With its rugged beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and rich maritime history, the Atlantic Coast of Canada is a delightful destination. Your tour begins in Halifax with a visit to one of the most breathtaking spots in all of Nova Scotia…beautiful Peggy's Cove, where cobalt waters crash against the rocky shore. Take a scenic tour of Halifax highlighting the Public Gardens, the waterfront, Spring Garden Road, and the famous Citadel. See a little history on a tour the Titanic gravesite before traveling to the fishing village of Shediac, known as the "Lobster Capital of the World." Earn your supper when you join some fishermen aboard their boat and learn to catch, cook, and crack the local specialty. You'll also see one of Canada's natural wonders, the amazing four-story high flowerpot-shaped rocks known as Hopewell Rocks. Crossing the Confederation Bridge, visit the "island cradled in the waves," Price Edward Island, where you'll learn about the region's fascinating Celtic heritage and view a traditional Celtic show. With mountains on one side and the peaceful Gulf of St. Lawrence on the other, travel along the breathtaking Cabot Trail. Possibly the most spectacular drive on the Atlantic Coast, this scenic roadway winds gracefully through the charming towns of Cape Breton. Visits to working fishing villages and museums introduces you to the local customs while you learn how to make a fishing net. Charming Grand Pre National Park is one of your final stops, and where you'll learn about the history and culture of the Acadian people.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Halifax, Nova Scotia - Tour Begins - Welcome to Canada’s Atlantic Coast – an area of rugged, pristine beauty.
Day #2 Halifax - Peggy’s Cove - Halifax - Explore Halifax’s charming downtown on a scenic tour of the city highlighting the waterfront, Public Gardens, Spring Garden Road and the famous Citadel. Visit the Titanic gravesite for insight into the important role Halifax played in rescuing the survivors of this tragic event. Later, enjoy a visit to one of the most picturesque spots in all of Canada – the beautiful Peggy’s Cove. Its historic lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic Ocean provides one of the most memorable views of your journey.
Day #3 Halifax - Moncton, New Brunswick - Leave Nova Scotia behind and venture to New Brunswick. Gain insight into the history of the region you are about to explore at historic Fort Beausejour and soak in an exceptional view of the Bay of Fundy. A truly unique experience awaits at Olivier Soapery where you learn about the traditional craft of organic soap-making. Visit La Pays de la Sagouine, a true celebration of Acadian culture. Experience historical re-enactments and participate in the fun first-hand when you play the spoons or bake your own Acadian dish. Arrive in Moncton and enjoy an evening at leisure to explore its quintessential Maritime charms on your own.
Day #4 Moncton - Today, travel the sea-sprayed shoreline to the amazing Hopewell Rocks. A New Brunswick icon, these flowerpot-shaped rocks carved by the Fundy tides rise four stories high at low tide and disappear into tiny islands when the tide is high. Then it’s off to the charming fishing village of Shediac, known as the “Lobster Capital of the World.” Join local fishermen aboard their boat and learn how to catch, cook and crack your very own lobster before indulging in a delicious lobster dinner!
Day #5 Moncton - Summerside, Prince Edward Island - Leave New Brunswick behind and cross the stately Confederation Bridge to the “island cradled in the waves.” Arrive in charming Summerside, your home for the next two evenings.
Day #6 Charlottetown - The rolling landscapes of Prince Edward Island were the backdrop of the acclaimed novel, “Anne of Green Gables.” Visit the Anne of Green Gables Museum, the house in which Lucy Maud Montgomery lived and upon which she based her book. Then meet a local potato farmer and learn about the potato industry on PEI first-hand as you help him with his crop. At Prince Edward Island Preserves see local berries blended with a “secret” ingredient to create a unique island taste. Then, set off for the picturesque beaches of Cavendish National Park and a visit to Rustico’s celebrated wharf, dotted with fishing boats and lobster traps. Tonight, Founders’ Hall, Canada’s Birthplace Pavilion takes you back in time when you enter “The Time Travel Tunnel” to 1864 and learn about the origins of this fascinating region.
Day #7 Summerside, Prince Edward Island - Ingonish, Nova Scotia - Return to beautiful Nova Scotia this morning before crossing the Canso Causeway to stunning Cape Breton Island. Enjoy a scenic drive along the pristine shores of Bras d'Or Lakes, Canada’s only inland sea. Later, explore the amazing variety of inventions on display at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, where the brilliant inventor made his home. Travel to the Cabot Trail – one of the most scenic destinations in Canada, and your home for the next two nights.
Day #8 Cabot Trail - Spend the day exploring the Cabot Trail and fall in love with its rugged terrain and spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. Stop at the famed St. Peter’s Church in Cheticamp, then take time to stroll the streets of this traditional village steeped in the vibrant culture of the “Old World” French. Visit the Acadian Museum where you will learn how to make a hooked rug. Other highlights include stops at fishing communities along the coast, including lovely Neil’s Harbour.
Day #9 Ingonish - Halifax - Depart Cape Breton for Sugar Moon Farm. Meet the family that runs the farm and learn about the unique organic methods they employ to produce maple syrup. Then sit back and relax in their “Sugar Shack” – a charming log cabin where you have a tasting, then enjoy a light lunch enhanced with maple. Later, return to Halifax for some time at leisure to explore the city. Walk along the waterfront, indulge in some delicious fresh seafood, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming Canadian seaport.
Day #10 Halifax - Tour Ends - Return home today with warm memories of Canada’s Atlantic Coast.
