Nova Scotia Van Tours https://novascotiavantours.com Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:26:00 +0000 Joomla! - Open Source Content Management en-gb Sydney Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/71-sydney-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/71-sydney-tour Sydney ,Cape Breton ,  Nova Scotia

Port / Departing from : Sydney

Maximum Persons Per Tour :Six / If your party exceeds six then the appropriate passenger count must be selected to the right before moving on the check out process to dispatch either two luxury grade vans or SUVs.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees : All Historic site admission fees included within tour price.

Let us be your guide to Sydney… the ocean gateway to scenic Cape Breton Island!.

Departing your local accommodator or cruise dock we’ll drive through the historic north end and visit Sydney’s downtown, passing beautiful, historic Wentworth Park and on to Whitney Avenue.This area is where the steel company executives and other elites of Sydney resided during boom years of steel and coal production. It contrasts with the Ashby and Whitney Pier areas, where the steel workers and miners resided. We’ll proceed along Sydney Harbour, looking across to catch a glimpse of the Newfoundland Ferry Terminal.

Our next destination is Fort Petrie was established to protect the steel plant during the Second World War and also to prevent U-Boats from sinking passenger ships travelling from North Sydney to Newfoundland. The U-boats did manage to sink the Caribou, a passenger ferry, where the loss of life numbered over 100. We’ll stop here for 20 minutes, giving you time to take pictures and do a bit of exploring.

The former mining town of New Waterford is next on our itinerary, where we’ll stop to visit the Colliery Lands Park, built on a former coal mine. Here, in this beautiful park, we find monuments with the names of 298 coal miners killed working in the local coal mines. Flags are flying from the 17 countries where people who came to work in the local mines originated in the early 20th century.

We’ll visit the fishing village of Lingan, passing the church where a young Boutilier boy was christened. Later, he became a priest, Brother Mathias. Years later, while working at an orphanage in Baltimore, he cared for and taught a young man to play baseball. This young man was Babe Ruth.....

From here, we’ll proceed to the Sydney-Glace Bay Highway, passing Cape Breton University and returning to downtown Sydney. (Some may wish to shop/explore this area, then walk back to the ship which is nearby) or back to the dock.

The private, pre-booked Sydney Tour will take approximately 4.0 hours (+/-) and is fully narrated by your driver/guide.

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Sun, 22 Dec 2019 15:04:45 +0000
Citadel Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/70-citadel-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/70-citadel-tour Citadel Hill , Halifax , Nova Scotia

Port / Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour : Six / If your party exceeds six then the appropriate passenger count must be selected to the right before moving on the check out process to dispatch either two luxury grade vans or SUVs and two driver/guides or In the case of larger groups one luxury grade mini-coach.
Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Full City Tour of historic Halifax includes one hour visit to Citadel Fortress

We’ll tour through the working dock area of the Halterm Container Pier to Point Pleasant Park, where you learn about Hangman's Beach, the Tallahassee, and Sir Samuel Cunard. From Point Pleasant, we’ll drive through one of the city’s finest residential areas that borders the Northwest Arm, passing by two major universities, St Mary's and Dalhousie. Then, we’ll take a stroll through the Public Gardens, the finest example in North America, of a formal Victorian Garden!

In this excursion we have an hour-long visit to Fort George, the Halifax Citadel. Your guide will conduct an orientation of the Fortress, will invite you to explore the "dry ditch", ( it is not a moat ) and outline the who-what-when-where-why of this distinctive 1826-54 fortification. Leaving the Citadel, our itinerary takes a circular route to the shores of historic Halifax Harbour past numerous historic sites, including the Cable Wharf, the Halifax-Dartmouth Ferry, Historic Properties, the Naval Dockyards, 1917 Halifax Explosion sites, and Bedford Basin.

We'll visit Fairview Cemetery, to learn about this 1912 tragedy, the grave-sites of some of the Titanic's victims, and Halifax's connection to this 1912 disaster.Heading back to the Cruise Pavilion we'll drive through west end and central Halifax, as we return to your ship.

The private, pre-booked Citadel Tour will take approximately 3.5 (+/-) and is fully narrated by your driver/guide.

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Sun, 22 Dec 2019 14:55:26 +0000
Alexander Graham Bell Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/69-agbl-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/69-agbl-tour Bell Museum ,Baddeck ,  Nova Scotia

Port / Departing from : Sydney

Maximum Persons Per Tour :Six / If your party exceeds six then the appropriate passenger count must be selected to the right before moving on the check out process to dispatch either two luxury grade vans or SUVs.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees : All Historic site admission fees included within tour price.

Alexander Graham Bell maintained a summer home in the village of Baddeck and worked on many of his inventions here. On the way to Baddeck you'll see some of the spectacular scenery Cape Breton has to offer.

We’ll leave the metropolitan Sydney area and travel to the peaceful Cape Breton countryside away from the hustle and bustle of city traffic. Along the way, we’ll cross Little Bras d’ Or where you will see many small pleasure boats on the glistening lake. The Bras d’ Or Lakes are Canada's ‘inland sea' and are used by thousands of boaters each year. They’re a safe haven for boaters as the surrounding hills offer protection from the nearby Atlantic Ocean.

Next We’ll climb Kelly’s Mountain where we’ll stop at two stunning look-offs - the Bras d ‘ Or and Saint Ann’s Bay.

Touring along the Trans Canada Highway we’ll proceed to the village of Baddeck, the community where Alexander Graham Bell maintained his summer home. You will have ample time to stroll through this quaint little village, including its downtown and the beautiful waterfront and harbour. We will have a brief tour of the grounds of the National Historic Alexander Graham Bell Museum. As an option we can include a one hour +/- visit to the museum: Alexander Graham Bell was much more than the inventor of the telephone, he was a true Renaissance man. We will then retrace our route back to Sydney, where we will provide an opportunity to shop in the downtown area, it is a short walk to the cruise ship dock.

