David Fleischer

I was wondering if anyone here as any knowledge or experience to offer
about driving around the maritimes.

Basically, I'm looking at flying from Toronto to Halifax for a week at
the end of July.

If I had an infinite amount of time I'd love to drive the whole coast,
around the Bay of Fundy, into New Brunswick and PEI....maybe even Cape
Breton.

From a map I find it a bit difficult to get a sense of how far things
are. Given a week, and starting from Halifax, how much can I
practically see while still maintaining a relaxed-enough tempo for it
to be a vacation...I'm sure I could see everything if I was just
constantly driving after all...

Are places like Cape Breton Isl and the other side of Nova Scotia
close enough to be day trips?

thanks for any help or advice.
David Fleischer

Smiley

Good day

Well if you like the coastal view for an idea if you drive south from
Halifax go right around the province you can do the drive in two days no
stoping Cape Breton will add a day. Taking time to see the sites will
give you a full week.

Here are some travel notes from my arckives hope they help !!

Get the latest "Doers and Dreamers" travel guide from any tourist
office, or in advance at: http://explore.gov.ns.ca/. This may the best
tourist office-issued guidebook you'll find in North America. Not only
are all the accommodations listed with prices, there is a paragraph of
good description for each property. On top of that (literally) the
toll-free phone number of the tourist board printed at the top of each
page. You can call them until 10 pm every day and they will reserve
accommodation anywhere in the province for you at no charge. Once your
name is in the system, you need only provide the number and all the info
comes up, so you don't have to go through it all again. They are very
patient and happy to provide info about how many rooms are shown as
available at each place.

The guide also gives a comprehensive description of the places and
things you'll see on the various scenic drives, along with suggested
worthwhile detours. Unfortunately for the traveller with limited time,
the authorities have done their job well: they promote every area of the
province, without favouritism. Well, some areas are more worthwhile
than others. Make sure you get to these three: 1) Halifax, 2) the area
to the southeast of Halifax, including Peggy's Cove and Lunenberg, 3)
the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island.

Sunrise Trail
This road along the north coast is okay, but nothing special. You
wouldn't miss much if you skipped most of it, taking the Trans-Canada to
Pictou. Two short detours first: if you're an Anne Murray fan, you'll
want to visit Springhill, where she was born and grew up, and now the
home of the Anne Murray museum. There's even a special spur highway to
get you there and back quickly. At the next exit east, stop in at
Oxford, whose claim to fame is the blueberry. At the free
interpretation centre you can learn everything you ever wanted to know
about this important crop.

The TCH turns south and passes through Truro. It's worth a quick drive
around town to see all the carved tree trunks, but little reason to
stay.

Pictou is a pleasant little town worth a quick look. New Glasgow has
little to offer except a grim reminder of the disaster at the nearby
Westray coal mine. However, they are working to pull themselves out of
their depression. A recently completed pathway along the edge of the
river makes for a pleasant walk, where you will be joined by much of the
town. The place to spend the evening is an Irish pub just across the
main bridge, on the left. You might wonder why a place named after a
major Scottish city would have an Irish pub as its most popular hangout,
but there you go.

The most worthwhile part of the Sunrise Trail is the next bit, which
goes to Cape George. Turn off down the short gravel road to the
lighthouse. You'll be rewarded with an excellent view.

Cabot Trail/Ceilidh Trail
The Ceilidh Trail is the road along the bottom half of Cape Breton's
west coast, connecting to the Cabot Trail. People often think this is
part of the more famous drive, but officially it is separate. There's
nothing much in particular to see, but there's no reason to avoid it,
either. It's a good road that will get you to the Cabot Trail as
efficiently as the central route. If you're a big Scotch fan, you might
want to stop at Glenora Distillery, the only single malt distillery in
North America. But don't expect special treatment. If you want a tour,
you'll have to pay for it. You can buy the product there, but the price
is the same as in the liquor stores, and considerably higher most
imported single malt whiskies.

At Margaree Harbour you join the Cabot Trail - not that things really
look much different. Around Grand Etang stop and see the big display of
scarecrows. It's an eyecatcher designed to attract visitors to their
shop, but the whole thing is quite well done and worth a look.

Cheticamp is the obvious place to stop for the night before heading into
the Park. There's quite a few places to choose from, but try for
L'Auberge Doucet Inn, just south of town. It's set back from the road
some way, like an estate. Yet the prices are quite reasonable. The
friendly Acadian family also runs a small but excellent restaurant on
the premises. Again, you'll pay no more than elsewhere.

