Self Drive - Essential Atlantic Canada | Self Drive Holidays | DMCi

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Tour Code: DM-SD- ESSENTIALATL

Duration: 11 Days | 10 Nights

Availability: 1 May to 31 Oct, 2024

Places Visited: Halifax, Baddeck, Charlottetown & Moncton

Prices

Starting from

Adult

CA $2,789

Per person sharing TWIN (including Taxes & HST) Request for Quote

Highlights

Download Itinerary PDF View Route Map

Self-drive adventure: Freedom to explore Halifax & beyond.
Cape Breton beauty: Enjoy Scottish heritage & natural wonders.
Cabot Trail hikes: Experience stunning vistas & local culture.
Historical Louisbourg: Step back in time at the fortress.
Coastal drives PEI: Discover lighthouses & sandy beaches.

Embark on a self-guided journey through Atlantic Canada's breath-taking landscapes with our Essential Self-Drive Tour. Start in Halifax, meander along Cape Breton’s Cabot Trail, revel in the rustic charm of PEI, and discover the raw beauty of the Bay of Fundy. With curated local experiences, from savouring fresh seafood to echoing the steps at Fortress of Louisbourg, every day is a new adventure at your own pace. Dive into the rich history and immerse in the cultural tapestry, all while having the freedom to create unforgettable memories.

Book now for an odyssey of freedom, scenic splendors, and epicurean delights!

Please contact our Canada Destination Specialist for information and assistance.

Itinerary

Download Itinerary PDF

DAY 1 – ARRIVE IN HALIFAX.

This afternoon you will arrive in Halifax. Collect your luggage and proceed to the rental desk to pick-up your rental car and drive to your hotel in downtown Halifax. Rest of the day free to explore the beautiful city of Halifax, its downtown and harbor.

Overnight in Halifax, NS.

DAY 2 – HALIFAX TO BADDECK ON CAPE BRETON ISLAND.

Driving Distance: 352 km | 218.7 miles | approx. 4 ½ hours of driving.

Highlights

Cape Breton Island: A Scottish-inspired adventure hub.
Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.
Diverse activities: Sailing, hiking, golf, and kayaking.
Culinary delights: Fresh seafood and single malt whisky.
Baddeck: Gateway to the scenic Cabot Trail, rich history.

Cape Breton Island, a Scottish-inspired paradise, offers diverse adventures like sailing, hiking, golf, and kayaking. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences, savor fresh seafood, and explore single malt whisky distilleries. Discover the historic town of Baddeck, the gateway to the Cabot Trail, with stunning views and tranquil beauty. Learn about its Mi'kmaq heritage and the legacy of Alexander Graham Bell, who graced the island with his "Beinn Bhreagh" estate, named after a Scottish Gaelic term meaning "Beautiful Mountain."

Overnight in Baddeck, NS.

DAY 3 – CABOT’S TRAIL.

Driving Distance: 298 km | 185.1 Miles

Highlights

Cabot Trail: Breathtaking journey through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Scenic Beauty: Spectacular valley and coastal views on all sides.
Cultural Stops: Celtic Music Interpretive Centre and Glenora Distillery.
Hiking Paradise: 28 scenic hiking trails to explore.

The Cabot Trail, a 298 km highway in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, delivers awe-inspiring valley and coastal vistas. Explore the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre and North America's first single malt whisky distillery, Glenora Distillery. With 28 hiking trails and recommended stops like Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery, Ingonish Beach, Middle Head Trail, White Point, Grave of The Unknown Sailor, Neil's Harbour, Skyline Trail, and Cheticamp, the trail promises a journey filled with breathtaking scenery and cultural delights.

Overnight in Baddeck, NS.

DAY 4 – FORTRESS OF LOUISBURG.

Driving Distance: 218 km | 135.4 miles

Highlights

Fortress of Louisbourg: 18th-century French fortress in Nova Scotia.
Historical Significance: Pivotal role in Anglo-French struggle for Canada.
Largest Reconstruction: North America's largest, covering 16,000 acres.
Living History: Summer re-enactors transport you to the 1700s with authentic experiences.