The private, pre-booked Alexander Graham Bell Tour will take approximately 6.0 hours (+/-) and is fully narrated by your driver/guide.

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Sun, 22 Dec 2019 14:30:12 +0000
Scenic Seafood Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/68-seafood-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/68-seafood-tour Nova Scotian Lobster

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Nova Scotia is a stunning Province and we think it has some of the freshest, tastiest seafood in the world...so we thought we should create a tour with a perfect marriage– scenery and seafood! Not only do we think it will tickle your fishy taste buds, but it will also provide a sight sensation. So if you're a seafood nature lover, this is the tour for you!

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day 1: Downtown Diner to Oceanfront Dinner

We'll start the day by breakfasting at an iconic downtown Halifax eatery– the Bluenose II Restaurant. (We strongly suggest the ‘Lobster Benny' to begin your day). We'll then meander our way to the Annapolis Valley, perhaps stopping at a British Blockhouse, some wineries, breweries or distilleries and taking a well needed walk through some historic Acadian sites. We'll head up the mountain for some stunning scenery at Blomidon Look-Off and perhaps take a walk on the ocean floor before we head to Halls Harbour to lunch on fresh on lobster at Halls Harbour Lobster Pound. Sit back, relax and indulge your inner seafoodie! It might be time for a wee afternoon nap! Don't worry, we'll wake you when we arrive at Annapolis Royal. Spend the afternoon wandering around this gorgeous, historic town. Visit Fort Anne, historic sites and houses, smell the roses at the Gardens or simply stroll along the boardwalk, the choice is yours! A short drive will take us to Digby which is where we'll spend the night, at Digby Pines. We encourage you to devour the famous Digby Scallops!

Day 2: South Shore Indulgence

Breakfast is at the hotel, be careful not to overindulge yourself...we have a lot to do today! Following breakfast, we'll meander down the old road to Yarmouth, taking in some wonderful seascapes. We may stop at inland sites such as the park dedicated to beloved Folk Artist, Maud Lewis, or see one of the largest wooden structures in Canada in Church Point, before heading along the coastline to Port Maitland, an ideal spot for a wee stroll along the boardwalk and beach. We'll visit Cape Forchu lighthouse (remember to wave at the NS webcams) before stopping at Rudders in Yarmouth for lunch. In our opinion, Rudders has absolutely fabulous fishcakes! Next we'll visit Eel lake Oyster Farm often described as the real deal, meet the people who farm the oysters, and enjoy seeing their operation and buy some to take home or enjoy in their lake front eating area. Next we'll zig-zag between the highway and coastal route towards Lunenburg. Just outside Lunenburg lies a fabulous short walk that is sure to heighten your senses – the Ovens. It is a superb cliffside trail that is sure to excite and intrigue you with its history, sight and sound! We'll have an early dinner at the Old Fish Factory in Lunenburg – perfectly pair your local wines with fresh seafood and a view! We'll back track slightly to Liverpool and end our day with a sunset evening stroll on a mile of white sand, lapping waves, and sea fresh air at the QuarterDeck Beachside Villas.

Day 3: Cape Breton Bound...

We've over indulged slightly and travelled a lot, today we'll take it easy. Following breakfast at your hotel, we'll travel to Maitland, perhaps via Caddell Rapids, a very under estimated and under visited provincial park. If timed correctly, this viewing area can provide the most spectacular views of the tidal bore and the road out can often offer an interesting ride – did we mention that we like "off the beaten track?" Not to worry, it's not for long. We'll pop up near the South Maitland Tidal Bore interpretive centre which is well worth a visit. We'll then head to Truro to the Mi'Kmaq Heritage Centre to learn about our First Nation – what you learn here can and will impact how you look at our natural beauty and history. Lunch will be at the Cove restaurant which is perfectly situated next to the Canso Causeway, the gateway to beautiful Cape Breton Island. We'll head up the highway to Cape Breton, were we'll be spending the evening exploring Baddeck and where we'll have dinner and spend the night.

*Given your interests in the above we could most certainly extend touring in this area with an overnight stay in Truro for a more focused day of touring in Maitland before traveling on to Cape Breton.

Day 4: Cabot Trail Tour, Mussels and Chowders

Following breakfast, we'll begin the Cabot Trail, heading towards Ingonish. There are so many places to pull over and walk or photograph...we don't mind! We will stop for lunch in Neils Harbour at the Chowder House, one of our favourite places. We'll continue along the trail, stopping for strolls or a photograph or two. We'll end our evening in Mabou at the Red Shoe Pub (we highly recommend the mussels while you stomp your feet to traditional music)! We'll travel through the Margaree Valley back to Baddeck which is where we'll spend the evening.

Day 5: Warm Shores and Warm Hospitality

Following breakfast in Baddeck we'll leave Cape Breton Island and head to the town of Pictou. Take your time to explore this town – shop, eat, learn and relax! We suggest eating at Harbour House Ale and Spirits but the choice is yours – seafood is abound. If you don't want to eat a lobster, you can adopt one instead at the Northumberland Fisheries Museum, the only lobster hatchery in Canada! After lunch, we'll follow the delightful "Sunrise Trail" along the coastline to the quaint village of Tatamagouche. Shop, explore museums, enjoy Tata Brew, hop on the road train, indulge in a treat or walk/cycle one of the trails. We'll head to Port Phillip to a local restaurant, the Sand Piper, for supper – local, home cooked and casual dining. Feeling full and satisfied, we'll go back to Halifax via the scenic Wentworth Valley. If you and yours are not too travel weary perhaps one final stop at Peggy's Cove for a picture opportunity and a lasting reminder of your adventures in Nova Scotia!