A fan of walking trails could easily spend three or four days in Cape
Breton Highlands National Park. If you just want to try a few of the
shorter ones, you can easily manage this park in a day. For some
reason, park staff like to recommend trail 7. Don't listen to them.
First you have to walk about a mile just to get to the beginning of the
trail (although some work is now under way which will hopefully improve
the situation). Then you have a long way to go to the ocean lookout.
Supposedly this is the best trail to see moose. Perhaps if you do see
one the walk will be worth it, but the chances are slim. Your energy
would be better spent on other trails.

At the eastern end of the park, the obvious place to stay is Ingonish.
Unfortunately, this is a popular resort area and most of the
accommodation is quite pricey. You may be stuck paying the premium for
a bed, but you don't need to be gouged for dinner. Look for the Main
Street restaurant on the main road, across from the liquor store, just
south of Ingonish. No décor, but the food is prepared with quality and
care. Just don't dine late; they close quite early (7 pm?). As long as
you arrive by the closing time you'll be fed.

Heading south, you come to the Bras d'Or lakes. There are many angles
from which to see this magnificent scenery and it doesn't matter much
which you pick. Finally you're back at the causeway to the mainland.


Maritime Drive
This route is more scenic than the Sunrise Trail, but still not the best
you'll see. At least save yourself some time by taking the TCH to
Antigonish and then 7 south. Stop at the Sherbrooke Village Museum.
You've probably visited pioneer villages before, but this one is
different. It consists of buildings that were purchased and
refurbished. The village continues as a living entity as a number of
people chose not to sell. And unlike other such museums, you may enter
and walk around for free (though no sign says so); admission is payable
only if you want to go into buildings or use the facilities (like horse
and buggy rides).

There are a few pretty sights as you approach Halifax, but nothing
exceptional. You can easily drive from the causeway to Halifax in a day
along this trail, but if you decide to skip it, you won't be kicking
yourself later.


Halifax
The most pleasant city in the Maritimes. At some point, take the ferry
from Dartmouth across the harbour for a great view, for much less than
it would cost to take a tour. Walking along the harbourfront makes for
a very pleasant day. Old buildings have been beautifully restored and
now host shops and restaurants. The area by where the ferry docks has
become a gathering place for showoffs. Especially on Saturday night,
people come to display their motorbikes, antique autos, or just their
latest outfits. Grab a seat on the patio of the adjacent pub and watch
the show.

The boardwalk stretches for some distance, all the way to Pier 21. If
your parents or grandparents came to Canada by ship, this is probably
where they docked. An interpretation centre has been set up to give you
a feel for what it was like for them, and a resource centre might be
able to help you with research. You can even get a picture of the ship,
if you know its name.

The rest of the downtown area makes for an interesting walking tour. Be
sure to go up Spring Garden Road, a continuous hive of activity. Also,
follow South Park St. toward Point Pleasant Park to see the grand
mansions. Back to the Historic Properties, grab a meal from one of the
shops, a beer from the on-site brew pub, then sit outside and enjoy the
harbour view while dining.


Lighthouse route
This road from Halifax to Yarmouth takes you through the most scenic
segment of the province. As you reach the coast, you come to Peggy's
Cove. This scenic fishing village has been famous for some time, and
it's well deserved. Unfortunately, its fame and proximity to Halifax
means that often gets flooded with tourists. It's hard to find a true
inhabitant amid the crowds disgorged by all the cars and buses. In a
sense, this is a spectacle in its own right. If you don't find this
appealing, try to get there fairly early. Then you can take in the true
beauty in peace. This is a good place to send your postcards; all mail
bears a special Peggy's Cove lighthouse cancellation.

Just beyond this happy sight is a sad one: the Swissair memorial.
Because of its proximity, this is also becoming a bit of a zoo. Still,
it is a moving tribute.

Continuing down this coast leads to one beautiful spectacle after
another. Take your time and drink in the marvelous views. Eventually
you reach Lunenberg. An absolute must-see. Walk up and down the grid
of streets to see the preserved historical buildings. At the harbour
you will often find the Bluenose II docked. Have dinner at one of the
waterside restaurants.

For excellent overnight accommodations, stay at the Commander's Inn.
For a reasonable price you'll get the cleanest room in the Maritimes and
a delicious breakfast from a menu, at your leisure. The proprietor used
to be a Commander in the Canadian navy, so the whole place is thoroughly
decorated in a tasteful nautical theme.

