirits, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Accommodation in Inverness

• For a country feel, this B&B is our favourite option: MacLeod Inn
• For the scenic views and the golfer in you: Cabot Cape Breton
• For a beach cottage: Inverness Beach Village

Cabot Trail

The world-famous scenic highway winding through the Cape Breton Highlands offers stunning vistas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Atlantic Ocean, and the island’s rugged interior. Lookout points like Skyline Trail, hiking opportunities, and the chance to witness wildlife make this route a must-do when visiting Nova Scotia. This is a bucket list drive for any road tripper.

I enjoyed every kilometre of this fantastic scenic route. Ensure your camera battery is full because you will be clicking away trying to capture the beauty of this stunning part of Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

It is a vast and diverse national park encompassing the island’s northern part, with the Cabot Trail passing through its stunning landscapes. The park is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, high plateaus, deep river canyons, diverse ecosystems, scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.

You will need the Discovery Pass from Parks Canada or a daily admission to explore the park. It is well worth it.

The next stops on Cape Breton Island highlight the major attractions along the Cabot Trail and in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We spent three days exploring the Cabot Trail, hiking beautiful trails, enjoying stunning beaches and photographing beautiful lookouts of the cliffs and the ocean.

The road is well-maintained and often busy in the summer and fall months, but it is one of the most scenic routes in Canada.

Margaree Harbour

While Margaree Harbour itself may be a smaller community, its charm lies in the surrounding natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and the cultural heritage of the Margaree River region. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a connection with the stunning landscapes of Cape Breton Island.

Margaree Salmon Museum

• Learn about the history of salmon fishing in the Margaree River region at the Margaree Salmon Museum. The museum provides insights into the area’s angling heritage.

Margaree Harbour Beach

• Enjoy the sandy shores and scenic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence at Margaree Harbour Beach. It’s a peaceful spot for relaxation and a stroll along the coastline.
• I thoroughly enjoyed this spot, with the fishing boat coming in and out of the harbour and the blue sea as far as the eye could see.

Fishing in Margaree River

• The Margaree River is renowned for its excellent salmon fishing. Anglers often visit the area to try their luck in the pristine waters.

Chimney Corner Beach

• Chimney Corner Beach is situated along the Cabot Trail, between Margaree Harbour and Chéticamp, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
• The beach is known for its natural beauty: golden sand, clear waters, and stunning coastal landscapes. It’s a tranquil and relatively secluded spot, providing a peaceful escape.
• Depending on weather conditions, the spot may attract surfers looking to catch some waves. The exposed location along the Gulf of St. Lawrence makes it an exciting place for water enthusiasts.
• Visitors often highlight the beach as a great location to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and I agree. The evening sky transforms with vibrant colours, creating a picturesque setting. It is a unique and lovely scene.

#vanlife We spend the night in Margaree Harbour by the sea next to a sandy beach with breathtaking views of the shores.

Chéticamp is a charming Acadian village on Cape Breton Island’s west coast. It is one of the entrances to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Chéticamp’s blend of cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, and scenic beauty makes it a delightful destination for those exploring Cape Breton Island. Visitors can immerse themselves in Acadian traditions, enjoy outdoor activities, and enjoy the stunning coastal and mountainous landscapes.

Les Trois pignons

• This cultural center and museum celebrates the Acadian heritage of Chéticamp. Les Trois Pignons features exhibits on local history, folk art, and traditional Acadian life.

Chéticamp River Salmon Interpretation Centre

• Learn about the life cycle of Atlantic salmon and the efforts to conserve this iconic species. The center provides educational programs and exhibits related to salmon conservation.

Chéticamp Artisan Studio Tour

• Explore local artistry by participating in the Chéticamp Artisan Studio Tour. Visit local studios showcasing handmade crafts, traditional rug hooking, and other unique creations.

Golf at Le Portage Golf Club

• Le Portage Golf Club offers a picturesque 18-hole golf course with views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf in a scenic setting.

Le Gabriel Restaurant and Lounge

• A popular local restaurant offering Acadian and seafood cuisine. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Acadian dishes, and a cozy atmosphere.

Cheticamp Harbour

• The harbour is a picturesque spot where visitors can enjoy the sight of fishing boats, stroll along the waterfront, and perhaps catch a glimpse of local marine life.

Hiking Trails near Chéticamp:

Gypsum Mine Trail: This short trail leads to a stunning blue lake bordered by high cliffs. Hikers can swim or paddle in the pristine water or hike up the cliffs to the viewpoint. 

• Distance: 2.5 km out-and-back
• Level: easy
• Trailhead: 1289 Cheticamp Back Rd, Petit Étang, NS

Although there were many hikers and swimmers, it was less crowded than some of the hikes in the national park can be. This hidden gem is worth the stop before entering the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Skyline Trail: This popular trail offers panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It’s known for its stunning coastal landscapes and is suitable for various skill levels.

• Distance: 7.5 km out-and-back or 9.5 km loop
• Level: Moderate
• Trailhead: Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, NS

You can expect crowds when hiking this trail, but do it anyway. The famous trail leads to the iconic view of the highlands in Nova Scotia. It is within the park’s boundaries; you will need a daily pass or the Discovery Pass.

Check out: 3 Days of Hiking on Cape Breton Island

Explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park Visitor Center. Learn about the park’s history, ecology, and cultural significance.

Accommodations near Chéticamp

• Excellent location: Cheticamp Outback Inn
• Mountain views: Cornerstone Motel
• Ocean views: The Yellow Sidecar B&B
• Cottages, pets allowed: The Cabot Trail Sea and Golf Chalets
• Camping: Chéticamp Campground and Mkwesaqtuk/Cap-Rouge Campground are within the park’s boundaries and close to numerous outdoor activities.
• The park also offers oTENTiks in most of its campgrounds. Visit the Cape Breton Highlands National Park’s Website for more information and reservations.
• For a unique experience, spend the night in a dome at True North Destinations near Pleasant Bay.

Cape North and Meat Cove

Cape North is a community located on the northern tip of Cape Breton Island on the Cabot Trail. While Cape North may be a quieter area, it serves as a gateway to the northern reaches of Cape Breton Island. Exploring the surrounding attractions will provide a deeper appreciation for the unique charm of this northernmost region of Cape Breton.

Meat Cove is a remote and picturesque coastal community known for its stunning cliffs and panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It offers a serene atmosphere and opportunities for hiking and camping.

Hiking Meat Cove Mountain

• Distance: 4 km out-and-back
• Trailhead: on Meat Cove Road just before the Meat Cove community

This is a short trail but still demanding as you hike to the summit of Cove Mountain. Once at the summit, the trail wanders on the plateau of the highlands, and the views are surprising.

White Point Lighthouse

• Visit the historic White Point Lighthouse, located near Cape North. The lighthouse provides scenic views of the coastline, and the surrounding area is excellent for photography.

Cabot Landing Provincial Park

• Explore Cabot Landing Provincial Park, commemorating the landing of John Cabot in 1497. The park offers interpretive displays and beautiful views of Aspy Bay.

The Cabor Landing Provincial Park on the Cabot Trail was a favourite of mine. The green hills surrounding the sandy beach and the waves hitting the coast are prime examples of the stunning scenery of Nova Scotia.

Cape North Farmers’ Market

• Check out the Cape North Farmers’ Market if you visit during the warmer months. Experience local crafts, fresh produce, and a taste of the community’s vibrant culture.

Aspy Fault Look-Off

• Enjoy a scenic drive to the Aspy Fault Look-Off, where you can witness breathtaking views of the Aspy Valley and the surrounding landscapes.

North Highlands Community Museum

• Explore the North Highlands Community Museum, which provides insights into the local history, culture, and heritage of the northern region of Cape Breton.

Accommodations near Cape North and Meat Cove

• Meat Cove Mountain Campground , located on the northern point of Cape Breton Island, offers campsites on a first-come, first-served basis, and they also have cabins for rent upon reservation. 
• Hines Ocean View Lodge is set on a hill overlooking the ocean. They are also pet-friendly.
• The national park’s Big Intervale Campground offers five unserviced campsites near Cape North.

#vanlife  We spend the night at Black Point on Meat Cove Road in a pull-off by the road. It is a beautiful spot by the sea with the highlands across the bay.

Ingonish is a picturesque community located on the northeastern coast of Cape Breton Island. Ingonish’s attractions showcase the natural wonders of Cape Breton Island, providing visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities, stunning coastal views, and a chance to unwind in a tranquil setting. Ingonish serves as one of the entrances to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Ingonish Beach

• A beautiful sandy beach within Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a scenic spot for relaxation, picnics, and water activities.
• Enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, and take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic waters.

Golf at Highland Links Golf Course

• Highland Links is a renowned golf course within Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering a challenging layout and stunning ocean views. 
• Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf while surrounded by the natural beauty of the highlands and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Ingonish Harbour

• It is a picturesque harbour where visitors can enjoy views of fishing boats, explore the coastline, and perhaps spot marine wildlife. 
• Take a stroll along the harbour, enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries, and experience the tranquillity of the coastal surroundings.

Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa

• A historic resort in Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers luxurious accommodations, dining, and spa services. 
• Experience the elegance of the Keltic Lodge, dine with scenic views, and unwind with spa treatments amid the park’s natural beauty.

Hiking Trails near Ingonish

Jack Pine Trail : This short, easy trail wanders through the forest and emerges on the rocky shore, following the coast with stunning views of the sea and the cliffs. 

• Distance: 2 km loop
• Level: Easy
• Trailhead: Cabot Trail, Ingonish, NS 

Franey Trail : A moderately challenging hike leading to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the park’s highlands and coastline.

• Distance: 8 km loop
• Trailhead: 49 Franey Rd, Ingonish, NS

Middle Head Trail : A coastal trail providing scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes.

• Distance: 4.5 km loop
• Trailhead: 383 Keltic Inn Rd, Ingonish Beach, NS

Cape Smokey Trail : Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Cape Smokey Provincial Park’s natural beauty

• Distance: 10 km out-and-back
• Trailhead: 40301 Cabot Trail, Ingonish Beach, NS

You may also like: 3 Days of Hiking on Cape Breton Island .

• This beautiful lookout deserves a short stop on the Cabot Trail to admire the rocky shore and the sea.

Accommodations near Ingonish

• Broad Cove Campground and Ingonish Beach Campground are both in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and offer campsites and oTENTik cabins.  
• Seabreeze Cottages , where you can rent a room or a cottage facing the ocean.
• Skyline Cabins is highly recommended for its excellent location.
• Ingonish Chalets offers rooms and cabins for rent. Pets can be allowed on request.

#vanlife  Our stop for the night in Ingonish at the end of Ferry Rd by the ocean offers a view of the sea, a nice beach walk and a warm campfire.

Bras d’Or Lake Scenic Drive

A picturesque drive along the Bras d’Or Lake, offering panoramic views, charming villages, and opportunities for water activities. Consider including this region in your visit to Nova Scotia.

• A charming village on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake, known for its connection to Alexander Graham Bell and its vibrant arts and crafts scene.

Kidston Island Lighthouse

• Kidston Island Lighthouse is located on Kidston Island, part of the Bras d’Or Lake. The lighthouse holds historical significance as part of the region’s maritime heritage, as it was crucial in guiding ships and ensuring safe navigation along the waterways.
• The lighthouse’s location on an island provides a unique vantage point of the scenic views of the Bras d’Or Lake and the surrounding landscape.
• Kidston Island is accessible by boat; visitors may take a boat tour or use their watercraft to reach the island.

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

• The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing visitors to delve into the life and mind of one of history’s most influential inventors. It’s a destination that celebrates innovation, education, and the enduring legacy of Alexander Graham Bell. 
• The site includes the home where Alexander Graham Bell and his family lived, Beinn Bhreagh. Visitors can explore the rooms where Bell worked on various inventions and conducted scientific experiments. 
• The site is set on beautifully landscaped grounds with stunning views of the Bras d’Or Lakes. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the serene surroundings. 

Highland Village Museum

• An outdoor living history museum showcasing the Gaelic culture of early Scottish settlers, complete with period-accurate buildings, costumed interpreters, and traditional activities. It is located in Iona on the western side of Cape Breton Island along the Bras d’Or Lakes.

Accommodations near Baddeck

• Perfect location: Lynwood Inn
• Travelling with a pet: St. Ann’s Motel 
• Rooms or cabins: Telegraph House

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site is a meticulously reconstructed 18th-century French fortress. This site provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in a bustling 18th-century French colonial town. If you are a history buff, you will enjoy this part of your visit to Nova Scotia.

Here’s what you can expect at the Fortress of Louisbourg:

• Encounter costumed interpreters who bring the historic site to life. These knowledgeable actors portray various characters from the 18th century, including soldiers, servants, merchants, and artisans.
• Throughout the fortress, you’ll find interactive demonstrations showcasing the daily life, trades, and activities of those who lived there. From blacksmithing and cooking to military drills, these demonstrations offer a hands-on experience.
• Participate in guided tours led by knowledgeable interpreters who provide insights into the fortress’s history, architecture, and stories. Different thematic tours may focus on military and civilian life or specific events.
• During certain times of the year, the fortress hosts military reenactments, where historical battles and events are recreated. This offers a dynamic and immersive experience of 18th-century military tactics and life.
• Wander through the beautiful Governor’s Garden, a meticulously maintained 18th-century garden featuring herbs, vegetables, and flowers. The garden reflects the French gardening style of the time.
• Visit cafes and shops within the fortress that offer 18th-century-style food, beverages, and crafts. Interact with historical interpreters while enjoying period-appropriate refreshments.
• Begin your visit at the Visitor Center, which provides orientation, exhibits, and additional information about the history and significance of the Fortress of Louisbourg.

Louisbourg Lighthouse

• The Louisbourg Lighthouse is situated on the rugged coastline near the historic town of Louisbourg, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. 
• The location of the Louisbourg Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline near Louisbourg. Visitors may enjoy stunning vistas and appreciate the natural beauty of the rugged coastal landscape.

Accommodations in Louisbourg

If you prefer camping, Peck’s Cottages and Riverdale RV Park is near Louisbourg centre town and only minutes from the Louisbourg Fortress. 

Mira Riverfront Getaway cottage is right on the Mira River with a private deck and amazing sunsets.

Louisbourg Harbour Inn and Louisbourg Heritage House are close to all amenities in town.

Celtic Colours International Festival

• An annual celebration of Cape Breton’s Celtic culture featuring music, dance, workshops, and community events held at various locations across the island.
• The festival features world-class Celtic music performances, cultural experiences, and vibrant community gatherings.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Halifax

Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant and historic city with a diverse range of attractions. The city is situated on the Halifax Peninsula, surrounded by Halifax Harbour and the Bedford Basin. Halifax has a deep historical significance, dating back to its founding in 1749 as a British military outpost. Given its strategic coastal location, Halifax has a strong maritime heritage.

Things to Do in Halifax

Halifax citadel national historic site.

The Halifax National Historic Site, commonly known as the Citadel Hill, is a prominent landmark in the heart of Halifax. It is part of Parks Canada’s system of national historic sites. The iconic Citadel, a star-shaped fortress, played a crucial role in Halifax’s history.

Explore the Citadel’s defensive structures, including cannons, barracks, and tunnels. The site offers guided tours that take visitors through the various parts of the fortress, providing historical context.

Military Museum: The Halifax Citadel is home to a military museum that provides visitors with insights into the military history of Halifax and its role in various conflicts. Exhibits showcase uniforms, weapons, and artifacts from different periods.

Changing of the guards: One of the popular attractions at the Citadel is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which occurs daily during the summer months. The ceremony features reenactors in period uniforms and provides a glimpse into military traditions.

Climb to the top of the ramparts for commanding views of Halifax and its harbour. The elevated position of the Citadel allows visitors to appreciate the strategic importance of the location.

The visitor center provides information, maps, and exhibits to enhance the visitor experience. It serves as a starting point for those exploring the Citadel.

Parks Canada manages the Citadel Hill, and there is an admission fee .

Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

Stroll along the lively waterfront boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Enjoy street performers, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and take a harbour cruise.

HMCS Sackville

The historic ship is a naval memorial moored at the Halifax Waterfront, allowing visitors to explore its decks and learn about its wartime history.

HMCS Sackville (K181) is the last surviving Flower-class corvette from World War II. It served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Battle of the Atlantic, escorting convoys and engaging in anti-submarine warfare. 

The tour was informative, and I was impressed with the ship and the guides’ knowledge about the vessel and the life onboard, as well as the wartime history of the ship’s role.

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The museum is situated on the Halifax Waterfront, making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors. Its location allows for stunning views of the harbour and historic ships. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich maritime history of the region. 

The museum is home to the CSS Acadia, a retired hydrographic research vessel that served in the Canadian government’s survey fleet. Visitors can explore the ship and learn its role in mapping Canada’s coastal waters.

The museum delves into the history of the Halifax Explosion of 1917, one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The explosion had a profound impact on the city. I really appreciated the exhibit and artifacts commemorating this event now part of the Canadian Heritage.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

Discover the stories of immigrants who arrived in Canada through Pier 21. The Canadian Museum of Immigration provides insights into Canada’s immigration history and cultural diversity.

The museum is located on the Halifax Waterfront in the historic Pier 21 building. The location provides a tangible connection to the experiences of immigrants who arrived by sea.

Personal stories play a central role in the exhibits, highlighting immigrants’ diverse backgrounds, challenges, and contributions to Canada. These stories create a human connection and bring the immigration experience to life.

The museum includes a Family History Center where visitors can research their own family immigration histories. This center offers resources and guidance for those interested in tracing their roots.

Halifax Seaport Farmers Market

Visit North America’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market at the Halifax Seaport. Explore local produce, crafts, and artisanal products.

Halifax Public Gardens

Relax in the beautifully landscaped Halifax Public Gardens, a Victorian-era garden featuring flower beds, fountains, and walking paths.

Point Pleasant Park

Enjoy the tranquillity of Point Pleasant Park, a large urban park with walking trails, historical sites, and waterfront views. It’s a great place for picnics and outdoor activities.

Alexander Keith Brewery

Take a guided tour of Alexander Keith’s Brewery, learn about the brewing process and enjoy lively entertainment. The brewery tour includes a visit to the historic brewery building.

Halifax Distillery District

Explore the historic properties and warehouses in the Distillery District, known for its boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Hiking near Halifax

Hiking in five bridge lakes wilderness area.

The wilderness area covers a substantial expanse of land, characterized by a variety of natural features, including lakes, forests, wetlands, and diverse wildlife habitats. The landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature exploration. 

The Bluff Wilderness Hiking Trail is a moderately challenging trail with uneven terrain and elevation changes. The trail is a loop that covers 13 kilometres. Hikers can complete the entire loop or opt for shorter sections, as there are various access points. The trailhead is accessible from the parking lot off Exit 4 on Highway 103. It is 30-40 minutes from Halifax.

Hikers should be prepared with appropriate footwear and provisions for a day hike. You can look at this list of essential hiking gear to be ready for a full day of hiking.

Hiking in Long Lake Provincial Park

Long Lake Provincial Park features a network of trails suitable for hiking. Explore the scenic wooded areas and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible for different fitness levels.

• Cranberry Pond Loop is an easy 2-kilometre loop.
• Long Lake Wilderness Trail is an easy 3-kilometre loop.
• Pipeline Trail is an out-and-back 10-kilometre moderate hike.

Hiking in York Redoubt National Historic Site 

York Redoubt National Historic Site is a historic military fortification located on a southern headland overlooking the entrance to Halifax Harbour.

The site has walking trails that allow visitors to explore the fortifications and enjoy the natural surroundings. The trails lead to various points of interest, providing both historical and scenic experiences.

Hiking on MacNabs Island

McNabs Island is situated at the entrance of Halifax Harbour, providing stunning views of the cityscape, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

Visitors can hop over to MacNabs Islands to hike some of the 22-kilometre trail system of the MacNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park and explore its diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and coastal areas. *Note that the island is only accessible by ferry, and visitors must bring food and water.

More on the island:

• Visit the Sambro Island Lighthouse
• Camp on the island for a unique opportunity to experience the natural nocturnal beauty of the island. Campers must bring their supplies, and reservations are required.
• Relax and enjoy the coastal scenery on the beach.

Where to eat in Halifax

2 doors down restaurant.

Located in downtown Halifax, 2 Doors Down is the perfect choice for an authentic Nova Scotian dinner. There is a cozy ambiance, note-worthy service, and a diverse menu with something for everyone.

Waterfront Warehouse Restaurant

The Waterfront Warehouse Restaurant is ideally situated on the historic Halifax Waterfront, providing diners with scenic views of the harbour and waterfront activities.

Known for its maritime-inspired ambiance, the setting is designed to offer diners a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.

Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove is a picturesque fishing village and tourist destination located on the eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay in Nova Scotia. This is where you will find Nova Scotia’s famous lighthouse.

Fishing Village:

• Peggy’s Cove is a functioning fishing village, and visitors can witness the daily activities of local fishermen. The village maintains its traditional maritime character, with colourful wooden houses, a small harbour, and fishing boats.

Lighthouse:

• The Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, commonly known as the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, is one of the most recognizable and photographed lighthouses in the world. Perched on granite rocks, it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and provides a scenic backdrop to the village.

Coastal Scenery:

• Rugged granite rocks, tidal pools, and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean characterize the coastline around Peggy’s Cove. The combination of the lighthouse and the rocky shoreline creates a postcard-perfect setting.

Visitors can hike the rocky shore of Peggy’s Cove and enjoy the immensity of the ocean with the sun setting behind the lighthouse. 

The place is usually crowded but still a spot worth the stop for the stunning coastal scenery. Make sure to plan a stop here during your visit in Nova Scotia.

Hiking Peggy’s Cove Viewpoint or Cranberry Cove Lookout

• Distance: 1 km out-and-back
• Trailhead on Peggy’s Cove Road. 

A short trail leads to the rocky shore with the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse across St. Margarets Bay. Enjoy the view of the lighthouse without the crowd.

Dartmouth Ferry Ride:

Take a ferry ride from Halifax to Dartmouth for beautiful views of both cities and the harbour. 

The Halifax ferry terminal is situated on Lower Water Street in downtown Halifax, near the historic waterfront. It departs from the Halifax Ferry Terminal, commonly referred to as the Halifax Ferry Terminal, at Alderney Landing. The ferry arrives at Alderney Landing in downtown Dartmouth. 

Before planning your ferry trip, it’s recommended to check the current schedule, fares, and any updates on the Halifax Transit website or by contacting Halifax Transit directly for the most accurate and timely information.

Visit Dartmouth Waterfront:

• Stroll along the Dartmouth Waterfront Boardwalk, offering scenic views of Halifax Harbour. Enjoy shops, restaurants, and outdoor seating.

Alderney Landing:

• Explore Alderney Landing, a cultural and community center with an art gallery, farmers’ market, and live performances.

Dartmouth Heritage Museum:

• Discover Dartmouth’s history at the Dartmouth Heritage Museum. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s past.

