Maritime Canada Wildlife Holidays:

Self-Drive Road Trip - Nova Scotia

 

Our Maritime Canada wildlife holidays explore the rugged scenery, sandy beaches, marshlands, mixed forests and freshwater lakes of Canada’s eastern coastline. This fabulous self-drive road trip travels from Nova Scotia to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island (the ‘Maritimes’).

This seafaring region provides a diverse range of habitats for wildlife, so keep your eyes open for dolphins, bears, puffins, moose, seals, bald eagles and numerous sea birds, as you enjoy the many picturesque villages and delicious seafood found along these spectacular coastlines. Also enjoy a whale watching excursion from Halifax.

  • Price: from £2,899 pp sharing + flights

  • No. nights: 15

  • Deposit: 15%

  • Starts / Finishes: Halifax

  • Best Time: June to August

  • Reference Code: PCN4

SAMPLE ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Halifax

On arrival collect your car and proceed to your hotel.

Day 2: Halifax

Situated on one of the world's largest natural harbours, the heart of Halifax is perfect for exploring on foot. Visit the popular Waterfront area, see the Citadel which has guarded the city since the 18th century, admire the Public Gardens or perhaps take the ferry to nearby Dartmouth.

Day 3: Halifax/Weston Shore

Travel west traversing the northern shore of beautiful St Margaret's Bay, arrive in the picturesque Western Shore area, just across the water from Oak Island (47 miles).

Day 4: Weston Shore

Your resort is located on the southern shores of Nova Scotia so why not take a stroll along the seaside trail and if your luck's in, you may spot humpback and fin whales as they play off Tancook Island.

Day 5: Weston Shore/Digby

Head west crossing the heart of Nova Scotia. If you wish, stop for a hike at Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site. Alternatively, view some of the petroglyphs which can be found along the shore before travelling on to Digby. If time allows walk around the harbour to see the colourful fishing vessels and be sure to sample some local scallops (98 miles).

Day 6: Digby to Saint John

Travel by ferry* across the beautiful Bay of Fundy before travelling on to your hotel in Saint John. The Bay of Fundy offers some of the world's most spectacular whale watching and there are numerous tours you can book.

Day 7: Saint John/St Andrews by the Sea

A short drive brings you to one of New Brunswick's most beautiful oceanfront destinations, St Andrews by the Sea (64 miles).

Day 8: St. Andrew’s-by-the-Sea

This friendly seaside town is sure to charm with its relaxed atmosphere, striking waterfront views and welcoming people. Enjoy whale watching excursions on the Bay of Fundy or shop in the historic downtown to find unique treasures made by local artisans.

Day 9: St Andrews by the Sea/Shediac

Follow the coast before skirting inland and then onwards to Shediac, which nestles along New Brunswick's spectacular eastern seashore (174 miles)

Day 10: Shediac/Charlottestown

Travel onwards to Prince Edward Island, taking the 9 mile long Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge over ice-covered waters in the world. Continue to the provincial capital of Charlottetown (88 miles).

Day 11: Charlottetown

Explore this small city which bursts with energy and island vibes. It's famous for its culinary experiences, arts and culture, as well as the romance and nostalgia of its postcard-perfect streetscapes.

Day 12: Charlottetown/Antigonish

Return to Nova Scotia via ferry* and then along North Shore Drive through tranquil scenery and small communities that still celebrate the province's Scottish, Native and Acadian identities (99 miles).

Day 13: Antigonish/Baddeck

A short drive brings you to the commercial hub of Port Hawkesbury near the tip of St Georges Bay. Continue through the gentle rolling hills of the bay area and head for charming Baddeck (87 miles).

Day 14: Baddeck

The Cabot Trail is one of Canada’s top scenic drives and follows the impressive coastline from sea level, rising up to an alpine plateau. Baddeck itself is famous as the summer home of Alexander Graham Bell.

We recommend taking the scenic drive along the Cabot Trail into the highlands of northern Cape Breton, which takes you past lochs, glens and scenic coastlines.

Alternatively, visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site or explore the Bras d'Or Lakes by kayak.

Day 15: Baddeck/Liscomb Mills

Travel onwards to Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore, an area of pristine wilderness, authentic fishing communities and beaches stretching as far as the eye can see (127 miles).

Day 16: Liscomb Mills/Halifax

Take a leisurely drive back to Halifax and perhaps stop off to visit Musquodoboit Harbour & Valley, which is a haven for nature lovers. Your tour concludes as you return your car at Halifax airport for your onward journey (105 miles).

 

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a room only basis. Intermediate car hire is included, as well as the ferry to Saint John and all specified wildlife activities. International flights are not included and will be quoted separately.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information, including directions and suggestions on places to visit, to help you get the most from your trip.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance and an appropriate driving licence. The FCO should also be consulted.