The remainder of the lighthouse route has no specific places you need to
see, but continues to offer great vistas, though perhaps not as nice as
the first part.


Evangeline Trail
Yarmouth has little to see. As you head out, you soon come to the
turnoff for Sandford. Take this short detour to check out the harbour.
This is the site of the shortest lift bridge in the world. It's made
for pedestrians to cross over the harbour entrance. It's tilted like an
upside down V so that most boats can sail under, minimizing the need to
actually open it.

This route doesn't really have much in particular to see, but as it runs
parallel to the main highway, you might as well take it. The Acadians
here have built some magnificent churches that are well worth a look. A
few have the nerve to charge admission; others do not.

Halfway along you reach Digby. This is a main fishing port, especially
for scallops. A number of restaurants overlook the harbour. A good
place to have a meal.

Leaving Digby, take the turnoff to Bear River. If you didn't know,
you'd quickly recognize that this is a community of artists. Some of
the shops offer excellent handicrafts. A number of places look a bit
strange, standing on stilts. This is to keep them safe from the rising
waters of the daily tides. Perhaps the most unusual tourist sight
you'll see is Bear River's sewage processing facility, located behind
the tourist office in a windmill. This uses the sun and plantlife to
filter wastes and purify the water.

Coming into Annapolis Royal, you might be thinking of stopping here for
the night. Think again. For some reason, this town attracts the
well-to-do. Accommodations are overpriced. There are, however, three
restaurants that rate mention in gourmet books. If you're looking for
fine dining at high prices, this is the place for you. Your only other
alternatives are a pizza place and a pretty decent pub. You'll want to
glance at Fort Anne National Historic Site, and maybe the Tidal Power
Interpretive Centre.

Traveling east brings you to the pretty town of Bridgetown. At
Middleton, check out the water clock by city hall, and the MacDonald
museum, with its fascinating collection of antique clocks and watches.
After that, things start to get less pleasant. The built-up areas are
closer together and traffic gradually gets worse and worse. In Windsor,
be sure to stop by the Dill farm to see the world's largest pumpkins.


Glooscap Trail
This is the road along the coast in the northwest corner of Nova Scotia,
by the Bay of Fundy. Ironically, the most scenic part is the optional
add-on that takes in the far corner down to Cape d'Or. Lots of great
views on this stretch. However, it would be helpful if there were a few
more lookouts. The other major view is the Five Islands east of
Parrsboro.

David Fleischer wrote:

    >I was wondering if anyone here as any knowledge or experience to offer
    >about driving around the maritimes.
    >Basically, I'm looking at flying from Toronto to Halifax for a week at
    >the end of July.
    >If I had an infinite amount of time I'd love to drive the whole coast,
    >around the Bay of Fundy, into New Brunswick and PEI....maybe even Cape
    >Breton.
    >From a map I find it a bit difficult to get a sense of how far things
    >are. Given a week, and starting from Halifax, how much can I
    >practically see while still maintaining a relaxed-enough tempo for it
    >to be a vacation...I'm sure I could see everything if I was just
    >constantly driving after all...
    >Are places like Cape Breton Isl and the other side of Nova Scotia
    >close enough to be day trips?
    >thanks for any help or advice.
    >David Fleischer
    >

Heather Morrison

Smiley,

That's an excellent itinerary! I just have a few comments. I do recommend
checking out "Elsie" in Baddeck for accomodation.. and a charter on the
lakes - http://baddeck.com/ElsieCharters/

When up on the Cabot Trail ..you can drive into Marianne Falls. We have seen
moose everytime we have been there. It;s a great place to cool off on a
summer day.

Heading back towards Halifax from Sherbrooke Village don't miss stopping in
at Taylor's Head Beach. To me this is the most beautiful beach in the
province. There are some short ocean view hiking trails there too.

Even if Peggy's Cove is tourist invaded us locals do like to go out there
and get our Haddock fish n chip fix ...or just some of the great warmed
gingerbread with whip cream...especially if you manage to be out there on a
chilly day. The best fish n chips are made from Haddock..always ask what
fish you are getting.

Up near Annapolis Royal..I might add a short trip to The Habitation where
The Order of Good Cheer was founded.
http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/lhn-nhs...al/index_e.asp

I agree... I highly recommend the view from Cape George..not to be missed!

Fantastic job!! sounds like you had a great trip!