Shubie Park:

• Enjoy outdoor activities at Shubie Park, a large urban park with walking trails, a canal, and recreational areas. It’s an excellent spot for picnics and family outings.

Brightwood Golf & Country Club:

• Golf enthusiasts can play a round at Brightwood Golf & Country Club, offering a scenic and well-maintained golf course.

Dartmouth Common:

• Relax at Dartmouth Common, a green space in the heart of the city, ideal for picnics, sports, and leisurely walks.

Accommodations in Halifax

For a waterfront experience, I recommend the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel .

If you prefer the B&B ambiance, a good choice is The Pebble Bed & Breakfast .

#vanlife We spent the night in the Peggy’s Cove parking lot with other RVs and vans—the perfect place to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Lunenburg

This charming historic town is a must on a road trip in Nova Scotia. This Guide to Lunenburg will be helpful in planning the perfect adventure in Lunenburg.

Top Attractions in Lunenburg

Here are my favourites that you should not miss while in Lunenburg:

• Exploring the waterfront
• Hiking the Blue Rocks Common Trail in charming Blue Rocks, a little fishing community
• Ironworks Distillery for a tasting of their famous rum and whiskey
• Ovens Nature Park with the Sea Cave Hike
• Seaglass hunting on one of the many beaches in Lunenburg
• Crescent Beach for the sand
• And last but certainly not least, a tour of Bluenose II

Make sure to check out: Discover the Charm: A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Lunenburg

Accommodations in Lunenburg

• Lunenburg Arms Hotel  is a two-minute walk to the waterfront and boutiques downtown.
• Lil Hook Ocean View Villa  by the water has a beautiful view from a large deck.

#vanlife We spent the night at the Sawpit Park and Wharf at the end of Sawpit Road, waking up to a beautiful view of the sea and sailboats floating throughout the harbour.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Kejimkujik National Park

Kejimkujik National Park is located in the interior of southwestern Nova Scotia, encompassing both a mainland and a coastal section. The park is part of the larger UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve.

Activities in the park

Kejimkujik features several campgrounds, including backcountry campsites accessible by water. Camping allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and experience the park’s tranquillity.

Kejimkujik is renowned for its freshwater activities. Visitors can enjoy paddling on its interconnected lakes and rivers, with canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities.

The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through various ecosystems. These trails allow exploring the park’s flora and fauna, including old-growth hemlock and sugar maple forests.

Wildlife watching

Kejimkujik is home to white-tailed deer, beavers, otters, and bird species. Birdwatchers can observe both migratory and resident birds.

Kejimkujik National Park is designated as a Dark Sky Preserve, making it an excellent location for stargazing. The park’s remote location minimizes light pollution, providing a clear night sky view.

Mi’kmaq Cultural Heritage

In addition to the national park, there is a separate component known as Kejimkujik National Historic Site. This site focuses on the Mi’kmaq cultural heritage and includes interpretive programs, exhibits, and guided tours. 

The park holds cultural significance for the Mi’kmaq people. It features petroglyphs and rock carvings created by the Mi’kmaq over a thousand years ago, which can be explored at Kejimkujik National Historic Site .

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Kejimkujik National Park Seaside 

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside is a coastal extension of Kejimkujik National Park along the Atlantic coast. The park features a stunning and unspoiled coastal environment. Visitors can explore rocky shores, sandy beaches, and coastal heathlands, providing diverse ecosystems.

The park is home to various wildlife, including seals, seabirds, shorebirds, bears and white-tailed deer.

Visitors can paddle along the shoreline, explore hidden coves and enjoy the coastal scenery, hike the trails to the shore and along the cliffs, and enjoy the stunning views or the opportunity to view seals sunbathing. 

The dramatic coastal landscapes and the play of light on the water offer excellent opportunities for photographers. The changing tides add to the dynamic beauty of the area.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Annapolis Valley Region

The blomidon lookoff .

A little pit stop by the side of the road to enjoy the view. As the road goes up, it provides an elevated vantage point that allows visitors to gaze across the Bay of Fundy. The views are particularly picturesque, showcasing the dramatic tides and the expansive coastal scenery.

The lookout is a popular spot for enjoying the sunset over the Bay of Fundy. 

Houston’s Beach

We explored the beach at low tide, allowing us to walk along the high cliffs on the sea bed. The stunning views reminded me of the Prince Edward Island coasts with the red sandstone and unusual rock formations. 

Blomidon Provincial Park

Blomidon Provincial Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. 

Highlights of Blomidon Provincial Park:

• Hiking: The park features several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and the surrounding landscapes. The Cape Blomidon Trail is popular, leading to viewpoints overlooking the cliffs and coastline.
• Wildlife Watching: The park is home to various wildlife, including birds, seals, and other coastal species. Bring binoculars to observe the diverse birdlife and marine creatures in the area.
• Picnicking: There are picnic areas within the park where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the natural beauty of the Bay of Fundy.
• Photography: With its panoramic views, dramatic cliffs, and changing tides, Blomidon Provincial Park offers fantastic opportunities for photography. Capture the scenic landscapes and the play of light over the Bay of Fundy.
• Beachcombing: Explore the beaches at low tide to discover interesting seashells, rocks, and other coastal treasures. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations along the shoreline.
• Camping: If you prefer camping, Blomidon Provincial Park offers camping facilities. Enjoy a night under the stars in this picturesque setting.
• Stargazing: The park’s remote location away from city lights makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. On clear nights, you can marvel at the stars and constellations overhead.
• Sunset Watching: The park’s location along the Bay of Fundy makes it a great place to witness breathtaking sunsets. Find a comfortable spot with a clear view of the horizon and enjoy the changing colours of the sky.

Cape Split Provincial Park in Scots Bay

While exploring the northern shores of Nova Scotia by the Bay of Fundy, we stopped in Cape Split Provincial Park to hike the highly recommended trail. 

Cape Split is a prominent headland with a popular hiking trail that provides stunning views of the Bay of Fundy. It is part of the larger Blomidon Provincial Park. 

Activities in the Park

• Hiking: The main attraction at Cape Split is the hiking trail that leads to the cape itself. The Cape Split Trail is approximately 6.5 kilometres one way and takes you through a forested area before opening up to breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. The trail can be challenging in parts, so wear suitable footwear. For a complete description of the park and trail, you can read my Cape Split Hike post.
• Picnicking: Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal with a view. There are designated picnic areas where you can relax and take in the coastal scenery.
• Photography: The panoramic views from Cape Split are a photographer’s delight. Capture the rugged coastline, the Bay of Fundy, and the surrounding natural beauty.
• Whale Watching: The Bay of Fundy is known for its rich marine life. If you’re lucky, you might spot whales or other marine creatures from the cliffs at Cape Split. Binoculars can enhance your wildlife-watching experience.
• Bird Watching: The area is home to various bird species, and Cape Split is a great place for bird watching. Bring your binoculars and try to spot eagles, hawks, and seabirds.
• Sunset Viewing: Cape Split is an excellent spot for watching the sunset. The changing colours of the sky over the Bay of Fundy can be a spectacular sight.

#vanlife We spend the night in the park’s parking lot at the trailhead. The parking lot overlooks Scots Bay. 

Walton Harbour Lighthouse 

Walton Harbour Lighthouse, located in Walton, Nova Scotia, is a picturesque coastal site that offers visitors a serene and scenic environment. This is a quick stop, but it left me amazed. I highly recommend you include it in your visit to Nova Scotia.

Highlights of the Walton Harbour

• Lighthouse Viewing: Appreciate the historic Walton Harbour Lighthouse itself. Take in the architectural details and learn about the lighthouse’s history and significance to the local maritime community.
• Visit the exhibit inside the lighthouse and learn about maritime history.
• Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse for an astounding view of the bay. 
• Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the sea and sky. The coastal setting can offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Hiking trail: Enjoy a stroll along the coastline near the lighthouse. Take in the fresh sea air and listen to the sounds of the waves.
• Stop by the gift shop for a souvenir before you leave.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Burntcoat Head Provincial Park 

Burntcoat Head Provincial Park is located in the Central Nova Scotia region of Canada. Specifically, it is situated near the community of Noel. The park is known for having the highest recorded tides in the world, as it is positioned along the shores of the Bay of Fundy. The dramatic tidal fluctuations at Burncoat Head create unique coastal landscapes and offer visitors the opportunity to witness the impressive tidal movements of the bay.

Highlights of Burntcoat Head

• Tidal Exploration: Witness the incredible tidal fluctuations of the Bay of Fundy. During low tide, you can explore the ocean floor and see unique rock formations, mudflats, and tidal pools. You’ll witness a rapid and powerful landscape transformation as the tide comes in.
• Photography: Capture the breathtaking scenery at Burntcoat Head. The changing tides, expansive mudflats, and coastal landscapes offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Picnicking: Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal with a view. There are designated picnic areas to relax and take in the surroundings.
• Beachcombing: Explore the shoreline during low tide to discover interesting seashells, rocks, and marine life. Be mindful of the changing tide to ensure a safe experience.

Make sure to have a good pair of shoes that you can easily wash if you plan on walking the ocean floor. The ground is very slippery, and you end up with very dirty shoes. There is a fountain to wash up after your walk.

Nova Scotia Road Trip: Cape Chignecto Provincial Park

For more views of the Bay of Fundy and its extreme tides, Cape Chignecto Provincial Park is a perfect place to be. Perfect at the start or the end of your visit to Nova Scotia, the park is a beauty.

• Hiking: The park is renowned for its challenging and picturesque hiking trails that run along the dramatic cliffs and coastal landscapes. 
• Backpacking: The Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail is often completed as a multi-day backpacking trip. There are designated campsites along the trail, allowing hikers to experience the park’s beauty over several days. The Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail is a multi-day trek that offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy.

See also: 3 Day itinerary on the Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail

• Sea Kayaking: The park’s coastal location is ideal for sea kayaking. Paddle along the rugged shoreline and explore sea caves, arches, and unique geological formations.
• Wildlife Watching: Cape Chignecto is home to various wildlife, including seabirds, whales, and seals. Bring binoculars to observe the diverse marine life that inhabits the Bay of Fundy.
• Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, cliffs, and coastal views. The changing tides and natural beauty provide excellent opportunities for photography.
• Beachcombing: Explore the beaches along the trail and discover interesting seashells, rocks, and other coastal treasures.

Camping in Cape Chignecto Provincial Park

Enjoy camping in the park at designated campsites. Whether you’re on a multi-day hike or prefer a more traditional camping experience, Cape Chignecto offers options for spending the night in the great outdoors.

The park offers three cabins, 3 group campsites, 28 walk-in campsites, 12 kayak campsites and 47 backcountry campsites. With the exception of the group campsites, all others can be booked online on the park’s reservation site .

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ ) about Nova Scotia

Halifax is the capital and largest city of Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, historic sites, vibrant cultural scene, rich maritime heritage, and delicious seafood.

The primary language is English; you might also hear Mi’kmaq, Scottish Gaelic, and Acadian French in some communities.

Some must-visit attractions include Peggy’s Cove, Cabot Trail, Lunenburg, Citadel Hill, and the historic town of Annapolis Royal.

Popular outdoor activities include hiking, whale watching, kayaking, exploring national parks, and enjoying scenic drives.

The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway on Cape Breton Island, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Cape Breton Highlands, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Explore historic sites such as the Fortress of Louisbourg, visit maritime museums, and tour picturesque fishing villages along the coast.

Yes, Nova Scotia hosts various festivals throughout the year, including cultural events, music festivals, and celebrations of its Scottish heritage. Experience local festivals such as the Halifax International Film Festival, the Nova Scotia Highland Games, typically held in Antigonish, and the Nova Scotia Icewine Festival in the Annapolis Valley.

The Bay of Fundy, located between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, is known for having the highest tides in the world.

Fresh seafood can be enjoyed at local restaurants, seafood shacks, and markets across Nova Scotia. Digby scallops and lobster are popular choices.

Yes, whale watching is a popular activity in Nova Scotia, particularly in the Bay of Fundy, where you can spot humpback whales, minke whales, and more.

Kejimkujik National Park is designated as a Dark Sky Preserve, offering excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.

You can explore Nova Scotia by car, making use of its well-maintained road network. Car rentals are available, and scenic drives are a popular way to see the province.

Rental car search for your visit to Nova Scotia:

More Adventures in Atlantic Canada

• Guide to the Ultimate Newfoundland Road Trip
• Fun Things to Do in Percé, Quebec
• 7 Outstanding Winter Hikes in Gaspesie

Stay up to date with my adventures!

Join now to get all the latest tips and amazing road trip destinations! 

You can unsubscribe anytime. 

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Josanne is a Canadian adventurer and traveller. She shares her passion, hoping to inspire and empower individuals to embark on extraordinary Canadian travel adventures. She is committed to sharing immersive experiences celebrating Canada's unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultures while promoting responsible and mindful travels that cherish Canada's natural wonders.

Similar Posts

Best Things to do in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon

A visit to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon is full of European charm, friendly residents, stunning ocean views and fascinating history.

Phenomenal Road Trip on Route 389; from Baie-Comeau to Fermont, Quebec

Set out on Route 389 to Fermont, Quebec, with the impressive Manic-5 and the magnificent Eye of Quebec nestled in the Monts-Groulx.

13 Top Things to do in St. John’s, Newfoundland

Discover the top things to do in the charming city of St. John’s, Newfoundland including arts, culture, history and outdoor adventures.

Spectacular Northern Ontario Road Trip Itinerary

Plan the perfect Northern Ontario road trip with this itinerary full of hiking adventures and tourist attractions. Discover Ontario at its best!

The Most Stunning Hikes in Trinity, Newfoundland

The hikes in Trinity are known for their splendid coastline and landscapes that leave hikers in awe. Discover the 3 top hikes in Trinity.

Driving the Entire Trans-Labrador Highway

Travel guide for a bewildering adventure on a Labrador road trip driving the Trans-Labrador Highway in its entirety. 

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to see the best of Nova Scotia in 7 days: 4 road trip itineraries (with maps)!

Liked this post? Save it for later!

Visiting Nova Scotia for 7 days is plenty of time to see the unique sites that Nova Scotia has to offer. There so much to do, that it may not be possible to see everything in one trip. This post has 4 separate itineraries to choose from to best suit your interests, while also seeing the best of what Nova Scotia has to offer.

Most start their road trip in Halifax Nova Scotia since that is where the airport is. However these road trips can be completed in either direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), and from any starting point. Here are 4 of the best road trip destinations during 7 days in Nova Scotia.

Itinerary #1 – Halifax, Port Mouton, Bay of Fundy (Digby and Wolfville )

This first itinerary has limited time in the city of Halifax, and primarily focuses on the South Shore and it’s colourful towns and gorgeous beaches, and the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy, and quaint maritime fishing villages. Everything that is quintessential to Nova Scotia.

• Day 1 : Arrive in Halifax. Walk the Halifax Boardwalk. Overnight Halifax.
• Day 2 : Drive from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove. Visit Mahone Bay and Lunenburg, overnight Lunenburg.
• Day 3 : Take the Lahave Ferry and stop at the Lahave Bakery for lunch. Drive on Crescent Beach, and walk the boardwalk at Rissers’s beach. Drive to Port Mouton, and go to Carter’s beach for sunset. Overnight in Port Mouton.
• Day 4 : Drive to Bear River, Annapolis Royal and Digby. Overnight in Digby.
• Day 5 : Travel down the Digby Neck towards Brier Island. Hike to the Balancing Rock, and go Whale Watching. Overnight in Brier Island (or return to Digby for the night).
• Day 6 : Drive to Wolfville. Stop in Annapolis, explore Wolfville all day. Overnight in Wolfville.
• Day 7 : Wolfville to Burntcoat Head OR go Tidal Bore Rafting. Return to Halifax in the evening.

Suggested Reading: Day trip to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay from Halifax

Itinerary #2 – Halifax, Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, Bay of Fundy and Cape Breton

For those that are coming to Nova Scotia to drive the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, this itinerary primarily focuses on that. On this itinerary you will also see Peggy’s Cove, the famous 3 churches in Mahone Bay, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg.

• Day 1: Arrive in Halifax, overnight Halifax
• Day 2: Halifax all day, overnight in Halifax
• Day 3: Day trip to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Overnight in Lunenburg.
• Day 3: From Lunenburg drive to Shubie, visit Burntcoat head or go Tidal Bore Rafting, overnight in Shubie
• Day 4: Drive to Baddeck, overnight in Baddeck
• Day 5: Drive half of the Cabot Trail, overnight in Ingonish
• Day 6: Drive the rest of the Cabot Trail, overnight in Port Hood or Cheticamp
• Day 7: Drive back to Halifax

Itinerary # 3 : Halifax, Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, Yarmouth & Bay of Fundy

This itinerary is more fast-paced, but it focuses more on the very south of Nova Scotia (Yarmouth and the French shore), and the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy.

• Day 1: Spend the entire day in Halifax. Overnight in Halifax.
• Day 2: Drive to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay, overnight in Lunenburg
• Day 3: Drive to Yarmouth and stop at Carter’s beach along the way, overnight near Yarmouth.
• Day 4: Drive to Digby, go whale watching and hike to the balancing rock. Overnight in Digby.
• Day 5: Check out Annapolis Royal and Wolfville. Overnight in Wolfville.
• Day 6: Go Tidal Bore Rafting in Shubie, visit Burntcoat Head, overnight in Truro (or drive straight to Five Islands).
• Day 7: Visit Truro and spend the day at Five Islands Provincial Park.
• Day 8: Drive Back to Halifax

Suggested Reading: What to do on a road trip to Yarmouth

Itinerary #4: Halifax, Lunenburg, Bay of Fundy and Cape Breton

This 7 days in Nova Scotia itinerary includes seeing iconic town of Lunenburg, experiencing the dramatic unique tides of the Bay of Fundy, AND seeing Cape Breton! All of the main highlights in one trip.

• Day 1: Halifax all day
• Day 2: Drive to Peggy’s Cove, Mahone Bay and overnight in Lunenburg
• Day 3: Lunenburg during the day. Drive to Wolfville in the evening. Overnight in Wolfville.
• Day 4: Explore Wolfville in the morning, then drive to Shubie for Tidal Bore Rafting.
• Day 5: Drive to Ingonish in Cape Breton. Overnight in Ingonish.
• Day 6: Explore the Cabot Trail. Drive to Cheticamp, over night in Cheticamp

Suggested Reading: What you need to know when visiting Cape Breton

Where to Stay during your 7 days in Nova Scotia

Below are suggestions for the best locations to stay in each destination listed in the 7 days in Nova Scotia itineraries. Hotels or AirBnBs can be used!

When staying overnight in Halifax, it is best to stay in a hotel or AirBnB that is close to the Halifax Boardwalk, since that is where you will be spending the majority of your time. This is a central location and within walking distance to all of the main attractions/sites. I have personally stayed at the Westin which is close to the entrance of the boardwalk.

In Lunenburg, The “Old Town” of Lunenburg (near the Fisheries Museum and boardwalk) is the most central. Lunenburg is a small and walkable town, but driving through Lunenburg can be tricky because there are so many one-way streets. So it’s best to leave your car at the hotel (like the Lunenburg Arms or Salt Shaker Deli & Inn ) or your AirBnB and walk around from there!

Port Mouton

If you decide to follow the itinerary that includes Port Mouton for an overnight stay, then White Point Beach Resort (their minimum night stay is 2 nights), the Quarterdeck Resort (located on Summerville beach!) or an AirBnB near these locations is ideal.

Brier Island

Spending the night Brier Island there are no wrong places to stay. It is a small island so everywhere is central. I personally stayed in the Brier Island Lodge and enjoyed my time there.

Digby is close to Brier Island, but if you are not traveling all the way down to Brier Island in your 7 days in Nova Scotia road trip, then Digby is an excellent location. The closer to Water St. you stay, the closer to the central part of Digby you are.

Wolfville is such an elegant and charming town. Staying in a Bed and Breakfast in a historic home would really complete the entire experience.

Cape Breton

While driving the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, spending a night in Baddeck, Ingonish and Cheticamp as you travel around the Island is ideal.

Important Tips for Nova Scotia

Rent a car (or bring your own) while traveling around Nova Scotia. Public transportation is very limited and non-existent to many destinations in these lists. There are 4 car rental companies located at the Halifax Airport:

• Budget Car Rental
• Alamo Car Rental
• Dollar Car Rental
• Avis Car Rental

Check the tide times! The tides along the Bay of Fundy are the highest in the world. Water levels can raise up by 53ft (or 16m), so it can be very dangerous if you walk too far away from the entrance of a beach without knowing when the tide will come in.

Stay off the black rocks at Peggy’s Cove . The ocean is unpredictable and a wave can come up on the black rocks.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Your perfect Nova Scotia Road Trip guide with the best things to do in Nova Scotia

August 19, 2018 by Steve Ertrachter 7 Comments

Nova Scotia is an amazing destination often overlooked by non-Canadian travelers. After many years of traveling in Canada, we visited Nova Scotia a few years ago for the first time. Simply, we were blown away by its beauty and culture.  Keep reading for our complete Nova Scotia road trip itinerary. We’d recommend taking about ten days (or longer) for this road trip although seven days in Nova Scotia is a good start.

• 1 Overview of this Nova Scotia Road Trip
• 2 Halifax and Dartmouth (1-2 days)
• 3.1 Peggy’s Cove
• 3.2 Lunenburg
• 3.3 Tidal Bore at Truro
• 4 Drive to Cape Breton Island (1 day)
• 5 Cape Breton Island (3-4 days)
• 6.1 Louisbourg
• 6.2 Bird Island to see puffins 
• 6.3 Drive the incredible Cabot Trail 
• 7 Heading back towards Halifax (2 days)
• 8 Annapolis Royal
• 9 Whale watching at Brier Island
• 10 Kejimkujik National Park
• 11 Return to Halifax
• 12 Day trip from Halifax to Grand-Pré  (1 day)
• 13 Have you been on a Nova Scotia road trip?  Tell us about your favorite things to do in Nova Scotia or anything we missed.

Overview of this Nova Scotia Road Trip

Peggy’s Cove

Tidal bore at truro.

• Burntcoat Head Park
• Baddeck, Cape Breton Island
• Bird Island
• Cabot Trail

Annapolis Royal

• Brier Island – Whale Watching

Kejimkujik National Park

Return to halifax.

• Grand Pre day trip

Halifax and Dartmouth (1-2 days)

There are many things to do in Halifax and Dartmouth. The Canadian Museum of Immigration offers exhibits on the nearly million immigrants who arrived to Canada. It is the Canadian version of Ellis Island in NYC. The stories of the immigrants here truly came alive.

The Maritime Museum has exhibitions about the Titanic, shipwrecks in Nova Scotia, and other worthwhile exhibits.  We found the massive explosion of Halifax harbor particularly fascinating. 