The Fortress of Louisbourg, a National Historic Site near Sydney, Nova Scotia, is a 18th-century French fortress partially reconstructed. Once a thriving settlement, it saw pivotal sieges in the Anglo-French struggle for Canada. Covering 16,000 acres with 60 acres of restored stone walls, it's North America's largest historical reconstruction. During summers, re-enactors bring the past to life, portraying French colonial life. Soldiers march, ladies dance, cannons fire, and authentic activities transport you to the 1700s. Interact with fishermen, sailors, and more. It's an immersive experience that makes history come alive in a surreal way.

Overnight in Baddeck, NS.

DAY 5 – BADDECK TO PEI AND POINTS EAST COASTAL DRIVE.

Driving Distance: 254 km | 157.8 miles

Ferry Crossing: Caribou, NS to Wood Islands, PEI (75-minutes)

Driving Distance: Wood Islands to Charlottetown: 218 km | 135 miles

Highlights

Point Prim Lighthouse: PEI's oldest lighthouse with stunning sea views.
Murray Harbour: Quaint fishing village, outdoor activities, and lighthouses.
Cape Bear Light House for scenic vistas & Titanic tales.
Georgetown: Historic harbor town with ship-building heritage.
Greenwich National Park: Home to unique sand dunes and rich history.

Discover the Points East Coastal Drive in PEI. Start at the historic Point Prim Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views. Explore Murray Harbour with kayaking and hiking. Don't miss Georgetown's deep harbor and ship-building legacy. End your journey at Greenwich National Park with rare sand dunes and archaeological treasures. Along the way, savor fresh seafood and local cuisine at charming eateries, making it a foodie's paradise.

Overnight in Charlottetown, PEI.

DAY 6 – CENTRAL COSTAL DRIVE.

Driving Distance: 206 km | 128 miles

Highlights

French River: Scenic village with New London Bay views.
Cape Tryon Lighthouse: Overlooks stunning sandstone cliffs.
Anne at Green Gables Heritage Place: Explore the inspiration behind the famous story.
Magnetic Hill: Experience the gravity-defying phenomenon in Moncton.

Leave PEI for New Brunswick, stopping at French River and Cape Tryon Lighthouse. Visit the Anne of Green Gables Museum, immersing yourself in the world of the beloved character. Cross the iconic Confederation Bridge to reach Moncton. Enjoy a lobster visit in Shediac Bay. Spend your evening exploring Moncton, and don't miss the intriguing Magnetic Hill experience where cars defy gravity.

Overnight in Moncton, NB.

DAY 7 – HOPEWELL ROCKS AND FUNDY NATIONAL PARK.

Driving Distances: 80 km |49.7 miles| 10 hours

Highlights

Hopewell Rocks: Famous for tidal flowerpot formations, time your visit with tides.
Fundy National Park: Explore stunning landscapes and coastal beauty.
Cape Enrage: Spectacular views and a historic lighthouse.
Alma: Enjoy dinner at a renowned lobster shop in a picturesque setting (not included in the package).

Visit Hopewell Rocks, witness the unique tidal formations, and plan your visit around tides. Explore Fundy National Park, a natural wonder. If time allows, don't miss Cape Enrage with its scenic views and a historic lighthouse. Wrap up the day with a delightful lobster dinner in Alma, near the national park.

Overnight in Moncton, NB.

DAY 8 – MONCTON TO HALIFAX.

Driving Distances: 265 km | 164.6 miles| 4 hours

Highlights

Amherst: Centrally located town with access to Bay of Fundy and Northumberland Shore.
Truro: Hub of Nova Scotia, ideal for exploring the province and Bay of Fundy's tidal phenomena.
Truro Tidal Bore: Witness the incredible tidal bore at the Salmon River.
Halifax: Arrive in the vibrant capital, with the evening free for exploration.