Heather
"Smiley" wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
    > Good day
    > Well if you like the coastal view for an idea if you drive south from
    > Halifax go right around the province you can do the drive in two days no
    > stoping Cape Breton will add a day. Taking time to see the sites will
    > give you a full week.
    > Here are some travel notes from my arckives hope they help !!
    > Get the latest "Doers and Dreamers" travel guide from any tourist
    > office, or in advance at: http://explore.gov.ns.ca/. This may the best
    > tourist office-issued guidebook you'll find in North America. Not only
    > are all the accommodations listed with prices, there is a paragraph of
    > good description for each property. On top of that (literally) the
    > toll-free phone number of the tourist board printed at the top of each
    > page. You can call them until 10 pm every day and they will reserve
    > accommodation anywhere in the province for you at no charge. Once your
    > name is in the system, you need only provide the number and all the info
    > comes up, so you don't have to go through it all again. They are very
    > patient and happy to provide info about how many rooms are shown as
    > available at each place.
    > The guide also gives a comprehensive description of the places and
    > things you'll see on the various scenic drives, along with suggested
    > worthwhile detours. Unfortunately for the traveller with limited time,
    > the authorities have done their job well: they promote every area of the
    > province, without favouritism. Well, some areas are more worthwhile
    > than others. Make sure you get to these three: 1) Halifax, 2) the area
    > to the southeast of Halifax, including Peggy's Cove and Lunenberg, 3)
    > the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island.
    > Sunrise Trail
    > This road along the north coast is okay, but nothing special. You
    > wouldn't miss much if you skipped most of it, taking the Trans-Canada to
    > Pictou. Two short detours first: if you're an Anne Murray fan, you'll
    > want to visit Springhill, where she was born and grew up, and now the
    > home of the Anne Murray museum. There's even a special spur highway to
    > get you there and back quickly. At the next exit east, stop in at
    > Oxford, whose claim to fame is the blueberry. At the free
    > interpretation centre you can learn everything you ever wanted to know
    > about this important crop.
    > The TCH turns south and passes through Truro. It's worth a quick drive
    > around town to see all the carved tree trunks, but little reason to
    > stay.
    > Pictou is a pleasant little town worth a quick look. New Glasgow has
    > little to offer except a grim reminder of the disaster at the nearby
    > Westray coal mine. However, they are working to pull themselves out of
    > their depression. A recently completed pathway along the edge of the
    > river makes for a pleasant walk, where you will be joined by much of the
    > town. The place to spend the evening is an Irish pub just across the
    > main bridge, on the left. You might wonder why a place named after a
    > major Scottish city would have an Irish pub as its most popular hangout,
    > but there you go.
    > The most worthwhile part of the Sunrise Trail is the next bit, which
    > goes to Cape George. Turn off down the short gravel road to the
    > lighthouse. You'll be rewarded with an excellent view.
    > Cabot Trail/Ceilidh Trail
    > The Ceilidh Trail is the road along the bottom half of Cape Breton's
    > west coast, connecting to the Cabot Trail. People often think this is
    > part of the more famous drive, but officially it is separate. There's
    > nothing much in particular to see, but there's no reason to avoid it,
    > either. It's a good road that will get you to the Cabot Trail as
    > efficiently as the central route. If you're a big Scotch fan, you might
    > want to stop at Glenora Distillery, the only single malt distillery in
    > North America. But don't expect special treatment. If you want a tour,
    > you'll have to pay for it. You can buy the product there, but the price
    > is the same as in the liquor stores, and considerably higher most
    > imported single malt whiskies.
    > At Margaree Harbour you join the Cabot Trail - not that things really
    > look much different. Around Grand Etang stop and see the big display of
    > scarecrows. It's an eyecatcher designed to attract visitors to their
    > shop, but the whole thing is quite well done and worth a look.
    > Cheticamp is the obvious place to stop for the night before heading into
    > the Park. There's quite a few places to choose from, but try for
    > L'Auberge Doucet Inn, just south of town. It's set back from the road
    > some way, like an estate. Yet the prices are quite reasonable. The
