Introduction
Welcome to Nova Scotia, a province steeped in maritime history, breathtaking coastal scenery, and charming seaside towns. This 5-day itinerary is designed to take you on an unforgettable journey through Nova Scotia’s coastal charms, from exploring historic sites to indulging in fresh seafood and soaking in the natural beauty of the Atlantic coastline.
Day 1: Arrival in Halifax
Morning: Arrival and Check-In
- Arrival: Land at Halifax Stanfield International Airport and check into your hotel in downtown Halifax.
Afternoon: Halifax Waterfront and Citadel Hill
- Halifax Waterfront: Begin your exploration with a leisurely walk along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
- Citadel Hill: Visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site for panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its military past.
Evening: Dinner in Historic Properties
- Historic Properties: Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Historic Properties, a waterfront district with cobblestone streets and restored buildings.
Day 2: Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg
Morning: Drive to Peggy’s Cove
- Drive: Head to Peggy’s Cove, a scenic 45-minute drive from Halifax, known for its iconic lighthouse and rugged coastline.
Late Morning: Peggy’s Cove Exploration
- Lighthouse: Visit Peggy’s Point Lighthouse and take in the stunning coastal views.
Afternoon: Lunenburg
- Lunenburg: Drive to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful waterfront, historic architecture, and maritime heritage.
- Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic: Explore the Fisheries Museum to learn about Nova Scotia’s seafaring history.
Evening: Dinner in Lunenburg
- Dinner: Dine at a waterfront restaurant in Lunenburg, sampling fresh seafood and local specialties.
Day 3: South Shore and Mahone Bay
Morning: Mahone Bay
- Mahone Bay: Explore the picturesque town of Mahone Bay, known for its charming waterfront, art galleries, and boutique shops.
- Three Churches: Admire the “Three Churches” along the waterfront, a symbol of Mahone Bay’s historic charm.
Afternoon: Chester and Hubbards Beach
- Chester: Visit the quaint village of Chester, with its yacht-filled harbor and Victorian charm.
- Hubbards Beach: Relax at Hubbards Beach Provincial Park, known for its sandy shores and scenic views.
Evening: Return to Halifax
- Drive Back: Return to Halifax in the evening, enjoying the scenic coastal drive.
Day 4: Annapolis Valley and Wolfville
Morning: Drive to Annapolis Valley
- Drive: Head to Annapolis Valley, a region renowned for its vineyards, orchards, and historic sites.
Late Morning: Grand-Pré National Historic Site
- Grand-Pré: Explore the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site commemorating Acadian heritage and culture.
Afternoon: Wolfville and Winery Tour
- Wolfville: Visit Wolfville, a charming town with boutique shops, cafes, and stunning views of the Minas Basin.
- Winery Tour: Experience a wine tasting tour at one of the local wineries in the Annapolis Valley.
Evening: Dinner in Wolfville
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Wolfville, pairing local wines with farm-to-table cuisine.
Day 5: Cabot Trail and Cape Breton
Morning: Drive to Cape Breton
- Drive: Journey to Cape Breton Island, known for its dramatic coastal cliffs and the iconic Cabot Trail.
Late Morning: Cabot Trail Scenic Drive
- Cabot Trail: Embark on a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Atlantic Ocean.
Afternoon: Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Highlands Park: Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and coastal panoramas.
Evening: Dinner in Baddeck
- Baddeck: Dine in the charming town of Baddeck, overlooking the Bras d’Or Lake and indulging in local seafood delights.
Conclusion
This 5-day itinerary allows you to experience the best of Nova Scotia’s coastal charms, from historic landmarks and picturesque lighthouses to scenic drives and culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring vibrant Halifax, admiring the coastal beauty of Peggy’s Cove, or sipping wine in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia promises an unforgettable adventure along its stunning coastline.