Canadian Maritimes

10 night tour - starting in Halifax, Nova Scotia - ending in Halifax, Nova Scotia

2016 Early Booking Offer - Book before the 28th February 2016 and enjoy a free pre or post nights stay on us, making this an 11 night tour.

A Tauck World Discovery Tour.

Celebrating 90 years in the travel touring business, Tauck offer the ultimate in luxury touring. Throughout the years, ingenuity and innovation, plus a focus on customer servce and authentic experiences, have grown Tauck into one of the world's leading travel touring companies. On your tour you can expect an itinerary carefully designed to create an unforgetable experience, ensuring the finest hotels, luxury motorcoaches and highly experienced tour directors.

Time stands still in the Canadian Maritimes... preserving a way of life that honors the land and sea – and a cultural mix of early French, Irish, Scottish and English influences. Halifax invites reflection with gracious Victorian parks and gardens. Fishing hamlets in Nova Scotia celebrate their rich seafaring heritage. Diverse cultural influences are chronicled in Lunenburg; in Acadian rug-making traditions that produced "talking" works of art chronicling the struggles of pioneer families; and at the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts. Culinary specialties are on the menu from fresh lobster on Prince Edward Island to a Nova Scotia oyster shucking demonstration to a “Kitchen Party” at the Keltic Lodge. Tauck's New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia tour immerses you in the lure and lore of this down-to-earth, mystical world of mountain lakes, eagles, whales, fishermen, and the sea.

2016 Guaranteed departure dates:
June 19th & 26th
July 10th, 17th* & 31st
August 14th*, 21st & 28th
September 4th, 6th*, 11th, 18th, 20th* & 25th
 
* Small Group Departures – Select small group departures averaging just 24 guests.
 
TO BOOK THIS TOUR: CALL US ON FREEPHONE 0800 0336 335 OR EMAIL US RESERVATIONS@PURELYTRAVELGROUP.CO.UK
View Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrive Halifax

 

Tour begins: The Prince George Hotel at 5:30 PM. A transfer is included upon arrival from Halifax Airport to The Prince George Hotel in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of the beautiful Public Gardens. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner at the Citadel, a 19th-century fortress on a hilltop overlooking the city and the harbor.

Lodging The Prince George Hotel

Dinner

Day 2: Seaside Lunenburg and picturesque Peggy's Cove

From cosmopolitan, eclectic Halifax, drive to the nearby fishing village of Lunenburg for a walking tour with a local guide. Old Town Lunenburg was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as one of the best surviving examples of a planned British Colonial settlement in North America. This town once excelled at wooden shipbuilding, and its masterpiece was the Bluenose, a fishing schooner that was a legendary racer. Enjoy free time to explore before the drive to Mahone Bay, a picture-postcard maritime town, and Peggy’s Cove – population 76. Peggy's Cove is a place on this Nova Scotia tour that is truly a world apart; nestled on a rocky coastline with stunning vistas, it is a magnet for artists and photographers. Return to Halifax this afternoon and dine on your own this evening; there are literally hundreds of restaurants to choose from.

Lodging: The Prince George Hotel

Breakfast

Day 3: A Nova Scotia cruise in Halifax and on to Moncton

Begin the day with a tour of Halifax, a city with its eyes on the future and feet firmly in the past. Fresh sea air enhances its exhilarating mix of modern towers and colonial brick buildings, avenues lined with hip cafes, shops and galleries, surrounded by gracious Victorian parks and gardens. Then, a guided cruise on Halifax Harbour views the city’s significant landmarks from a unique perspective – and provides unusual insights, such a look at its raucous privateering history. Lunch is on your own; later, embark on a journey through central Nova Scotia’s beautiful and diverse landscape and on into New Brunswick. Arrive late afternoon in Moncton, “the crossroads of the Maritimes” on the Petitcodiac River. Your hotel is the Delta Beauséjour in the historic downtown area, where you’ll dine à la carte tonight in the hotel’s restaurant, Windjammer, awarded three Michelin stars for fine dining.