    > friendly Acadian family also runs a small but excellent restaurant on
    > the premises. Again, you'll pay no more than elsewhere.
    > A fan of walking trails could easily spend three or four days in Cape
    > Breton Highlands National Park. If you just want to try a few of the
    > shorter ones, you can easily manage this park in a day. For some
    > reason, park staff like to recommend trail 7. Don't listen to them.
    > First you have to walk about a mile just to get to the beginning of the
    > trail (although some work is now under way which will hopefully improve
    > the situation). Then you have a long way to go to the ocean lookout.
    > Supposedly this is the best trail to see moose. Perhaps if you do see
    > one the walk will be worth it, but the chances are slim. Your energy
    > would be better spent on other trails.
    > At the eastern end of the park, the obvious place to stay is Ingonish.
    > Unfortunately, this is a popular resort area and most of the
    > accommodation is quite pricey. You may be stuck paying the premium for
    > a bed, but you don't need to be gouged for dinner. Look for the Main
    > Street restaurant on the main road, across from the liquor store, just
    > south of Ingonish. No décor, but the food is prepared with quality and
    > care. Just don't dine late; they close quite early (7 pm?). As long as
    > you arrive by the closing time you'll be fed.
    > Heading south, you come to the Bras d'Or lakes. There are many angles
    > from which to see this magnificent scenery and it doesn't matter much
    > which you pick. Finally you're back at the causeway to the mainland.
    > Maritime Drive
    > This route is more scenic than the Sunrise Trail, but still not the best
    > you'll see. At least save yourself some time by taking the TCH to
    > Antigonish and then 7 south. Stop at the Sherbrooke Village Museum.
    > You've probably visited pioneer villages before, but this one is
    > different. It consists of buildings that were purchased and
    > refurbished. The village continues as a living entity as a number of
    > people chose not to sell. And unlike other such museums, you may enter
    > and walk around for free (though no sign says so); admission is payable
    > only if you want to go into buildings or use the facilities (like horse
    > and buggy rides).
    > There are a few pretty sights as you approach Halifax, but nothing
    > exceptional. You can easily drive from the causeway to Halifax in a day
    > along this trail, but if you decide to skip it, you won't be kicking
    > yourself later.
    > Halifax
    > The most pleasant city in the Maritimes. At some point, take the ferry
    > from Dartmouth across the harbour for a great view, for much less than
    > it would cost to take a tour. Walking along the harbourfront makes for
    > a very pleasant day. Old buildings have been beautifully restored and
    > now host shops and restaurants. The area by where the ferry docks has
    > become a gathering place for showoffs. Especially on Saturday night,
    > people come to display their motorbikes, antique autos, or just their
    > latest outfits. Grab a seat on the patio of the adjacent pub and watch
    > the show.
    > The boardwalk stretches for some distance, all the way to Pier 21. If
    > your parents or grandparents came to Canada by ship, this is probably
    > where they docked. An interpretation centre has been set up to give you
    > a feel for what it was like for them, and a resource centre might be
    > able to help you with research. You can even get a picture of the ship,
    > if you know its name.
    > The rest of the downtown area makes for an interesting walking tour. Be
    > sure to go up Spring Garden Road, a continuous hive of activity. Also,
    > follow South Park St. toward Point Pleasant Park to see the grand
    > mansions. Back to the Historic Properties, grab a meal from one of the
    > shops, a beer from the on-site brew pub, then sit outside and enjoy the
    > harbour view while dining.
    > Lighthouse route
    > This road from Halifax to Yarmouth takes you through the most scenic
    > segment of the province. As you reach the coast, you come to Peggy's
    > Cove. This scenic fishing village has been famous for some time, and
    > it's well deserved. Unfortunately, its fame and proximity to Halifax
    > means that often gets flooded with tourists. It's hard to find a true
    > inhabitant amid the crowds disgorged by all the cars and buses. In a
    > sense, this is a spectacle in its own right. If you don't find this
    > appealing, try to get there fairly early. Then you can take in the true
    > beauty in peace. This is a good place to send your postcards; all mail
    > bears a special Peggy's Cove lighthouse cancellation.
    > Just beyond this happy sight is a sad one: the Swissair memorial.
