Tips

Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary: A Local’s Guide with Map

By Helen Earley •

Day 1: Halifax to Peggy’s Cove

Start early in Halifax. Head to Seaport Farmers’ Market for breakfast. Grab local blueberries, pastries, and apples for the road. If staying at Westin Halifax, stop at Atlantic Superstore first. Pack snacks for the journey ahead. Enjoy a walk on the Halifax seawall before departing. Alternatively, take the 15-minute ferry to Dartmouth. Sports fans can run at Point Pleasant Park. Relaxers should check local activity lists. In the afternoon, drive to Peggy’s Cove. This is Canada’s most photographed lighthouse. Take Highway 103 to Tantallon. Then follow scenic Route 333. Stop at Otis and Clementine Books. Visit Acadian Maple for pepper products. Try treats at White Sails Bakery. Explore the granite rocks and lighthouse. Book a sunset cruise with Peggy’s Cove Boat Tours. Or dine at Rhubarb Restaurant. Their seafood chowder is famous. Weekend nights feature live local music. Stay at Oceanstone Resort for luxury cabins.

Alternatively, choose Lighthouse Lane Cottages for ocean views.

Day 2: Peggy’s Cove to Liverpool

Liverpool offers a quiet, beautiful destination. Sunrise at Peggy’s Cove is magical. Watch the sun rise over the granite blocks. Feel the silence in the semi-darkness. Once fully lit, drive toward Liverpool. The trip takes three hours via Highway 3. Allow four to five hours for stops. Pass through Hubbards and Queensland villages. Pause at Cleveland Beach or Queensland Beach. Swim in the cold ocean air. Visit Lola’s Landing in Hubbards. This small shop sells unique souvenirs. Next, stop in Chester. Then visit Mahone Bay. This town is famous for three historic churches. Turn left onto Oakland Road before the center. This provides the best photo angle. Continue to Lunenburg. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features wooden buildings. Its shipbuilding history is significant. Eat at The Grand Banker or Rime. Try The Salt Shaker Deli. Visit the Atlantic Fisheries Museum. Take many photos of the colorful streets.

After lunch, explore southern beaches. Sand Dollar Beach in Rose Bay is top-tier. Also visit Hirtle’s, Crescent, and Carter’s Beaches.