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

As with all Nova Scotia Van Tours, this is just a suggestion and can be customized to your interests and desires. This particular tour can be a 2-day tour or multi-day tour. If you're feeling adventurous, we can adapt it to include Prince Edward Island....if you're a lover of seafood, no-one should be this close to Malpeque, PEI, without having fresh oysters! Contact us today and plan your seafoodie scenic vacation.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Wed, 11 Dec 2019 01:21:56 +0000
Cape Breton Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/67-capebreton-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/67-capebreton-tour Cabot Trail , Cape Breton , Nova Scotia

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor and Complimentary Lobster Dinner in Baddeck included within your quoted tour price.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Cape Breton Island’s story is told in many ways. It’s etched in her craggy cliffs. Written in the trails that marble her face. Spoken in three languages and celebrated in her music and dance. Cape Breton Island has been named the #1 Island in The Americas in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards! Explore the many things to do on the Island and let us be your guide and discover why

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day One -To Cape Breton

Following breakfast, we'll head for Cape Breton. Our first stop will be in Truro so we can learn about our 'First Nation's Peoples', the Mi'Kmaq. We'll travel across the Canso Causeway - a 1,385 m rock-filled roadway crossing the Strait of Canso, with two vehicle lanes of traffic and a single railway track. It is the deepest causeway in the world, with a depth of 213 feet. The word "Canso" is believed to be derived from the Mi'kmaq word kamsok, which means "opposite the lofty cliffs".

We'll stop at the Cove Motel Restaurant for a great lunch and super views of the Causeway.

Following lunch, we’ll make our way to Baddeck following along the beginnings for the fabled Bras D’or lake.Entering Baddeck we’ll make time for a visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. This national historic site communicates the story of Alexander Graham Bell's wide-ranging interests and inventive work, much of it undertaken in Baddeck. The site boasts about 10 hectares overlooking Baddeck Bay, on Bras d'Or Lake, and Beinn Bhreagh, Bell's summer home, where Bell pursued much of his scientific work. The museum commemorates and interprets the work of Alexander Graham Bell and his associates and also functions as a centre for the study of Bell's scientific and humanitarian work, as illustrated by the artifacts and documents preserved there. We'll spend the evening in Baddeck.

Day Two - Cabot Trail

Today, we'll spend most of the day traveling the world-famous Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail is one of the best road trips in the world and winds through stunning landscapes, along the Margaree River and through the spectacular rugged highlands of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The trail was named after Italian explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) who reached our shores in 1497, sailing on a mission for King Henry VII of England. The name also celebrates the meeting of Cabot and the Mi'kmaq people, the original inhabitants of Cape Breton Island.

The Cabot Trail, completed in 1932, joined previously isolated fishing villages along approximately, a 300 km loop. Today, the Cabot Trail connects eight major communities with intriguing histories, including Acadian, Irish and Scottish settlements.

Options for this day include visiting the Gaelic College, Whale watching in one of the best spots in Nova Scotia for viewing whales on the Gulf of St. Lawrence or taking time to visit various Artisan shops along the trail or perhaps take in some Celtic Music lessons or history while in Cheticamp or Judique, let us know what interests you!

DAY THREE – Louisbourg or Iona

Following a leisurely breakfast, we'll depart for your choice of fortress Louisburg or Highland Village in Iona.

Experience Nova Scotia's Gaelic culture Highland Village Museum. Today we’ll view some of the most breathtaking scenery that this Province has to offer on the shores of the mighty Bras d’Or and the Iona Peninsula is well worth that visit. The Iona Peninsula is located in the centre of Cape Breton Island, almost completely surrounded by the magnificent Bras d'Or Lakes - Canada's Only Inland Sea. The Bras d'Or is a 1,098 km2 (424 sq. mi.) basin* that is one of the finest sailing and boating venues in the world. They separate Cape Breton's Highlands and Lowlands. The Bras d'Or coastline abounds with wildlife and is particularly noted as a breeding area of the magnificent bald eagle.We’ll take in some extensive views of this area before traveling to the

The Iona area is rich in Gaelic heritage. It was first settled in the early 1800's by MacNeil’s from the Island of Barra in Scotland. Donald 'Og' MacNeil spotted Iona during his service with the British Army. On a trip back to Barra, Donald 'Og' told his family and friends of the advantages of the Iona area; "Besides the fuel in the forests, water in the ground, and fish in the sea, you will find there more shelter from the North wind, better and earlier ripening harvests, and good fishing ground." Donald 'Og' came back to Canada to fight in Louisbourg in 1758 and Quebec City in 1759, where he died. His message was followed. In 1800 four MacNeils from Barra arrived at Iona. Several years later two of Donald 'Og's own sons also settled here. Today, the MacNeils' and MacKenzies, the MacLeans and MacDonald’s, and the Gillises and Campbells "All Call Iona Home.” We’ll learn about how these families lived with a visit to the Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village, an outdoor living history museum that tells the story of Gaelic settlement in Nova Scotia. We are located on a stunning 43-acre property overlooking the majestic Bras d’Or Lakes in Iona.11 historic buildings are staffed by costumed animators who are passionate about sharing the Gaelic culture of their ancestors.A favourite of Nova Scotia Van Tours and internationally acknowledged for advancing research, fostering appreciation, learning and sharing authentic Gaelic language and heritage while serving a vibrant Gaelic cultural community. Before returning to Baddeck we can make our way through spectacular scenery to Bras d' Or Look-off which will allow for amazing views of the Bras d'Or lakes before returning to Baddeck to bed down for the evening.

Or

Fortress Louisbourg is an intimate part of the fabric of Nova Scotian history, involving French, English, American, and Mi'kmaq peoples. It has been called the 'Gibraltar of North America’ and in 1928, Fortress Louisbourg was proclaimed a National Historic Site and in 1961, the Government of Canada began to reconstruct one-fifth of Louisbourg, using the original blueprints to recreate identical building units. Today, it's the largest fortress re-construction site in North America, with over 25 open buildings for you to explore.

During your visit, you will find dozens of costumed animators who portray the residents of 1744. Period costumes and exhibits line the streets and along the busy waterfront. See how the wealthy elite lived, contrasting to the very different life experienced by the poor. We will provide you with a private, one-hour, guided tour of this Fortress, then you will have ample time to explore the unique site on your own.

