Wild Islands to Highlands
Beginning from downtown Halifax, on this tour we discover the wild nature and diverse cultures of Nova Scotia. We explore the Wild Islands of the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia, taking the time to beachcomb, explore coastal forests, and travel among the islands on a traditional Cape Island Lobster Boat. There will be many encounters with wildlife, and we will also explore the local culture and culinary delights of the shore. Then, we travel to the world-renowned Cape Breton Island, where we will see the beauty of the Bras d’Or Lakes with its many Bald Eagles and Mi’kmaw and Celtic cultures, followed by a trip around the Cabot Trail, with scenery that is truly breath-taking. The tour concludes, taking the long way back to Halifax, exploring picturesque coastlines and the spectacle of the world’s highest tides on the Bay of Fundy.
The tour is available during weeks in September and October (see events). It includes accommodations, breakfasts, lunches, guide and driver, and all travel. Pick-up and return are from downtown Halifax hotels. Bring good footwear (sneakers are fine), layers of clothing, raincoat, rubber boots (if you have them), and an inquisitive mind. Now you’re ready for your adventure!
Trip Itinerary
Monday
Coastal drive to Martinique Beach and Clam Harbour for birding and lunch, then tour of the coast with naturalist stops along the way. Stay at Seawind Landing Country Inn for a gourmet dinner and night-time naturalist and cultural experiences.
Tuesday
After a wonderful breakfast at the Inn, we explore the beaches and headlands of Tor Bay to Canso. With lunch along the shore, we take-in beautiful scenery, explore tidal pools and beaches, and build sandcastles and art round out our day. Later in the evening, after a gourmet meal, we will explore the night sky with telescope and binoculars (weather dependent).
Wednesday
Breakfast at Seawind Landing, then a morning boat tour of Tor Bay and Sugar Islands (could be moved to Tuesday night – weather dependent). Then on up the coast to Chedabucto Bay and Cape Breton Island to experience the beauty of the Bras d’Or Lakes. We end our day at a Baddeck hotel with wonderful food.
Thursday
Breakfast and off to the Cabot Trail. We will have many moments along the way, and we will get off the beaten path to see what others miss. The scenery is breath-taking. Then, on to Mabou for a wee stop for a sip or two of single-malt whiskey at Glenora Distillery and a bite to eat. We will then end our day in Antigonish – and another lovely dinner.
Friday
Breakfast, then up the coast to Cape George Lighthouse and on to explore the coasts and estuaries of Big Island, Merigomish and Chance Harbour. Picnic lunch, and then return to Halifax with a quick detour to see the Bay of Fundy tides. This will be a sight-seeing day punctuated with natural history experiences along the way. Back to downtown Halifax by 5pm.
Price for this tour:
Adult: $3,500.00
Children under 16: $2,700.00
Book your tour by clicking on a ticket date.
Discount refund of 10% for three or more people bookings (Contact Stephen for details).
