Nova Scotia Delights Self Drive

Day 1 - Fly to Halifax

Fly to Halifax and pick up your hire car.

Day 2 - Enjoy Halifax

The day is free to explore the boutiques, pubs and cafes of Privateers Warehouse and the Historic Properties. Get a terrific view of the city from the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and visit York Redoubt National Historic Site, a 200-year-old fortification overlooking Halifax Harbour. We also recommend taking a drive and stopping at Mahone Bay, Peggy's Cove to see one of Canada's most famous lighthouses and Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 - Halifax to Baddeck

Depart Halifax for your journey to Cape Breton Island, a little piece of Scotland in North America. Arrive in Baddeck this afternoon. Afternoon at leisure prior to your 4pm or 6.30pm departure (choice is yours) cruise around Cape Breton’s UNESCO Biosphere, Bras d’Or Lakes, and Baddeck. The vessel offers a licensed bar with a beverage service and light snack options, sit back and relax as your captain tells you all about the history and culture of Baddeck. With viewings of  incredible bald eagles this simply adds to the sensational tour.

Day 4 - Baddeck (The Cabot Trail)

Relax in Baddeck or drive the famous Cabot Trail - Cape Breton Highlands National Park is known for its spectacular highlands and ocean scenery. Accessible via the famous Cabot Trail, the park offers many treasures and extraordinary experiences. This morning drive towards Ingonish and visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park visitor center to start your 2-day Cabot Trail adventure.

There are 28 beautiful hiking trails in the National Park, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs – they all lead to panoramic views of canyons, highlands and the coast. The most recommended one would be the Skyline Trail which is located about a 15-minute drive from the Cheticamp park entrance. Along the way visit the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre Route 19 Judique (approx. 25 minutes from causeway) or the Glenora Distillery Route 19/ Ceilidh Trail, Glenville (between Inverness and Mabou, about 30 minutes from Judique).

Other stops may include the Acadian Cultural Center & Museum (Les Trois Pignons) or St. Ann’s Gaelic College of Arts & Crafts

Day 5 - Louisbourg Sightseeing

This morning drive north to discover the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This incredible “living museum,” is the largest historical reconstruction in North America; it is an impressive restoration of a French garrison town dating from the 1700s, complete with costumed interpreters who re-enact daily life from the French colonial period. You can even sample period food in the restaurant, or take part in a mock battle.

Also, don’t miss a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in the village of Baddeck, a museum dedicated to the life and inventions of this fascinating man - who spent his summers here on the shores of the Bras d’Or. You may also want to visit the Highland Village Museum in Iona.

Day 6 - Baddeck to Liscombe Mills

Today head south from Cape Breton and drive to Liscombe Mills for your overnight stay at Liscombe Lodge. Spend the afternoon at your leisure enjoying the facilities on offer.

Day 7 - Liscombe Mills to Halifax

Travel back to Halifax for your last evening before returning home the following day.

Day 8 - Fly from Halifax

Check out of your Halifax hotel and transfer to the airport, drop off your self drive car prior to checking in for your flight homeward.