We'll be dining in Louisbourg, so bring your hunger to one of the 18th-century restaurants. The food is fresh and plentiful, the recipes are from the 18th-century and the atmosphere is New France in the New World! Hotel De la Marine is a busy waterfront tavern and where mariners, soldiers and fishermen would have supped, with only a spoon on the table. Grandchamps is another lively waterfront cabaret or perhaps you would prefer L'Epee Royale, which recreates the atmosphere and menu of a comfortable inn, an upscale eatery where the tavern crowd rarely ventured…and a place where you can show your proper breeding and eat with a full set of cutleries!

We'll return to Baddeck for the evening.

DAY FOUR – Halifax Bound

Following breakfast and Depending on your requests and timing provided we can take a different route to Halifax and We'll follow the Ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee, a Gaelic word meaning party or gathering) Trail along the shoreline of the Gulf of St Lawrence. The roadway clings to a rugged shoreline (Saint George's Bay of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, “Canada's in-land sea”) and skirts along the thickly-wooded, mountainous and rough terrain of central Cape Breton Island (Creignish, Big Ridge Mountains and Mabou Highlands). The scenery here is spectacular. We'll be passing places such as Port Hood, Mabou, Glenville, Dunvegan, St. Rose, Chimney Corner and Margaree Harbour, with breathtaking scenery and stunning seascapes found around every turn in the road.

Just north of Mabou is the Town of Glenville where you'll find a true gem of Cape Breton, the Glen Breton Distillery. Renowned for its rare Canadian Single Malt Whisky, the only single malt whisky made in Canada, produced by using traditional copper pot stills method and only three ingredients: barley, yeast and water. (It cannot be called 'Scotch' unless it is produced in Scotland, hence the name, Canadian Single Malt Whisky). Glen Breton offers a guided tour of their operation, a fine restaurant, walking trails.

Or perhaps take in Inverness beach for a leisurely stroll and a great location to search for sea glass.

Once again, we'll cross the Canso Causeway back onto the mainland and enjoy a scenic drive and We'll return to Halifax in time for your evening meal.

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

This tour can be combined with our other N.S. based Day tours prior to our Cape Breton tour, the choices abound.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Mon, 09 Dec 2019 04:59:41 +0000
P.E.I. Exploration Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/66-peie-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/66-peie-tour Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor and Complimentary Lobster Dinner in P.E.I. included within your quoted tour price.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Let us be your guide for seven days of unforgettable touring we believe completely covers the "Gentle Island", Prince Edward Island.

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day one – To the Gentle island

Following breakfast, we'll head for Prince Edward Island. Our first stop will be in Truro so we can learn about our 'First Nation's Peoples', the Mi'Kmaq. Next we’ll travel PEI ferry at Caribou for a ninety-minute crossing. Once we arrive in PEI, we'll explore part of the eastern area of the province including Murray River and Harbour, Montague (via Route 319) and Brudenell before going on to Charlottetown.

We'll tour Charlottetown, known as The Cradle of Confederation. We'll also visit Province House (where Confederation was conceived), and explore Founder's Hall where we'll learn all about Confederation. Next, it's a drive through the UPEI campus.

Depending on your accommodation requests we’ll allow for some additional self-exploration in Charlottetown and of course Your trip would not be complete without a trip to Canada’s Best, Cow’s Ice Cream – As Anne of Green Gables once said: there is nothing more delectable than ice cream!

Ending our day at our accommodator for a restful sleep for tomorrows day of touring.

Day two – Anne’s Land

Following breakfast at our hotel we're off to the Cavendish area of the province, known as Anne of Green Gables country. First, we’ll discover where it all began, Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables, was born in 1874 in a modest white and green house, decorated with authentic Victorian period pieces and overlooking New London Harbour. Take into view the special exhibits include the replica of the writer's wedding dress and personal scrapbooks containing copies of her many stories and poems.

We will tour the national historic site, Anne of Green Gables House and explore 19th century gardens, farmyard, walking trails, including the Haunted Wood and much more. We’ll continue to tour part of the Central Coastal Drive and make our way to Cavendish Beach.

When visitors think of Prince Edward Island, many immediately imagine the smooth warm sand, red sandstone cliffs, soft blue skies, and white-capped waves of the surrounding seas. With 1,100km of shoreline, much of it in the form of pristine beaches, PEI is a beach lover’s dream destination and we want to share one of the most important one with you. It’s here at the Centrepoint of PEI’s north coast that all its natural attributes converge. Inviting white sand, crystal blue water warmed by the Gulf Stream, and red sandstone cliffs that fall from a carpet of green. Here, charming coastal communities lie in wait to welcome visitors new and old.

Take some time to self-explore and walk the boardwalk or the beach itself.

We’ll continue on our coastal drive passing through North Rustico a picture prefect community which is strongly connected to its proud fishing tradition, North Rustico residents pride themselves on their closeness to both land and sea.

Lastly, we are on to the original home of the first major groups of British emigrants who settled in P.E.I. in 1770, Stanhope is a very popular destination for many visitors. Once a local hotspot during P.E.I`s rum-running era, Stanhope epitomizes the beauty and tranquility of our North Shore.

Nearing the end of our touring day we hope you and your group are hungry because it’s a full course lobster dinner on us at Nova Scotia Van Tours!

After dinner we’ll return you to your accommodator for the evening.

Day three- Potatoes smashed, distilled, and served on the rocks...

Today following breakfast, you will travel along the Gulf of St. Lawrence side of Prince Edward Island, or as Islanders call it, the North Shore. We’ll tour along the east coastal drive (Route 2) and stop to visit the spectacular dunes system and floating boardwalk at Greenwich.

This site contains an extensive and fragile coastal dune system, wetlands, and various natural habitats in which numerous rare plant species are found. Among the most spectacular natural characteristics to be protected at Greenwich are the unusually large and mobile parabolic dunes with their associated counter ridges or Gegenwälle. This phenomenon is very rare in North America.

