Maritimes

We reach New Brunswick by crossing the impressive Confederation Bridge. First stop is Shediac, lobster capital of the world (there is a giant lobster monument at the harbor). Dune de Bouctouche is a large sand dune which can be explored on a beautiful boardwalk. Miramichi and Grand Falls are mere supply towns; Hartland, on the other hand, has the longest covered wooden bridge in the world. Fredericton, pretty little capital of the province, can be visited within a short time.

Next destination is St. Stephen, separated from the US state of Maine only by a river and three bridges. In the “Chocolate Town of Canada” is the country’s oldest chocolate factory, owned by the Ganong company; we recommend a guided tour through the production followed by a cup of hot chocolate. Nearby St. Andrews is a really pretty town and has an architectural jewel with the luxury Hotel Algonquin.

In Saint John, be sure to check out Reversing Falls; the St. John’s River changes direction here twice a day. St. Martins is the only place in the world where you can take a picture of two covered bridges and a lighthouse at the same time. Don’t miss a ride on the Fundy Trail Park; the toll road is beautifully landscaped and offers on 30 kilometers great views of the Bay of Fundy.

Besides the Cabot Trail, Fundy National Park is the second top destination in the Maritimes. Cape Enrage is home to New Brunswick’s oldest lighthouse; from here it’s only a short drive to Hopewell Rocks, also known as Flowerpot Rocks. The bizarre rocks are standing on the sea floor, with trees and bushes growing on them. You can walk among them – until the tide comes in and raises the sea level by an incredible 21 meters. An absolute must on this tour! Via Moncton and Sackville (with the beautiful Waterfowl Park) we arrive at Truro, where Victoria Park is highly recommended: an extensive forest park with steep wooden stairs, rock cliffs and two waterfalls.

The last part of the journey takes us through southwest Nova Scotia. The Grand-Pré National Historic Site near Wolfville commemorates the deportation of the Acadians by the British. Annapolis Royal is the gateway to Kejimkujik National Park, and Yarmouth is the western supply center without much flair. On the way back along the south coast there are two more tourist attractions: the small town of Lunenburg is Canada’s oldest German settlement and welcomes us with its colorful houses and idyllic harbor. Shortly before Halifax we reach Peggy’s Cove; Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in Canada. Our tour through the Maritimes ends at Halifax International Airport.