One of the main things to do in Halifax is to climb the Halifax Citadel to have epic views over the city and to learn more about Halifax’s history. This citadel built in the 1800s has a distinctive British design and it’s worth the stop-off.

While the Halifax waterfront is very commercial, it offers festivals, bars, and many public events.

If you want to go on the alternate side, visit Dartmouth . It is less expensive and commercial with beautiful views of Halifax. It is a twenty-minute ferry boat ride to Halifax. While in Halifax, visit the Eastern Passage since it has Fisherman’s Cove . It is a commercial fishing port without the tourist crowds that you find in Halifax.

One of the best restaurants during the trip was the Pleasant Street Diner in Dartmouth. They serve very fresh food, inexpensive, and popular. It’s worth the wait.  We ended up paying around C$30 for a delicious dinner for two people with fresh fish. 

We stayed at the Comfort Inn in Dartmouth that was a five-minute drive to ferry.  Rates here were lower than in hotels in the city center of Halifax and we got a full breakfast with our room.  You’ll also find a number of traditional inns and boutique hotels .

Peggy’s Cove, Truro, and Lunenburg (1-2 days)

We ended up using Truro as our base as it offered easy access to all the places that we wanted to visit in the area and it was inexpensive compared to Peggy’s Cove. We stayed at the Belgravia B & B in Truro , a well-run bed and breakfast with friendly owners, and a terrific breakfast.  They have limited rooms so be sure to book early.

Peggy’s Cove is one of the iconic spots on all Nova Scotia that has become famous for the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse .  It has even appeared on Canadian postage stamps.   It’s situated in a cute fishing village although be warned that it is  very popular.

We recommend arriving early in the morning to beat out the many tour groups.  Similarly, if you’re driving yourself, parking in the afternoon can be very difficult.

Lunenburg is a UNESCO designated site since it is a historic Nova Scotia port with beautiful old buildings.  It is especially worthwhile to be there around sunset since the historic buildings glisten in the sun. It is recognized by UNESCO as it is the best surviving British colonial settlement in North America.

Originally an Acadian/Mi’kmaq village, the settlement, as it is today, was established in 1753 as Lunenburg.  Lunenburg has the original city layout and look.  This is rare throughout Nova Scotia as Nova Scotia’s governor wanted it destroyed.  Luckily, this was not! 

This lovely town became a hub for shipbuilding, a legacy still carried on today by its residents who have become master shipbuilders who are knowledgeable about modern ships. 

The Tidal Bore at Truro  is where you can see rushing water coming into the river at high tide.  Nature can be incredible and it’s 100% free to view this natural phenomenon.  The time tables are readily available so schedule your visit at high and low tides.

An excellent restaurant that we enjoyed was Fletcher’s Restaurant in Truro for dinner.  You’ll find lots of locals here and it was quite busy!

Drive to Cape Breton Island (1 day)

One highly unique activity on the way to Cape Breton island from Truro is viewing the highest tides in the world. At high tides, the tides rise on the Bay of Fundy by over 50 feet.  At low tide, you might see boats sitting on sand and several hours later, floating in the bay. Burntcoat Head Park offers this great opportunity. It is memorable and unique to Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton Island (3-4 days)

Visiting Baddeck  ( Pronounced Ba- Deck ) was one of the highlights of our Nova Scotia road trip.  It has some tourists, but it’s a lovely town with many restaurants and interesting sites to see.

Be sure to visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum . We learned a lot about this fascinating man who was more than just an inventor, but also an environmentalist, visionary, and teacher. I particularly loved hearing locals telling stories about their encounters with him.

The Bras d’Or Lake is beautiful as it is both fresh and saltwater. One great opportunity is the take the Amoeba Sailing Tour of the Lake on a sailboat. The cost is $25 for an hour and half tour. You’ll see bald eagles soaring above you.  Reserve early as it’s popular.

If you prefer, you can rent a kayak at the Inverary Resort . The rental place is in the back of the resort.  Rental prices for a kayak was about $10.  Kayaking offers great views of the lake, sailboats in the dock, and Baddeck more generally.

St. Michael’s Parish House offers ceilidhs nightly. We absolutely loved attending a ceilidh .  In case you’re not aware, ceilidhs are rooted in the Gaelic culture that came over with many immigrants and a must-see.  They’re a great opportunity to watch dance, enjoy local music, and just appreciate Cape Breton’s unique culture.  

If you intend to visit the one at St. Michael’s, buy your tickets at 5 p.m. as they sell out quickly. It is a small room and very intimate, so you can feel and hear the music.

For lunch and dinner, The Freight Shed offers excellent food and extremely popular. They do not accept reservations and you might need to wait. It’s worth it though!

I loved staying at the  Inverary Resort & Ceilidh Lodge .  It was a bit more expensive than our previous accommodation, but it had everything that we needed and felt like a bargain.  They have great breakfasts, boat rentals, a fitness room, pools, a sauna, and stunning grounds.

Louisbourg offers a restored historic French fort that is operated by Canadian Parks. I expected to spend one hour exploring the historic fortress, but I enjoyed it so much that we spent four hours here.  It provides a great chance to learn about the French government before the British took over.

Bird Island to see puffins 

One unique excursion is the Bird Island Boat . It takes passengers to see Atlantic Puffins, bald eagles, and seals in the wild. If you’re a lover of animals, and puffins, you need to take an excursion on one of the bird watching boats.  We were brought to the islands off the coast of Englishtown to view the Atlantic Puffin birds are smaller than the Icelandic birds during the summer. (These tours don’t operate year-round.)

Our eco-friendly tour was careful about ensuring that the wildlife was left untouched.  Expect removable windows for photos.  It’s best to have a camera with a good zoom lens.  (Karen recommends a DSLR with a zoom lens that extends up to 200/300mm for those seeking amazing photos.)

Drive the incredible Cabot Trail 

The Cabot Trail is being called one of the most amazing drives in world.  If you can drive the entire trail with its great vistas, you will beautiful coast views. The road is also fun since it constantly winds up the terrain. 

One tip: Always get gas when you might see an open station. If you have the time, visit Chéticamp  or considering staying in Chéticamp to enjoy this stunning area.  This fishing village is a great base on Cape Breton if you intend to stay a bit longer.  You can do whale watches from here and eat Acadian food.

Heading back towards Halifax (2 days)

I recommend that you stay in Digby for this part of the trip. For value stay, we enjoyed the Digby Pines Golf Resort since it is spacious and something that you will rarely see elsewhere. The price includes a spacious breakfast and live shows in the evening.  It reminded us of the Catskills back in the day.

Annapolis Royal is unquestionably one of the most beautiful places that I have ever seen. This town originally inhabited by the Mi’kmaq community became one of the early capitals during the colonial period.  You’ll find stunning forts (like the one pictured above), great restaurants, and many art shops!  The town is well preserved with many cute buildings.

Whale watching at Brier Island

Brier Island offers whale watches to the Bay of Fundy.  We were able to spot dozens of whales as well as other marine life.  The area is known for being a whale congregation area.  Unlike other whale watching spots on Nova Scotia, it’s a shorter trip out to the best spots. Book early as it’s a popular excursion on Nova Scotia.

Kejimkujik National Park is one of the wonders of Nova Scotia.  There are many petroglyphs, hiking trails, bird watching, It is pure nature and truly offers boundless opportunities for the outdoor experience.  The park is well known for its dark sky preserve, the perfect place to stargaze overnight. (Book your cabin ahead!)  Be warned: there are leeches in the water.

Day trip from Halifax to Grand-Pré  (1 day)

On the mainland, Grand-Pré is a sad, but important UNESCO world heritage site that tells the story of Le Grand Dérangement.  This is the moment in history when the Acadians were expelled during the 18th century.   More importantly, it offers a lesson where past events should not be forgotten.

Great food can be found near Wolfville. We loved the Rolled Oat Café for its great salads and wraps, which was very popular with the college kids in town.

Have you been on a Nova Scotia road trip?  Tell us about your favorite things to do in Nova Scotia or anything we missed.

About Steve Ertrachter

New Yorker–born and raised. Lover of tennis. Curious. Frugal and independent traveler who believes that travel yields an understanding of different cultures. 10% of the magic behind Wanderlustingk.

Reader Interactions

August 20, 2018 at 4:17 am

Great overview! Definitely makes me want to go!

August 21, 2018 at 2:44 pm

What an insightful post! Well written and contains tons of interesting points! Knowing myself, I’d definitely enjoy exploring Lunenburg. Makes me want to go to Nova Scotia now 🙂

August 23, 2018 at 3:56 am

Wonderful review!! I hope to visit and tour the sites.

June 23, 2020 at 8:03 pm

Thank you for sharing all this information. Very helpful for our future trip to NS

February 27, 2023 at 5:39 pm

Thank you a very good post with tons of info. Hopefully plan to visit soon.

November 11, 2023 at 4:31 am

Looking forward to a month or so trip! Great article.

December 12, 2023 at 3:56 pm

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the article. Safe travels and have a fantastic trip!

Your Wanderlustingk Team

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• The Netherlands
• New York State
• Other European destinations
• Work With Me
• Disclosure and Privacy Policy
• Jeju SEO Tool: Free SEO Writing Tool

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

TreasureHunter USA Inc. 251 Little Falls Drive Wilmington, Delaware 19808 +1 (915) 4632387 EIN 88-2174128

www.wanderlustingk.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also participate in other affiliate programs

www.wanderlustingk.com all rights reserved © 2023 | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy |

12 must-see stops for a magical road trip to Nova Scotia

While the last few years have pushed us to travel more locally, it has also make us realize that Canada have so much to offer. ⁠On our side, we went to the Maritimes to explore the treasures of the Atlantic and we fell in love with the region! From Gaspésie to Nova Scotia, via New Brunswick, we invite you to discover our 12 favorite places and must-see stops for a magical road trip on Canada’s East Coast! Let the adventure begin!

Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL

What to do in Gaspésie

1. carpinteri vineyard , saint-ulric.

If you dream of visiting Italy, the Carpinteri Vineyard is a stop to add to your itinerary on your way to Gaspésie! Whether it’s by the romantic allure of the place or by the taste of its wines, you’ll feel transported to Tuscany. The wine tasting session is also free to allow you to discover all their products and find the perfect wine to add to your cellar.

Take the opportunity to walk through the vineyards and their unique facilities. Moreover, if you want to extend your stay, book a room in their large villa to enjoy a unique gastronomic evening in a dreamy setting. A nice stop if you go through St-Ulric to get to Gaspé or Percé!⁠⁠⁠

2. Forillon National Park , Gaspé

Forillon National Park has been on our hiking bucket list for a long time and it was so worth the hype! It’s a magical place where the trails of Mont Saint-Alban are dotted with waterfalls, streams and, above all, an epic view once at the top! You’ll feel like you’re at the end of the world and the landscape is simply spectacular! Definitely one of our favorite hikes to do in Quebec!

Interesting fact : Forillon National Park is also the historic site of the Battle of the St. Lawrence when the German submarines crisscrossed the area between 1942 and 1945. Increased surveillance by the Royal Navy made it possible to repel the threat and ensure security of the country during World War II. The more you know ! 

3. Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé , Percé

Rocher Percé and Bonaventure Island are not classics for nothing and we fell even more in love with the place thanks to the moody weather. It was our first visit, but certainly not the last since we didn’t have time to do everything we wanted in the park.

This Quebec emblem is also famous for its colony of northern gannets and it’s worth exploring the Gaspé Peninsula by boat.

4. Parc municipal de la rivière aux Émeraudes , Percé

A true jewel of Gaspésie found on the banks of the Portage River, the Emerald River is also the starting point of the forest trails stretching over 27 kilometres. It’s a magnificent place to enjoy nature and even swim during the summer season!

What to do in New Brunswick

On the way to New Brunswick, many waterfront views await you! We advise you to take a coffee break in Carleton-sur-Mer at the Brûlerie du Quai to stretch your legs and taste their delicious coffees! We loved their espresso as well as their London fog and they have the cutest cups in their market space, if you want to bring back a little souvenir.

5. Irving Eco-Centre : La Dune De Bouctouche

For our first stop in New Brunswick, we were charmed by the sublime Bouctouche dune! Located 45 minutes from Moncton, this ecocentre designed to preserve the region’s flora and fauna is also the habitat of several migratory birds and a few families of red foxes. The fine sand dune extends over more than 12 kilometers and evolves over time by the constant action of wind, tides and sea currents.

It’s the perfect place for a stroll to the sound of the waves and a picnic on the beach with the sea breeze! Super pretty and soothing to start your New Brunswick getaway!

6. Fundy National Park

Fundy National Park is full of waterfalls, but the most magnificent are certainly the ones on the Dickson Trail! Easy to access, the path that leads to this oasis seems straight out of the enchanted forest⁠ in a fairy tale! An intermediate, but soothing hike awaits you, where everything is green and lush!

Among the other trails you can explore, Cape Matthews and Laverty Falls will also amaze you with their natural treasures dotted with waterfalls and amazing rock formations.

7. Hopewell Rocks

Hopewell Rocks is an impressive place where you can observe the highest tides in the world which have also shaped these natural structures giving the impression of giant flowerpots. Depending on the time you go there, you can also walk on the bottom of the ocean floor when the tide is low or go kayaking when the tide rises. Your admission ticket will give you access to the site for two days so that you can admire the two phenomena during your stay in New Brunswick.

What to do in Nova Scotia

The highlight of our road trip in Eastern Canada was definitely our stay in Nova Scotia! We fell in love with this magical corner of the country with its breathtaking landscapes on the Atlantic coast and its countless lighthouses, each cuter than the next.

8. Halifax  

We suggest that you start your getaway in Halifax by passing through the city’s pretty Victorian gardens, which are among the last in North America. If you are a fan of the Gilmore Girls series, you’ll easily find a little of Stars Hollow in Nova Scotia.

Then, head into historic Halifax to admire the street art murals and stop for a bite to eat at Johnny K’s . Donair has been one of the city’s classic meals for decades and you can’t leave without eating one.

Then continue your walk to the Waterfront Boardwalk where you can enjoy the sea breeze and admire the pretty gourmet huts or take a nap by the water in a hammock. If the sea is calling you, several companies along the boardwalk offer boat tours of the port to learn more about the city while admiring it from a different angle.

9. Lunenburg Historic Village

It’s hard not to fall for the historic village of Lunenburg during a stay in Nova Scotia! A UNESCO World Heritage Site , it’s also the home port of the Blue Nose II, aka the emblematic boat of the Canadian 10 cents. With its Norwegian airs, charming streets and gourmet stops, it’s a destination to add to your Canadian bucket list!

We recommend that you make a stop to the Lightship Brewery microbrewery where you can taste their best local creations while having a spectacular view of the coastal village. If you go to Lunenburg during the summer season, take the opportunity to enjoy a good crispy fish and chips on the terrace of The South Shore Fish Shack or The Old Fish Factory.

10. The Ovens

It’s often the places where we have no expectations that amaze us the most! Our visit to The Ovens⁠ Nature Park in Nova Scotia is a perfect example of that! It wasn’t a stop that we were supposed to make at the start and we were completely overwhelmed by the beauty of the place. A gentle hike directly by the ocean to explore sea caves in front of a breathtaking panorama.

Special mention to The Blow Hole, in the following photo, whose splashes can reach over 80 feet in height! ⁠

11. Cape Breton Island

A road trip on the east coast of Canada wouldn’t be complete without a passage on the famous Cabot Trail towards Cape Breton Island. This region is filled with breathtaking places that it could be a another trip in itself and it will take you several days to see everything. If you’re short on time, the Skyline Trail hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the hike you must do to enjoy one of the prettiest view of Cape Breton Island!

This magnificent viewpoint is particularly impressive at sunset and is definitely worth the detour! However, it’s extremely windy, so you’ll need to dress accordingly. This vast park is also the landmark of many animals including moose, coyotes and bears that can be encountered along the way. Make sure you have a flashlight on you and learn about the procedure to follow if you come into contact with wild animals. The park rangers on site also offer guided hikes that continue until nightfall if you want a unique experience!

Among the other stops to add to your itinerary in Cape Breton, Pleasant Bay, Neil’s Harbour, the Glenora distillery and Ingonish Beach should not disappoint you.

12. Peggy’s Cove

Located just an hour from Halifax, Peggy’s Cove is a must for your road trip in Nova Scotia! Its impressive lighthouse sits in the heart of a conservation area and a fishing community where you can watch the sunset to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. ⁠A golden hour by the Atlantic sea, it’s hard to ask for better than that!

Just 40 minutes from Peggy’s Cove, you’ll also find the pretty beach of Queensland where you can end the day by easily combining the two activities.

The Atlantic at home

Are you inspired to go on an adventure in Gaspésie, New Brunswick or Nova Scotia? While you’re planning your next getaway, why not add a touch of travel to your decor ? Atlantique , our new collection of prints , is now available on our online shop where you can purchase your favorite prints. Inspired by our trip to Canada’s East Coast, we hope they’ll transport you to this magical corner of the country while staying in the comfort of your home!

Have an amazing road trip!

*Did you like this article and would like to receive more travel content and local destination suggestions? Subscribe to our newsletter now to stay on top of trends and our favorite recommendations!

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

5 things to do during a stopover in Dublin

15 reasons to visit dubrovnik at least once in your life, you may also like, 10 amazing activities to do in split and..., 15 incredible experiences to do in europe at..., 15 fun activities to try during a trip..., 11 magical activities to do in granada, spain, 5 things to do during a stopover in..., 15 reasons to visit dubrovnik at least once..., 6 advantages of traveling to europe in low..., 20 amazing places to visit when traveling to..., 12 magical places to visit in the scottish..., 10 reasons to visit seville at least once....

The Ultimate Cabot Trail Itinerary: Cape Breton Road Trip

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Looking for one of the most beautiful road trips in the world? Consider driving the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. While this is one of the best known road trips in Canada, I hadn’t heard of it until recently — and I was stunned at just how special it was.

This summer I’ve been spending a lot of time in Atlantic Canada, which is one of the better decisions I’ve made lately. This is one of my new favorite parts of the world. But one of the biggest highlights of Atlantic Canada has been driving the Cabot Trail and discovering the Cape Breton region of Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia was in the works for awhile. Earlier this year, I met representatives from Visit Nova Scotia and we decided to do a campaign together. I did my research on the province, trying to figure out where to go, and landed on Cape Breton, the rural, beautiful island in the northeast part of the province, and driving the Cabot Trail. I’m always down for a road trip. And I had great company — my frequent travel buddy Cailin , who herself is from Nova Scotia! ( Check out her list of best things to do in Nova Scotia here. )

This was my first time in Nova Scotia (well, I also went when I was a fetus, my parents are quick to point out), but it reminded me so much of where I grew up. The Halifax area and its surroundings reminded me so much of Massachusetts — but once you get into Cape Breton, everything spreads out and countrifies. It feels more like New Hampshire or Maine!

I loved Nova Scotia because of its beauty, because of its friendliness, because of how relaxed it was. And on top of that, it had a quality I’m having trouble defining. It was special .

And if you’re from the New York City area or New England — and I know many of my US-based readers are — Nova Scotia is a very easy trip. Hop on a short nonstop flight to Halifax from New York or Boston. It’s a two-hour flight from either city!

This post was last updated in April 2023.

Table of Contents

What is the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is a scenic driving route on the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia and considered one of the most beautiful road trips in North America. Cape Breton is the large island in the northeast of Nova Scotia, home to 18% of the province’s land and 14% of the population. Cape Breton is known for being a slow-paced and beautiful corner of Nova Scotia.

The Cabot Trail is well-marked, easy to drive, and filled with tons of attractions. At 298 kilometers (185 miles), it’s ideal for a four-day road trip.

Cape Breton Road Trip FAQs

ABSOLUTELY. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Novia Scotia, which you’ll soon realize after you start driving and maybe even do a hike, like the Skyline Hike at sunset.

I recommend at least 4 days for the Cabot Trail drive, though 3 or 5 would also work. I dive into that more here . This gives you plenty of time to drive the entire loop, and even backtrack a bit if you need to.

Chéticamp , in my opinion, is the most beautiful town on Cape Breton. Plus it’s a great place to base yourself for a few nights, as there are so many activities to do in the area.

The world-famous Cabot Trail is a scenic drive that’s quite easy to drive. It’s a paved road that will take you through some small towns and though there are some curves, most people will have no problem. As I said in my Cape Breton road trip tips below , be sure to watch out for moose and take extra care pulling in and out of any scenic stops.

You’ll want to plan your Cape Breton road trip for summer or fall. Late spring is also a possibility but keep in mind that many businesses are seasonal and do not re-open until May or June. If you want to see the foliage, the best time is in October, though you’ll want to check annual foliage calendars as it can change.

Reasons to Travel the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

There are so many reasons to travel the Cabot Trail. Here are some of my favorites:

The most beautiful winding roads.  Driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park is like driving in a cartoon. The roads are so windingly photogenic. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such beautiful roads as I did in Cape Breton!

If you want to get photos like I did, have the person in the passenger seat turn their camera to a super-fast shutter speed and shoot as you drive along. Be sure to periodically clean your windshield.

The freshest, most succulent, most delicious lobster. For years Cailin has been telling me that Nova Scotia has the best lobster in the world (or, more often, yelling, “THAT’S NOT LOBSTER!” whenever I eat lobster in the Caribbean). To be honest, I rolled my eyes at her exultations — but then I tried it and WOW. I’m used to Maine lobster, but Nova Scotia lobster is on another level. And it’s available everywhere on the Cabot Trail.

Endless changing landscapes. At times, like in White Point, I felt like I was in Normandy. At other times, driving through the lusher parts of the highlands, I almost felt like I was in Hawaii! And when the sun dipped behind the mountains, I was reminded of Colorado.

Three interesting cultures in one place, shared proudly with visitors. You can explore indigenous Mi’kmaq culture, Acadian culture, and Gaelic culture all on this same island. And they’re all respected as being essential parts of Canadian culture. It really hits you when you walk into the visitors’ center at the national park and it reads, “Welcome. Bienvenue. Pjila’si. Fáilte.”

A slow, country pace. When you live in a city (especially New York City), you notice how much slower it is in the country. Things move at a slow pace. People take their time to enjoy themselves. It’s a nice break for your brain.

One incredible national park. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the one national park on Cape Breton Island, and the Cabot Trail drives right through it. It’s a sensational park. The best known activity on the Cabot Trail is the Skyline Trail, a hike in the park best done at sunset for beautiful views.

Wonderful and welcoming people. So many memories from Cape Breton are tied up in the wonderful people we met. The Acadian ladies who invited us to come back and stay in their homes for the Mi-Carême celebration in winter. The Mi’kmaq educator at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys who told us about their natural cancer-fighting remedies that Westerners may be on the verge of exploiting. The artist who worried about the impact of Airbnb on young Cape Bretoners being unable to afford homes. The smart, thoughtful guides at Parks Canada who were bubbling over with their love for the outdoors.

How Many Days Do You Need on the Cabot Trail?