Next, we’ll travel along the jutting coastline and pass through scenic fishing ports as we head for Hermanville. Here we will tour Canada’s first and only producer of potato vodka. While most commercial vodkas strive for a neutral character, this isn’t the case at the Prince Edward Island Distillery. Owners Arla Johnson and Julie Shore are coaxing the truest expression of the island’s unique terrain through a commitment to local ingredients, including using select island spuds for their internationally-acclaimed Potato Vodka, best enjoyed on its own. As one of the distillery’s slogans states, “I like my potatoes smashed, distilled and served on the rocks.”

We’ll head next to Basin Head Fisheries Museum which is located near Souris and sits high on a bluff over-looking the Northumberland Strait. While we’re here, we’ll learn the story of PEI’s inshore fishery. You will have an opportunity to wander along the magnificent, white ‘singing sands’ ’beach. Take your shoes off and hear their unique sounds.

This is the Moonshine Excursion, so we’re off to Rollo Bay for a visit to PEI’s first artisan distillery. During Prohibition (which reigned over the island longer than anywhere else in Canada), you needed a doctor’s note to get a drink from an approved government vendor. Today, locals and visitors come to enjoy ‘shine’ in broad daylight at the distillery’s distinct fire-engine-red barn on the province’s eastern shore, which comes complete with dramatic views of the Northumberland Strait.

Myriad produces spirits unique to PEI and the industry. You will be able to tour the distillery and witness Strait Shine being collected right from the still. It does not happen anywhere else. Enjoy on-site sales and tasting. This is a true PEI tradition brought from the back woods into the daylight.

As the day unfolds, we will be stop for lunch. We will return to our accommodator via a different route as we continue to sample a day in the life of an Islander.

Day Four- Malpeque Oysters

Following breakfast, we’ll make our way to the other side of the North Coast. The way oysters are fished on Prince Edward Island hasn't changed much in the past hundred years. Fishers still set out in small boats with tongs and crates the way their fathers and grandfathers did.

Departing the cruise dock, we’ll make our way through Charlottetown to the north coast of Prince Edward Island on our way to Salutation Cove near Malpeque. Here, Brian and Erskine Lewis will show you how the high quality Malpeque oyster is farmed.

At one time the world famous Malpeque oysters were almost completely destroyed by a disease that struck in 1915. It took decades to bring the industry to its present multi-million dollar status. Today oysters are both fished and farmed, and one of the leading producers of quality oysters is their neighbour in Salutation Cove, Future Seafoods. Their Rocky Bay Oysters can be found on menus in some of the finest seafood restaurants across North America, and we have arranged for you to learn where these succulent delicacies come from, how they are harvested and most importantly, how they taste!

Oysters harvested elsewhere on the Island are brought to Salutation Cove to be cleansed by the pure waters of the cove. Here you’ll see how they farm oysters to produce the highest quality product, and you’ll be taken out in an oyster dory just offshore to try your hand at tonging!

Therese from Calgary had never been on salt water before and had certainly never been in an oyster dory. "This was the most amazing experience I've ever had. Brian is so funny. . . .and so passionate about oyster fishing. I had such a great time and learned so much. "

After you come back to shore with your oyster catch, you'll pay a visit to the nearby Future Seafoods packing plant where thousands of oysters are graded and packed for shipping every day. You'll learn how to determine the freshness of an oyster, what to look for when selecting oysters, at a store and what to ask for when ordering oysters at a seafood restaurant. Ted Boutilier, the co-owner of Future Seafoods, will give you a lesson in oyster shucking, an art that will amaze your friends when you get back home. And most importantly, you'll get a chance to sample the finest oysters you'll ever taste!

Oysters are like fine wine. . .every kind has its own unique flavour. Here's the way Rocky Bay Oysters have been described:

“Salutation Cove oysters are very delicate in texture, very salty with a sweet, crisp finish that leaves your mouth feeling clean and refreshed. A perfect appetizer!"

Tong & Shuck is available on a daily basis at high tide (Monday to Friday) beginning in mid-June until the end of November. Outside activity is weather dependent. We provide rubber boots, but just in case we don't have a pair in your size, it’s a good idea to bring along footwear that won't be ruined if they get wet.

This experience takes place in Fernwood near Bedeque, 20 minutes east of Summerside, and an hour west of Charlottetown.

Following our Tong & Shuck experience, we’ll make our way back to our accommodator for the evening via a different scenic route.

Day Five – Art Treasures of P.E.I.

Following breakfast today you will have a chance to visit many local stuidos showcasing the wide variety of exclusive and unique handicrafts and art that the island has to offer.

The following is a brief description of a few such places:

Sandscript features unique sand treasures handcrafted with class by artisans Nicole, Albert and Claude.

At Gaudreau’s Fine Woodworking in Rustico, you can marvel at the unique designer woodenware made by the studio`s award-winning artisans, Diane and Jacques Gaudreau.

Village Pottery in New London celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2013. Here you can watch potters Daphne Large and the Potter Daughter, Suzanne Scott, create their unique pottery items. You can also browse through a large selection of handmade crafts and artwork, or stroll through the perennial gardens on site.

Also located in New London is Gallery 18, owned by Aubrey Bell and Patricia Bennett. The gallery offers a surprising selection of authentic antique maps and prints, fine art, old and collectible books, original vintage posters, and small antiques. Much of their inventory is related to Canada, especially Prince Edward Island. They also carry original works by noted Island artist Robert Harris (1849-1919), and offers a wide selection of original works by PEI artists Charles and Eileen Bentley. Additionally, they carry a significant selection of first edition titles by British author, Graham Greene, including many signed copies. Gallery 18 is also home to an impressive selection of original prints from 19th century illustrated newspapers, including Canadian Illustrated News, Illustrated London News, The Graphic, and Harper's Weekly.

