Tour Halifax
Visit museums and historic sites with a private guide, and sample local cuisine.
This spectacular self-drive loop takes in the iconic trio of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, incorporating wildlife-rich territories, one of the most scenic drives in the world and a wealth of seafaring stories told by a nation deeply rooted in their maritime heritage.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Drive the Cabot Trail
Get a taste of local life while self-driving the world-renowned Cabot Trail.
Sail to PEI
Explore Prince Edward Island, stopping at the must-visit Spinnakers’ Landing.
Nat Geo Hideaway
Kayak, cook, swim and relax in a riverside wood-fired hot tub at Trout Point Lodge.
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Days 1-2
Halifax
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Days 3-5
Halifax - Cape Breton Highlands
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Day 6
Cape Breton Highlands - Pictou
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Days 7-9
Pictou - Prince Edward Island
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Day 10
Prince Edward Island - Saint John
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Days 11-13
Saint John - Tobeatic Wilderness Area
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Day 14
Lunenburg - Halifax
Days 1-2
Halifax
Tour Halifax, visiting museums and historic sites with a private guide, and sample local cuisine.
Days 3-5
Halifax - Cape Breton Highlands
Spend the next few days exploring the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, passing tiny towns, taking in far-reaching views and relishing in the inevitable feeling of remoteness.
Day 6
Cape Breton Highlands - Pictou
Make your way to Pictou, which was founded by Scottish settlers in 1767. Explore the charming waterfront, observing local fishermen bringing in their daily catch or visit the Hector Heritage Quay to learn about the 1773 voyage that brought the first Scottish emigrants to Nova Scotia.
Days 7-9
Pictou - Prince Edward Island
Take the car ferry to Prince Edward Island making your way to Charlottetown, the Birthplace of Confederation which eventually lead to the formation of Canada. From here, explore the island, known as the “Million-Acre Farm”, on foot, by bike, or on sail boat.
Day 10
Prince Edward Island - Saint John
Drive to Saint John, a fascinating maritime city in the province of New Brunswick. In the Bay of Fundy, go whale watching with a marine biologist, or watch the highest tide in the world, where a staggering 100 billion tons of water surges and recedes, fluctuating between 10-16 metres twice a day.
Days 11-13
Saint John - Tobeatic Wilderness Area
Journey to a luxury wilderness lodge set within 100 acres of Canadian backwoods, then set out to explore Nova Scotia’s stunning Acadian Forest. Forests, wetlands, rivers and lakes offer days of hiking, biking and kayaking, as well as wildlife watching for moose, black bears, white-tailed deer and bald eagles.
Day 14
Lunenburg - Halifax
En route back to Halifax, stop at Lunenburg, a town that has largely remained unchanged since the 18th century. This colourful town has a fascinating shipbuilding heritage, as well as art galleries, museums and artisan shops to explore.
More Details
Nova Scotia
Bicycle Tours & Peggy's Cove
Embark on a private tour of Halifax, the Atlantic Ocean port city that is known for high tides and delicious blueberries, in the company of an expert private guide. Whether visiting museums and historic sites or travelling to fortifications to learn about the region’s deep military roots, there are options to suit all interests and age ranges – for example, families might prefer a bike tour that highlights local hotspots rather than historical places. Then detour off the tourist trail to the small rural community of Peggy’s Cove to see Peggys Point Lighthouse, which still watches over the surging ocean and its myriad of working lobster boats. If you’re feeling fancy, let us arrange a luxurious scenic sunset sail off the coast of Halifax with local wines and cheeses.
Cape Breton Island
Swirl Whisky, Sail Sea Wolf
Covering 185 miles, spend two days exploring the coastal Cabot Trail, arguably one of the most scenic drives in the world. Visit the rural community of Ingonish, hike through evergreen forests of the highlands where moose drink from pristine lakes, learn the art of Cheticamp rug hooking with a French Acadian fishing community and refuel at local eateries serving chowder, lobster and local craft beers. For something different, sail the Sea Wolf Island National Wildlife Area with an experienced whale-watching captain, take a private blacksmith class, horseback ride from the mountains to the sea, or go an exclusive tour of Glenora Distillery to draw a barrel, swirl and sample local Glen Breton Rare.
Prince Edward Island
Sail to “Million-Acre Farm”
Take the car-ferry crossing to Prince Edward Island and drive to a lovingly restored heritage building in downtown Charlottetown before settling into your room, suite, townhouse or luxury apartment. Then, spend time exploring the island, known as the “Million-Acre Farm”, on foot, by bike, or on sail boat. For a real taste of local life, we can arrange a private farm-to-table organic cooking workshop, or a one-on-one woodworking experience in the company of a professional craftsman. Maybe learn horse body language during a private session lead by an expert wrangler, or learn all about falconry with a bird of prey master.