I think you can travel the Cabot Trail in a minimum of three days — but I would recommend stretching to four days if you can. You can travel the Cabot Trail for longer if you’d like, having a more leisurely trip than we did, and traveling for longer gives you a bit of insurance in case you have some rainy days.

If you only have one or two days, I recommend staying in the Chéticamp area rather than trying to do the whole trail. Most of my favorite experiences on the Cabot Trail were in or around Chéticamp: hiking the Skyline Trail and the Learn to Lobster Boil experience in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the Mi-Carême Centre, Aucoin Bakery, and L’abri restaurant.

It’s best to rent your car in either Sydney or Halifax and drive to the trail. Sydney is the largest city in Cape Breton and it has a small airport and several car rental locations. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the Cabot Trail and you enter at Englishtown, near Baddeck.

Halifax is a bigger city and major air hub and it’s on the mainland of Nova Scotia. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from the Cabot Trail and you enter at Hunters Point, also near Baddeck. You can rent a car one-way from Sydney to Halifax, as we did, but one-way rentals can be very expensive in Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton Road Trip Itinerary

Driving the Cabot Trail for four days will give you enough time to enjoy the best of this gorgeous part of Nova Scotia. This Cabot Trail itinerary gives you an extra day in what I think is the nicest part — Chéticamp — but gives you enough time to enjoy some of the other lovely places, like Ingonish, Baddeck, and of course Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

A lot of people ask whether you should drive the Cabot Trail clockwise or counterclockwise. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. It would matter if you only drove in one direction and never backtracked whatsoever. Cailin and I ended up driving back and forth several times in the most photogenic part of the national park because the weather kept changing and we wanted better photos!

We ended up driving the bulk of the trail clockwise and we felt happy with it. Here is our full itinerary:

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day One: Sydney to Chéticamp

Cailin and I began our Cape Breton road trip immediately after our OneOcean cruise docked in Sydney.  Sydney is close to the Cabot Trail at Englishtown, but I had wanted to explore indigenous culture in Nova Scotia, so we headed south and started slightly off the trail in Eskasoni.

Eskasoni Cultural Experiences is where you can learn about Mi’kmaq indigenous culture and traditions from Mi’kmaq people. You take part in a smudging ceremony, learn about hunting and weapons, learn some dancing, and even cook some bread over the fire, Mi’kmaq-style.

It is a bit field trip-y — you can tell that groups of students are their bread and butter. But I loved learning about Mi’kmaq culture and I especially loved learning from so many Mi’kmaq folks directly. Learning from actual indigenous people is all too rare these days, and it should be cherished.

I loved how the guides weaved in traditions and how they use them today, like medicinal plants that are used to treat cancer. One of the guides, Steve, even offered to smudge my passport to give me protection on my travels.

Next, if you have the time, visit the Highland Village . Just off the trail in Iona is a village that re-creates life among Gaelic settlers in Cape Breton from centuries ago, complete with costumes, set beautifully on Bras d’Or lake. While we didn’t have time to do this due to a late start, this is absolutely worth the beautiful setting alone.

Spend the afternoon driving to Chéticamp and get an early dinner.  You are now officially on the Cabot Trail! The drive to Chéticamp is lovely, especially once you hit the water. For an early dinner, I recommend L’abri — a relatively new, very queer-friendly restaurant that the locals can’t stop raving about. They do a great lobster roll. Cailin and I loved L’abri so much that we went multiple times!

In the evening, hike the Skyline Trail, the most famous hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This is an easy, even hike with a gorgeous view at the end, even better at sunset. I think it’s the best Instagram spot on the Cabot Trail. While you can do this hike on your own, Parks Canada offers a guided sunset hike  that takes about three hours altogether.

The Skyline Trail is the best place on the Cabot Trail to see moose, so keep your eyes open! There is even a moose “exclosure” (first time I had ever heard that word) where you have a moose-free zone and can climb a platform to see if you can spot them outside.

The Skyline Trail seems mostly even, but you don’t realize until you turn around and head back that the path had been slowly sloping downward the whole time. You can definitely do this hike with kids but it helps to bring a light source for the walk back, even if that light source is the flashlight on your phone.

Keep in mind the hike starts two hours before sunset, but you also have to pick up your park pass at the entrance and the start of the hike is about a 20-minute drive from the entrance. This is why you get an early dinner!

Where to Stay in Chéticamp: Silver Linings Inn

In Chéticamp we stayed at Silver Linings Inn , a midrange guesthouse and motel that I highly recommend. We were the first guests to stay in a new suite above the main guesthouse: a loft with two incredibly comfortable queen beds, tons of excellent pillows, and an ensuite bathroom. Rates from $149 CAD ($112 USD).

The guesthouse also has the best continental breakfast I’ve ever seen anywhere. Tons of muffins, bread from nearby Aucoin Bakery, cereals, fruit, drawers filled with peanut butter and all kinds of jellies and jams, even a designated gluten-free zone. They really make an effort to do a simple breakfast well, and the breakfast room is airy and beautiful.

The internet wasn’t great and only worked decently in the public areas of the guesthouse, which were closed at night, but this is standard for Cape Breton. (See more on internet in Cape Breton in the “Cabot Trail Travel Tips” section below.)

One qualm: there is a doorstop right in the middle of the bathroom floor and it blends into the tiles, so Cailin and I stubbed our toes on it multiple times. (I would yelp from the bathroom and Cailin would yell, “Did you step on it again?”) However, we brought it up with the manager and since we were the first people to stay there, they had no idea and said they’d look into removing it.

Find deals on hotels in Chéticamp here .

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Two: Chéticamp and Around

Chéticamp was my favorite part of the Cabot Trail because there are so many cool things to do nearby. It’s absolutely worth spending an extra night in Chéticamp to get the most out of this part of Cape Breton. Start your day with breakfast, then plan to hit up a lot of sights.

Learn about Acadian culture at Les Trois Pignons. This museum and cultural center is a great place to learn about the Acadians who lived in Cape Breton centuries ago. While you can see recreated living quarters for Acadian families, the coolest part is seeing the hooked rugs.

The hooked rugs were so interesting. Artist Elizabeth LeFort was one of the most gifted hooked rug artists, and she was particularly talented with hooked rug portraiture. In the 1960s, she did portraits of all the Apollo astronauts — as well as JFK, Jackie Kennedy and Pope John Paul II!

But for me and Cailin, our favorite portrait was of a white Persian cat. It actually used long mohair strings that were pulled through, making a very fluffy cat — and had a very necessary DO NOT TOUCH sign beneath it. So tempting.

Stop for coffee at the Frog Pond Cafe and check out folk art at Sunset Art Gallery . These two establishments are located side by side in Chéticamp. Artist William Roach has been carving and painting works of art for decades, and the gallery is now home to works by 15 Cape Breton folk artists. This is a great spot to stop for a coffee and a browse.

Next, paint your own masks at the Mi-Carême Interpretive Centre . When I saw “paint traditional masks” on my itinerary, I wasn’t too excited — but this ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. It was definitely my favorite indoor activity, too!

Mi-Carême is a traditional French celebration that brings joy to a dark time — the name means “middle of Lent” and it’s a leap of fun in the midst of a month of austerity. People dress up in elaborate costumes to conceal their identities — seriously, people wear full masks, gloves, wigs, and stilts to fully disguise themselves — and go around from place to place, having people guess who they are.

Mi-Carême was celebrated as early as the Middle Ages, but sadly it has died out everywhere but a few communities in French Canada. It has similarities to Mardi Gras in Louisiana (where the Acadians migrated from Canada), Mummering in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Carnival all over the world.

This was SO MUCH FUN! Cailin and I chose masks and began painting. She painted a full Nova Scotia seascape with a lighthouse and a lobster. I did a black and white and pink design. The whole time we painted and chatted with resident artist Diane Bourgeois about Cape Breton and how it’s changed over the last several years.

After that we actually put on costumes that matched our masks and took some photos! There is a full museum at the Mi-Carême Centre that shares the history of the event.

“I so want to come back for Mi-Carême!” I exclaimed to the staff. “We should do it next year.”

“Yes! You can stay at my house!” one of the women offered. I OFFICIALLY LOVE CAPE BRETON.

Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It depends how much time you have at this point before dinner, but this is a great opportunity to explore the western part of the park and take lots of photos!

Get ready for the best meal of your trip — you’re going to Learn to Lobster Boil in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  You enjoy a lobster boil on the beach with Parks Canada guides, including Robert, who is the authority on cooking and eating lobster.

This is a great activity for people who are lobster aficionados like me and especially Cailin, but it’s extra special for people who live inland or have no idea how to eat a whole lobster. We were joined by a family of six from Alberta who had never eaten whole lobster before and were delighted. There’s no better introduction to eating lobster than cooking your own on the beach and being instructed by an expert!

(2023 update – Unfortunately, Parks Canada no longer offers this activity.)

There were a few differences in the lobster-cooking process here: they only use a few inches of water instead of filling the whole pot with water, and they GENEROUSLY salt the water. It basically has to be like cooking the lobster in the ocean.

And it paid off. This is the best lobster I have ever had. It was so incredibly fresh and succulent. And sharing it with an interesting group of travelers and Parks Canada guides made it even better.

This is usually done on the beach, but it was a rainy night, so they moved our group to an indoor/outdoor shelter. Don’t despair if rain is in the forecast!

Stay at Silver Linings Inn one more night.

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Three: Chéticamp to Dingwall

Before you hit the road, know that today will be the most rural part of your Cabot Trail road trip. Phone service will be its weakest along this part of the route, and there won’t be a lot of dining options. It’s best to plan ahead and double-check for opening days — don’t leave anything until the last minute! You may want to make your dinner reservation in advance.

In the morning, stop at Aucoin Bakery . Aucoin Bakery is a huge source of local pride for Chéticamp! Everyone raves about it. Silver Linings Inn uses Aucoin Bakery bread for their breakfast. Learn to Lobster Boil uses Aucoin Bakery rolls for their dinners. Nearly every local we met recommended that we stop here.

We grabbed some cinnamon buns and oatcakes — both delicious. Cailin was sampling oatcakes, a Nova Scotian delicacy, throughout Cape Breton, and we found that Aucoin Bakery had the largest and softest oatcakes of all.

Aucoin Bakery is small — there is almost no seating. It’s a better spot for picking up pastries and taking back to wherever you’re staying — or even to one of the picnic areas in the national park!

Next, drive through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This is a beautiful day of driving, and the Cabot Trail will take you through most of the park. There are lots of viewpoints and hiking trails just off the highway, but it’s nice just for driving through.

Have lunch at the Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay. With its jaunty fisherman waving you in with a lobster, the Rusty Anchor restaurant is a quintessential road trip stop! They’re especially known for their mussels and oysters. I sampled both and they were terrific!

Drive around and explore the local area. We checked into our accommodation at the Blue Bayou (see more on that below) and had lots of time to explore. This is a great area for getting off the Cabot Trail and exploring. If you have time, you can drive all the way to hilariously named Meat Cove, near the northern tip of Cape Breton. It’s about a 45-minute drive each way.

We stayed close by and checked out White Point, including the Normandy-esque white cliffs above. There is a hiking trail here too.

Have dinner at The Markland .  The Markland is one of the more upscale hotels in the area. We were originally supposed to eat at at restaurant that was closed, and this was one of few options in the area. They were booked up and we had to wait about an hour, but it was worth it to have YET ANOTHER DELICIOUS WHOLE LOBSTER and some lovely strawberry rhubarb pie.

Where to Stay in Dingwall: Blue Bayou Geodesic Domes

Ever wanted to sleep in a dome? Here’s your chance! The Blue Bayou Resort is a campground near Dingwall on the eastern shore of Cape Breton, right on the ocean. Rather than tents, this campground is filled with geodesic domes (as well as three tipis). Each deodesic dome has electricity, hot water, and a private bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower. Each contains two queen beds or a king bed. Domes from $229 CAD ($170 USD).

After I posted this, the most popular question I got asked was “Does it get hot?” During the day, it gets quite warm inside and smells a bit of plastic — but opening the screened-in windows makes a big difference. At night, it’s much cooler, and you’ll be ready to bundle underneath the covers. There is plenty of hot water, and you can easily get privacy by pulling down the curtains.

Do note that this is not a luxury glamping experience — it’s cool-looking, but simple. As someone who grew up camping and took her first steps in a tent, I thought it was a fun place to stay for a night; if you require a higher level of luxury, this place is going to be too basic for you. I loved waking up to the sound of raindrops the next day.

Find deals on Dingwall hotels here .

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Four: Dingwall to Baddeck

On this day, everything changes. You’ve left the Acadian, French-flavored part of Cape Breton and have entered the Celtic part of the island, complete with tartans and bagpipes and kilts. It feels so different from where you’ve been, but that’s the magic of the Cabot Trail. On this day we dealt with a lot of rain, but still managed to have a great time.

Get breakfast at Danena’s Bakery and Bistro . Danena’s is a small diner that doubles as a thrift shop. You can even eat amidst the piles of stuff for sale! We enjoyed a hearty Canadian breakfast here, perfect on a rainy day.

Explore the shops, cafes, and sights along the Cabot Trail. Since it was a rainy day, it seemed like a good opportunity to check out some of the local businesses! Luckily, the town of Ingonish was filled with lots of places to see, and we had been given suggestions from our new friends in Cape Breton.

Groovy Goat is a goat farm and soap company. Their products are made from goat milk, which makes them a good option for sensitive skin. You can buy all kinds of bath and skincare products here, and they operate a petting zoo when the weather is nicer.

Salty Rose’s is a beautiful shop featuring work by Nova Scotia artists. If I had been in a souvenir-buying mood (or house-furnishing mood), I would have bought everything from here. While you see a lot of folk art on the Cabot Trail, the selection here is more refined and modern.

Attached to Salty Rose’s is the Periwinkle Cafe .  A great place to relax with a hot beverage. They actually had lavender lattes and lavender London Fogs on the menu! I had a lavender latte, but be forewarned — they serve it with lavender seeds on top. I recommend removing the seeds or asking for no seeds on top — they taste too much like soap to me.

Stop at Keltic Lodge for lunch. The Keltic Lodge is home to some of the most high-end accommodation in the region and the best golf course in Cape Breton. It’s also one of the best Instagram spots on the Cabot Trail.

The restaurant features classic Canadian and American dishes — nothing too culturally significant, but a nice solid option.

Go whale watching with Ingonish Whale Tours . We were supposed to go whale watching, but it ended up being too rainy. But if you’re eager to see whales, Ingonish is one of the best spots for whale watching in Nova Scotia.

Check out Ingonish Beach. This beach is rocky until you get to the shoreline, where it’s filled with soft sand. It’s great on a beautiful day, but a moody day will get you some ethereal photos! What I really liked was the sound the water made as it ran over the rocks — such a gentle whisper. Time your visit during high tide if you want to hear it.

Head to Baddeck and visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site .  While I didn’t get to this Alexander Graham Bell museum on our trip, I’ve heard so many good things, including from Cailin — and small, tightly focused museums are my favorites!

Try some beers at Big Spruce Brewing . Breweries are popping up all over Nova Scotia, and Big Spruce is a nice one to visit if you’re in the town of Baddeck. It’s a cozy setting and they have board games. My favorite, not surprisingly, was the Silver Tart, the sour raspberry wheat beer…

Explore Baddeck. Or leave your exploring to the next morning, if you’d like. It’s a small but very pretty town.

Have dinner at Baddeck Lobster Suppers . This fun, friendly, and casual restaurant featured the best deal of our trip. You can choose between whole lobster (obviously), Atlantic salmon, Cape Breton snow crab, or strip loin steak, and you get that, plus unlimited mussels, plus unlimited seafood chowder, plus a dessert, plus a nonalcoholic beverage, plus tea or coffee, for $60 CAD ($45 USD).

Hell yeah, I jumped in. Then I quickly realized that they give you so many mussels that you probably won’t want to order a second serving!

Where to Stay in Baddeck: Inverary Resort

Our final accommodation, the Inverary Resort , was beautiful to look at — all dark wood with white trim and pops of color with Canada’s symbolic red chairs out in the sitting areas. We had a room with two queens for our final night. Rates from $159 CAD ($120 USD).

We had a comfortable sleep and a nice hot breakfast the next morning. And the grounds are absolutely beautiful — so peaceful. I wish I had more time to relax in one of those chairs with a book.

One caveat: originally we were given a room on the same floor as the pool and sauna, and the room reeked of mold and had a ground-floor window that didn’t close or lock. The staff moved us to another room, but if you want to stay here, I would request a room not on the floor with the pool and sauna.

Find deals on Baddeck hotels here .

Tips for Driving the Cabot Trail

Brake for moose. Keep an eye out for wildlife constantly, and if you see a moose, hit the breaks. Hitting a moose will likely kill you, as they are tall, weigh a ton, and will fall onto your windshield and crush you. It’s much more dangerous than hitting a deer.

I grew up in Massachusetts and camped in New Hampshire every summer, so “Brake for Moose” has been driven into my head since birth. (Even some guys at my theater camp were in a band called Brake for Moose.) This isn’t common knowledge if you’re not from an area with moose, so please take it seriously. Moose tend to congregate around the Skyline Trail.

Keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists. Especially be cautious when going around those hairpin turns in the eastern part of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Cabot Trail is a very popular spot for motorcyclists especially (and from what I noticed, French-speaking motorcyclists).

Get a Canadian SIM card. Having a phone signal will make your Cape Breton road trip much easier, especially when you’re navigating with Google Maps. I got a SIM card and data plan from Lucky Mobile. Signal is good in the larger towns but often drops out in more rural areas.

Internet is poor in this part of Nova Scotia. Phone signal is weak and often nonexistent, especially in the national park; some places (and hotels) have wifi with very limited reach. Basically, if you’re not within 20 feet of the router, the wifi probably won’t reach you.

If you’re working from the road, I recommend taking time off from work while you’re in Cape Breton. If you must work, I recommend bringing a wifi extender .

Prepare for rain — and don’t let it ruin your trip. You could luck out and have a perfectly sunny Cabot Trail road trip — or you could get a lot of rain. If you’re like us, you could have a mix of sunshine and rain.

But rain isn’t a deal-breaker. Cailin and I used rain as an opportunity to check out cool local businesses in the area — like the Salty Rose in Ingonish. You’ll always find interesting places to explore.

Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is vital for every trip, even in a country that has great healthcare like Canada. If you get injured while hiking, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin. I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Canada.

Best Instagram Spots on the Cabot Trail

So much of the Cabot Trail is beautiful — there are hundreds if not thousands of places where you can take beautiful shots.  But if you’re looking for the VERY best spots for Instagram photos, here are my recommendations:

1. The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  My pick for the absolute best Instagram spot on the Cabot Trail, if not Cape Breton. There are so many interesting shots you can get at the end of the trail, overlooking the mountains. Get the best light by going at sunset.

2. Curvy roads in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Most of the cartoon-like curvy roads are along the 30-minute drive between the entrance at Chéticamp and the Skyline Trail. Don’t pull over unless it’s in a designated parking area where you can pull over safely.

3. Keltic Lodge in Ingonish. The white cottages perched atop the red-brown cliffs are spectacular, whether it’s sunny or rainy. You can get them from another angle (albeit from a distance) at Ingonish Beach.

4. Between the rocks at Ingonish Beach. There is a boardwalk that leads to the beach through high piles of rocks. The symmetry makes for a great Moses-in-the-Red-Sea pose. The rocks make a great texture, too.

5. The moose ears in Englishtown.  Just for laughs! They’re right outside The Clucking Hen Cafe and Bakery .

Cape Breton Road Trip Packing List

If you’re traveling to Nova Scotia during the summer, pack for warm days and cool nights, with extra layers like fleeces and leggings. The weather can change frequently, and almost every day I wore some kind of cardigan, long-sleeved shirt or fleece on top.

Cape Breton is a very casual destination. I needed exactly ZERO nice pieces of clothing. While you might want to bring something nice to wear out in Halifax, you won’t need anything upscale here.

A light hooded rain jacket. A simple windbreaker like this one is easy enough to stash in your backpack and throw on when you need it. Much better than carrying an umbrella.

Hiking gear.  I usually hike in workout clothes; if you prefer something more specialized like zip-off pants, pack them. If you hike with poles, bring them. You’ll want the good stuff if you’re doing challenging hikes.

Hiking shoes. If you’re doing the Skyline Trail, which is pretty level, you can get away with sneakers or athletic sandals; if you’re doing anything more intense, you’ll want hiking boots. I wore my Merrill Siren Edge Q2 Waterproof Trail Runners , which are a great hybrid between sneakers and hiking boots.

Consider a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf .  These beautiful scarves have a hidden pocket in them, which is great for holding onto valuables or cash without carrying a purse. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they come in a variety of weights that work for Cape Breton.

Bathing suit.  It might be a little too cold to swim in Cape Breton — or not! You never know when you’ll need it, and you never know if there will be a jacuzzi somewhere.

A portable safe . This is a great way to lock up your valuables in your accommodation and I consider it the most important thing I pack .

A reusable water bottle . The water is safe to drink throughout Cape Breton and this cuts down on waste.

Insect repellant . Some of the areas get buggy, and you’ll be glad to have the protection.

Where Else to Go in Nova Scotia

Once you finish your road trip in Cape Breton, where do you go next?  There are plenty of options!

Louisburg. Louisburg is home to a historic village in the south of Cape Breton. Historic villages aren’t usually my thing, but I had a great time here (don’t miss the rum tasting!) and it’s definitely worth a stop if you love history.

Peace by Chocolate in Antigonish.  If you’re driving back to Halifax, Antigonish is an easy stop right off the highway. You may have heard of Peace by Chocolate — it’s a chocolate shop run by Syrian refugees who were chocolatiers before they were forced to flee their home country. They’ve built a new business in their new home of Canada. Justin Trudeau even brings their chocolate as gifts to other world leaders.

I loved stopping in and getting to chat with the lovely women. The Gold Bar in particular is SO decadently good! I bought a bunch of chocolate, thanked them in Arabic, and they were delighted and insisted on giving me even more chocolate.

Halifax and the surrounding area. Halifax is a fun city and worth a full day in its right. Ride the ferry to Dartmouth and sample ciders at Lake City Cider . The waterfront is an EXCELLENT place to hang out with a beer and some poutine. And you must try the infamous “ donair ” — a Halifax invention, similar to a doner kebab with a sweet white sauce.

I recommend spending a day doing a loop around the Halifax area. In a day you can visit Peggys Cove, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world and home to a beautiful village; Mahone Bay, a quintessential Nova Scotian village; and Lunenberg, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that is a lovely place to explore.

The Takeaway

When I was younger, I felt like the only destinations worth visiting were the most “exotic” ones.  That’s why I originally went off to Southeast Asia for six months and why I spent years racking up far-flung destinations. Why would I waste my time going somewhere like Canada?