Lodging: Delta Beauséjour

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Nature at Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy and lunch at a New Brunswick village inn

Torrential tides and surface water carve towering rock formations out of the cliffs at Hopewell Cape on the Bay of Fundy; at low tide, they stand on the beach like sculptures in a vast outdoor gallery. View firsthand this land of giants to feel the awesome power that shapes these stones, tunnels through them, and covers them at a depth of 50 feet or more when the tide comes in. Continue onward for a photo-op at one of the regions' picture-perfect covered bridges, then on to Alma for lunch at a New Brunswick inn before returning to Moncton for dinner and an evening on your own.

Lodging: Delta Beauséjour

Breakfast, Lunch,

Day 5: Prince Edward Island and its capital, Charlottetown

Cross the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island, truly a storybook setting where you'll find yourself immersed in picturesque, inspirational scenes of Victorian farmsteads, green rolling fields, and red sand beaches reposing between seas and skies of vibrant blue. Today's final destination is Charlottetown, known as “The Birthplace of Canada” and the capital city of Prince Edward Island. Your accommodations for the next two nights are in the heart of Charlottetown at the Delta Prince Edward, overlooking the downtown harbor. Just steps away from the winding boardwalk and adjacent to the many shops of Peake’s Wharf, the hotel enjoys an ideal location from which to explore the sites on your own. Have dinner at your leisure tonight at the hotel.

Lodging: Delta Prince Edward

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: P.E.I. National Park and landscapes of "Anne of Green Gables"

Red-sand beaches line the shores of Prince Edward Island National Park, along with wind-sculpted dunes, salt marshes and broad inlets that provide safe harbor for seabirds and seafarers. Explore the park after spending the morning at leisure, taking note of its fragile ecosystem and gentle beauty. Continue on to the fishing village of North Rustico Harbour to see its iconic lighthouse and scenic views, embodying a way of life that has flourished on the island since 1790. Step back in time on a visit to Green Gables Heritage Place, the site of the home and farm that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s literary masterpiece, Anne of Green Gables. Go inside “Anne’s” home and view rooms set up as they were described by the author. Stroll the grounds to learn more about rural life in the early 20th century, before savoring a taste of island life at a local restaurant renowned for its lobster dishes.

Lodging: Delta Prince Edward

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Cape Breton Island, Bras d'or Lake and a remote hotel

Ferry to mainland Nova Scotia, where you’ll drive over a causeway to Cape Breton Island. Known to the French as "Isle Royale," this island changed hands between colonial powers several times, creating a unique culture that blends Acadian and Gaelic traditions. Journey through a dramatic landscape that echoes the Highlands and the great shoreline cliffs of Brittany in France; enjoy some panoramic views of the Canso Causeway at lunch today. Travel along the coast of Bras d'Or Lake, which is an inland sea ringed with cliffs and rolling mountains – it's a favorite fishing spot for bald eagles. Drive north to Ingonish and the Keltic Lodge, nestled on a cliff surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The setting for your three-night stay is picturesque, remote, dramatic – and wildly beautiful. 

Lodging: Keltic Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: A day as you please at Ingonish Beach, and a little taste of Cape Breton Island

Your day begins with a presentation by a naturalist who educates you on the indigenous wildlife, then the remainder of the day is spent as you please at your lodge at Ingonish Beach. You may join us for an optional afternoon “walkabout” that spotlights the fascinating history and spectacular setting of the lodge. Or, there are a variety of optional activities at the historic lodge (some at an additional cost), including links golf, tennis, and whale watching; hike the beach or the nature trail, or perhaps enjoy some time at the spa. Prior to dinner this evening you’ll get a good “taste” of what Nova Scotia cuisine is all about at a cooking demonstration; of particular note is the unique “oyster shucking” as demonstrated by a local resident.

Lodging: Keltic Lodge

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: The beauty of the Cabot Trail and Acadian rug-making... then it's "Kitchen Party" time

Experience breathtaking coastal landscapes on the Cabot Trail, a serpentine highway that is one of the world’s most exciting and scenic drives. The winding road is carved into the side of mountains along unforgettable ocean vistas, ascending to the plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Drive through a landscape rich in rugged barrens, waterfalls, cliffs, and panoramic views of canyons, highlands, and seacoast. Photo stops in Acadian fishing communities lead the way to a rug hooking museum, a showcase for “talking” rugs that speak volumes about a pioneer art that was grown from seed and quietly discloses the trials and tribulations of the women who challenged the wilderness with their families and settled in new frontiers.Then stop in Chéticamp, an Acadian fishing community on Cape Breton Island, for lunch and a taste of their long-cherished cultural heritage. Return along the Cabot Trail to the Keltic Lodge where this evening you’ll take part in a unique, lively Cape Breton tradition – a “kitchen party” featuring local cuisine, regional spirits, tastings, and Celtic music.