    > Because of its proximity, this is also becoming a bit of a zoo. Still,
    > it is a moving tribute.
    > Continuing down this coast leads to one beautiful spectacle after
    > another. Take your time and drink in the marvelous views. Eventually
    > you reach Lunenberg. An absolute must-see. Walk up and down the grid
    > of streets to see the preserved historical buildings. At the harbour
    > you will often find the Bluenose II docked. Have dinner at one of the
    > waterside restaurants.
    > For excellent overnight accommodations, stay at the Commander's Inn.
    > For a reasonable price you'll get the cleanest room in the Maritimes and
    > a delicious breakfast from a menu, at your leisure. The proprietor used
    > to be a Commander in the Canadian navy, so the whole place is thoroughly
    > decorated in a tasteful nautical theme.
    > The remainder of the lighthouse route has no specific places you need to
    > see, but continues to offer great vistas, though perhaps not as nice as
    > the first part.
    > Evangeline Trail
    > Yarmouth has little to see. As you head out, you soon come to the
    > turnoff for Sandford. Take this short detour to check out the harbour.
    > This is the site of the shortest lift bridge in the world. It's made
    > for pedestrians to cross over the harbour entrance. It's tilted like an
    > upside down V so that most boats can sail under, minimizing the need to
    > actually open it.
    > This route doesn't really have much in particular to see, but as it runs
    > parallel to the main highway, you might as well take it. The Acadians
    > here have built some magnificent churches that are well worth a look. A
    > few have the nerve to charge admission; others do not.
    > Halfway along you reach Digby. This is a main fishing port, especially
    > for scallops. A number of restaurants overlook the harbour. A good
    > place to have a meal.
    > Leaving Digby, take the turnoff to Bear River. If you didn't know,
    > you'd quickly recognize that this is a community of artists. Some of
    > the shops offer excellent handicrafts. A number of places look a bit
    > strange, standing on stilts. This is to keep them safe from the rising
    > waters of the daily tides. Perhaps the most unusual tourist sight
    > you'll see is Bear River's sewage processing facility, located behind
    > the tourist office in a windmill. This uses the sun and plantlife to
    > filter wastes and purify the water.
    > Coming into Annapolis Royal, you might be thinking of stopping here for
    > the night. Think again. For some reason, this town attracts the
    > well-to-do. Accommodations are overpriced. There are, however, three
    > restaurants that rate mention in gourmet books. If you're looking for
    > fine dining at high prices, this is the place for you. Your only other
    > alternatives are a pizza place and a pretty decent pub. You'll want to
    > glance at Fort Anne National Historic Site, and maybe the Tidal Power
    > Interpretive Centre.
    > Traveling east brings you to the pretty town of Bridgetown. At
    > Middleton, check out the water clock by city hall, and the MacDonald
    > museum, with its fascinating collection of antique clocks and watches.
    > After that, things start to get less pleasant. The built-up areas are
    > closer together and traffic gradually gets worse and worse. In Windsor,
    > be sure to stop by the Dill farm to see the world's largest pumpkins.
    > Glooscap Trail
    > This is the road along the coast in the northwest corner of Nova Scotia,
    > by the Bay of Fundy. Ironically, the most scenic part is the optional
    > add-on that takes in the far corner down to Cape d'Or. Lots of great
    > views on this stretch. However, it would be helpful if there were a few
    > more lookouts. The other major view is the Five Islands east of
    > Parrsboro.
    > David Fleischer wrote:
    > >I was wondering if anyone here as any knowledge or experience to offer
    > >about driving around the maritimes.
    > >
    > >Basically, I'm looking at flying from Toronto to Halifax for a week at
    > >the end of July.
    > >
    > >If I had an infinite amount of time I'd love to drive the whole coast,
    > >around the Bay of Fundy, into New Brunswick and PEI....maybe even Cape
    > >Breton.
    > >
    > >From a map I find it a bit difficult to get a sense of how far things
    > >are. Given a week, and starting from Halifax, how much can I
    > >practically see while still maintaining a relaxed-enough tempo for it
    > >to be a vacation...I'm sure I could see everything if I was just
    > >constantly driving after all...
    > >
    > >Are places like Cape Breton Isl and the other side of Nova Scotia
    > >close enough to be day trips?
    > >
    > >thanks for any help or advice.
    > >David Fleischer
    > >
    > >