I’m so glad I got over that. The older I get, the more I appreciate the beauty of more familiar places. Canada may not have scorching hot summers or street food meals for a dollar, but Canada is beautiful and entertaining and safe and full of surprises. As for Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail, it reminded me so much of my New England upbringing, then dazzled me with the most spectacular views and lobster.

Nova Scotia is waiting for you. It’s close by. And it’s fantastic.

More Atlantic Canada Adventures:

• Why You’ll Fall in Love with Newfoundland
• Quebec’s Best Islands: Iles-de-la-Madeleine
• Visiting St. Pierre and Miquelon
• My Favorite Experiences Cruising Atlantic Canada
• 5 Stunning National Parks in Quebec
• 1 Week Nova Scotia Itinerary: The South Shore

Cabot Trail Essential Info

Visits at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys are Monday to Friday only and must be booked in advance. Sometimes special arrangements can be made on weekends. $40 CAD ($30 USD) per adult and $20 CAD ($15 USD) per child under 10.

Admission to the Highland Village is $15 CAD ($11 USD) per adult, $12 CAD ($9 USD) per senior and $5 CAD ($6 USD) per child.

Admission to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is $8.50 CAD ($6 USD) per adult and $7.25 ($5 CAD) per senior per day, and free for kids. You can also get an annual Parks Canada Discovery Pass to all the parks for $72.25 CAD ($53 USD) per adult,  $61.75 CAD ($45 USD) per senior, and $145.25 CAD ($106 USD) per family.

In the park, the guided Skyline Trail sunset hike is $29.70 CAD ($22 USD) per participant.

Visiting Les Trois Pignons is free of charge!

Entry to the  Mi-Carême Interpretive Centre  is $5 CAD ($4 USD) per adult and $4 CAD ($3 USD) per senior or student. Painting a mask is $25 CAD ($19 USD) for a preformed mask and $80 CAD ($60 USD) for a papier-mâché mask.

Ingonish Whale Watching has fishing boat tours from $65 CAD ($48 USD) per person and zodiac tours from $65 CAD ($48 USD) per person.

Admission to the Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site is $8.50 CAD ($6 USD) per adult, $7 CAD ($5 USD) per senior, and free for youths.

Rates at Silver Linings Inn  in Chéticamp start at $149 CAD ($112 USD). Find deals on hotels in Chéticamp here .

Rates for domes at the Blue Bayou Resort  in Dingwall start at $229 CAD ($170 USD). Find deals on Dingwall hotels here .

Rates at Inverary Resort  in Baddeck start at $159 CAD ($120 USD). Find deals on Baddeck hotels here .

Travel insurance is vital for every trip, even in a country that has great healthcare like Canada. I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Canada.

This campaign is brought to you by Tourism Nova Scotia and Discover Cape Breton , who covered most of the costs during my time in Cape Breton. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you been to Nova Scotia? Would you like to do this road trip? Share away!

• Photo Gallery
• Travel Videos
• Destinations
• Travel Blogger Press Kit
• Marketing Tools
• Work With Us

Subscribe to the Road Tripper newsletter and receive a copy the “52 Tips to a Perfect Get-Away” e-booklet absolutely FREE!

Travel Tips

The perfect 7-day nova scotia road trip guide.

A Nova Scotia road trip is the perfect introduction into the Maritime region of Canada. Nova Scotia, which means “New Scotland” has a significant Scottish influence while also being known as Canada’s ocean playground.

I road tripped around many areas of Nova Scotia and have put together what I think is the perfect 7-day Nova Scotia Road Trip. If however you have more than a week to spare, you may want to also explore New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island, the other two regions of Maritime Canada. No matter how long your trip is, make sure to choose a dependable car that is suitable for road trips .

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day One

If you fly into the capital city of Halifax and it is late, you may want to stay the night at the Alt Hotel and start fresh the next morning. The Alt Hotel is one of the coolest airport hotels I’ve ever stayed. And, the car rental facility is located just a few hundred feet from the hotel.

Start your day off by exploring the small fishing village of Blue Rocks. This is a lesser-known area off the tourist beaten path of nearby Lunenburg. You can simply stroll the village and enjoy the scenic coastal drive. Or, time permitting; there is a kayak outfitter with tours to explore the area by the sea.

• Drive From Airport To Blue Rocks
• Drive Time: 1:20 minutes
• Distance: 73 miles
• Explore Time: 30 minutes

Less than 10 minutes from Blue Rocks is the UNESCO site of Lunenburg. This vibrant and colorful community dates to the 18 th and 19 th centuries, where the past mingles with the present. Tall ships are often moored in the harbor with horse-drawn rides taking visitors through the historic town. If you’re hungry, check out the Salt Shaker Deli for some seafood chowder.

Note: The best view of Lunenburg is on the other side of the harbor, down Tannery Road. There is a pullout that makes the perfect spot for photos.

• Drive From Blue Rocks To Lunenburg
• Drive Time: 10 minutes
• Distance: 5 miles
• Explore Time: At least 1 hour

Peggy’s Cove and its lighthouse is probably one of the most popular places in the province, and for good reason. The idyllic village is utterly charming and the photographic opportunities are boundless. Click the following link for a video and more information: Peggy’s Cove .

• Drive From Lunenburg To Peggy’s Cove
• Drive Time: 70 minutes
• Distance: 62 miles
• Explore Time: At least 45 minutes

The Westin Nova Scotian in downtown Halifax makes a great central resting spot for the next two nights. There is so much within walking distance that you won’t need to drive on Day 2 of this itinerary.

There are many places to eat near the Westin, however, if you just want to relax for the evening, the restaurant at the Nova Scotian is quite lovely.

Drive From Peggy’s Cove To downtown Halifax Drive Time: 50 minutes Distance: 28 miles

Road Trip Day Two

Directly across the street from the Westin is the oldest farmers market in North America (1750). On the second floor of the market is a coffee shop with a small deck overlooking the harbor…this is a spot to start the day.

Walking along the harbor pier is a must! The views, public art, street performers, shops and restaurants make this a lively place to explore.

A couple blocks up from the harbor are streets full of additional shopping and restaurants. Continuing straight up the hill is a Halifax landmark, the Citadel National Historic Site. This large hill overlooking the harbor below is what led the British to found the town in 1749. Among the first buildings constructed was a wooden guardhouse on top of what would eventually be called Citadel Hill, with Halifax’s first settlers building their homes at the base of the hill, closer to the water. The sweeping views are definitely worth the walk up.

If you’re interested in Titanic History, be sure to check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Here you will find that Halifax has many ties to the tragedy of 1912. About 5km from the museum is the Fairview Cemetery, where over 100 victims were laid to rest, in an ensemble that represents the shape of a ship. One of the gravesites is for a gentleman with the markings J. Dawson. Many people think this is “Jack Dawson,” the character played by Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie Titanic, but in fact, that character was fictionalized.

Another tie to the Titanic is a restaurant I would highly recommend, the Five Fishermen Restaurant—a fantastic venue for dinner and just a short walk from the Westin Nova Scotian.

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day Three

Head straight across the province to Grand Pre National Historic Site. This is another UNESCO site in Nova Scotia and honors Acadian history from the 18 th Century, many of whom were deported to New Orleans between 1755 and 1764.

Nearby is the Domaine de Grand Pre Winery , a wonderful place to take a stroll through the vineyards and taste some award-winning local wines.

• Drive From Downtown Halifax To Grand Pre
• Drive Time: 65 minutes
• Distance: 54 miles
• Explore Time: At least 1-2 hours depending if you go to both places

Seafood, and lobster in particular, are big business in Nova Scotia. An interesting experience to learn about the lobster industry is at Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound , which is located right on the famed Bay of Fundy. Here you can take a tour of the facility, while also getting to pick your own live lobster that will be prepared and delivered to your table. After lunch, this is a great place to take a stroll on the beach if the tide is out. You’ll also see a slew of fishing vessels on the harbor floor patiently waiting for the tide to rise.

• Drive From Grand Pre National Site To Hall’s Harbour
• Drive Time: 30 minutes
• Distance: 22 miles
• Explore Time: 60-90 minutes

Head to Pictou for the night. I stayed at the Pictou Lodge and Beach Resort . The location is fantastic, with stunning views, great grounds and a wonderful beach. Note: The accommodations are on the rustic side and have not been updated in a very long time. The lodge is pretty cool and the restaurant serves great food.

• Drive From Hall’s Harbour To Pictou Lodge
• Drive Time: 2:45 hours
• Distance: 140 miles

Road Trip Day Four

Pictou is known as the birthplace of “New Scotland” Nova Scotia. Drive to downtown from the Lodge and be sure to check out the Hector Heritage Quay , a living history attraction that tells the story of 18-Century Scottish migration to the area. Touring the replica ship in the harbor really puts in perspective the arduous journey that took place over two hundred years ago.

Head east along the coast toward Arisaig. Along the way (about 40 minutes from Pictou) you will see Big Island Road. Head north toward the water and you will drive across a very cool stretch of road with water on both sides. There is a wide spot in which you can pull over and walk along the beach on one side of the road. When I was there, there wasn’t a soul in sight and I only saw two vehicles drive down the road. The road leads to Big Island, an area I did not explore, but if you have the time, it might be worth checking out.

A little farther down Shore Road is Arisaig, an area full of artisan studios. Also in the area is Steinhart Distillery , which has gained fame for its maple-flavored vodka. Well worth a stop for a tour and a tasting.

• Drive From Pictou To Arisaig
• Drive Time: 50 minutes
• Distance: 46 miles
• Explore Time 1-2 hours

One of my favorite lighthouses in all of Nova Scotia was at Cape George Point, about 18 miles east of Steinhart Distillery . A dirt road winds itself around a mountain face until finally the lighthouse reveals itself. Unlike most of the other lighthouses around Nova Scotia, Cape George is on a high elevation overlooking the sea. This is a wonderful place to take in the views, have a picnic, or just walk around and explore.

Make your way to Guysborough for the night. There are several charming inns to stay at, I happened to call it a night at DesBarres Manner Inn , which I would certainty recommend. The inn is situated on 6 acres and dates back to 1873. This historic inn has been nicely restored with elegant common areas and spacious rooms. The accommodations are marvelous with a superb on-site restaurant.

• Drive From Cape George To Guysborough
• Drive Time: 1:10 hours
• Distance: 55 miles

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day Five

Guysborough is definitely one of those ‘off the beaten path’ destinations. There are not a lot of amenities in the area, but the quiet shoreline leads road trippers to romantic seaside villages where traditions and legends of the sea come alive. The rugged coastline is littered with glorious beaches that provide the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. There are nearby parks, hiking trails, kayaking, birding and other activities to take in while exploring this area.

I should mention that this part of the eastern shore of Nova Scotia has a lot of rugged un-paved back roads, so do explore with caution. Personally, this is just the types of area I enjoy checking out, those that are lesser known to tourists.

From Guysborough, head to Sherbrooke Village , an extraordinary living history museum that depicts life in the mid to late 19 th Century. The village is quite large with interpreters throughout brining history alive. Each of the authentic buildings have interpreters wearing period attire and are often working on creating goods from the era, such as a blacksmith, woodworker, crochet to a photographer using original techniques. This is a fantastic experience for both young and old.

• Drive From Guysborough To Sherbrooke
• Drive Time: 1:05 hours
• Distance: 51 miles
• Explore Time: 2-3 hours in Guysborough and surrounding area. 2-3 hours in Sherbrooke Village

From Sherbrooke you could head to Liscombe Lodge Marina for the night like I did. The location is fantastic, right on the Liscombe River surrounded by lush trees. While the secluded setting is wonderful, the lodge and its accommodations are dated, so keep that in mind. There is a lot to do at the Liscombe Lodge, from nearby and back-country hiking trails, biking, canoeing to swimming.  You may also opt to take a boat tour of the river with captain Chester, who has been employed by the lodge for over 40 years. The lodge also has a nice on-site restaurant so you don’t need to leave the property.

• Drive From Sherbrooke To Liscombe
• Drive Time: 22 minutes
• Distance: 17 miles

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day Six

After breakfast at the Liscombe Lodge you may want to go kayaking, take a hike or partake in some of the other on-site recreational options.

If you stepped back in time at Sherbrooke Village the day before, you may want to take a stroll down Memory Lane Heritage Village . This attraction is somewhat similar to Sherbrooke, but celebrates an era about a hundred years later, the 1940s.

Memory Lane Village is also considerably smaller than Sherbrooke, but still a really cool place to explore. Visitors enter via the General Store to pay the admission fee, and then you are release out into the village to explore the bike shop, the ship building area and much more. There are some beautiful 1940s vehicles on site as well as other artifacts from the era. After perusing the grounds, you may want to stop by the cookhouse for some authentic buffet style chow.  The food prepared features baked beans, fresh soups, homemade brown bread, gingerbread cookies and coffee, tea, or lemonade.

• Drive From Liscombe To Memory Lane Heritage Village
• Drive Time: 84 minutes
• Distance: 68 miles
• Explore Time: 1.5-2 hours

After strolling down memory lane, my next suggestion will surely get your adrenal going, it’s called tidal bore rafting.  This is a truly unique experience, and, Nova Scotia is one of the only places in the world you can do this activity (be sure to watch the video above to see it in action).

In a nutshell, tidal bore rafting is a group of people in a small Zodiac boat with a highly experienced captain. Excursions are timed based on the changing tide. Your captain will cruise upstream the nearby river with a massive sand bar in the middle. Once beyond the sand bar, the caption will check his watch to see how much time until the tidal bore arrives. Once it passes by, it isn’t long before the channel begins to fill up and create massive waves over the sand bar. Once this occurs, the captain will navigate the boat down the rapids for a thrilling ride.

Many aspects of tidal bore rafting may seem unpleasant or even scary, but trust me, you’ll be telling all your friends about this exciting and unique experience.

Depending on the day and time you raft the tidal bore, you may want to stay the night in a cozy cottage right there at the Tidal Bore Rafting Resort . Situated on 180 acres of wilderness, there are a number lodging choices, some over looking the majestic Shubenacadie River while you can see the tidal bore pass by.

• Drive From Memory Lane Village To Urbania
• Distance: 52 miles
• Explore Time: 2.5 hours

Nova Scotia Road Trip Day Seven

The last day of this road trip could be spent lounging around at the Tidal Bore Rafting Resort. Or, do a little exploring on your own en route to the airport. Depending on what time your flight is, you could return your rental car and hang out at The Alt Hotel for dinner, or, stay the night and leave the next day. This way you can rest a bit before having to go back to the real world after such an amazing adventure traveling around Nova Scotia.

• Drive From Urbania To the Halifax Stanfield Airport
• Distance: 28 miles

If you have any questions about doing a Nova Scotia road trip, please feel free to leave a comment below. Or, if you have any suggestions on places not to miss or stay, please include that as well. Click here to see more of my photos from this Nova Scotia road trip.

Mike Shubic

Tags: Canada Road Trip , Canadian Road Trip , Maritime Canada Road Trip , Nova Scotia , Nova Scotia Canada , Nova Scotia road trip , Road Trip Canada , Road trip Nova Scotia

78 Comments

I’d love to do this road trip! I went to Newfoundland last year, and would love to go back to the eastern end of Canada for more exploring!

Hi Bryna…You should! It really is fantastic. I too have road tripped around central Newfoundland and enjoyed that too, however good lodging is an issue, but the scenery was stunning. Thanks so much for stopping by. All the best, Mike

We live in such a beautiful.province but so etimes take its beauty for granted. Thanks for your article. You have suggested some spots that I have yet to get to as a life long resident! Of course, you will have to come back to explore as there are so many more phenomenally scenic spots to explore and interesting adventures to be had! Well-written and informative article. Thank you for posting!

Hi Doris…thank you so much for taking the time to leave a message. You do indeed live in an amazing place and I’m glad I could inspire a few new places for you to visit. You are correct, I have a lot more that I could explore and hope to come back again one day soon to check it out. Thanks again for stopping by. Cheers, Mike

What’s other places can you suggest a tourist visits in the province? As I am interested in visiting.

Hi Akin, I can’t really because this is the extent of the time I had exploring in the week that I had. I have recommended all the best places/things to do (in this region that is). You can also search my site for other Maritime provinces as well. I have road trip guides and videos on PEI, New Brunswick and even Newfoundland.

The Annapolis Valley is a must! The Wolfville/ Grand Pré area has a lot to offer with all of the wineries and miseries along with Barreling Tide Distillery and the Wayfarer’s Brewery in Port Williams. Travel on Highway 1 all the way to Annapolis Royal, a place whose history dates to 1605! From there, head to Brier Island for Whale Watching! The Bay of Fundy is host to lots of whales. From there, make your way to Yarmouth via the District of Clare which is an Acadian Region. Spend at least a night in Yarmouth before traveling along rte 3 ( the Lighthouse route) towards the Pubnicos and Barringron., considered the lobster capital. Then , head to historic Shelburne and dine at Charlotte’s Lane. From there, continue to Liverpool, the museum town of the south shore. Visit the Keji Seaside Adjunct wilderness park! Follow the Lighthouse Rte to ..

Hi Gren, thank you so much for sharing all this info, very helpful for my next trip! Which I hope is soon. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Mike

As a resident of Nova Scotia you have hit on the tourist areas that is found on many highlights of our province. I would like to mention to tourists that Nova Scotia has more to offer than you can find on any web sight or Google Search. There are many areas along the Eastern shore untouched and beautiful that you won’t find in a book or article. Please come back again and ask areas what they have to offer that isn’t in any tourist book. Nova Scotia is more than Peggy’s Cove and Halifax.

Hi Judy…thanks so much for your feedback. Yes, some of the spots are well known, and for good reason. Others, like Guysborough are lesser known. I agree with you and your points are well taken. I would absolutely love to come back and discover some areas that people are not talking about.

very interesting ,can you please list some of those places, am very interested in it

Love your article, especially the fact that you covered Guysborough and surrounding areas. This beautiful part of Nova Scotia is often ignored. Next time stop by the Authentic Seacoast Destillery and Brewery in Guysborough for some delicious rum, and stay in Charles Cove at the Seawind Landing. And yes, riding the Tidal Bore is an experience of a lifetime, glad you covered it!

Hi Alice…thank you so much! I really appreciate that. I do like to try and cover some lesser known areas. I tried twice to stop by the distillery, but they seemed uninterested in giving me a tour. No kidding, that Tidal Bore rafting was one wild experience. Thanks so much for stopping, but, really appreciate it. All the best, Mike

I’m surprised that you did not include Capr Breton Highland, the drive around the eastern part, Bedec, Louisburg, etc.

Hi Magdalene…well, I only had a week. I really hope to make it back and explore those regions as well. Thank you so much for stopping by, and for the suggestions.

hi Mike do you have one for PEI???

Hey Mary, I sure do! https://mikesroadtrip.com/pei-road-trip-guide Let me know if I can answer any questions. Cheers, Mike

Again the south western part of the province is totally ignore . I understand you only have 7 days but you are missing this important fishing and historical area; not to mention the whales !

Hi Mary Ann. I would love to come back just to visit the south western part…maybe this summer. Who doesn’t love seeing those majestic whales!

I’ve been to Nova Scotia for a week before, but I only stayed around Halifax because I went in February. Next time, I want to come in the summer.

Hi Sabrina…yeah, a summer road trip is definitely in order. 😉

Hi Mike! You have given me some ideas for my next trip!! I live on the south shore of Nova Scotia with its beautiful white sand beaches be sure to check this area and the French Shore Annapolis Valley on your next Nova Scotian Adventure.

Hey Lorraine…I am so happy to hear that! Thank you so much for stopping by, I really appreciate it. Hope you’ll check out some of my other road trip adventures. 😉

I love Nova Scotia. Raised in the Annapolis Valley but moved to Ontario in my early teens. Really appreciate the awesome beauty every time I go back. Was on quite a road trip myself last year and visited many of the spots you named. Heading back again this Sept.

Hey Wendy…me too! Oh, how cool. Hope you have a fantastic time. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing a bit of your experiences.

I am definitely going Memory Lane! This looks like an awesome vacation Mike. The countryside, the lighthouses, seemed the tidal bore rafting… I can’t wait for my next vacation.

Oh, it really is! You’d love it!

Me and the family are going!

I’m so glad I could inspiring you! 😉

I was quite disappointed to not see Digby. Digby Neck and Long & Brier Islands. We have 4 lighthouses just on the islands alone as well as Balancing Rock and Whale Watching. http://digbyarea.ca/digby-area-visitors-guide/

Hey Tina. Yeah, I hear ya…only so much one can cover in a week, especially in Nova Scotia. Now, when I spent a week on PEI, I could cover a lot more ground as it is so much smaller. I really appreciate you reading and watching the video though, and, for sharing your suggestions. Really appreciate it. Hopefully I’ll be able to make it back to Nova Scotia again one day soon. Cheers!

Hi Mike – This is fantastic! We’ve been wanting to explore the Maritimes, and this itinerary is a big help in planning. Can’t wait to explore Memory Lane – that sounds like fun. The biggest question now is whether to go in summer, or try to time it for fall foliage. Either way, looking forward to it!

Hey Rob and Ann…thank you so much. So glad you found it helpful. I don’t think you can go wrong either in summer or fall. When I was there it was late summer and you could just start to see the leaves change, I can only imagine how beautiful it must be. BTW, I have road trip guides to New Brunswick and PEI, so if you have the time, check those out as well. Cheers, Mike

On the way back from Lunenburg, always stop into Mahone Bay, wonderful shops including the best shoe store, and yummy cafe/restaurants with great food and views of the water. Then Queensland Beach or Bayswater Beach for sandy beach and dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

Hi Mary…thank you so much for sharing the tip. I love it when readers share their experiences/suggestions. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers!

Hi Mike! My husband and I are planning to drive to Nova Scotia from Ottawa in middle of August! We’re planning on camping all the way down there! Do you know of any good campsites in Nova Scotia we can just stop for a night without reserving? Thank you! Cheers Elaine

Hi Elaine…wow, that sounds like a wonderful trip! I’m afraid I don’t have any suggestions. From my experience, camping in the east requires reservations because the sites full up so fast. That’s disappointing I know, because you just want to go off and explore and not be subject to having to stay at a particular place. I hope it turns out great though and you both have a wonderful time. Cheers, Mike

Shouting out for the Southwestern region of Nova Scotia…stunning coastline…world class beaches! See Queens, Shelburne, Yarmouth & Digby Counties!!!! You can have a magnificent itinerary in this part of the province alone.

Hi Jane…thank you so much for stopping by and providing some additional suggestions. I would love to see that part of the province one of these days. All the best, Mike

My husband and I are planning on a 2 week trip to Nova Scotia and are considering traveling the last week in August. We want to see as much of the area as possible and prefer roads less traveled. Also, we both live rocks and fossils.

Hey Susan, I hope this Nova Scotia road trip guide and video was of some use. Let me know if you have any questions. Hope you have a wonderful trip. Cheers, Mike

Sounds like you need to stop at the fossil cliffs in Joggins. They’re a UNESCO world heritage site. If you enjoy hiking a stop at Cape Chignecto is Advocate Harbour is well worth the drive. The views of the Bay of Fundy are outstanding.