Anne Gallant is an acrylic painter who lives in Summerside. The natural beauty of Prince Edward Island is her greatest inspiration - the colours, the shoreline, the lighthouses and old barns. You can find Anne's work at the Mermaid Gallery in Charlottetown and Spinnakers Landing in Summerside, where a gallery features her work.

Studios in Stanley Bridge offer pottery, jewellery, linens, quilts, antiques, iron works, and prints of local art inspired by the earth, sea and sky. These studios are located on hills overlooking amazing views.

The Dunes Studio Gallery and Cafe on Route 15, in Brackley Beach features the pottery of Peter Janson and is one of the Island’s most enchanting sites. Peter's pottery career began at age 13 in his mother Velga’s studio in Toronto. After majoring in ceramics at Sheridan School of Design, he taught pottery at Western Tech and in 1978 opened Janson's Pottery in the old Brackley Point schoolhouse. In 1983 with his father Harry's assistance, Peter designed and built The Dunes, a studio and gallery featuring fine Canadian crafts. Ten years later he added the restaurant, new studio, and a large upper gallery with a reflecting pool garden and fourth floor lookout. You may visit Peter and his associate potter of 20 years, Joel Mills, as they produce the award-winning Dunes pottery. Peter draws inspiration from the surrounding gardens, beautiful beaches, bays and landscape of PEI and the global design village. His passion for travel has brought to The Dunes a stream of art, fine furniture, jewellery, housewares and artifacts from Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Nepal. It is truly a memorable place to visit.

Also located in Brackley beach is Howe’s Hall Gallery which offers original fine art and hand hooked rugs by The Group on Brackley Bay composed of artisans Betty Jenkins, Mary Ploughman Jones, Margaret Muzika, Linda Shaw Packard, and Mary Roscoe Murphy Robertson.

As with all of our excursions, your itinerary will be uniquely yours. We will visit the places that you want to visit and spend as much or as little time as you determine - it is your day on Prince Edward Island.We’ll return to your accommodator for the evening.

Day Six – Western Prince Edward Island

Today following breakfast we’ll explore the western portion of the island with making our way to Prince Edward Island’s second largest city, Summerside caps off the North Cape Coastal Drive with a laid-back city feel. Here you will discover the College of Piping where pipe band demonstrations are done daily or If you have an interest in historical homes, explore Wyatt Heritage Properties, or perhaps some light shopping at Spinnakers’ Landing.

Our next stop the Canadian Potato Museum. in O’Leary. The Potato Kitchen is a hidden gem inside the museum and it wouldn’t be a trip to Prince Edward Island without learning a little about the industry the island is famous for, be sure to try their potato fudge, trust us we think it will surprise you!

we’ll make way for Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is home to beautiful beaches that stretch for miles and even if you’re not a lighthouse lover you’ll want us to stop at the West Point Lighthouse minutes away and Climb the 72 stairs and experience the coastal views of white-sand beaches and crashing waves from the lantern deck.

Commemorating one of Canada’s greatest folk and country singer/songwriters of all time, the Stompin’ Tom Centre Homestead & Schoolhouse will have your hands clappin’ as you listen to some classics like Bud the Spud and The Hockey Song. While there, be sure to check out one of the region’s best beaches, Skinners Pond Beach!

In North Cape, witness the meeting of the waters as the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait converge over the longest natural rock reef in North America.

Timing considered and based on your interests perhaps walk the Black Marsh Nature Trail or view impressive wind turbines and learn about renewable energy at the Wind Energy Interpretive Centre.

Before coming near to the end of our touring day a stop at Kildare Capes is a must to see the red cliff coastline, a photo op we highly encourage!

Day Seven- Nova Scotia Bound

Following breakfast, we'll drive to Gateway Village at the Confederation Bridge Complex. After we cross the 13.8-kilometer bridge,

Depending on your interests and tide times while traversing New Brunswick to make our return to Nova Scotia we can visit Hopewell Cape….

The Hopewell Rocks is a place to pause…a place to appreciate a remarkable story interwoven through time, tide, and the intricacies of nature. These are the highest tides in the world. And they happen twice a day.... every day. Time and tide have carved from the cliffs and coves distinctive sandstone formations topped with trees. During periods of low tide, you can walk 2 km of beach and explore several coves filled with these flowerpot rocks.

Leaving New Brunswick behind us we’ll take a scenic drive and return you and yours to Halifax for a balance of leisure.

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

Please note if you'd prefer accommodations directly in Charlottetown for self-exploration at the end of the touring day or a more relaxed sea-side beach accommodations for a more relaxed pace.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Mon, 09 Dec 2019 04:19:39 +0000
Fundy Shore to Shore / N.S. to N.B. Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/65-nstonb-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/65-nstonb-tour Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor within your quoted tour price.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Let us be your guide to the ultimate Fundy experience touring both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day one- Nova Scotia Fundy Shores

Following breakfast, we’ll take in the downtown core of the historic city as we make our way to follow Nova Scotia's scenic Evangeline Trail to Hall's Harbour on the Bay of Fundy a favorite spot for Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Hall's Harbour is named after Samuel Hall, an American privateer who, during the American Revolution, used the cove to raid settlements in the Annapolis Valley. Now it's home to a Bay of Fundy fishing fleet and one of the largest lobster pounds in the world.

Enjoy the charm of a rustic fishing village. Located on the Bay of Fundy, Hall’s Harbour is becoming one of Nova Scotia's premiere destinations, we’ll spend some time enjoying the wonderful atmosphere, perhaps take time to find the perfect Nova Scotian souvenir? Or Basque in authentic Nova Scotian sea side village and all it has to offer with the sights, sounds and smells you would expect. Take a walk along the harbourfront boardwalk and explore the Lobster Pound’s buildings which date back to the 1820s.

Tide times providing the main purpose of this visit and site is its unique size makes it a perfect spot to witness the dramatic Bay of Fundy tides. At high tide this village might be mistaken for other unique fishing villages that scatter across our province but at low tide you can take into view the Fundy fishing fleet vessels resting on their keels and walk the very harbor floor that six hours prior was filled with sea water and those same vessels moored and afloat.

