Peggy's Cove, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Maritimes

The Maritimes Holidays

Known for dramatic coastal drives, strong whale populations and adrenaline sports, the Maritime regions are breath-taking but relatively little-explored.

Housing some of the world’s most epic unsung road trips and countless opportunities for biking, hiking and sailing, Canada’s Maritime regions of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island are spontaneous places where maps are optional (but discovery is obligatory).

Think salty sea air, scenic wine regions, miles of untouched coastlines and proud locals who still live in stilted houses. Then add a spattering of delicious local cuisine, a fascinating cultural heritage and a selection of secret fossil-rich coves. This is a place that is still relatively little-visited, so explorations are inescapably immersive and authentic.

Aerial,Of,Hopewell,Rocks,,New,Brunswick,,Canada
New Brunswick, Canada

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. Press the play button 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.

Kayaking, Trout Point Lodge, Maritimes, Canada
Trout Point Lodge

Self-Drive the Canadian Maritimes

Encompassing the iconic trio of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island – which are Canada’s three smallest provinces – this impressive self-drive itinerary incorporates properties perched on dramatic cliffs, eclectic island cities, and sustainable backwood wildernesses that appeals to travellers of all ages with an enduring sense of adventure.

14 days

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Cabot Train, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada
Cape Breton, Canada
Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Nova scotia, Canada, Maritimes
Nova Scotia, Canada
Cabot, Trail Cape, Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia, Canada, Maritimes
Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia , Canada

Drive the Cabot Trail

Covering 185 miles, this coastal route traverses Cape Breton Island, passing tiny towns, taking in far-reaching views and relishing in the inevitable feeling of remoteness. 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. Alternatively, go offroading in a UTV vehicle through Cape Breton’s backcountry trails for spectacular views over the highlands and Margaree River.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Waterfront, Canada, Maritimes
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada
Peggy's Cove, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Maritimes
Peggy's Cove, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Maritimes
Lobster Traps, Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada
Lobster Traps, Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia

Peggy's Cove & Lunenburg

A testament to Nova Scotia’s maritime heritage, the province is dotted with colourful quaint fishing villages founded by French, English and Scottish settlers. It’s these European origins which make the Maritimes such a fascinating destination, populated by a nation deeply rooted in their heritage which shines through the cuisine, music and art. Visit Peggy’s Cove home to Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, perched on a mound of 400 million-year-old granite rock and meet generations of fishermen returning with their daily catch in Lunenburg, a town that has largely remained unchanged since the 18th century.

Humpback Whale, New England, USA
Humpback Whale
Canada, Bay of Fundy
Bay of Fundy

Whale-Watching with a Marine Biologist

In the company of an experienced Captain and marine biologist, sail out on a 360-degree sailing boat in search of humpback and minke whales. For a touch more adrenaline, don a survival suit and head out on fast-moving zodiacs to follow the marine mammal. Those wishing to stay on dry land can visit the Gaskin Museum of Marine Life, perhaps meeting its in-house researchers, or watch the highest tide in the world in the Bay of Fundy, where a staggering 100 billion tons of water surges and recedes, fluctuating between 10-16 metres twice a day.

Experiences

What do you really love doing? We’ll tailor your itinerary to suit you.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Waterfront, Canada, Maritimes

Sail & Tour Lunenburg

Go on a private sailing voyage from Nova Scotia to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, perhaps learning to hoist the sails, tie knots and navigate a vintage schooner.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Hopewell Rocks, Fundy Bay, Canada, Maritimes

Kayak Hopewell Rocks

Kayak in the “Mount Everest of the Marine World’ in the company of a private adventure guide, learning about the tidal phenomena around the renowned Hopewell Rocks.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Horse, Cape Breton, Canada, Maritimes

Maritimes Horse Experiences

Go on a breathtaking horseback ride between the mountains and the sea on Cape Breton Island or learn to understand their body language during a private wrangler session on Prince Edward Island.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Blacksmith, Artist, Maritimes

Private Blacksmith Workshop

Be introduced to blacksmithing during a one-on-one lesson in the company of an artisan on Cape Breton Island, who will show you all the tricks and technique of this tradition.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Atlantic Puffin, Canada, Maritimes

Look for Puffins

Head out to sea cliffs in search of the breeding grounds of the Atlantic puffin.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Chatham, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, New England, USA

Bay of Fundy Whale-Watching

Board a zodiac and set sail in search of whales and other marine creatures, staying on the lookout for potential fishing net rescue missions.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Where to Stay

Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Roxy Dukes

Roxy’s love for Canada is limitless and she has returned on an almost yearly basis since her first visit as a child. From hiking the high alpine trails, riding with local cowboys to kayaking with humpbacks, she has likely been there and done it.

Talk with our experts
  • 1 800 571 2985

Paul Bird

Watching bears interacting without any care of his presence was fascinating for Paul, and being a privileged onlooker in their natural habitat created a lifelong fascination with Canada.

Talk with our experts
  • 1 800 571 2985

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