Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary: How to See It All

A road trip across Nova Scotia is the perfect way to discover the beauty of Canada’s East Coast. From rugged coastlines and charming towns to cultural experiences and breathtaking scenery, Nova Scotia offers something for every traveler. This itinerary will guide you through an 11-day adventure, ensuring you experience all the highlights this incredible province has to offer.

Your Nova Scotia Road Trip Route

Your journey begins in Halifax, the capital city, and takes you on a loop through scenic coastal towns, the lush Annapolis Valley, and the world-renowned Cabot Trail in Cape Breton. The route offers a balanced mix of history, outdoor activities, and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to stop at local attractions. Whether you’re interested in quaint fishing villages or stunning hiking trails, this itinerary has you covered.

Day 1: Halifax to Lunenburg or Mahone Bay – 1¼ Hours

Kick off your road trip by heading southwest from Halifax to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg or the equally charming Mahone Bay. This is a short and pleasant drive, perfect for easing into your journey.

What to Do in Lunenburg:

• Take a walking tour of Old Town Lunenburg, known for its colorful buildings and maritime history.
• Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about Nova Scotia’s fishing heritage.
• Stroll along the waterfront and admire the famous Bluenose II schooner (if in port).
• Stop by Ironworks Distillery to taste locally made spirits.

What to Do in Mahone Bay:

• Explore the famous "Three Churches" view, an iconic photo spot.
• Shop for local arts and crafts in the quaint boutiques along the main street.
• Take a kayak out on the bay for a relaxing paddle.

Day 2: Lunenburg to Yarmouth – 3 Hours

On day two, continue your drive along the South Shore, taking in the spectacular coastal scenery as you make your way toward Yarmouth. This stretch of the journey is dotted with beautiful beaches and fishing villages, making it perfect for leisurely stops.

Things to See Along the Way:

• Peggy’s Cove: Famous for its lighthouse perched on a rocky outcrop, this is a must-stop for photos.
• Shelburne: This historic town boasts well-preserved 18th-century architecture and a fascinating history museum.

What to Do in Yarmouth:

• Visit the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives to delve into the local history.
• Walk along the Cape Forchu Lighthouse Trail, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic.
• Explore the charming downtown area with its restaurants and waterfront views.

Day 3: Yarmouth to Digby via Wedgeport – 1½ Hours

Head north today, making a quick stop in Wedgeport on your way to Digby. Wedgeport is famous for its Acadian culture and scenic location at the tip of a peninsula.

Things to Do in Wedgeport:

• Check out the Tusket Islands, known for their rich fishing heritage.
• Visit Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse for an immersive look at Acadian life.

What to Do in Digby:

• Try the world-famous Digby scallops at one of the local seafood restaurants.
• Explore the Digby waterfront, where you can spot fishing boats and take in the salty air.
• Visit the Point Prim Lighthouse for views over the Bay of Fundy.

Day 4: Digby to Wolfville – 1½ Hours

After a restful night in Digby, head east to Wolfville, a bustling university town in the Annapolis Valley. This region is known for its vineyards and apple orchards, making it a perfect place for foodies and wine lovers.

Things to Do in Wolfville:

• Take a winery tour at one of the many vineyards in the area, such as Domaine de Grand Pré.
• Visit the Grand-Pré National Historic Site to learn about the Acadian deportation.
• Wander through the town’s lovely streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
• Hike up to the Lookoff for stunning views of the Annapolis Valley.

Day 5: Wolfville to Shubenacadie – 1½-2 Hours

Continue your journey to Shubenacadie, a small town known for its outdoor activities and wildlife. The drive is relatively short, allowing for a relaxing day to enjoy nature.

What to Do in Shubenacadie:

• Visit the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park, where you can see native animals like moose, black bears, and bald eagles.
• Take a thrilling tidal bore rafting trip on the Shubenacadie River, which is influenced by the Bay of Fundy’s powerful tides.

Days 6 & 7: Shubenacadie to Inverness – 3½ Hours

The next part of your road trip takes you to Cape Breton Island. Inverness, located on the island’s western shore, is known for its world-class golf courses and stunning beaches.

What to Do in Inverness:

• Play a round of golf at the famous Cabot Links or Cabot Cliffs golf courses, which offer spectacular views of the coastline.
• Relax on Inverness Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of sand.
• Take a walk along the Inverness Beach Boardwalk, which stretches over dunes and offers breathtaking ocean views.

Use your second day in Inverness to explore more of the island or enjoy another day of golfing and beachcombing.

Day 8: Inverness to Sydney via the Cabot Trail – Full Day

Today, you’ll embark on one of the most scenic drives in the world: the Cabot Trail. This loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton takes you through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering jaw-dropping views of cliffs, mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean.

What to See on the Cabot Trail:

• Stop at lookouts like French Mountain and MacKenzie Mountain for panoramic views.
• Hike one of the many trails, such as Skyline Trail, which offers one of the best sunset views in Nova Scotia.
• Visit charming villages like Cheticamp, known for its Acadian culture and music.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as moose, eagles, and whales.

Arrive in Sydney in the evening and enjoy a well-deserved rest after your long day of exploring.

Day 9: One More Night in Sydney

Spend a second day in Sydney, giving yourself time to discover this historic city and its surrounding area.

Things to Do in Sydney:

• Visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, one of the largest reconstructed forts in North America.
• Stroll along Sydney’s waterfront boardwalk, which features the world’s largest fiddle, a nod to the region’s musical heritage.
• Visit the Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design to shop for locally made arts and crafts.

Day 10: Sydney to Halifax via Truro or Sherbrooke

Begin your return journey to Halifax, with two scenic routes to choose from. Either take the inland route via Truro or enjoy a more coastal drive via Sherbrooke. Both offer plenty of interesting stops along the way.

Things to Do in Truro:

• Visit the Truro Tidal Bore to witness the massive waves caused by the Bay of Fundy tides.
• Walk through Victoria Park, a large urban park with waterfalls, walking trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Things to Do in Sherbrooke:

• Explore Sherbrooke Village, a living history museum where you can experience life in a 19th-century Nova Scotia village.
• Take a stroll along the St. Mary’s River and enjoy the tranquility of this quiet area.

Arrive back in Halifax in the evening, ready for a final night in the city.

Day 11: Your Nova Scotia Road Trip Ends in Halifax – 1 Hour

Your road trip through Nova Scotia comes to an end today as you wrap up any last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping in Halifax. If you have time, visit the Citadel National Historic Site or take a harbor cruise before you head home.

Conclusion

Nova Scotia is a province rich in natural beauty, history, and culture, and this road trip itinerary allows you to experience it all at your own pace. From the colorful town of Lunenburg to the awe-inspiring Cabot Trail, each destination offers something unique. Whether you’re drawn to the coastlines, the food, or the hiking trails, this road trip showcases the best of what Nova Scotia has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through Canada’s East Coast.