From Bay to Highlands: Nova Scotia Road and Rail Adventure

The capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax brims with rich history and cultural maritime delights. An iconic symbol of this Eastern coast province is the white and red lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove. A perennial photographic favorite, the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse stands on a rocky outcrop and looks out on the surging waves of the Atlantic ocean. Equally as eye-catching is the Old Town Clock that has stood sentinel over the city since 1803 when it was gifted by Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent. Explore the Halifax Citadel, one of the most visited National Historic Sites in the country, which once served as a garrison for soldiers. The Halifax Public Gardens is the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon – ornate wrought iron gates lead to lush lawns, formal flower beds, serene ponds and sparkling fountains. Watch the sun go down amid the bustle of Halifax Waterfront, where historic sites jostle with trendy restaurants while the horizon is dotted with colorful sailboats, majestic liners and even heritage vessels. As you hit the nightspots, don’t forget to check out the thriving craft beer scene in the city, ranging from historic ales of Alexander Keith’s Brewery to stylish pubs that feature drinks from different corners of the world.

Lunenburg is a port town in the south of Nova Scotia. It was founded in 1753, and much of the town’s architecture dates back to the 1800s. UNESCO designated the Old Town a World Heritage Site in 1995, naming it “the best example of planned British colonial settlement in North America”. Around 70% of the original colonial buildings have been preserved. Among them is Knaut-Rhuland House Museum, a wooden 19th century home that is the only one open to the public. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic showcases the region’s maritime history, including stories of Bluenose, the legendary ship that never lost a race. There is a year-round Farmer’s Market on Thursdays. The aptly named Lunenburger, served at the Grand Banker Bar & Grill, is topped with lobster meat and embellished with a bacon-wrapped scallop. The Ironworks Distillery creates artisanal spirits from regional ingredients such as tart cranberry liqueur and maple rum.

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)

Mabou is nestled on the coast of Cape Breton Island, surrounded by stunning riverscapes and Nova Scotia’s rugged beauty. This charming coastal town is known for its vibrant and artistic Celtic culture, as well as its friendly communities. The harbor offers a variety of exciting adventure activities like kayaking and canoeing. The Mabou Rivers Trail winds through the village and along the coast, providing sweeping views of the Gulf of St Lawrence. Mabou opens onto the picturesque Mabou Highlands, which has plenty of scenic trails. In the evening, the village comes alive with live fiddle music and dancing at the Red Shoe Pub, which is owned by the famous Rankin Family band. There is also a distillery where you can sample fine local whisky. Additionally, the town is home to a museum, art gallery, and a community center that regularly hosts lively events.

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)

Ingonish Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline nestled within Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offers a quintessential Atlantic Ocean experience. Its sandy shores and dramatic cliffs invite relaxation and exploration. Visitors can bask in the sun, take refreshing dips in the cool waters, or embark on coastal adventures. Beyond the beach, the surrounding area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with hiking trails winding through lush forests and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Immerse yourself in the rich Celtic heritage of the region, enjoying live music, traditional crafts, and delectable seafood at local eateries. Ingonish Beach is more than just a destination; it’s an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of Cape Breton.

Chéticamp is an Acadian fishing village nestled snugly by the Gulf of St Lawrence on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Located along the island’s lovely coastal road or Cabot Trail, Chéticamp forms the gateway to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It is the perfect summer getaway, with a busy little harbor studded with shiny yachts and fishing boats, museums and a culture rich in Acadian and Celtic heritage. Framed by the rolling highlands of Cape Breton Island and a lovely seaside, Chéticamp paints a pretty picture. The Chéticamp Harbour, with its old lighthouse, the museums of Les Trois Pignons and Le Centre de la Mi-Carême are all worth a visit. The church of Église St Pierre is also home to a museum. The waterfront is lined with restaurants, pubs and breweries known for their delicious seafood and local ale.

The capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax brims with rich history and cultural maritime delights. An iconic symbol of this Eastern coast province is the white and red lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove. A perennial photographic favorite, the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse stands on a rocky outcrop and looks out on the surging waves of the Atlantic ocean. Equally as eye-catching is the Old Town Clock that has stood sentinel over the city since 1803 when it was gifted by Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent. Explore the Halifax Citadel, one of the most visited National Historic Sites in the country, which once served as a garrison for soldiers. The Halifax Public Gardens is the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon – ornate wrought iron gates lead to lush lawns, formal flower beds, serene ponds and sparkling fountains. Watch the sun go down amid the bustle of Halifax Waterfront, where historic sites jostle with trendy restaurants while the horizon is dotted with colorful sailboats, majestic liners and even heritage vessels. As you hit the nightspots, don’t forget to check out the thriving craft beer scene in the city, ranging from historic ales of Alexander Keith’s Brewery to stylish pubs that feature drinks from different corners of the world.

Journey from the seaport of Halifax to the vibrant city of Montreal onboard Via Rail’s The Ocean. Enjoy the scenic beauty of eastern Canada as you travel across three provinces dotted with lush forests, rolling hills and charming towns. On your multi-day train journey, look forward to a comfortable stay in the Sleeper Plus cars. From the panoramic windows, take in the changing scenery as you traverse the maritime provinces and cross Quebec on your way to Montreal. During your journey, head to the dining car with its attentive staff, to relish regional dishes made with local ingredients. Pair your meals with Canadian wines. There is also the service car with a lounge area, takeout counter and television.

Marvel at Montréal, a multi-faceted and photogenic metropolis in southeastern Canada. Set on the St Lawrence River, this chic island city boasts iconic architecture, eclectic dining, entertainment, and nightlife, along with vibrant festivals showcasing jazz, comedy, and avant-garde art. Among Montréal’s urban gardens, Mount Royal Park is the undisputed green heart offering picnic spots, historic sites, woody trails, and two belvederes that overlook the sprawling cityscape. Past the Promenade Fleuve-Montagne is Montréal’s French colonial Old Town, highlighted by the Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica, and the landmark Pointe-à-Callière where Montréal was founded! Shady streets, murals, and colorful buildings dot the hip neighborhoods of Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End, which have a large concentration of creatives and are ideal for people-watching. Across town, pedestrianized boulevards have trendy homegrown shops, while atmospheric public spaces host seasonal pop-up markets. Between the five-ecosystem Biodôme and Insectarium, the artsy Underground City, and the standing wave at Habitat 67, there are enough reasons to spend a while in Montreal.

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.)