Lodging: Keltic Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: A little Gaelic culture and Bell's legacy in Baddeck

A highlight of this trip is today’s visit to the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts at Englishtown, where you’ll learn about Nova Scotia’s Scottish Gaelic culture. Watch a kilt-making demonstration, and learn a little Gaelic – through song – while learning about the fabric milling tradition. Scottish inventor Alexander Graham Bell summered in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, after he and his family moved to Canada from Scotland, later setting up his laboratory in this picturesque village. Today’s tour of the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site includes exhibits showcasing his inventions, from the telephone to ingenious kites, hydrofoils, airplanes and even the metal detector. Have lunch at the Inverary Resort on Baddeck Bay and perhaps some free time before continuing on for an overnight at a lovely rustic resort tucked into a wooded setting overlooking the Liscomb River. A cooking demonstration shows you the secrets of making the perfect planked salmon, a specialty of the house at the Liscombe Lodge Resort; then join us for a farewell reception followed by dinner at the resort.

Lodging: Liscombe Lodge Resort & Conference Centre

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Journey home or extend your stay

Depart Liscombe Lodge Resort to this morning and return to Halifax; travel along one of the most scenic drives in North America, stopping en route in Lake Charlotte to visit a general store that takes you back in time. Tauck's New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia tour ends at Halifax International Airport at 11:30 AM. For guests wishing to extend their stay in Halifax, Tauck can arrange additional nights at The Prince George Hotel; a transfer to Halifax International Airport is included for these bookings. Allow a minimum of two hours for check-in.

Breakfast

Your Tauck Tour Highlights

 

A private reception and dinner in Halifax at the Citadel, its treasured 19th-century fortress 
A “Kitchen Party” at the Keltic Lodge, with local cuisine and lively Celtic music
Cruise of Halifax Harbour to explore its unique features and dramatic history
A visit to the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts on Cape Breton Island to learn about Nova Scotia’s Scottish Gaelic culture and watch a demonstration in the art of kilt making
Visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck
Learn about oyster shucking and Nova Scotia’s regional cuisine at included demonstrations
Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
22 meals, service charges, admission fees, taxes and porterage

Your Hotels....

Nights 1 - 2 : The Prince George Hotel - Halifax, Canada - Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Located in the heart of downtown Halifax, The Prince George Hotel is connected to the Halifax Metro Center and via the “Downtown Link” indoor pedway to shopping malls and Casino Nova Scotia. Gracious guest rooms with mahogany furniture welcome guests with 250-thread-count sheeting and a cozy duvet, 32-inch LCD flat-screen TV, coffee maker with a supply of tea and coffee, AVEDA bath amenities, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and a mini-fridge. Pump up or wind down in the Fitness Center or at the indoor swimming pool. The hotel’s restaurant, Gio, surrounds you with the warmth of wood and the fun of funky objets d’art as you dine on cuisine created by a marvelous team of professional chefs who take great pride in their work.

Nights 3 - 4 : Delta Beauséjour - Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada

The Delta Beauséjour is located in the heart of Moncton, which itself is the geographic center of the Maritimes. Comfortable guest rooms feature complimentary high-speed Internet access, coffee maker, min-fridge, iron / ironing board, 27-inch TV, June Jacobs’s bath amenities, a curved shower rod allowing more space in the shower and a hairdryer. Swim in the indoor mineral water pool surrounded by windows that frame great views or enjoy a workout in the fully equipped Fitness Centre. Executive chef Stefan Müller, who presides over the award-winning Windjammer Dining Room, has prepared meals for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, President George H.W. Bush and French heads of state and has earned the CAA Four Diamond Award for excellence in dining every year since 1992.