Hi Beth, thank you so much for the suggestion. I’ll make note of that the next time I visit. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Mike

So happy I found your blog while doing research for my trip in early September! Quick question if you don’t mind, instead of staying at the airport Alt Hotel, could I stay in Halifax the first night and still fit in the day one plan you described? Based on flights, I should be getting into Halifax in mid-afternoon and would rather not stay in the airport. Thanks!

Hi Sue…I am too! 😉 I think it all depends on your flight times, that’s why I put the suggestion of staying at the Alt at the hotel. That, and it really is a cool airport hotel, one of the best I’ve stayed at. Hope you have a fantastic time. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Mike

How is this road trip and hotels etc for an elderly person using a wheelchair – not wheelchairbound but cannot walk far. How well do you feel the disabled are catered for generally in NS? Thanks.

Hi Nina…to be honest, it’s hard for me to say since I was not looking at it through that lens. If I had to guess, I would say fairly well. You might want to contact the Nova Scotia Tourism office to double check and ask specific questions though. Hope you get a chance to make it there, it’s a lovely province. All the best and thanks for stopping by. Cheers, Mike

You have missed the entire North Shore, Truro, the Hub of Nova Scotia, and Cape Breton. You didn’t even mention Issac’s Harbour in the Guysborough area.This is a 7 day road trip around selected parts of NS.

So I did. If you haven’t noticed, it’s a large province and a person can only do so much in a week.

We are planning a road trip in Late Aug. we have friends in Halifax so we will start there. Your road trip looks fascinating and we are looking forward to following in your “tire tracks”.

Oh, very cool. You’ll love it. Great time of year. Haha…hope you do, you will have a wonderful time. All the best, Mike

I am coming for two weeks from Scotland in July with my family 3 boys (2 teenagers and a 9yr old) can’t wait! Staying with family in Halifax then Chester then Digby enjoyed reading your post! How’s the weather in summer and costs for eating out etc? Thanks

Hi Marianne…that’s great, you’ll have a fantastic time. Weather is fantastic in the summer, mild, about 75f/24c. Coming from Scotland I think you’ll find the prices fair, not too expensive. Have a wonderful time.

Hi Mike; Congrats on hitting some great spots in Nova Scotia; you have made a good start and now have many reasons to return as there are even more hideaway and exotic locales yet to find! If you would like to do a bit more research on what is available, we have a free travel app you might enjoy that is available on the iTunes App Store and Google Play called “Ride Atlantic Canada”. My husband and I have been welcoming motorcycle travellers to find Nova Scotia’s hidden treasures for the past 18 years. You will find detailed mapping, route descriptions, mileage and time charts all inside. It was primarily designed with motorcyclists in mind…but we all use the same roads. Cheers and keep up the good work!

Hi Wendy…thanks so much for stopping by and for the kudos. Thanks as well for the information. Cheers, Mike

where can I find the map with your itinerary in Nova Scotia? Thanks!

For some reason I did not include a map. I will have to look into doing this. Thank you for the reminder. I will let you know when I update. In the meantime, let me know if I can answer any other questions. Cheers, Mike

Hi Mike! Thanks for this; very helpful! I will be traveling alone with my 4 year old son….is this do-able with a young kid? Looks like lots of driving. Thanks 🙂

Hi Heather…so glad you enjoyed the piece. Yes, I think it would be find for a young child, the driving in between towns is not that far, you can make it as long or as short as you want. I tend to like to stop a lot during the day, but if you want to pick up the pace, just stop less often. Hope you get a chance to experience it one day soon. Cheers, Mike

I have six days & never been to NS, would you suggest heading to Cabot Trail and doing the loop & staying there over touring Halifax itself?

Hi Raed…I have not been to Cabot Trail, but have heard it is simply amazing. If you only have 6 days, you will probably need at least 3 for Cabot, so that doesn’t leave much for the mainland. Touch choice as there is so much to see. Even at 6 days you would only be able to see part of the mainland as I did. Maybe do the Cabot Trail for 2-3 days, then spend 3-4 days in the northern part of the mainland. Hope you have a wonderful trip.

Mike….I’m taking a road trip to Nova Scotia in a few weeks. Are there maybe 2 locations/regions you might recommend to stay for a few nights/day each. I like to have a home base and do day trips. I’m also going to New Brunswick….time is not an issue. I can do a week or a month depending on how I feel. I will be arriving by car from Maine. I hope to take the ferry from Campobello to New Brunswick before the end of September. Thanks for any info.

Hey Pam, thanks for stopping by. Oh, you’re going to have a great time. You can search the site for lots of content on PEI and New Brunswick as well, some of which have videos. Not knowing your interests, budget, etc, it’s tough to say. I think Halifax would be a great home base for a few days if you like more urban stuff. It’s a fantastic city and some great nearby day-trips, such as to Peggy’s Cove. I did not make it to Cape Breton, but hear it is amazing, so maybe a few days there. If you’re looking for something a bit more rural Guysborough has some nice inns and might be a good place to call home for a couple days exploring the area. Don’t miss Sherbrooke if you go to this area. In New Brunswick, I REALLY loved Grand Manan and St. Andrews. Oh, and Moncton is really cool too. Hope that helps, let me know if I can answer any other questions.

Hi Mike! Like Pam, above, we are planning a driving trip to NS in May for about a week to ten days. We will be arriving by ferry from Maine, and we are two older women with disabilities, so road trips are great for us. Hiking not so much. Will we have time to see interesting sites? We don’t mind changing areas every day or two. And will we have time to go to Antagonish? Thanks!

Wonderful information and what a great video!

Thank you. Glad to be of help.

This looks and sounds like a wonderful trip. Oh, and we loved your video on Nova Scotia as well, so professional.

So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for stopping by.

Mike. We would love to do this trip with a camper van so we don’t have to stay in hotels. Do you know of places where we could stay-campsites or just off the road spots? We don’t need water hook up. Thanks

Hi Dena, thanks for stopping by. That sounds like a fun trip. While I can’t really help with your request, I don’t think you should have much trouble finding camping spots, it is a pretty wide open province. This website might be helpful: https://www.campingnovascotia.com/rvparks-campgrounds/find-campgrounds/ Cheers, Mike

Fantastic road trip guide to Nova Scotia. My boyfriend and I are planning to visit in a few months and found your article very helpful. We enjoyed the video too. Thank you, Marisa

Glad to be of help. Hope you both have a great time.

Fantastic post and video, thanks for sharing My wife and I are planning a trip in a couple of months.

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for stopping by.

Comments are closed.

Novel: Lines, Signs & Forks

Featured road trips, roadside attractions, travel experiences, most road tripped man in the world, latest posts.

Our fantastic Nova Scotia Road Trip – 3 day itinerary

Nova Scotia in the early summer offered sunny days and sparkling water but not too many crowds. We’d already spent a couple of days exploring the provincial capital of Halifax , with historic attractions, harbour front walks and city buzz. Now we drove out of the city for a 3 day Nova Scotia road trip to see some other attractions.

Nova Scotia is one of the three provinces that make up Canada’s Maritime region. The ocean is never far away, with lighthouses set on the wild south shore and lobster on almost every menu. But we drove onward to Nova Scotia’s north shore we discovered a softer side to this Maritime province.

A rocky coastline gave way to the rolling vineyards of the Annapolis valley. The coast here is more sheltered in the Bay of Fundy, known for having the highest tidal range in the world, with gentle mud flats and shallow mirrors of water at low tide. Read on to discover all the fun things we enjoyed during our 3 days in Nova Scotia.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Nova Scotia road trip – Day 1

Peggy’s cove.

Peggy’s Cove was the first stop after Halifax, one of Nova Scotia’s prettiest attractions and a magnet for the photographers. If you get one picture that epitomises Nova Scotia it has to be Peggy’s Cove lighthouse! This picture postcard fishing village is set at the entrance to St Margaret’s Bay which provides sheltered harbours and inlets for sailing boats.

The village still has working fishermen, with their lobster pots and nets piled on the shore. But many of the old fishing shacks and painted wooden houses are now charming gift shops and artists studios. Entering the village we found a visitor centre and car park, then walked down the hill towards the cove.

You may also enjoy: Discovering Acadian culture in Nova Scotia, Canada

Peggy’s Cove sits on a bed of grey white granite, which becomes obvious when you reach the lighthouse. On this windswept shore, the houses stand alone and compact, with steeply pitched roofs to prevent snow building up in winter. If you need accommodation near Peggy’s Cove you are probably best to stay as we did in one of the hotels in Halifax .

You may also enjoy: How to drive an RV from Toronto to Montreal (our top tips)

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

On our way to the lighthouse, we stopped at U-Cook Lobster . The mobile lobster van is parked to teach visitors how to cook and eat lobster (which can be tricky if you don’t know how!) We got a chance to handle the lobsters with the claws safely secured, although we didn’t cook or eat any since we were too early for lunch. So our lucky lobster lived for another day.

Continuing down the road, we reached the lighthouse, only 10 minutes walk away. We spent a while walking over the rocks and around the iconic lighthouse which is the most photographed in Canada.

If you don’t have a car, this day tour around Halifax also includes an excursion to Peggy’s Cove, with time to look around. 

It’s a pretty spot to sit with a picnic. But be sure to stay clear of any wet rocks by the seashore as rogue waves can wash up suddenly. There are several art galleries and shops as well as The Sou’Wester restaurant set just above the lighthouse, where naturally lobster and seafood is a specialty.

More info: Peggy’s Cove Region | Allow 1-2 hours for your visit | Driving time from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove is 45 min on Route 333

Mahone Bay – a great coffee stop

Continuing from Peggy’s cove towards Lunenburg along the South Shore, we passed through the pretty town of Mahone Bay. It’s a good place to stop for coffee or lunch on your Nova Scotia 3 day itinerary. For a postcard photo, take a shot of Mahone Bay from across the water as you drive into town, where you can see the three churches all in a row, their spires reflected in the water of the bay.

You may also enjoy: Delicious Canadian food – 40 food experiences to make you fall in love with Canada!

This historic settlement has plenty of pretty old houses from the 1800s when fishing and shipbuilding flourished in the sheltered bay. The Mi’kmaq people lived here, but from the 1750s the British colonised the area, encouraging settlers from Germany and Switzerland to come and make a new life here.

Old buildings have been converted to cafes and gift shops and we took a break here for a quick bite to eat at Jo-Ann’s Deli and Bakery . There’s plenty of parking along the waterfront and behind some of the businesses, so it makes an easy stop on your Nova Scotia road trip. If you’d like to stay in Mahone Bay, take a look at these charming guest houses available . 

Stay at the Kitch’inn Boutique Inn and Wine Bar in Mahone Bay

More info: Visit Mahone Bay website | Allow around 1 hour for a quick visit | Driving time from Peggy’s Cove to Mahone Bay 1 hr 5 mins

Lunenburg – historic fishing port

From Mahone bay, it didn’t take long to arrive in Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well preserved old houses and ship-building heritage. This is certainly a place you could stay for a few days, with lots of interesting small shops, waterfront cafes, foodie experiences and the Fisheries Museum on the waterfront.

We started our visit with an excellent Essential Lunenburg tour from Lunenburg Walking Tours , starting at the Lunenburg Academy, originally the town’s high school but now under renovation to become a community and arts centre.

You may also enjoy: 10 fun things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

The colourful houses of Lunenburg

Walking through the oldest part of town, we passed the modest cabins built by German settlers on an ordered grid system. These original cottages, now renovated and painted are very much sought after.

Our guide Ashlee from Lunenburg Walking Tours , an eighth generation Lunenburger, told us that the fashion for the more vibrant coloured houses is quite recent. The traditional colour was black and white, since these paint colours were easily available in the shipyards.

St John’s Anglican church was one of the stops, a Lunenburg landmark that had been virtually destroyed in a fire in 2001. Despite the devastation, the church was faithfully restored in a 4 year rebuilding project that cost over $6 million CAD. It now stands in its full glory, surrounded by a village green.

We really enjoyed the walking tour of Lunenburg which gave us so many stories and insights into the town’s history – you can book the same tour with Lunenburg walking tours here .

Blue Nose II in Lunenburg

Further down the hill on the waterfront, we admired Blue Nose II , a replica of the famous schooner built in Lunenburg. After winning the prestigious Fisherman’s Race in 1921 she became a Canadian icon, even featuring on the Canadian 10 cents coin. The schooners were fishing boats built for speed, since the first ship to return to port from the Grand Banks fishing grounds would achieve the best price for their catch.

In 1946 the original Blue Nose foundered on a reef, but the people of Lunenburg felt such affection, that a replica Blue Nose II was built in 1963. The ship is now a Nova Scotia sailing ambassador, offering the chance for young Canadians to join the crew for 6 months at a time and learn about sailing.

Just along the waterfront is the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic . Its red painted warehouses now exhibit collections from the early Mi’kmaq fishermen to the present day. We especially enjoyed going on board some of the old fishing boats on the wharf that are part of the museum.

On the Cape Sable we chatted to one of the retired fisherman who volunteer at the museum. Looking around the rather spartan living quarters on board the trawler we concluded there’s not much luxury to be found on a fishing boat!

Stay at the Sail Inn near the waterfront in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

More info: Explore Lunenburg | Driving time from Peggy’s Cove to Lunenburg 1hr 20 mins

Stay at The Brigantine Inn in Lunenburg

Our one night stay was spent at the Brigantine Inn , a charming guest house overlooking the Lunenburg waterfront. The guest rooms are on the two upper floors with the Grand Banker Bar and Grill at waterfront level. HMS Rose was the name of our comfortable room, after the replica in our room of the 18th century Royal Navy Frigate built in Lunenburg.

From our bedroom at the Brigantine Inn , we could relax in the easy chair in the bay window offering a perfect view of the waterfront. Such windows on old houses looking out to sea are known as the widow’s watch , where wives might wait anxiously for the return of their husband’s fishing boats.

Stay on the waterfront at the Brigantine Inn located in Old Town Lunenburg

Dinner at The Grand Banker Bar and Grill

The Grand Banker Bar and Grill , where we ate in the evening, specialises in seafood. Choose from chowder, seafood stew, fish cakes, scallops and of course lobster on the menu.

The bar is also known for its wide selection of craft beers with live beers on tap. Owner Adam is a professional sommelier who told us that he hopes to start his own brewery. The Grand Banker is closed in the mornings, so we took our breakfast next door at the pretty Savvy Sailor Cafe .

Nova Scotia Road Trip – Day 2

Hall’s lobster pound.

Our 3 day itinerary in Nova Scotia took us next to Hall’s Harbour, a small fishing hamlet located in the Bay of Fundy. This protected bay is known for the highest tidal range in the world, with a 40 feet or more variation between low and high tide.

The tide was high when we visited, but it flows in and out of the basin twice daily. At low tide the fishing boats rest on the muddy bottom at low tide.

We planned to stop for lunch at Hall’s Harbour Lobster pound since seafood and lobsters are a BIG thing in Nova Scotia. A lobster pound is where lobsters are brought in from the fishing boats to be sorted and then sent out to the seafood restaurants of Canada.

In the UK we think of lobster as an expensive delicacy. But we discovered that in the past the lobsters were so plentiful here that they could be gathered on the shore. A generation or two ago lobsters were considered a poor man’s food, and children would rather be sent to school with a spam sandwich than a lobster roll!

Our tour of the lobster pound demonstrated how the lobsters are brought in from all over Nova Scotia. They are held in sea water pools, before being sized, sorted and sent to fish markets all over the world. Holding the giant lobster was a little unnerving, even though its claws were safely taped up, to avoid any risk of losing a finger!

Our Lobster Lunch

Next we tried the “Lobster in the rough” dining experience. This involves choosing your lobster, which is then sent to the cookhouse and served up to you in the restaurant. Although my paper table mat gave me full instructions on how to eat a lobster, I felt a bit apprehensive about all the claw breaking and meat picking involved, so I ordered a lobster roll instead.

Lobster roll is a typical lunchtime dish, with lobster meat mixed with mayo in a fresh bread roll, served with coleslaw and creamy potato salad on the side. The Canadian portions make it a hearty lunch where we knew the lobster was super fresh!

More info: Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound | Allow 1 hour for a visit or a bit more if you like to linger over lunch | Driving time from Lunenburg to Hall’s Harbour 1 hr 30 mins on Route 12

The Blomidon Look off

We took a local’s tip on our way back to Wolfville. driving the road towards Blomidon. Along the edge of the ridge is a point known as the Look off or viewpoint. Parking by the road we had an amazing view over the fertile farmland of the Annapolis Valley and the sheltered Minas basin beyond.

Sandwiched between two high ridges (we were standing on one of them) the Annapolis Valley enjoys a warm microclimate, making it ideal for apple and wine growing. Fertile soil of the river valley creates great produce that is sold in the local farmer’s markets. The Annapolis Valley is a favourite foodie destination, as we were about to find out.

More info: From Hall’s Harbour we headed south on Route 359, then took the side road towards Glenmont and Blomidon. The Lookoff is around 15 minutes drive from Hall’s Harbour.

Starr’s Point Agrotourism Loop

Before arriving at Wolfville we took a short detour around the Starrs Point Loop. This is where a group of artisan food producers have created an agritourism trail, on the north shore of the meandering Cornwallis River.

The “Loop” is circular route that you can drive, walk or cycle. Stopping at wineries, farms and cafes along the way, it’s a perfect way for foodies like us to spend an afternoon!

If you want to visit the Annapolis Valley without having to drive yourself (so you can indulge in a glass or two!) we recommend this Nova Scotia day tour . The tour includes visits to Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg and the vineyards of the Annapolis Valley.

Planter’s Ridge Winery

Planter’s Ridge Winery was our first stop, since I’d seen their wines in the farmer’s market in Halifax. The 150 year old timber framed barn had been renovated to make a modern tasting room with a patio overlooking the vineyards. We were welcomed to an impromptu tasting, with wine and cider to purchase by the glass or the bottle.

You may also enjoy: A foodie guide to Victoria, Canada

Fox Hill Farm dairy

Only a little further down the road, we were tempted up the drive by the hand-painted cow on the sign for Fox Hill Farm . The sixth generation family farm produces several different styles of cheese and gelato using the milk of their Holstein and Jersey cows. Safe to say, we couldn’t leave without trying a scoop of their creamy gelato flavours. They are also available at the farm deli in take home containers!

Prescott House Museum

From the road we spotted the charming Acacia Grove , an elegant Georgian house that was once the home to apple grower and horticulturist Charles Prescott in the first half of the 19th century. The house was purchased and restored in the 1930s by Prescott’s great grand daughter.

She and her sisters lived there in a gracious home filled with antiques, oriental rugs and samplers. The Prescott House Museum is open June to October but sadly were a little too early in the season and the museum was closed.

More foodie stops

We continued past the Willowbank U-pick Farm , an apple and fruit growing farm that is open in September and October. You can play at being a homesteader and pick your own apples, pumpkins and other autumn fruit. Also along this route you can find Wood ‘n’ Hive honey which produces local honey and honey products.

At Barrelling Tide Distillery they make gin and fruit liqueurs and at Wayfarer’s Ale Society we were tempted for a glass of their craft beer on the upstairs patio, overlooking the Cornwallis River.

More info: From Hall’s Harbour is 20 minutes drive to the Planter’s Ridge Winery or 10 minutes drive from Wolfville | If driving be sure to drink responsibly, appoint a designated driver or take any alcohol back to enjoy in your accommodation.

The Micro Boutique Living Wolfville is a self-catering hotel located in Wolfville city center

The Tangled Garden at Wolfville

Just outside Wolfville is the Tangled Garden, a gem of a garden. We just had time to visit in the late afternoon sunshine.

The garden is set around owner Beverley McClare’s private home and lives up to its name. It’s a joyous riot of plants and trees where you can walk along meandering gravel paths and enjoy the metal sculptures set in the greenery. Tulips were flowering in the box hedged formal garden, with apple blossom, cow parsley and herbs mingling with flowers.

Beverley uses the herbs and fragrant plants of the garden to make flavoured jellies, jams and vinegars that glow like jewels when stacked in the window of the small shop at the garden entrance. Once you get tasting some of those jellies, you won’t be able to resist taking a jar or two home!

More info: The Tangled Garden | Address: #11827, Highway 1, Grand Pré, Nova Scotia | From Wolfville take Highway 1 through town and the garden is beside the highway 5 minutes from the centre of town.

Grand-Pré National Historic site Wolfville

In the early evening we drove through Grand-Pré historic site north of Wolfville. It’s an area of farmland surrounded on three sides by water that is one of three UNESCO Heritage sites in Nova Scotia.

An Acadian community of French settlers settled here in the 1680s. They established themselves as farmers and fishermen, draining the salt marsh with dykes that you can still see today.

Stay at the Old Orchard Inn Resort and Spa just outside Wolfville

At the visitor and interpretive centre you can find out more about the history of the Acadians. Many refused to take an oath of allegiance to the British government and suffered deportation between 1755 and 1762.

This site commemorates the terrible upheaval of the Grand Derangement , creating a focus for Acadians from all over the world to discover their roots.

The visitor centre was closed when we passed by, but we were able to see the pretty church of Saint-Charles-des-Mines. It was created in 1922 as a monument to the Acadians and is surrounded by apple orchards.

Read more about the Acadian people in my article: Discovering Acadian culture in Nova Scotia, Canada

The statue of Evangeline

Near the church is a statue of Evangeline, the heroine of the epic poem by Longfellow, Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie . Published in 1847, the poem tells of the young Acadian girl, separated from her betrothed who spent years searching for him.

We continued our drive to Evangeline beach where the low tide exposed the mud flats, creating a shimmering mirror of shallow water. At this peaceful spot we contemplated all that we’d seen that day as the sun set over the Minas Basin.

More info: Grand-Pre National Historic site | Experience Grand Pre

Stay: The Old Orchard Inn Resort and Spa in Wolfville

We stayed that night at The Old Orchard Inn Resort and Spa , just outside the town of Wolfville. It is set on the high ground with views over the farmland of the Annapolis valley and orchards that give the hotel its name.

The three story modern hotel has around 100 rooms, some with views over the valley. Others like ours on the ground floor which are drive-up, with car parking immediately outside. Sadly we didn’t have time to try out the indoor swimming pool or spa facilities as we were only there for one night.

We enjoyed our dinner in the high ceilinged dining room, which incorporates traditional stonework and old reclaimed oak beams, with views over the well maintained gardens and valley landscape.

On the patio, we relaxed on the wooden chairs with views over the old orchards and valley. Our aperitif made a great end to our day exploring the Bay of Fundy and northern shore of Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Road Trip – Day 3

Shubenacadie tidal bore rafting.

For the last of our three days in Nova Scotia, we drove from Wolfville to the Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort. It’s located at the point where the Bay of Fundy narrows into the Shubenacadie river. The resort offers a unique adventure experience, on the rapids that form when the tide rushes into the river channel.

