From Bay to Highlands: Nova Scotia Road and Rail Adventure

Immerse yourself in the charm of Halifax on this guided walking tour. Begin your journey in the heart of the city at the picturesque Public Gardens, where your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and local insights. Wander through the vibrant green oasis before embarking on a journey through history at the Citadel National Historic Site. Learn about Halifax’s rich military heritage as you explore this iconic landmark. Your exploration continues with stunning photo opportunities at the Halifax Waterfront and Pier 21, Canada’s gateway to the world. This intimate tour is limited to 10 guests, ensuring a personalized experience. Enjoy the walk rain or shine as you uncover the hidden gems of Halifax.

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend exploring Peggy’s Cove. While traveling from the scenic port town of Lunenburg to the city of Halifax, stop to explore this charming rural settlement. Drive across the picturesque countryside along a tranquil coastal route that winds past the town of Mahone Bay, known for its three waterfront churches. Take a short stroll by the bay and grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes. After, journey across the Aspotogan Peninsula, which offers splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean, the rugged coastline and secluded coves that make for picture perfect scenes. Once you reach the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, view the iconic lighthouse at Peggy’s Point, framed by granite rocks and the vast ocean. You could enjoy a leisurely stroll around the village and check out the many stores, the art gallery and the cafes. Finally, continue driving towards Halifax. As you near the city, see the scenery transform to coastal and wooded landscapes. (En route activity; Duration: half day; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees and transfers are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

Explore the calm waters of Mahone Bay and experience the breathtaking beauty of Nova Scotia’s South Shore on this cruise. From Lunenburg, head to the marina in Mahone Bay. Once you reach, set sail along the picturesque coastline and spot the town’s famous cathedrals including James Anglican, Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran and Trinity United. Glide across expanses of the island-dotted ocean, passing close to protected anchorages, while soaking up panoramic views of the beaches and forests. As you sail, the skipper and crew will regale you with local history and legendary stories. Mahone Bay is home to many islands and varieties of birds and marine life. See seals sunbathing on rocks along the Atlantic coast. Watch gannets, kingfishers and bald eagles torpedo down to catch small fish around the vessel. You are encouraged to try your hand at setting the sails and navigating the boat, before returning to the dock. (Duration: 3 hrs; Seasonal: Jun 28-Sep 15; Time: 1100/1500 hrs; Private activity; No transfers; Starting point: Mahone Bay Civic Marina, 683 Main Street, Highway 3, Mahone Bay; Meals included: snacks & non-alcoholic beverages; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Equipment provided: all safety equipment, binoculars & lifejackets; Please report 15 mins prior to departure; Please wear soft-soled closed, non-scuff closed toe shoes (no high heels); Please bring hat, sunscreen, sweater, swimsuit, towel, change of shorts to long pants, knapsack & seasickness medication, if required; Please inform of any medical condition, medication or mobility limitations that may affect your participation; Depending on the weather condition, the timing and date of this activity may change at a very short notice)

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend visiting one or more of these attractions in Mabou in Nova Scotia. Mabou is a picturesque village nestled on Cape Breton’s western coast. It is known for its natural beauty and rich Gaelic heritage. Take a stroll through the center of the village, pausing to window shop or grab a drink at one of the cafés. Visit the Mabou Post Office, a heritage structure with deep ties to the community. Make your way to the Mabou River Trails to hike through scenic forests with views of the Mabou River and surrounding hills. The gentle Celtic Shores Coastal Trail and the more strenuous Cape Mabou Highlands Trail both offer sweeping coastal vistas and the serenity that comes from being out in nature. Head for West Mabou Beach Provincial Park, where the sandy beach makes for an idyllic picnic spot. You can also take a dip in the ocean and explore the dunes. The park also offers some great bird watching opportunities. In the evening, you could dive into the region’s Scottish roots by watching a traditional live Ceilidh (pronounced ‘kay-lee’) at the Red Shoe Pub, a legendary music spot in Cape Breton. (Duration: full day; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees, transfers and meals are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

While traveling to Ingonish Beach, we recommend visiting the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. The site features artifacts donated by the Bell family’s personal museum, as well as memorabilia associated with Bell’s experiments. See the original hull of the HD-4, a hydrofoil boat that set a world marine speed record in 1919 when it posted speeds of more than 70 mph. Admire the full scale replica the AEA Silver Dart, which was the first controlled heavier-than-air craft flown in the British Empire. Learn about his work in the field of deaf education and how it led to the invention of the telephone. Throughout the building you’ll find many interactive stations, ranging from designing tetrahedrons to making and flying kites. There is also a well-stocked play room with animated displays and controls, and numerous objects with information on the inventions. Discover Mabel Bell’s innovative gardening practices in Mabel’s Gardens and stop by the gift shop. After, continue on your journey. (En route activity; Duration: 1.5 hrs; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees, transfers and meals are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend exploring one or more of these attractions along the iconic Cabot Trail. While traveling from picturesque Ingonish Beach to the Acadian village of Cheticamp, stop to explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The drive will take you past the rolling hills and tranquil coves of the eastern shore to the steep cliffs of the western coast. Along the way, stop at viewpoints to take in the surroundings. At Lakies Head, a favorite spot with fishermen during lobster season, watch for whales frolicking in the ocean. You could check out Lone Shieling, a Scottish style sheep crofters hut surrounded by 350-year-old sugar maple trees. Mackenzie Mountain Lookout is another good spot to watch for whales. As you wind your way across the rugged wilderness, see the dramatic cliffs that plunge into the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose and bald eagles. Capture stunning images before you journey to your destination. (En route activity; Duration: half day/full day; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees and transfers are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

Discover Montreal, above and beneath, during this well-rounded experience. Follow your guide to Dorchester Square in downtown Montreal and go past the Sun Life Building to Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel. Continue to Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral, an ornate Renaissance basilica. Next, stop at Windsor Station, a magnificent edifice built in the Romanesque Revival style. As you make your way to Place Ville Marie, a skyscraper, your guide will tell you interesting historical facts and regale you with anecdotes about the area. From Promenades Cathedrale enter RESO, the city’s underground pedestrian network spread across 32 kilometers. Explore the world’s largest man-made subterranean complex, which features shopping malls, universities, museums as well as train stations, a bus terminal and an ice-hockey arena. Exit the sunken labyrinth and head to Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal. Finally, visit the historic neighborhood of Old Montreal, lined with art galleries and architectural landmarks. Take a walk along the cobblestone waterfront of the Lawrence River before wrapping up. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1000 hrs; Private activity; No transfers; Starting point: Square Dorchester, 1255 Rue Peel, Montreal; Operates subject to min 2 ppl confirmed; Depending on the weather condition, the timing and date of this activity may change at a very short notice.)