Dare to get a little muddy? follow the harbor floor to the beach and take a leisurely walk along and you may be lucky enough to find sea glass or quartz and take in the excellent views of the Bay of Fundy. On a clear day one may be able to see the Province of New Brunswick and faintly even the State of Maine!

We’ll depart Hall’s Harbor for North Mountain Ridge to the Blomidon ‘Look-Off' where, on a clear day, you can see the Bay of Fundy, Grand Pré, Wolfville and the extensive dykelands built by the Acadians.

when we arrive at Annapolis Royal. Spend the afternoon wandering around this gorgeous, historic town. Visit Fort Anne, historic sites and houses, smell the roses at the Gardens or simply stroll along the boardwalk, the choice is yours! A short drive will take us to Digby which is where we'll spend the night, at Digby Pines. We encourage you to devour the famous Digby Scallops!

Day two- Nova Scotia to New Brunswick

We’ll travel by ferry from Digby to Saint John, New Brunswick – make sure to have your camera on hand to capture some spectacular scenery and perhaps wildlife! From Saint John, we’ll drive to St. Martins and explore this village, once a shipbuilding centre, this gateway to The Fundy Trail Parkway is famous for its red cliffs, echo caves and birdwatching activities.

This is a lovely seaside community whose daily rhythms are guided by the rising and falling of the World’s Highest Tides. At high water, the colourful fishing boats bob in the water in the village harbour. Once the tide recedes, those same boats sit in the mud on the ocean floor! The harbour is tremendously photogenic. It’s encircled by two covered bridges, a lighthouse and public gardens.

In time making way for The Village's premier attraction is the St. Martins sea caves. Walkers and hikers consult the tidal charts to find the best time to walk the ocean floor out to sea caves, caverns and arches. The tide rises, soon erasing their footsteps, filling the caves and caverns with water. The tide rises and falls every 6 hours and 13 minutes, creating new times for high and low tides every day.

We’ll bed down for the evening here to rest for our continuing Fundy adventures tomorrow.

Day three- The Hopewell Cape

Following breakfast and at the appropriate time we’ll make way for Fundy National Park and if time allows, incorporate some of the stunning Fundy Trail Parkway into our route. Fundy National Park encompasses some of the last remaining wilderness in southern New Brunswick and hugs the coastline of the Bay of Fundy. We’ll spend some time in the village of Alma, on the shores of the world’s highest tides, where you can enjoy trails, sightseeing, shopping and lunch.

We’ll continue along the coastline to Cape Enrage which offers spectacular clifftop views of the Bay of Fundy and the turbulent waters within.

Meandering along the scenic Fundy Coastal Drive, we’ll reach Hopewell Rocks where we’ll stay and play for the afternoon. The Hopewell Rocks is a place to pause…a place to appreciate a remarkable story interwoven through time, tide, and the intricacies of nature. These are the highest tides in the world. And they happen twice a day.... every day. Time and tide have carved from the cliffs and coves distinctive sandstone formations topped with trees. During periods of low tide, you can walk 2 km of beach and explore several coves filled with these flowerpot rocks.


Many of the formations have nicknames inspired by their appearance. Look for Lover's Arch, Dinosaur Rock, Mother-in-law and ET, just to name a few. At high tide, these curious formations become small islands, surrounded by water. While many people like to explore the flowerpot rock formations at low tide, there are plenty of activities at high tide as well.

Our evening will be spent in Chateau Moncton on the banks of the Petitcodiac River where you can relax and unwind after the whirlwind of the day.

Day Four- Return to Nova Scotia

Following breakfast, we’ll head for magnetic hill and give you the impression that the hill is pulling our vehicle all the way to the top for an excellent view of the surrounding area before making way back to Nova Scotia!

With an informative rest stop in Truro so we can learn about our 'First Nation's Peoples', the Mi’kmaq , We’ll make way for the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre in South Maitland. Tour the interpretive centre, stroll along the trail to the Observation Deck which offers spectacular views of the Shubenacadie River and if timing is right, we may see the tidal bore arrive. This area is abounding with wildlife and is super for birdwatching.

Leaving South Maitland, we’ll head to Maitland to Frieze and Roys for refreshments. Frieze and Roys “Opened in 1839, this gem on the shores of the Cobequid Bay was around before confederation and is Canadas "Oldest Continually Operating General Store”!” We’ll relax and chat with your guide about the local area and finalize details of our tour. The weather can have a dramatic influence on what we choose to do for the day so this offers the perfect opportunity to tweak our itinerary.

Weather permitting, we’ll head to Burntcoat Head Park, perhaps stopping at some scenic vistas, parks or museums along the way. Burntcoat Head Park is where the highest tides in the world were recorded, “In 1975 The Guinness Book of World Records listed Burntcoat Head in the Minas Basin, Nova Scotia as the site of the greatest average tide of 47.5 feet with an extreme range of 53.6 feet.”

Leaving Burncoat head park behind we’ll make way for the Annapolis Valley once again to spend the evening.

Day Five- Halifax Bound

Following breakfast, we’ll leave the Annapolis Valley for Halifax. Upon return of the city and based on your requests we’ll take a light tour of Historic Halifax visiting the down town core of our city before visiting the finest example of formal Victoria Gardens to be found in North America the Halifax Public gardens before ending our time in Halifax we’ll take you to the top of Halifax to Citadel hill the reason for the founding of Halifax for a 360-degree view of the city and all it has to offer.

A balance of the afternoon of leisure and enjoy an evening sailing of Halifax Harbour on us before resting for your departure day!

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

This tour can be combined with our other N.S. based Day tours or even extended to include Tidal Bore rafting, or continuing on to Prince Edward Island or Cape Breton, the choices abound.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Mon, 09 Dec 2019 03:39:09 +0000
Prince Edward Island Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/64-pei-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/64-pei-tour Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor and Complimentary Lobster Dinner in P.E.I. included within your quoted tour price.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Let us be your guide to a A breathtaking destination, filled with history and beauty everywhere you look, endless beaches and unique experiences.