Times of the daily rafting tours vary according to the tides and on arrival we were welcomed by owner Steve Elder. We waited for our group to gather in the cosy cabin with plenty of seating around the central open fireplace.

You may also enjoy: Top 10 Canada moments – from Toronto to Montreal

Preparing for the tidal bore rafting

Kitted out in warm waterproof jackets and life preservers, with old borrowed trainers we were ready for our adventure. Something told me we were likely to get both wet and muddy on this expedition!

Our group of 8 people walked down the muddy track to the river and clambered into the zodiacs which took us down the river, navigating the shallow channels between the sandbars.

The water and shoreline had a distinctive red colour, with bald eagles circling overhead above the cliffs rising up from the river. While awaiting the arrival of the tidal bore, we had time to get out of the zodiacs and walk around on one of the sandbanks. I was nervous that the water might rush up quickly, so kept a close eye on the river levels.

As the tide rose, we were back in the zodiac and powering along to meet the tidal bore. The rushing water creates rapids and whirlpools in the river that our boat handler expertly drove us through.

Unlike normal river rafting, we were not so much following the river in one direction, as steering into the whirlpools and out again for the sheer thrill of it. I was relieved to be sitting at the back in the boat, as Guy had sat at the front, where he took the full force of each wave that engulfed the boat.

The Briarwood Bed & Breakfast is located in Elmsdale Town among 7 acres of well-tended gardens

The tidal bore experience

We had the sensation of being in a washing machine, clinging on to the ropes of the boat. Waves buffeted and constantly washed over us, as the boat tossed us around. When things got too much we were steered out of the whirlpool and into calmer water for a rest before tackling the next patch of swirling water.

It was completely exhilarating, but I was relieved when after half an hour or so of running the rapids. We returned to base, handed back all our gear and took a hot shower to clean up.

Photography tips for the rafting

If you are a photographer you need to leave big cameras behind and use a well secured waterproof camera, as any equipment on the boat will be drenched with silty water. I left my mobile in one of the waterproof bags secured to the boat and took it out for a few pictures when we stopped at the sandbar. But it was too risky to take photos on the boat with a normal camera, even in calm water.

After our Tidal Bore rafting adventure, Steve kindly showed us around the spacious holiday cabins that are available for rental. They are popular with groups of friends or families that want to get away from it all among the natural surroundings by the river.

We loved this exciting river rafting tour, which makes a unique Nova Scotia experience and a must-do if you are in this area.

More info: Tidal Bore Rafting Resort | Driving time 1 hr 20 mins from Wolfville to Tidal Bore Rafting Resort

Map of Nova Scotia and PEI Canada

Use this map of Nova Scotiia and PEI to plan your road trip.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, discover more about Acadian Culture in Nova Scotia

Our road trip continues to PEI

After this final stop in Nova Scotia, we drove on to spend a few day in Prince Edward Island . We’d had a great taste of all that this maritime province of Canada can offer, from the wild south shore to the fertile farmlands and tidal waters around the Bay of Fundy.

This 3 day Nova Scotia road trip is easily combined with the historic sites, museums and foodie culture of Halifax where we started our journey and a few days in Prince Edward Island where we were heading next. I feel that we hardly scratched the surface of Nova Scotia, but we loved what we saw. Canada’s a big place and there’s lots more to explore!

Photos from this trip

Plan your road trip in Nova Scotia

For other things to see in Canada visit the Canada Tourism website .

Need a guide book for PEI? We recommend the Lonely Planet Nova Scotia, New Brunswick & Prince Edward Island guide

Be sure to also read my other articles from this trip; 10 fun things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia Discovering Acadian culture in Nova Scotia, Canada 10 fun things to do in Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island

Thanks to Nova Scotia Tourism who hosted* my visit, providing the hotel stays, car hire, meals and experiences mentioned and Canada Tourism who provided my flights.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

Click to subscribe to our monthly newsletter, news and reader offers

Tuesday 18th of May 2021

Omg same idea @usaboatreview! Currently contemplating NS for a summer honeymoon 😊 hoping provincial borders open up.

Heather Cowper

Sunday 23rd of May 2021

@WesleyAnn - hope so too!

UsaBoatReview

Monday 29th of July 2019

Going to be going to Nova Scotia for my honeymoon in July. I can't wait to get out there and explore!

Gail Meister

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

I'm so glad you enjoyed Nova Scotia! I love to see visitors photos and read their impressions. I love my province! I hope you get to return one day...

Sunday 1st of December 2019

Pray for me, i have applied for immigration in this area my favorite place NOVASCOTIA for my future. coming soon.

Renuka Walter

Thursday 31st of January 2019

Whoa! This is an amazing trip! I looked at each picture twice. :) So much fun you had. Beautiful sceneries, delicious food and a dash adventure!

• TRAVEL JOURNAL
• Write for Traveler’s Buddy
• Media content
• Video Content
• Photography and Video content

Road trip in Nova Scotia: Driving along the South Shore

Mild days, nature getaways and clear skies. We drove along the South Shore of Nova Scotia and this is what we found:

A road trip in Nova Scotia is the best way to discover a region full of natural wonders, delicious cuisine and rich history. We went along the famous Lighthouse Route at the South Shore of Nova Scotia and found out that the iconic Peggy’s Cove was just the beginning of the adventure.

Nova Scotia is way better to be discovered with a car. It will give you the flexibility of stopping anywhere you want and let you plan your itinerary at your own pace. Nova Scotia is a relatively large province (a little bit larger than Switzerland) and with one of the less dense populations in North America, public transportation is not very reliable. Renting a car is a must for exploring its untouched natural beauty.

Since we were also doing our road trip in Nova Scotia by the end of October, we planned several outdoor activities as well indoor getaways in case the weather does not allow it. However, temperatures at that time were between 10-20 degrees and with clear skies almost every day, we couldn’t have asked for better weather to explore Nova Scotia by car.

During a period of 9 days we traveled along Nova Scotia’s South shore. These were my favourite spots during this road trip.

Things to do in Nova Scotia’s South Shore

Take a visit to peggy’s cove lighthouse and wander around its fishing village.

Located only 45 minutes from Downtown Halifax, Peggy’s Cove is known as one of the most photographed places in Canada. This Nova Scotian community has the fishing village atmosphere you imagine experiencing in Atlantic Canada: several fishing boats along the coast, colorful wooden houses and lots of delicious seafood.

However, Peggy’s Cove is not famous for its coastal village, but for its picturesque lighthouse sitting high upon the smooth granite of the coast.

This 15 m lighthouse stands at the edge between land and the ocean and it can be considered a symbol of Nova Scotia.  Although the area surrounding Peggy’s Cove has been designated as a preservation area in Canada, it is still an active fishing community.

Travelers can wander along the gigantic granite boulders and find their own favorite spot to take a picture. Since this is one of Canada’s most visited spots, we drove to Peggy’s Cove very early in the morning. Thankfully, we avoided the several buses coming from Halifax every day and basically had the area for ourselves.

Afterwards we also drove a little bit south of Peggy’s Cove and searched for other spots for photographing the beauty of the lighthouse standing next to the rough Atlantic Ocean.

Read more: Understanding Nova Scotia’s love for lobster (and 5 places to eat it)

Visit the historic town of Lunenburg and learn more about the rum culture of Nova Scotia

If you are looking for some of the most picturesque towns of Canada, Lunenburg is probably at the top of the list. This fishing village is turning itself into a trendy town that attracts people from all ages looking to learn more about the history of Nova Scotia as a trading spot.

Although Lunenburg is quickly accessible from Halifax via Highway 103 West, travelers looking for a longer and more scenic drive can take the Lighthouse Route. This route goes along the coast and is simply perfect if you are traveling on a road trip.

Lunenburg is better to be explored by foot and with narrow streets and beautiful architecture, this is one of these places you want to get lost. Its Old Town Lunenburg is one of the three designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nova Scotia and is also known for being home of Bluenose II, Nova Scotia’s famous racing schooner.

Once the night begins, a visit to Ironworks Distillery is obligatory. Here you will learn more about the rum culture of Nova Scotia which dates back to the colonialism period. You can do one of the rum tours they offer and even go on a barrel search at the sea. The rewards for this task is a cold glass of rum, that was aged inside a barrel deep in the ocean – something I never tried before.

Read more: 10 reasons why I love traveling

Get the chills of doing a Candlelight Graveyard Tour in Annapolis Royal

Who would ever though that doing a tour around a graveyard would be so interesting? At the Candlelight Graveyard Tour in Annapolis Royal you can find out why. This is one of the most acclaimed tours in Nova Scotia and probably the most interesting way to learn about the Acadian past of Nova Scotia as well some history of Annapolis Royal.

Reservations are not necessary and with daily tours starting at 7pm from the main graveyard of Annapolis Royal, you will find at least a dozen of curious travelers joining up.

Although there is a spooky atmosphere in the way the tour guide dresses up and the locations in which the tour is conducted, the tour is absolutely not related to any horror story and is rather a city and historical tour with a very unique and special twist.

Stargaze at Kejimkujik National Park and see the dark sky like never before

A road trip in Nova Scotia is not completed without exploring one of its national parks and Kejimkujik might be the place you are looking for. This is Nova Scotia’s largest national park  and it covers more than 400 sq. km.. It is a great spot to see Nova Scotia’s fauna and flora, specially if you are on a road trip at the South Shore.

Visitors can explore any of their 14 trails along the forest and even rent kayaks or canoes and discover the park more freely.

However, Kejimkujik National Park biggest highlight is stargazing at night. This is one of Canada’s few designated spots by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for stargazing and is awarded as a dark sky preserve. This means that any external light pollution source is completely forbidden, making it one of the best spots for stargazing in the world.

Accessing the park at night should also not be a problem, as camping inside is allowed in certain areas and stargazing tours take part almost every clear night. You can even rent a stargazing kit when purchasing your entrance ticket. This is simply the perfect spot to get closer to the stars.

Read more: How to photograph the milky way when traveling

Visit a winery at the Annapolis Valley and learn more about the wine culture of Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s wines are getting more attention each and each year. With milder temperatures and excellent farmland for wine production, very interesting wines are making Nova Scotia famous as a top wine destination in Canada.

Annapolis Valley is one of these regions and with several wineries opening their doors, this small region of Nova Scotia is attracting travelers from all over the world. Wine tours are very common in Annapolis Valley.

During our road trip in Nova Scotia we decided to take a day to explore these wineries to get an inside into Nova Scotia’s growing wine culture.

Our tour took us to 3 different wineries, where we were able to try 5-6 different wines and learn about local products such as the Tidal Bay Wine, Nova Scotia’s first wine appellation. Tidal Bay was not the only wine we got offered, as Nova Scotia is nowadays producing very good wines with common European grapes.

Read more: How is climate change shaping the future of wine

The South Shore of Nova Scotia is a special place. It is completely different than any other Canadian province and not only its natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for a road trip, but also the amazing people we encountered along the way. The Lighthouse Route in Nova Scotia is a destination to be better explore with a car and for those who give it a try, they will find many stops along the way with picturesque motives, excellent food and a story in everyone you meet.

How do I find cheap flights to Canada?

Finding a cheap flight anywhere around the world is not always easy. It’s about comparing platforms, selecting the right routes and booking at the right time. Fortunately, platforms like Skyscanner became known as an all-in-one tool for booking flights at the lowest cost possible.

They analyse every potential company and sub-contractor in order to find the lowest price available for you. Not only that, but you can also select the option “Travel Anywhere” and let Skyscanner find the cheapest place to travel at any selected date.

I check all my flights first at Skyscanner , and in 90% of the cases, I find the best option for me to book.

Also, by booking here using Skyscanner , you will support my blog and help me create more amazing and useful content.

MY FAVORITE NATIONAL PARKS

Saxon switzerland national park, masai mara natural reserve, bwindi impenetrable forest, white desert protected area, victoria falls national park.

The Ultimate Nova Scotia South Shore Road Trip

Share The Love!

Inside: Nova Scotia South Shore Road Trip Itinerary including where to stop on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, Nova Scotia beaches and hidden gems

Having grown up on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, I didn’t appreciate its beauty until I had grown up and moved away. 

Although there is no real definition of the South Shore’s boundaries, it’s widely accepted to be all of Lunenburg, Queens, and Shelburne Counties. 

It would take quite a while to explore all the little towns along the South Shore, this road trip itinerary assumes you’ll be spending at least a couple of nights in different towns. I’ll do my best to share larger tourist towns and some hidden gems along the way!

How Long Will This Road Trip Take?

If you were to drive from Peggy’s Cove to Cape Sable Island via the South Shore it would take just under 3 hours. We recommend a couple of days to really explore these towns. 

What To Pack On A Nova Scotia Road Trip

Clothes for every season! Doesn’t matter if it’s July, you still might need some warm clothes! Nova Scotia weather is famous for being hot and sunny during the day and possibly cold and rainy at night. To make sure you have the best time, make sure to bring a raincoat, waterproof shoes or boots, sandals, and of course a bathing suit for our amazing beaches!

The best months to visit Nova Scotia are usually July, August and September, possibly October if you’re chasing the Autumn leaves. Our summers are definitely the nicest time of year. June can be chilly or nice, and between the end of October and May many tourist sites are closed.

Read more tips about road tripping & what NOT to do !

Peggy’s Cove

Although not technically on the South Shore, as it’s in the Halifax Region, I like to think of it as the unofficial kick off to the South Shore. It is the world’s most photographed lighthouse after all. Spend some time checking out the lighthouse area, but stay off the black rocks, as dangerous waves have taken many out to sea. 

If you like photography, the lighthouse and nearby fishing village is a photographer’s dream!

There’s also a short hike called Polly’s Cove, and the nearby SwissAir flight 111 Memorial site. 

Bayswater Beach

Our first beach of the list! About an hour from Peggy’s Cove, you can relax on the white sand beach of Bayswater Beach Provincial Park . It also has a picnic area, change rooms and toilets.

Read More: The Best Beaches in Nova Scotia 

About a half hour away from Bayswater Beach, our next stop is the town of Chester. Technically a village with a population of 2350, you may recognize parts of Chester from the TV shows Haven, and The Curse Of Oak Island.

Some fun things to do include Sensea Nordic Spa , Graves Island Provincial Park , and taking in a performance at the Chester Playhouse. 

As with most small Nova Scotia towns, wandering the waterfront usually leads to the discovery of unique shops and yummy food. We highly recommend The Kiwi Cafe and The Rope Loft for a bite to eat.

Tancook Island

Big Tancook Island and Little Tancook Island are both accessible by a ferry in downtown Chester. While these islands are usually overlooked by tourists, we think they are worth checking out! Rent bikes or bring your own for an outdoor adventure. There are several small beaches on the islands, but limited places to eat, so pack a picnic!

Back on the mainland, keep heading south to the community of Gold River, and you’ll be able to drive right on to the famous Oak Island. 

If you’ve never heard the legends or seen the TV show, the short version is there is rumored buried treasure on Oak Island. What is it? Who knows! Theories range from pirate treasure to the Ark of the Covenant to lost Shakespeare manuscripts! 

The island is privately owned, but you can visit the Oak Island Interpretive Centre * to learn more about the island’s history, or you can book a tour and see what Marty & Rick Lagina and the rest of the treasure hunters are up to. 

*The Interpretive Centre and tours are closed for 2021 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Hopefully they will be back up and running in 2022!

If you’re looking to stay in this area, may we suggest Oak Island Resort and Spa . I love the nautical feel to this resort! 

Read more about visiting Oak Island

Us with Rick Lagina on Oak Island

Back on the Lighthouse Route, our next stop is Mahone Bay. Often overlooked because of its neighboring town (we’ll get there next), Mahone Bay still remains a bit of a hidden gem. The Three Churches are famous, and you’ll get a great photo across the water from them. I love checking out Amos Pewter ! You can watch them make their pewter ornaments and jewelry right in the shop. 

The main street has quite a few places to eat; some of my favorites are Oh My Cod, The Mug & Anchor Pub, and The Barn Coffee & Social House.

Read more about visiting Mahone Bay

This is usually the town that draws people to the South Shore. Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll want to spend most of a day wandering in the shops. If you’re interested in Nova Scotia’s marine history, the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic is worth checking out. 

Lunenburg also has a great walking tour that will guide you through the town, so you don’t miss anything! It starts at the historic (and let’s face it, probably haunted) Lunenburg Academy.

Historic Lunenburg Academy

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, or a drink, we highly recommend Sweet Treasures for ice-cream, Big Red’s Pizza, The Old Fish Factory, and The Grand Banker. I also love stopping into Iron Works distillery for some samples and a bottle to take home. 

Planning to stay the night in Lunenburg? I suggest the Lunenburg Arms Hotel for it’s great location and lovely rooms. It also has a really nice spa on site!

Read More About Visiting Lunenburg

A bit off the beaten path, Blue Rocks is just 10 minutes outside of downtown Lunenburg. It is a small fishing village that looks frozen in time. It’s a great place to pack a picnic, and practice your photography skills! Kayaking is also popular here.

The Ovens Natural Park is a great place to spend a few hours, wandering the trails and checking out the naturally occurring caves. It’s an easy walk, however there are stairs so keep that in mind when planning your visit. Dogs are also allowed on leash. 

It is another popular destination for kayaking as well. The park is privately owned, and also has a campground and seaside cabins for those wishing to stay the night. 

Read more about The Ovens Natural Park

Caves at The Ovens Natural Park

Bridgewater

Bridgewater is the largest town on Nova Scotia’s South Shore. As such you’ll find many large retailers like Walmart and Canadian Tire here. Not many tourists stop in Bridgewater, except to buy some necessities and I can’t say I blame them too much, there are so many interesting towns to explore and Bridgewater is much more industrial than the others. However I can tell you there are a few hidden gems;

The M.A.R.C (or municipal activity recreation complex, if you like long complicated names) is great for hiking and biking, or snowshoeing in the winter. 

King Street, along the LaHave river is going through a bit of a renaissance with the addition of local shops and eateries like King Street Beer Company . 

Back along the coast, LaHave is another often overlooked place. If you’re coming from Lunenburg or The Ovens in Riverport, the fastest way to LaHave will be the LaHave ferry, which costs $7.

Now it is a small community, but it was once an important settlement for the Mi’kmaq people, however the Dutch East India Company landed here in 1609 and attacked the Mi’kmaq people. They named the area La Hève, and it became the capital of the Acadia region.

Currently I suggest checking out the LaHave bakery , grabbing a coffee and a treat and wandering in the local art shops. 

Crescent beach is just a few minutes down the road, and it’s the only beach in Nova Scotia you can drive your car right onto!

Petite Riviere

Another few minutes from Crescent Beach is Rissers Beach Provincial Park . This is also a popular camping spot as it has everything you need, including a beautiful beach and hiking trails. It’s a great place to spend a few hours, or a few days!

Also in the Petite Rivi ère region, you’ll find Petite Rivière Vineyards . It may surprise you that wine has been grown in this region since at least the 1630s. The uniqueness of the combination of the soil, weather, and seasons make ideal reds, bold and fruity wines. Stop in for a tasting and to see how the wine is made. 

Petite Rivière Vineyards

Port Medway

Another hidden gem! Just off the highway, you’ll find Port Medway. Sea Port Gifts & Treasures , a great place to pick up a local souvenir! There’s also a small lighthouse in Port Medway Lighthouse Park, a perfect place for a picnic.

Welcome to my hometown! Although there’s not as much to draw you to Liverpool as a town like Lunenburg, it still has plenty to do. I highly recommend the farmer’s market on Saturday morning on the waterfront (during the summer months). Main Street has a few local shops and restaurants that you’ll enjoy wandering through. The end of Main Street has a lighthouse that you can climb to the top, and toot the fog horn! 

One of my favorite things to do is to grab a drink at Hell Bay Brewing and sit on their patio.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, I highly recommend Lane’s Privateer Inn . It’s right in the middle of town, the rooms are lovely and the restaurant is one of the best in town.

Read more about visiting Liverpool

Fort Point Lighthouse in Liverpool

White Point

You’ve likely heard of White Point Beach Resort , as it has been a popular destination for many years, and for good reason! The lodge is a great place to spend a few days relaxing, surfing, golfing, swimming and of course eating! Don’t forget to watch out for bunnies, they are everywhere.

Port Mouton

Although you may not find Port Mouton mentioned in many Nova Scotia guides, in my opinion it’s one of the most beautiful places in the whole province. Summerville Beach Provincial Park is a beautiful beach, and further down the road you’ll find Carters Beach , which has become very popular in the last few years. Get there early, there is very little parking, and please remember to take your garbage with you! Carters Beach has no facilities. 

Technically in Port Joli, the Kejimkujik Seaside Adjunct and Thomas Raddall Park are beautiful places for walking on the beach, hiking trails and camping. 

I also highly recommend grabbing ice-cream and fried clams at Seaside Seafoods . The coffee soft-serve ice-cream is amazing!

Carter’s Beach

Lockeport is almost an island, but it is attached to the mainland by a small causeway and Crescent Beach . It is a small town with a population of just over 500, which lends to its charm! Don’t miss wandering down South Street to see 5 historic homes of the first settlers of the area.

Crafters might also want to check out Becky’s Knit and Yarn shop for some locally dyed wool yarn. 

Our next stop is the town of Shelburne. While it is now a small town, it was very important during the time of the American Revolution. 5000 Loyalists came to the town of Shelburne to start a new life here, including Black Loyalists. It became North America’s largest free Black settlement. Of course things were far from perfect for the Black Loyalists, you can learn about this very important piece of our history at the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre . 

The waterfront area has many shops and restaurants to wander through, and The Dory Shop Museum will guide you through their Dory making history. 

For a taste of local beer, we suggest Boxing Rock Brewing Co . Sit down in the tap room, grab some food and a tasting flight!

Read more about what to do in Shelburne

Cape Sable Island

Cape Sable Island (not to be confused with Sable Island) is the southernmost tip of Nova Scotia! It is an island, but connected by a causeway to the mainland. As with most of the places I have mentioned, it boasts beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood filled restaurants. 

It is known as the lobster capital of Canada, so if you’re looking for a seafood dinner, this is the place! My friend Meggan is from the area, and recommends Captain Kat’s Lobster Shack . 

Don’t miss the Stone Church in Clarks Harbour, it was started in 1920 and took about 10 years to complete. 

Possibly the most unique beach on my list, is Hawk Beach , which is called The Drowned Forest! At low tide you can see all of the petrified tree stumps, still rooted in their original soil. 

Read more about visiting Cape Sable Island

Photo thanks to Meggan from Let’s Get Tripsy

Kejimkujik National Park 

I wasn’t really sure where to put Kejimkujik National Park or Keji (as the locals call it) on our list! It is definitely part of Nova Scotia’s South Shore, however it is right in the middle of the province! Most of our list has focused on coastal towns, but Keji deserves mentioning.

While it is now an extremely popular hiking, canoeing and camping destination, the Mi’kmaq people have been living here for thousands of years. There are petroglyphs that are only accessible by private tour, which depict the life of Mi’kmaq people after contact with European settlers.

