Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through Eastern Canada? This 10-day itinerary will take you through the picturesque provinces of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and New Brunswick. From stunning coastlines and historic cities to vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, this trip will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrival in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Your adventure begins in Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia. Arrive at Halifax Stanfield International Airport and pick up your rental car. Spend the day exploring this historic city known for its maritime heritage. Visit the Halifax Waterfront, where you can stroll along the boardwalk, explore museums, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a star-shaped fortress that offers panoramic views of the city.
Day 2: Exploring Halifax and Peggy's Cove
Start your day with a visit to the Halifax Public Gardens, a Victorian-style garden filled with beautiful flowers and fountains. Then, head to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to learn about Canada’s immigration history. In the afternoon, drive to Peggy’s Cove, a quaint fishing village known for its iconic lighthouse perched on rugged granite rocks. Be sure to take in the stunning ocean views and enjoy some fresh seafood at Peggy’s Cove Lobster Shack.
Day 3: Nova Scotia's South Shore
Hit the road and head south along Nova Scotia’s scenic coastline. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, a well-preserved 18th-century town known for its colorful waterfront, charming shops, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, where you can learn about the region’s fishing heritage. Continue along the South Shore, stopping at beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and picturesque towns along the way.
Day 4: Cape Breton Island
Cross the Canso Causeway and arrive at Cape Breton Island, a rugged and breathtakingly beautiful destination. Drive along the Cabot Trail, one of Canada’s most scenic drives, which winds through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Stop at scenic overlooks, hike along pristine trails, and keep an eye out for wildlife. In the evening, immerse yourself in local culture with some traditional music at a ceilidh, a traditional Scottish gathering.
Day 5: Exploring Cape Breton Island
Spend another day exploring the wonders of Cape Breton Island. Visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a reconstructed 18th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into Canada’s colonial past. Explore the charming coastal town of Baddeck, the summer home of Alexander Graham Bell, and visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to learn about his life and inventions. End the day with a sunset hike to the Skyline Trail, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 6: Crossing to PEI
Today, you’ll take a ferry from Cape Breton Island to Prince Edward Island (PEI). Board the ferry at Caribou, Nova Scotia, and enjoy a scenic cruise across the Northumberland Strait. Arrive in PEI, famously known as the setting of the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Explore the picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and red sand beaches that inspired the book. Stay in Charlottetown for the night.
Day 7: Exploring PEI
Spend the day exploring the best of PEI. Visit Green Gables Heritage Place, a National Historic Site that brings the world of Anne Shirley to life. Explore the scenic coastal drives of PEI, such as the North Cape Coastal Drive or the Points East Coastal Drive, which showcase the island’s stunning beaches, lighthouses, and picturesque fishing villages. Don’t forget to indulge in some fresh seafood, including PEI’s famous lobster, during your visit.
Day 8: New Brunswick's Fundy Coast
Bid farewell to PEI and drive across the Confederation Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, to mainland New Brunswick. Make your way to the Bay of Fundy, known for having the highest tides in the world. Explore the Fundy National Park, where you can hike through lush forests, kayak in pristine lakes, and witness the dramatic tidal changes along the coast. Be sure to visit the Hopewell Rocks, famous for their flowerpot rock formations that emerge during low tide. For even more of the Fundy Coast, visit St Andrew’s by the sea and stay at the famous Algonquin Resort.
Day 9: Saint John and the Reversing Falls
Drive to Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant arts scene. Explore the historic downtown area, visit the New Brunswick Museum, and take a stroll along the waterfront. Don’t miss the chance to witness the natural phenomenon of the Reversing Falls, where the tides of the Bay of Fundy clash with the Saint John River, creating powerful rapids that change direction with the tides. You can take a boat tour or walk the waterfront trails for the best views.
Day 10: Return to Halifax
As your 10-day Eastern Canada adventure comes to an end, it’s time to head back to Halifax. Drive along the scenic coastal routes of New Brunswick, making stops at picturesque fishing villages and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery along the way. Arrive back in Halifax in the evening, where you can spend your last night indulging in local cuisine, reflecting on your unforgettable journey through Eastern Canada.
Tips for your Eastern Canada Road Trip:
Book accommodations in advance: During peak travel seasons, accommodations in popular destinations like Halifax, Cape Breton, PEI, and the Bay of Fundy can fill up quickly. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance to secure the best options and rates.
Pack for changing weather: Eastern Canada’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush forests.
Be prepared for tolls: Some highways in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and PEI have tolls, so be prepared to pay in cash or have a credit card ready.
Embrace local cuisine: Eastern Canada is known for its delicious seafood, including fresh lobster, oysters, and scallops. Be sure to indulge in the local cuisine, including chowders, fish and chips, and maple syrup treats.
Stay flexible and be open to spontaneous detours: One of the best parts of a road trip is the freedom to explore and discover hidden gems along the way. Stay flexible with your itinerary and be open to spontaneous detours and unplanned adventures.
In conclusion, a 10-day road trip through Eastern Canada, starting in Halifax and visiting Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, PEI, and New Brunswick, promises an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. From exploring historic cities to driving along scenic coastlines, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an epic journey through the beauty of Eastern Canada.
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