Canada : Celtic Trail Self Drive

Day 1 Halifax
Arrive in Halifax, pick up your rental vehicle and explore this fascinating maritime city. First settled in 1749, Halifax today is Nova Scotia’s capital and the largest city in Canada’s Maritime Provinces.

Day 2 Halifax
A full day at leisure in Halifax to explore the boutiques, pubs and cafes of Privateers Warehouse and Historic Properties. Get a terrific view of the city from the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and visit York Redoubt National Historic Site, a 200-year-old fortification overlooking Halifax Harbour.

Day 3 Halifax-Baddeck, Cape Breton Island (356kms)
Depart Halifax for your journey to Cape Breton Island, a little piece of Scotland in North America.

Day 4 Baddeck & the Cabot Trail (300kms)
Explore the fabulous Cabot Trail around Cape Breton Island for awe-inspiring views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The route winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are 28 beautiful hiking trails in the National Park between Cheticamp and Ingonish – highly recommended is the Skyline Trail located about 15 minutes drive from the park entrance. Along the way visit the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre, Glenora Distillery, Acadian Cultural Center & Museum (Les Trois Pignons), or St. Ann’s Gaelic College of Arts & Crafts.

Day 5 Baddeck & Louisbourg (220kms return)
This morning drive to north to discover the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This incredible “living museum,” largest historical reconstruction in North America, is an impressive restoration of a French garrison town dating from the 1700’s, complete with costumed interpreters who re-enact daily life from the French colonial period. You can even sample period food in the restaurant, or take part in a mock battle.

Also, don’t miss a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in the village of Baddeck, a museum dedicated to the life and inventions of this fascinating man - who spent his summers here on the shores of the Bras d’Or. You may also want to visit the Highland Village Museum in Iona.

Day 6 Baddeck-Halifax (357kms)
Enjoy the return trip to Halifax at a leisurely pace along the scenic Bras d’Or Lakes Drive to the Canso Causeway to enter mainland Nova Scotia. At the community of Antigonish, travel southwest along Marine Drive to Halifax.

Day 7 Halifax
Conclude your tour by returning your rental vehicle this morning.