The Canadian Maritimes

1nt Halifax, 2nts Smiths Cove, 2nts St Andrews by the Sea, 2nts Saint John, 2nts Shediac, 2nts Charlottetown, 1nt Halifax

This route through the Maritimes offers the very best of New Brunswick with a little bit of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island thrown in for good measure.

Fly into Halifax in Nova Scotia, a bustling waterfront city located on one of the world’s largest natural harbours. Collect your car on arrival and enjoy a relaxing evening before setting off on your road trip the following day. Digby is your destination, and it’s a true maritime town home to a large fishing fleet. Set on the Bay of Fundy which is famed for having the world’s highest tides, options here include joining a whale watching tour and, if seafood is your thing, you’ll definitely want to sample some of the world-famous scallops at one of the many restaurants in town.

Travel onwards by ferry across the Bay of Fundy and then drive westwards to St Andrews by the Sea, which nestles along Passamaquoddy Bay. Founded by United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, many of the town’s buildings still reflect that history, particularly along Water Street. There are also further opportunities to go whale watching, endless outdoor recreation and delightful eateries that feature award-winning chefs and breathtaking harbour views.

Drive further east into New Brunswick for Saint John, where you’ll find the urban charms of a vibrant, historic city, along with the grand natural allure of the Bay of Fundy. It’s a city that begs to be explored on foot, with narrow streets leading to the bay as well as beautiful old architecture, creative galleries, funky cafes, theatres, museums and more.

As you then travel on through New Brunswick for Shediac, we recommend stopping off at Hopewell Rocks, (pre-bookable admission available from just £15). This is a place to marvel at the famous flowerpot rocks carved by the sea over thousands of years as well as where the power of the Bay of Fundy tides is most impressive. Shediac itself lies on New Brunswick’s spectacular eastern shore and is known as The Lobster Capital of the World, so tucking in to succulent seafood is a must. Discover also, boating, hiking, golf and some of the finest saltwater beaches in Eastern Canada.

Bid farewell to New Brunswick as you cross over the Confederation Bridge to Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island and the charming city of Charlottetown. Small it may be, but it’s bursting with energy and infectious island vibes. Look forward to culinary experiences, a charming arts and culture scene as well as picture-perfect streetscapes.

Another ferry ride takes you across the Northumberland Strait back to Nova Scotia, where you then drive back to Halifax for an overnight stay before your flight home to the UK.