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day one – To the Gentle island

Following breakfast, we'll head for Prince Edward Island. Our first stop will be in Truro so we can learn about our 'First Nation's Peoples', the Mi'Kmaq. Next we’ll travel PEI ferry at Caribou for a ninety-minute crossing. Once we arrive in PEI, we'll explore part of the eastern area of the province including Murray River and Harbour, Montague (via Route 319) and Brudenell before going on to Charlottetown.

We'll tour Charlottetown, known as The Cradle of Confederation. We'll also visit Province House (where Confederation was conceived), and explore Founder's Hall where we'll learn all about Confederation. Next, it's a drive through the UPEI campus.

Depending on your accommodation requests we’ll allow for some additional self-exploration in Charlottetown and of course Your trip would not be complete without a trip to Canada’s Best, Cow’s Ice Cream – As Anne of Green Gables once said: there is nothing more delectable than ice cream!

Ending our day at our accommodator for a restful sleep for tomorrows day of touring.

Day two – Anne’s Land

Following breakfast at our hotel we're off to the Cavendish area of the province, known as Anne of Green Gables country. First, we’ll discover where it all began, Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables, was born in 1874 in a modest white and green house, decorated with authentic Victorian period pieces and overlooking New London Harbour. Take into view the special exhibits include the replica of the writer's wedding dress and personal scrapbooks containing copies of her many stories and poems.

We will tour the national historic site, Anne of Green Gables House and explore 19th century gardens, farmyard, walking trails, including the Haunted Wood and much more. We’ll continue to tour part of the Central Coastal Drive and make our way to Cavendish Beach.

When visitors think of Prince Edward Island, many immediately imagine the smooth warm sand, red sandstone cliffs, soft blue skies, and white-capped waves of the surrounding seas. With 1,100km of shoreline, much of it in the form of pristine beaches, PEI is a beach lover’s dream destination and we want to share one of the most important one with you. It’s here at the Centrepoint of PEI’s north coast that all its natural attributes converge. Inviting white sand, crystal blue water warmed by the Gulf Stream, and red sandstone cliffs that fall from a carpet of green. Here, charming coastal communities lie in wait to welcome visitors new and old.

Take some time to self-explore and walk the boardwalk or the beach itself.

We’ll continue on our coastal drive passing through North Rustico a picture prefect community which is strongly connected to its proud fishing tradition, North Rustico residents pride themselves on their closeness to both land and sea.

Lastly, we are on to the original home of the first major groups of British emigrants who settled in P.E.I. in 1770, Stanhope is a very popular destination for many visitors. Once a local hotspot during P.E.I`s rum-running era, Stanhope epitomizes the beauty and tranquility of our North Shore.

Nearing the end of our touring day we hope you and your group are hungry because it’s a full course lobster dinner on us at Nova Scotia Van Tours!

After dinner we’ll return you to your accommodator for the evening.

*Time permitting on this day and based on your requests perhaps a visit to Malpeque Harbour and Bay (famous for oysters) or We can visit Saint Mary's Church which is the largest 'single-style' church on the island. PEI has approximately 250 churches which is more per capita than any other province in Canada.

Day Three – Western Prince Edward Island

Today following breakfast we’ll explore the western portion of the island with making our way to Prince Edward Island’s second largest city, Summerside caps off the North Cape Coastal Drive with a laid-back city feel. Here you will discover the College of Piping where pipe band demonstrations are done daily or If you have an interest in historical homes, explore Wyatt Heritage Properties, or perhaps some light shopping at Spinnakers’ Landing.

Our next stop the Canadian Potato Museum. in O’Leary. The Potato Kitchen is a hidden gem inside the museum and it wouldn’t be a trip to Prince Edward Island without learning a little about the industry the island is famous for, be sure to try their potato fudge, trust us we think it will surprise you!

we’ll make way for Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is home to beautiful beaches that stretch for miles and even if you’re not a lighthouse lover you’ll want us to stop at the West Point Lighthouse minutes away and Climb the 72 stairs and experience the coastal views of white-sand beaches and crashing waves from the lantern deck.

Commemorating one of Canada’s greatest folk and country singer/songwriters of all time, the Stompin’ Tom Centre Homestead & Schoolhouse will have your hands clappin’ as you listen to some classics like Bud the Spud and The Hockey Song. While there, be sure to check out one of the region’s best beaches, Skinners Pond Beach!

In North Cape, witness the meeting of the waters as the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait converge over the longest natural rock reef in North America.

Timing considered and based on your interests perhaps walk the Black Marsh Nature Trail or view impressive wind turbines and learn about renewable energy at the Wind Energy Interpretive Centre.

Before coming near to the end of our touring day a stop at Kildare Capes is a must to see the red cliff coastline, a photo op we highly encourage!

Day Four- Nova Scotia Bound

Following breakfast, we'll drive to Gateway Village at the Confederation Bridge Complex. After we cross the 13.8-kilometer bridge,

Depending on your interests and tide times while traversing New Brunswick to make our return to Nova Scotia we can visit Hopewell Cape….

The Hopewell Rocks is a place to pause…a place to appreciate a remarkable story interwoven through time, tide, and the intricacies of nature. These are the highest tides in the world. And they happen twice a day.... every day. Time and tide have carved from the cliffs and coves distinctive sandstone formations topped with trees. During periods of low tide, you can walk 2 km of beach and explore several coves filled with these flowerpot rocks.

Leaving New Brunswick behind us we’ll take a scenic drive and return you and yours to Halifax for a balance of leisure.

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

Please note if you'd prefer accommodations directly in Charlottetown for self-exploration at the end of the touring day or a more relaxed sea-side beach accommodations for a more relaxed pace.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Mon, 09 Dec 2019 03:25:00 +0000
Celtic Colours Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/63-celticcolours-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/63-celticcolours-tour Celtic Colours Festival, