atlantic canada highlights road trip

15 Day Fly-Drive Holiday

Discover Atlantic Canada including Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island on this wonderful maritime-infused self-drive holiday stopping off at some of Canada’s best destinations.

Highlights:

Halifax city
UNESCO World Heritage Site explorations
Cabot Trail
Bay of Fundy
Stunning scenic driving routes

Personalize your itinerary

Your Atlantic Canada fly drive holiday can be tailored to suit your needs whether it be adding in extra nights, different accommodations or adding in different stops along the way. Let us know what you would like, and we will make it happen.

Start your Atlantic Canada road trip in Halifax, where you will fly to and from here, pick up your hire car. Drive to downtown Halifax and your first day can be spent exploring the vibrant waterfront area before a visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Relax as you stroll through the pretty Halifax public gardens and by night, tuck into delicious fresh seafood – The Five Fisherman is worth a try!

The road trip begins here as you travel along the ‘lighthouse route’ to Lunenburg, stopping off at Peggy’s Cove. Arriving into Lunenburg, wander through the Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site where colourful building and rich maritime history welcome you. On day 3 perhaps, a short drive to Mahone Bay is worth it for its picturesque town with famous waterfront churches, local shops and Mahone Bay Museum. For stunning ocean views and beautiful gardens, head to the quaint seaside village of Chester.

Enjoy a more peaceful day on your road trip in Annapolis Royal where you can visit the Fort Anne National Historic site – Canada’s oldest National Historic site. Make sure to check out the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, 17 acres of pure horticultural paradise. Enjoy waterfront strolls and dining at a local restaurant and its locally sourced menu.

Kick-off your stay in Digby with a whale watching expedition in the world-famous Bay of Fundy where you can also marvel at the world’s highest tides. A must-see is the geological wonder of the Balancing Rock in Tiverton and a hidden gem you should explore is the Bear River, a tidal village commonly known as the ‘Village on Stilts’ featuring elevated houses and artistic communities. In the evening, dine at a local restaurant and try Digby’s renowned scallops.

Spend your day exploring this vibrant town home to the Grand Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site telling the story of the Acadian people. Wine lovers, you can enjoy wine tasting at one of the local vineyards – Domaine de Grand Pré is great for its award-winning wines and picturesque setting.

Arrive into Baddeck and enjoy a day at leisure exploring the charming town and the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. After your laid-back day, drive the incredible Cabot Trail, one of the worlds most scenic and famous drives. With stop offs at stunning viewpoints, hiking trails and beaches, it is the road trip that offers everything!

From Baddeck, you will drive back along the Cabot Trail and head towards Ingonish where your day can look like an outdoor adventure at Cape Breton Highlands National Park where rugged coastal beauty and an array of wildlife thrive. Hike one of the many trails, take in the picture-perfect views and embrace the outdoors. By night, relax and unwind with a gourmet dinner at the Purple Thistle Dining Room, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

This exciting journey to Charlottetown includes a ferry ride from Caribou to Wood Islands, from here you will drive to the island’s capital. Explore the city’s rich history by visiting Province House, the birthplace of Confederation. Wander along Victoria Row, a charming street lined with shops, eateries and historic buildings. For local PEI beef and oysters, dine at Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar for a flavour sensation.

Make the journey over the Confederation Bridge towards Saint John where your first day can be spent exploring the historic Uptown district, the New Brunswick Museum and the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in Canada. Consider taking a day trip to the famous Bay of Fundy – A spectacle with its Reversing Falls and dramatic coastal cliffs and lush forests in Fundy National Park.

Return to Halifax where your incredible maritime adventure will come to an end. Spend your evening revisiting any of your favourite places or head out and explore new ones. Art enthusiasts, a visit to the art Gallery of Nova Scotia would not disappoint and for a relaxing stroll, walk along Point Pleasant Park. On day 15, your holiday will end, and you will make your way back to the airport.

There's truly no better way to explore Atlantic Canada and its endless bound of maritime adventures than with a self-drive itinerary - get in touch with DW Escapes and start planning the holiday you have always dreamt of. With our fully personalised service, we listen to your requirements so we can curate a bespoke itinerary unique to you.