Road Trips in Nova Scotia

​​​​​​​Nova Scotia is a Canadian province located on the eastern coast, renowned for its maritime culture, stunning natural beauty, and historic towns. It's a great destination for a road trip, with scenic drives that take you along rugged coastlines, through charming towns and villages, and into the breathtaking wilderness. Here are three of the best and most recommended road trips and must-see places for first-time visitors to Nova Scotia:

• The Cabot Trail: This iconic road trip takes you along the rugged coastline of Cape Breton Island, through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and past charming fishing villages and historic towns. Along the way, you can stop at scenic overlooks, hike through stunning wilderness, and experience the rich culture of the region's Gaelic, Acadian, and Mi'kmaq communities.

• The Lighthouse Route: This picturesque road trip takes you along the south shore of Nova Scotia, past charming towns and villages, and past numerous lighthouses that have guided sailors along this rocky coastline for centuries. Highlights of the route include the town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful architecture and seafaring heritage, and Peggy's Cove, a historic fishing village famous for its picturesque lighthouse.

• The Evangeline Trail: This road trip takes you through the heart of the Annapolis Valley, a region known for its agricultural heritage, charming towns, and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, you can visit wineries and orchards, explore the historic towns of Annapolis Royal and Wolfville, and discover the region's rich history and culture at museums and cultural centers.

Must-see places in Nova Scotia include Halifax, the province's capital and largest city, which has a rich maritime heritage and a thriving arts and culture scene; Lunenburg, a charming town known for its colorful architecture and seafaring heritage; Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can hike, spot wildlife, and admire stunning views of the coastline; and Peggy's Cove, a historic fishing village famous for its picturesque lighthouse and rugged coastline. Other recommended destinations include the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, Kejimkujik National Park, and the Bay of Fundy, known for its dramatic tides and whale-watching opportunities.

When taking a road trip in Nova Scotia, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Weather: The weather in Nova Scotia can be unpredictable, with sudden changes and potential storms. It's important to check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out on a road trip, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can make driving hazardous.

• Wildlife: Nova Scotia is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose and deer, which can pose a hazard to drivers, especially at night. It's important to drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings, especially in rural areas.

• Narrow roads: Some of the roads in Nova Scotia can be narrow, especially in rural areas or on scenic routes. It's important to be aware of your surroundings, drive at a safe speed, and be prepared to pull over and let other vehicles pass if necessary.

• Tolls: There are several tolls on major highways in Nova Scotia, including the Cobequid Pass and the Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge. Be sure to have cash or a credit card on hand to pay for these tolls.

• Cell phone service: Cell phone coverage can be spotty in some parts of Nova Scotia, especially in rural areas or on scenic routes. It's important to have a map or GPS device on hand and to plan your route in advance.

• Parking: Parking can be limited in some of the more popular tourist destinations in Nova Scotia, especially during peak season. It's important to plan ahead and arrive early to ensure you can find a parking spot. Some attractions may also charge for parking, so be prepared to pay a fee.

By being aware of these factors and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable road trip in Nova Scotia.

The best time to take a road trip in Nova Scotia is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and most of the popular tourist destinations and attractions are open. The fall months, particularly October, can also be a great time to visit, as the fall foliage is spectacular and there are many fall festivals and events.

However, it's important to note that the summer months can also be the busiest and most crowded, especially in popular tourist areas like Halifax and the Cabot Trail. Additionally, accommodation prices may be higher during peak season. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind cooler temperatures, the spring and fall months can be a great time to visit as well.

Winter in Nova Scotia can be beautiful, but road conditions can be challenging, especially in rural areas and on smaller roads. If you plan to visit during the winter months, be sure to check road conditions and weather forecasts regularly, and be prepared for potentially hazardous driving conditions.

The cost of a road trip in Nova Scotia can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, the type of accommodation and activities you choose, and your overall travel style. However, here is a general breakdown of some of the costs you can expect:

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Nova Scotia can range from budget-friendly hostels and campsites to luxury hotels and resorts. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200 per night on accommodation, depending on your preferences.

Food and drink: Dining out in Nova Scotia can be expensive, especially in popular tourist areas. However, there are also plenty of affordable options available, such as local seafood shacks and bakeries. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $50 per meal, depending on where you choose to eat.

Transportation: Renting a car is a popular option for road tripping in Nova Scotia, and rental costs can vary depending on the type of car and the length of your trip. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $100 per day on car rental. Gas prices in Nova Scotia are also relatively high compared to other provinces in Canada, so factor in extra costs for fuel.

Activities: There are many free and low-cost activities to enjoy in Nova Scotia, such as hiking, visiting parks and beaches, and exploring historic sites. However, some activities, such as whale watching tours or admission to museums and attractions, can be expensive. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $50 per activity.

Overall, a daily budget of around $100 to $200 per person should be sufficient for a road trip in Nova Scotia, depending on your travel style and preferences. Keep in mind that costs can add up quickly, especially if you choose to stay in more expensive accommodations or dine out frequently. Be sure to plan your budget in advance and keep track of your spending to avoid overspending.

Here are some recommended guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Nova Scotia:

• "Nova Scotia: A Traveler's Companion" by Gary L. Saunders - This guidebook offers a comprehensive overview of the province's history, culture, and attractions, as well as recommendations for road trips and scenic drives.

• "Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada: Road Map" by Canadian Cartographics Corporation - This detailed road map is a great resource for navigating Nova Scotia's highways and back roads, with helpful information on distances, landmarks, and attractions.

• "Nova Scotia: The Bradt Travel Guide" by Dianne Marshall - This guidebook offers in-depth information on the province's geography, history, and culture, as well as recommendations for accommodations, dining, and sightseeing.

• "Nova Scotia Backroad Mapbook" by Mussio Ventures Ltd. - This comprehensive map book covers all of Nova Scotia's back roads and trails, with detailed information on hiking, biking, and camping opportunities.

• "Nova Scotia Lighthouse Guide" by Allan Billard - This guidebook offers information on over 100 lighthouses in Nova Scotia, including their history, architecture, and accessibility.

Whether you prefer traditional guidebooks or digital resources, these guides and maps can help you plan and navigate your road trip in Nova Scotia.