Tobeatic Wilderness Area
Wilderness & Wellness
Journey to a luxury wilderness lodge set within 100 acres of Canadian backwoods, then set out to explore Nova Scotia’s stunning Acadian Forest ecosystem with its myriad of rivers, marshes, bogs and glacial formations. From canoeing and mountain biking to forest bathing and wild swimming, the outdoor experiences at Trout Point Lodge are unpretentious and immersive. Wooden boardwalks and nature trails make for a more leisurely way to discover the enchanting and pristine wilderness in a self-guided capacity, while sailing voyages, culinary workshops and stargazing experiences benefit from the company of field experts. A place to get cosy, finish the days by relaxing in the wood-fired riverside hot tub or cedar barrel sauna.
Adventure, Culture and Coastal Charm
Family Time
It can be challenging to find a family holiday that appeals to older children (12-17); often the focus is on toddlers and younger children. Too old for kids clubs, but young enough to crave excitement, finding activities and destinations that cater to teenagers is hard. The good news? Our world is full of tantalising experiences that would prick up the ears of even the most temperamental teenager. The Maritimes in eastern Canada is one of those sweetspots. Watch our Maritimes video to find out why our Canada expert Roxy, thinks it offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife experiences and cultural immersion with no dull information boards in sight.
How does this holiday make a positive impact?
- Relevant SDGs
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Due to a downward population trend in recent years, Prince Edward Island is implementing a framework for sustainable population growth which collaborates with communities while considering social, cultural, economic and environmental perspectives. Tourism is an important driver, boosting the local economy and creating jobs for a diverse range of skills and talents in this vibrant, multicultural community.
With a plethora of ecotourism awards, Trout Point Lodge is one of Canada’s trailblazers in terms of sustainability. Every detail is carefully considered with environmental impact in mind, minimising carbon emissions at every opportunity. From minimising plastic waste by bulk-ordering supplies to energy efficient cooling systems instead of air conditioning, the lodge strives for self-sufficiency by using local and renewable resources responsibly.
The Tobeatic Wilderness is the largest protected area in the Maritimes and is an important stronghold for Nova Scotia’s last native population of mainland moose. The landscape features a variety of habitat types, including dense conifer and deciduous forests, over 100 lakes, and glacial formations. A fantastic destination for canoeing, fishing and camping, outdoor activities generate funding to continue conservation work in the area.
Learn more about the UN's 17 sustainability goals
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Suggested Extension
New England Road Trip
The Maritimes combine wonderfully with the US six-state region of New England. Elegant ship captains’ homes, delicious local cuisine and magnificent ever-changing scenery define New England. The coastal portion of Maine is host to many pretty and quaint fishing towns, while the islands off Massachusetts are renowned for their white sand beaches. The Gilded Age mansions of Rhode Island are placed in stark contrast to the historic red barns of Vermont and New Hampshire.
See our suggested New England self-drive itinerary.
12 days. Price on request
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From £4,295 Per person
When to travel
Canada in January
January is an undoubtedly cold time of year in Canada, with temperatures reaching negative daily. However, visiting during this time can be a good chance to avoid the overwhelming busy times of the festive season and school holidays.
Canada in February
Winter in Canada offers an array of sporting and cultural events both indoors and out. Banff, Whistler and Jasper offer phenomenal ski resorts or perhaps be a spectator of an ice hockey match, arguably the country’s favourite sport.
Canada in March
While March can be a good off-peak time to visit, it is worth being prepared for drastic weather changes. However, this also means lower costs and fewer crowds. The mountains are still open for the ski season and cities are ideal as they are fewer tourists.
Canada in April
April marks the start of spring across Canada, a time to avoid crowds and discover all that the country has to offer with comfortable temperatures on average.
Canada in May
May is a favourable time to visit Canada, with temperatures rising, avoiding school holidays and off-peak rates.
Canada in June
For many travellers, June is the ideal time to visit Canada. Just before peak season, the weather is favourable and most of the trails and seasonal activities will have opened.
Canada in July
Summer in Canada calls for longer days to explore the natural beauty that awaits outdoors whether it’s hiking, fishing or camping. Temperatures average around 25, making cities quite warm but head into the wilderness or by the coast and enjoy the open air.
Canada in August
Summer is considered the peak season with warm temperatures and all attractions open. It is worth noting this time of year can be quite busy as it is school holidays.
Canada in September
As autumn rolls in and temperatures lower, September is a great time to avoid massive crowds and experience all that the country has to offer in comfortable weather. September is also the beginning of the salmon run, a peak time to see the bears fishing.
Canada in October
Temperatures continue to drop in October, also bringing cloudy days and rain. The autumn foliage is in full bloom across the countryside. This can also be a good time to take advantage of off-peak rates, however, it is worth bearing in mind that the weather can vary and some coastal towns will have started to close for the season.
Canada in November
November is a good time of year to visit the cities of Canada. It is too late to view the foliage and a bit too early to skiing yet, but a good time to explore cities across the country, in temperatures averaging 5 degrees.
Canada in December
The build-up to the festive season is in full swing across the country. Snow may have already started, making the perfect scene for ice skating and markets.
Holiday Inspiration
Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.
Why Choose Steppes?
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