J. Sterling

    > > Continuing down this coast leads to one beautiful spectacle after
    > > another. Take your time and drink in the marvelous views. Eventually
    > > you reach Lunenberg. An absolute must-see. Walk up and down the grid
    > > of streets to see the preserved historical buildings. At the harbour
    > > you will often find the Bluenose II docked. Have dinner at one of the
    > > waterside restaurants.
    > >
    > > For excellent overnight accommodations, stay at the Commander's Inn.
    > > For a reasonable price you'll get the cleanest room in the Maritimes and
    > > a delicious breakfast from a menu, at your leisure. The proprietor used
    > > to be a Commander in the Canadian navy, so the whole place is thoroughly
    > > decorated in a tasteful nautical theme.
    > >
    > > The remainder of the lighthouse route has no specific places you need to
    > > see, but continues to offer great vistas, though perhaps not as nice as
    > > the first part.

I liked Lunenburg very much - it's very pleasant and scenic, and
there are a lot of nice B&B's there. When I was in Halifax a few years ago
the Bluenose was in the harbour, and we were able to go out on her - such a
beautiful ship. Somewhere between Lunenberg and Yarmouth is a park called
The Ovens which I really enjoyed. You can walk into caves that have been
carved out by the ocean where you can see and hear the waves rushing in and
out.


Jean S.

Greg

"David Fleischer" wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
    > From a map I find it a bit difficult to get a sense of how far things
    > are. Given a week, and starting from Halifax, how much can I
    > practically see while still maintaining a relaxed-enough tempo for it
    > to be a vacation...I'm sure I could see everything if I was just
    > constantly driving after all...
Farther than you think....I'd plan on moving accomodations rather than doing
out and backs.....

Chad

Greg wrote:

    > Farther than you think....I'd plan on moving accomodations rather than doing
    > out and backs.....


I agree. We flew in, drove down to Halifax. We spent two days there.
Then we left early morning, arrived in the afternoon at Antigonish.
Found a nice hotel there, spent two days doing genealogy research.
Then we left in the morning, arrived noonish in Baddeck. We spent two
days there with one day spent on a bus tour around that part of
Cape Breton island.

The roads were in pretty good shape, traffic was light for the most
part. Depends on how much driving you care to do in a day.

chad

Rj

In Cape Breton Louisbourg is a fun side trip, and it's interesting along
the coast by New Waterford, Dominion, and Glace Bay. Not touristy but
gritty, and the ocean is just out there. We stayed three days/2 nights in
Cape Breton and saw lots.

Halifax is good for 2 or 3 nights, one day to explore Halifax (Sunday go
to the harbour, go to the fish and chips place centrally located and have
the microbrewery beer located by the outdoor patio)...the next day go to
Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg and Mahone Bay the and the third day is wide open to
just explore wherever.

Annapolis Valley has its charms...a good lookoff north of New
Minas/Wolfville and tidal flats at Windsor. Just a laid back kind of area.

The post was right about the Sunrise Trail going east to Pictou being
not much to see, stick with the Trans Canada there. Pictou is a nice place.

For the fuller Maritime run, go to Moncton, drop down to the Hopewell
Rocks, then go NE a bit again from Moncton and drive down the coast to the
Confederation Bridge...enjoy PEI for a couple of days, then take the Woods
Island Ferry on the other end to Cariboo/Pictou.

"chad" wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
    > Greg wrote:
    > > Farther than you think....I'd plan on moving accomodations rather than
doing
    > > out and backs.....
    > I agree. We flew in, drove down to Halifax. We spent two days there.
    > Then we left early morning, arrived in the afternoon at Antigonish.
    > Found a nice hotel there, spent two days doing genealogy research.
    > Then we left in the morning, arrived noonish in Baddeck. We spent two
    > days there with one day spent on a bus tour around that part of
    > Cape Breton island.
    > The roads were in pretty good shape, traffic was light for the most
    > part. Depends on how much driving you care to do in a day.
    > chad

David Fleischer

Hi guys,

Thanks for all the advice. Definitely helping.
    >
    > Halifax is good for 2 or 3 nights, one day to explore Halifax (Sunday go
    > to the harbour, go to the fish and chips place centrally located and have
    > the microbrewery beer located by the outdoor patio)...the next day go to
    > Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg and Mahone Bay the and the third day is wide open to
    > just explore wherever.

This was definitely my impression. A couple of nights in Halifax with
day trips south to these areas. Plus seeing Annapolis Royal.

I'm hoping I might be able to fly into Halifax but out of St. John or
Fredricton. SO...assuming I have 8 nights...(Sun to Sun)...
2 in Halifax
2 in Cape Breton (or one on the way to Cape Breton +a night there?)
2 in PEI (by Ferry)
then bridge to NB...Moncton for 1 night?
Somehow ending up in St. John, I'm guessing, to fly out on Sunday.

Does that seem to make sense? Looking at it, I wonder if it would be
better to END in Halifax, start ing in NB...that way I'm in Halifax
for the weekend. Seems like it would be a bit more active on Fri and
Sat night than New Brunswick...