Depart Moncton for Amherst, a gateway to the Bay of Fundy and Northumberland Shore. Continue to Truro, known as the "Hub of Nova Scotia," with its historic downtown and tidal bore phenomenon. Finally, reach Halifax in the late afternoon, where you have the evening to explore the vibrant city.

Overnight in Halifax, NS.

DAY 9 – EXPLORE THE SOUTH SHORE.

Driving Distances: 670 km | 416.3 miles| 10 hours

Highlights

Peggy's Cove: Iconic fishing village with a picturesque lighthouse.
Mahone Bay: Quaint town known for its simple yet extraordinary way of life.
Old Town Lunenburg: UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful colonial buildings.
Lahave and Petite Rivière: Scenic drive along the LaHave River and unique cable ferry.

Explore the South Shore of Nova Scotia, featuring charming places like Peggy's Cove, Mahone Bay, and Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a scenic drive along the LaHave River and take a unique cable ferry ride. Discover the rich history of Liverpool and the cultural adventures of Shelburne. Finally, savor fresh seafood in Barrington, the Lobster Capital of Canada. This region offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights.

Overnight in Halifax, NS.

DAY 10 – HALIFAX DAY FREE.

Highlights

On Free Day Explore Halifax: A Day to discover the city's maritime history and walkable downtown.

Enjoy Free Day on Citadel Hill: Climb to the top of this historic fort for stunning views.
Museums: Visit fascinating museums detailing Halifax's history, including its response to the Titanic.

Enjoy a “free day” to explore Halifax, a city steeped in maritime history. Take a leisurely stroll through the walkable downtown, visit Citadel Hill with its centuries-old fort, and delve into the intriguing museums that recount the city's rich past, including its role in the Titanic disaster. Halifax offers a perfect blend of culture and history for your exploration.

Overnight in Halifax, NS.

DAY 11 – END OF TOUR.

Return your rental car to Halifax Airport prior to your return flight. End of your happy trip.

End of your Self-Drive Tour.

Contact our Canada Destination Specialist

Inclusions

11 Days | 10 Nights' accommodations.
Rental of mid-size car. Option to upgrade offered, Charges will apply.
Unlimited Mileage.
Rental Car Insurance (CDW/LDW). Minimum deductible applies. Please review FAQ.
Fundy National Park Pass.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park Pass.
Prince Edward Island National Park Pass.
Admissions to Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.
Admissions to Fort Anne National Historic Site.
Admissions to Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site.
Admissions to Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.
Admissions to Green Gables Heritage Place.
Ferry Tickets – Caribou, NS to Wood Island, PEI.
Resort fees, Taxes & HST.

Exclusions

Airfare. Offered as a supplement on request.
Breakfast and other meals unless listed under inclusions.
Additional Driver Fees.
Roadside assistance.
Gas for the vehicle.
GPS. Racks, etc.
Child and Infant Seats.
Parking & Tolls.
Porterage at hotels.
Bottled Water in hotel rooms.
Travel Insurance is strongly recommended to all travelers. Travel Agents, please note - If your client chooses to decline your offer to sell them Travel Insurance, you must secure a signed Liability Waiver, as required by the TICO, the Provincial Travel Regulatory Authorities of Ontario, Canada. DMCi Inc. sells Travel Insurance to residents of Ontario who are Canadian citizens or landed immigrants (Permanent Residence Card Holders) only. Non-Canadians and non-residents of Ontario or international clients must purchase Travel Insurance in their respective province, state, or country of residence.
Visa and Documentation Fees.
Telephone calls, Laundry, and other expenses.
Any personal expenses.
Gratuities for hotel staff (optional). Porterage at hotels.
Gratuities for hotel staff (optional).

Accommodations Featured

Destination	Hotel
Halifax	Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax Downtown or similar
Baddeck	Ceilidh Country Lodge or similar
Charlottetown	Rodd Royalty
Moncton	Rodd Moncton
Halifax	Hampton Inn by Hilton Halifax Downtown or similar