Currently you can camp here, there are multiple hiking trails of different lengths, lakes to swim in, and it has been designated as a dark sky preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Bring your camera and practice your astrophotography! 

Final Thoughts

There you have it! A pretty great trip around the South Shore of Nova Scotia! I’ll definitely admit, I haven’t covered every town or thing to do, because I haven’t done it all yet either! Let me know if I’ve missed your favourite spot so that I can add it to my list.

Need a map? Grab it here ! 

Related posts:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

I’m obsessed with all things travel Airports make me happy I love a good spreadsheet & I want to show you that you can have your cake and eat it too, by paying off your debt and being financially free, you’ll have more money for the things you love Read More

Privacy Overview

Nova Scotia Bucket List: 18 Best Things to Do

Planning a trip to Nova Scotia? Keep reading for a list of the top things to do in Nova Scotia for your Nova Scotia bucket list!

Nova Scotia, a gem in Eastern Canada, offers a mix of scenic landscapes and cultural richness.

This Maritime province is home to historic sites, wine and nature tours, and some of the most stunning coastlines in Canada.

I spent nearly a week in Nova Scotia. If I hadn't been visiting locals who knew the area well, I would have been overwhelmed with choices while deciding how to spend my time.

After my trip to Nova Scotia, I worked with a few Nova Scotia experts to put together this ultimate Nova Scotia bucket list .

This list includes some of the top things to do in Nova Scotia, including insider tips to make the most of your experience!

On this list, you’ll find some of  Nova Scotia’s must-see attractions  along with some of the province’s  top hidden gems .

Ready to check things off your Nova Scotia bucket list? Keep reading for a guide to the best things to do in Nova Scotia!

1. Spend a Day in Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove , located on the eastern shore of St. Margaret's Bay, is a quintessential stop for those exploring Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.

The ideal time to visit Peggy's Cove is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and the Atlantic views are at their most picturesque.

A visit to Peggy's Cove isn't complete without seeing its iconic lighthouse.

Standing on granite rocks, the Peggy's Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a perfect backdrop for photos. In fact, it's one of the most photographed spots in Canada!

The village of Peggy's Cove itself looks like a postcard, with its historic houses and buildings painted in bright, coastal colors.

Throughout the village, you'll find local artisans and quaint shops selling unique Nova Scotian crafts and souvenirs, as well as the typical kitschy souvenirs found at popular tourist destinations.

For a deeper dive into the area's history, the deGarthe Museum showcases the works of artist William E. deGarthe, famous for his paintings of Peggy's Cove.

Peggy's Cove is one of the most popular day trips from Halifax, and it's very easy to get there. You can book a day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax or make the scenic drive yourself, offering a chance to experience more of Nova Scotia's stunning coastline.

This is the best day tour of Peggy's Cove from Halifax !

2. Go Wine Tasting in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley, a lush agricultural region in Nova Scotia, is a haven for wine enthusiasts that's sometimes known as the Napa Valley of the Northeast.

You can easily spend a day winery-hopping while also admiring the Valley's picturesque landscapes.

A must-visit destination in the Annapolis Valley is Luckett Vineyards. Known for its panoramic views and the unique phone booth in its vineyard, Luckett offers some of the best wines in the Valley.

Their tastings often include a selection of their best reds, whites, and the much-loved phone box wine.

You can also enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant, which offers dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss their fries with the truffle aioli!

Another must-visit is Benjamin Bridge Vineyard, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines that have gained international acclaim.

The vineyard uses traditional methods and has a unique microclimate that contributes to the distinct character of its wines.

Don't miss trying the Nova 7, a refreshing wine that has become a signature of Nova Scotia's wine scene.

For those planning a visit, the Annapolis Valley is easily accessible from Halifax either by car or through organized tours.

One of the most fun ways to experience wine tasting in Annapolis Valley is the Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour .

The small-group tour, which picks up in Wolfville, takes you around in a vintage 1940s car to some of the best wineries in the Valley.

BOOK NOW: The Classic Vintage Car Wine Tour

3. Walk on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park

Burntcoat Head Park, located along the shores of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, is a unique destination for those intrigued by natural wonders and maritime history.

The park is famous for having some of the highest tides in the world. Visitors can walk on the ocean floor at low tide and witness the dramatic rise and fall of the tides.

The highlight of the Burntcoat Head Park experience is exploring the ocean floor, where you can see the patterns etched into the seabed by the powerful tides.

The park offers guided tours that explain the unique geology of the area and the diverse marine life that inhabits the tidal zone.

Another highlight is the Burntcoat Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse and adjacent interpretive center provide insights into the local history and the significance of the Bay of Fundy's tides.

When planning your visit to Burntcoat Head Park, make sure to watch the tides and plan for visiting at low tide so that you can walk on the ocean floor.

While the park is still beautiful at high tide, being able to walk on the ocean floor at low tide is one of the most unique experiences that you can have on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

As you can probably guess, the ocean floor is a bit slippery and uneven. Wear sturdy, comfortable soles with good traction to keep from falling!

4. Explore the Halifax Waterfront

Exploring the Halifax Waterfront is one of the top experiences to add to your Nova Scotian bucket list.

The waterfront, stretching along the city's downtown area, combines historical charm with modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination.

The best time to explore the Halifax Waterfront is during the summer months, when the boardwalk is bustling with activity, and the harbour views are at their most stunning.

The area is a hub of entertainment, with street performers, local artisans, and waterfront festivals adding to the atmosphere.

For the perfect lunch on the waterfront, head to The Bicycle Thief , a renowned restaurant known for its "North American food with an Italian soul".

The Bicycle Thief is one of the top Halifax restaurants. It's perfectly located overlooking the harbour. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu!

For a sweet treat, trying Moonmist ice cream is a must.

This uniquely Nova Scotian flavor, a combo of banana, grape, and bubblegum, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It can be found at Sugah!, an ice cream shop along the waterfront.

Another iconic Canadian treat to try is a BeaverTail. These delicious pastries are hand-stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail and topped with a variety of sweet toppings. There is a BeaverTail stall located on the waterfront.

If you want to try all of the best foods along the waterfront, consider taking a Halifax Harbourfront food tour .

Aside from dining, the waterfront offers a range of activities.

You can explore maritime history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, enjoy a harbour cruise , or simply relax by the water's edge, watching the boats go by.

5. Get spooked on the Halifax Ghost Walk

If you're interested in learning more about the haunted history of Halifax, consider adding the Halifax Ghost Walk to your Nova Scotia bucket list.

There are a couple of different guides who lead the ghost walk, with many of them being led by Dusty, a master storyteller and expert on Halifax's haunted past.

The tour starts at the Old Town Clock, a landmark steeped in history, then winds through the shadowy lanes and byways of Halifax.

Participants are taken to various locations known for their paranormal activity and historical significance, such as the Old Burying Ground and Saint Paul's Church.

My favorite stop on the tour was the one at Saint Paul's Church.

After the Halifax Explosion in 1917, a silhouette resembling a human face mysteriously appeared in one of the church's windows.

Despite attempts to clean or replace the glass, the image persisted, leading to various legends about its origin.

The tour eventually ends at the waterfront, with a couple of the spookiest stories being saved for last.

The Halifax Ghost Walk is a fun experience for anyone who enjoys hearing spooky stories and visiting historic sites.

Pro tip: The walk begins at the very top of Citadel Hill (you'll walk to the top after meeting at the clock) and ends all the way down at the waterfront.

If you want to avoid too much of an uphill journey at the end of the tour, I recommend parking somewhere halfway between the Citadel and the Waterfront.

Tours run from June to October. To book your spot on the Halifax Ghost Walk, send a message on Facebook or follow these instructions .

6. Stroll through the Halifax Public Gardens

Visiting the Halifax Public Gardens is one of the top things to do in the city.

These historic gardens, established in the 19th century, are a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing break.

The gardens are open yearly from May 1 through November 1. Visiting during the summer is best as there are blooms everywhere!

One of the standout features is the Victorian bandstand, which often hosts live music. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the garden's history and the plants it houses.

7. Visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

by Riana from Teas poon of Adventure

One of the best things to do in Halifax is visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about how Canada has become one of the most multicultural countries in the world.

From 1928 to 1971, one million immigrants arrived at the port in Halifax to begin their new lives in Canada.

Start your journey at the Canadian Museum of Immigration by following in the footsteps of an immigrant arriving at Pier 21.

Walk along the side of a ship, enter the processing office, and look into recreated suitcases of what immigrants brought with them to Canada.

On the other side of the museum, the scope broadens to look at immigration to Canada outside of just Pier 21 in Halifax.

In addition to recreated rooms, there are interactive games, videos, and lots of artifacts to discover. You can even meet with an archivist to trace your own family’s immigration history through Canada.

As a Canadian, visiting the museum at Pier 21 was extremely impactful. I was filled with so much pride hearing from immigrants who made the move to Canada.

I also really appreciated that the museum didn’t shy away from Canada’s uglier history when immigration wasn’t open to everyone. 

My favorite part of the museum was a section where visitors could write about their own immigration experiences.

It was incredibly moving to read notes about how someone's grandparents arrived in Canada through Pier 21 or how happy they were that their families chose to move to Canada.

Give yourself lots of time to enjoy this incredibly well-put-together and emotional museum!

BOOK NOW: Canadian Museum of Immigration Tickets

8. Visit the Historic Town of Lunenburg

by Audrey from That Backpacker

The historic port town of Lunenburg is one of the jewels of Nova Scotia's South Shore, and it's a must-visit destination for travelers wanting to learn more about the province's fishing heritage.

The best time of year to visit Lunenburg is during the summer months when most tours and attractions are up and running for the public.

First on your list should be a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic which is housed in a former fish processing plant.

Here you can learn about Lunenburg's fishing heritage and the best part is that there are volunteers and retired fishermen on site who are more than happy to answer questions and share stories.

Boat tours are aplenty in Lunenburg. The 1-hour harbour tour offers postcard-perfect panoramic views of the town, but there are also fishing tours, whale-watching tours, or sailing tours depending on your preference.

The Lunenburg Chandlery is another must-visit spot for a dose of fishing and shipbuilding history.

Just head east on Bluenose Drive until you see the red building with hundreds of colorful buoys out front.

This warehouse deals in supplies and equipment for ships and boats, plus you can also pick up some unique souvenirs.

And if you time your visit to Lunenburg right, you might just be able to set foot aboard the Bluenose II or even go for a sail!

This is a replica of an iconic fishing and sailing schooner that won many races and became known as the "Queen of the North Atlantic". The Bluenose can be seen on the Canadian dime and is the pride and joy of Nova Scotians.

You can book a day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax , or visit independently by taking a Maritime Bus from Halifax or driving yourself.

This is the best day tour of Lunenburg from Halifax !

9. Check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

by Kim from Explore Your Bucket List

The location of Nova Scotia on the Atlantic Ocean has meant that many significant events have happened along these shores.

The Maritime Museum explores many of the incidents that have happened within its proximity, and it happens to be the oldest maritime museum in all of Canada.

The museum is located on the Halifax waterfront and the permanent exhibitions cover several interesting facts related to Nova Scotia’s maritime roots. 

They explore the history of shipbuilding in the Maritimes and describe the naval involvement during World War II. But the most significant and best-known exhibit is the devastating story of the Titanic and the important role that Halifax played.

Being the closest major port to the wreck site, many of those who perished in the sinking were brought to Halifax along with important personal artifacts including letters and photographs as well as pieces of the ship.

It is an impressive display that has been carefully curated to tell the story of that fateful day.

While it is a sobering exhibit, it does an excellent job of giving a full description of the ship's creation, life onboard, and the sinking and its aftermath.

The museum is open every day except Mondays in the winter season.

When planning a visit, be sure to check out the different admission rates depending on the season as well as the available discounts – see the museum website for eligibility requirements.

10. Go Whale Watching off Digby Neck

by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Going whale watching is one of the bucket list experiences that you must do when you visit Nova Scotia.

One of the most popular places to go to see whales is the Digby Neck, located 40 minutes away from the town of Digby.

The best time to see whales in Nova Scotia is between July and September. After September, most of the companies stop running tours. In September you will also notice a reduced schedule, so make sure to book ahead of time.

The whale-watching companies are located in East Ferry, Tiverton, Freeport, and Westport. To reach them you will need a car, as there is no public transport available.

Also, bear in mind that you will need to cross by ferry, either once or twice, depending on where you are going, so keep in mind the crossing timings. The passage is free.

The whale watching experience is incredible. You will board a small fishing boat and go search for them in the Bay of Fundy.

The crew includes two marine biologists who can spot where the whales are, as well as answer any questions you may have about them.

The most common whales in the Bay of Fundy are the Humpback and the Minky. Besides whales, you can also see seals and different types of birds.

The tours last between 2 and 3 hours, depending on how close the whales are to the shore.

When you return to Digby in the evening, don’t miss having the famous seafood platter from The Crow’s Nest restaurant. They are serving some of the staples of the food in Nova Scotia , such as fried clams, lobster, and, of course, the Digby scallops.

11. Drive the incredible Cabot Trail

by Erin from Wanderlust with Kids

The Cabot Trail is an incredible drive in Cape Breton that is among the most scenic road trips in the world.

With breathtaking scenery and plenty of outdoor opportunities, this famous drive is one of the highlights of visiting Nova Scotia.

The Cabot Trail winds its way along rugged coastlines, through lush Acadian forests, and into charming coastal communities.

It passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can stop at one of the many scenic viewpoints for stunning views of the coastline.

In addition to the stunning scenery, there are scenic trails to hike and campgrounds where you can stay overnight. There is an entrance fee of $8.50 for an adult (youth are free) to enter the park, even if you’re not staying overnight.

The Cabot Trail then continues through small fishing villages and coastal communities, where you can stop for a bite to eat or an overnight stay.

Keep an eye out for moose, eagles, and whales along the way, especially as you pass through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Cape Breton has a strong Acadian and Scottish heritage, and you’ll see road signs in both English and Gaelic, as well as Acadian French.

The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer (185-mile) loop and while it can be completed in a day, it’s recommended to take your time and make the drive a 2-day, or even longer if you have the time.

You can also purchase an audio tour of the Cabot Trail , which will guide you along the trail's points of interest and best views.

As the Cabot Trail is a loop, there’s no start and end point, but many start the journey in Baddeck, Cheticamp, or Ingonish.

Wherever you choose to begin the Cabot Trail, you’re in for an amazing journey. 

BOOK NOW: Cabot Trail Audio Tour

12. Visit the Halifax Citadel

by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

A site to see on your Nova Scotia bucket list should be the Halifax Citadel.

Located right in the heart of Halifax is the historical citadel. The city was founded in 1749 and four fortifications have been built on this site to protect the city from enemies.

In 1935, the Citadel was declared a National Historic Site in Canada and is open year-round for visitors. It’s maintained by Parks Canada and was restored to the way it looked during the Victorian era.

While visiting the Citadel you’ll learn about the city and military history of Halifax and have a chance to visit the Army Museum.

During peak season (June 1 to September 15) admission to enter the fort is $12.50 for adults (18-64 years), $10.75 for seniors (65 years or older), and for youth (under 17 years) it’s free.

During shoulder season (May 1st-31st and September 16th-October 31st) prices are $8.50 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, and still free for youth.

While there’s an admission to go inside the Citadel, the space outdoors is free to walk around. Enjoy a stroll around the fort and take in the scenic views of the surrounding city and harbour.

Enjoy your visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site!

13. See adorable puffins on a Puffin Tour

by Erin from Nova Scotia Bucket List

Nova Scotia is home to some incredible scenery and unique experiences, among those, the chance to see puffins in their natural habitat.

While other areas of the North Atlantic are more well-known for their puffins, Nova Scotia is also home to these cute seabirds.

Puffins spend most of their lives at sea but come ashore each year to nest.

The rugged coastline and rocky shores of Nova Scotia’s offshore islands provide a perfect place for puffins to nest.

However, since they don’t live on the mainland, a boat tour is necessary to view these incredible birds.

The best place to see  puffins in Nova Scotia  is the Bird Islands, just off the coast of Cape Breton.

Several companies offer puffin boat tours , which last a few hours and welcome adults and kids of all ages.

During the tour, you’re sure to see other seabirds, including terns, cormorants, eagles, and razorbills.

It’s also possible to take a puffin tour from Peggy’s Cove to Pearl Island, which is just off the shore of Mahone Bay, and one of the most southern nesting places of puffins in Nova Scotia.

Brier Island, which is known for whale-watching, also offers boat tours where you’ll have the chance to see dolphins, whales, seals, as well as puffins and other seabirds.

These puffin tours are an incredible experience and a memory that you won’t forget. 

14. Hike the Skyline Trail on Cape Breton Island

by Marianne from The Journeying Giordanos

The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton is a must-visit for anyone considering a trip to Nova Scotia.

This iconic trail is known for its jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the incredible Cape Breton Highlands.

The Skyline Trail is located on the western side of Cape Breton Island, midway between Chéticamp and Pleasant Bay.

Just a heads up, the trail is situated inside Cape Breton Highlands National Park . This means that you will need to purchase a Day Pass from the Parks Canada Visitor's Centre in Chéticamp before you hike.

With a distance of around 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles), the Skyline Trail is rated as easy to moderate, making the hike perfect for all skill levels. The loop trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete, going at an easy pace.

The majority of the trail is made up of crushed gravel, making it very accessible for families with young children, as well as people with varied mobility. The last section of the hike is comprised of a wooden boardwalk.

Just be aware, that the section of the boardwalk going down to the headlands is made up of a series of stairs. This is the most challenging part of the hike.

While the Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Nova Scotia, you will find plenty of parking at the trailhead. There is even parking for RVs and campers.

When planning your visit, consider going early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best chance for wildlife sightings. In fact, a sunset hike is one of the most epic ways to experience the Skyline Trail.

15. Check out the town of Wolfville

by Kamila from Expat in Canada

Wolfville might be a small town but it definitely doesn’t lack in charm. It sits in the lushest part of Annapolis Valley, dotted with orchards and vineyards.

The city is home to historic Acadia University and the beautiful Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens .

The gardens are open to the public and free to visit, so you won’t want to miss it.

It’s a tranquil area with multiple trails and perfectly groomed plants to walk around. There is also an aesthetically pleasing historic greenhouse.

For a small town, Wolfville has a surprising number of cafes and restaurants. I recommend Troy , which serves Mediterranean cuisine, or Naked Crepe Bistro for delicious crepes.

Church Brewing is a cool spot to sample local craft beer. The brewery is in a former church and has stunning stained-glass windows. Their outdoor patio is a perfect place to enjoy a drink or two on a summer day.  

For cider lovers, Annapolis Cider Company is a must-visit. You can do a cider tasting to sample the top-notch ciders made from Annapolis Valley apples, and perhaps buy a bottle of cider to take home with you as a souvenir.

Their ciders are amazing, and they have interesting varieties like a combination of Earl Grey and blueberry. 

Timing is everything, and Wolfville is at its best in the summer or autumn seasons when the harvesting at local farm markets is in full swing. 

One of my favorite things to do in Wolfville is fruit picking at local U-pick farms - Elderkin’s, Hennigar’s, or Stirling’s. 

16. Explore Annapolis Royal

by Cate from Intentional Traveling

A great place to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list is the historic town of Annapolis Royal.

Annapolis Royal is a small town that can be fully explored in a day, but it is worth staying overnight in the summer,

During the day, be sure to visit the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. These exquisite gardens are considered to be one of the top five most beautiful gardens in North America.

With eleven acres to wander, you can easily spend an hour or two here. The rose gardens were my personal favorite!

You can also spend some time perusing the little shops and cafes on St. George Street.

For dinner, make a reservation at Restaurant Compose , where you can enjoy a stunning sea view during sunset. Make sure to take a stroll on the boardwalk along the water before or after dinner.

After dark, don’t miss the award-winning Candlelight Graveyard Tour at Fort Anne National Historic Site.

This tour only takes place in the summer months, but it is a fun and engaging way to learn about the history of the town!

If you want to stay overnight, I suggest staying at the historic Queen Anne Inn . This Victorian bed and breakfast will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. 

Make sure to add this small historic town to your Nova Scotia itinerary! 

17. Visit Meat Cove

by Stefanie from Open Road Odysseys

If you’re looking for a place in Nova Scotia that’s a little off the beaten path, you should take a drive to Meat Cove.

Meat Cove is the northernmost settlement in Nova Scotia. The village itself is quite small but holds a lot of charm. It’s located about 28 kilometers (17.3 miles) from Cape North and the Cabot Trail, and the drive to get there takes approximately 35 minutes.

While Meat Cove may be tiny, there are quite a few things to see here to make the detour worth the drive.

One of the most popular things to do is camp at the local campground and get delicious seafood from Lawless Lobster , the food truck on site.

If camping isn’t your thing, they also offer cabins and a chalet guesthouse for those wanting to spend more time in the area in comfort.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding activities in the area is hiking. There are two popular trails here.

The first is the Meat Cove Overlook Trail . While it may be short, it offers gorgeous seaside views, a stunning vantage point of Meat Cove Beach, and is a short, fairly easy hike.

If you want more of a challenge, Meat Cove Mountain Trail fits the bill.

Other things to do in Meat Cove include checking out the community center, walking the boardwalk to the beach, kayaking around the coast, and eating at the Chowder Hut, which is also located at the campground.

One thing to note: the last 6 kilometers of road to Meat Cove is not paved, but is in decent shape, so any vehicle should be able to make the drive to the village with no problems.

18. Check out Ovens Natural Park

by Jenny from Traveling In Focus

Ovens Natural Park is an exquisite oasis tucked inside a private campground along the Atlantic coastline.

For a small day fee (unless you are staying at the park), you can enjoy this area steeped in history and natural beauty.

The park's roots date back to 1861 when there was a short but impressive gold rush. Today, you can indulge in the prospecting experience by sifting through beach sand at Cunard's Beach for specks of gold – a fun homage to the park's past.

But the main attraction of the park is its majestic sea caves, affectionately known as "ovens."

To see the sea caves, you will take the rugged coastal trail high on the cliffs. It's an easy trail with breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the trail, there are several locations where you can descend into the caves, if you dare, and get an up-close view of the caves from within.

One, in particular, has an excellent view of the ocean as it pours into the mouth of the cave just below the platform you stand on. But watch out for the blow-hole, or you might be drenched for the remainder of your walk!

If the trail wasn't enough and you want more time exploring the caves, the park also offers kayaking tours to see them from a different perspective.

With its unique "ovens" and gold rush history, Ovens Natural Park shouldn't be missed on a visit to Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Bucket List: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are so many amazing things to do all around Nova Scotia to include on your Nova Scotia bucket list.

Even if you can’t knock everything out in one visit, you’ll be ready to go back to the province for more exploring!

Have you been to Nova Scotia? What’s on your Nova Scotia bucket list?