Thanks again,
David




    >
    > For the fuller Maritime run, go to Moncton, drop down to the Hopewell
    > Rocks, then go NE a bit again from Moncton and drive down the coast to the
    > Confederation Bridge...enjoy PEI for a couple of days, then take the Woods
    > Island Ferry on the other end to Cariboo/Pictou.
    >
    > "chad" wrote in message
    > news:[email protected]...
    > > Greg wrote:
    > >
    > > > Farther than you think....I'd plan on moving accomodations rather than
    > doing
    > > > out and backs.....
    > >
    > >
    > > I agree. We flew in, drove down to Halifax. We spent two days there.
    > > Then we left early morning, arrived in the afternoon at Antigonish.
    > > Found a nice hotel there, spent two days doing genealogy research.
    > > Then we left in the morning, arrived noonish in Baddeck. We spent two
    > > days there with one day spent on a bus tour around that part of
    > > Cape Breton island.
    > >
    > > The roads were in pretty good shape, traffic was light for the most
    > > part. Depends on how much driving you care to do in a day.
    > >
    > > chad
    > >

David Gibson

Smiley wrote:

    > Good day



    > Sunrise Trail
    > This road along the north coast is okay, but nothing special. You
    > wouldn't miss much if you skipped most of it, taking the Trans-Canada to
    > Pictou. Two short detours first: if you're an Anne Murray fan, you'll
    > want to visit Springhill, where she was born and grew up, and now the
    > home of the Anne Murray museum.

Don't you mean Anne of Green Gables?

And wasn't she born and brought up in New Brunswick?



--
(Go Fish!)

Heather Morrison

The driving distance between Moncton and St. John..and Moncton and Halifax
aren't that great. Moncton to Halifax 2.5 hours..3 at the most. To St. John
is about an hour. I would easily opt to fly in and out of Halifax.

Heather

"David Fleischer" wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
    > Hi guys,
    > Thanks for all the advice. Definitely helping.
    > >
    > > Halifax is good for 2 or 3 nights, one day to explore Halifax
(Sunday go
    > > to the harbour, go to the fish and chips place centrally located and
have
    > > the microbrewery beer located by the outdoor patio)...the next day go to
    > > Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg and Mahone Bay the and the third day is wide
open to
    > > just explore wherever.
    > This was definitely my impression. A couple of nights in Halifax with
    > day trips south to these areas. Plus seeing Annapolis Royal.
    > I'm hoping I might be able to fly into Halifax but out of St. John or
    > Fredricton. SO...assuming I have 8 nights...(Sun to Sun)...
    > 2 in Halifax
    > 2 in Cape Breton (or one on the way to Cape Breton +a night there?)
    > 2 in PEI (by Ferry)
    > then bridge to NB...Moncton for 1 night?
    > Somehow ending up in St. John, I'm guessing, to fly out on Sunday.
    > Does that seem to make sense? Looking at it, I wonder if it would be
    > better to END in Halifax, start ing in NB...that way I'm in Halifax
    > for the weekend. Seems like it would be a bit more active on Fri and
    > Sat night than New Brunswick...
    > Thanks again,
    > David
    > >
    > > For the fuller Maritime run, go to Moncton, drop down to the
Hopewell
    > > Rocks, then go NE a bit again from Moncton and drive down the coast to
the
    > > Confederation Bridge...enjoy PEI for a couple of days, then take the
Woods
    > > Island Ferry on the other end to Cariboo/Pictou.
    > >
    > > "chad" wrote in message
    > > news:[email protected]...
    > > > Greg wrote:
    > > >
    > > > > Farther than you think....I'd plan on moving accomodations rather
than
    > > doing
    > > > > out and backs.....
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > I agree. We flew in, drove down to Halifax. We spent two days there.
    > > > Then we left early morning, arrived in the afternoon at Antigonish.
    > > > Found a nice hotel there, spent two days doing genealogy research.
    > > > Then we left in the morning, arrived noonish in Baddeck. We spent two
    > > > days there with one day spent on a bus tour around that part of
    > > > Cape Breton island.
    > > >
    > > > The roads were in pretty good shape, traffic was light for the most
    > > > part. Depends on how much driving you care to do in a day.
    > > >
    > > > chad
    > > >

Bravenewwhirl

    > Somehow ending up in St. John, I'm guessing, to fly out on Sunday.

Helpful hint.....Saint John is in N.B. St. John's is in Nfld.