Nights 5 - 6 : Delta Prince Edward - Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada - Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Experience Charlottetown and the newly-renovated Delta Prince Edward – the city’s only waterfront hotel – set in one of Charlottetown's best locations, featuring stunning water views; you'll want to stroll the waterfront boardwalk enjoying the many shops of Peake's Wharf. Guestrooms renovated in May 2014, offer a comfortable, contemporary setting with complimentary coffee and tea, Internet and a hair dryer. Leisure options include an indoor pool and exercise facilities as well as an on-site spa, Radiant Reflections. Water's Edge Resto Bar & Grill is a modern and fun place to enjoy island hospitality and regional culinary creations from Executive Chef Javier Alarco using local PEI produce, abundant seafoods and farm-raised meats; the locally inspired cuisine comes to you from an award-winning culinary team. The Water’s Edge bar awaits you for cocktails or a nightcap to finish your evening.

Nights 7 - 9 : Keltic Lodge - Ingonish Beach, Cape Breton Island, Canada

Keltic Lodge in Ingonish is situated in a stunning oceanfront location that evokes images of the famed Scottish highlands in the midst of Cape Breton Highlands. Perched high on a cliff surrounded by the Atlantic with views of Cape Smokey, it’s hard to imagine a more idyllic spot; charmingly decorated guest rooms are cozy havens. Air-conditioned guest rooms offer amenities such as a coffee maker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, cable TV and a direct-dial phone. There’s a lot to do here, from swimming in the outdoor heated pool, tennis, the pleasures of fresh and saltwater swimming beaches, an 18-hole Stanley Thompson golf course and an AVEDA spa – even mountain biking and sea kayaking! Àrdan Rùm Restaurant and Bar offers spectacular vistas and a menu with a focus on local ingredients and the seafood of the Maritimes. End a delightful day in front of the fireplace in the Highland Sitting Room, savoring your favorite beverage and nightly entertainment with a Celtic flair.

Night 10 : Liscombe Lodge Resort & Conference Centre - Liscomb Mill, Nova Scotia, Canada

Relaxation is waiting for you at the rustic Liscombe Lodge Resort & Conference Centre, set on the banks of the Liscomb River in Nova Scotia. Cozy, comfortable guest rooms welcome with a coffee maker, hairdryer, cable TV, iron and ironing board and a direct dial phone. Swim a few laps in the heated indoor pool, soak in the whirlpools or take advantage of the sauna. There’s also a fitness room, a tennis court, a giant outdoor chess game, hiking trails and more. Relax on the veranda and watch the water birds fish for their supper as the house specialty, planked salmon, is being prepared in the traditional way.

 

Tour Only Cost: All prices quoted below are per adult person, per tour in British Pounds (GBP)

Departure Dates

Single Twin/Double Triple Quad
All Small Group departures in 2016 - see above dates * £3345 £2797 £2697 Please call
All other departures in 2016 £2900 £2370 £2262 Please call
 
2016 Early Booking Offer - Tauck's most popular tours fill very quickly. Don't be disappointed, book before the 28th February 2016 and enjoy a free pre or post nights stay on us!.
 
Special Solo Traveller Savings – save up to £130 off the single room price on select departure dates – Please call us for more details. 
 
Children - may qualify for a discount when sharing a room with 2 adults - Please call us for details. 
 
Not included in your tour cost:
Flights – we can package your tour with flights at very competitive airfares using our airline partners. Please call us to discuss the best airline for your itinerary.
Pre or post accommodation - If you want to extend your stay at the start or the end of your escorted tour or add another destination to your booking please call us and we will be happy to provide a quote.
Meals, other than those listed in the itinerary.
The customary gratuities for the Tour Director and local drivers are not included.
 
FAQs:
There are many questions and considerations you might have when planning an escorted tour with Tauck Tours. For more information please click here.
 

TO BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS:

Please call us on FREEPHONE 0800 0336 335 or EMAIL us reservations@purelytravelgroup.co.uk we are open 7 days a week.

We will be happy to answer any questions, check the availability of your tour, offer a quote for flights and any pre or post nights you would like to add.

When you are ready to go ahead with the booking, a non-refundable deposit of 10% will be due at time of booking or the full balance if you are due to travel within 8 weeks.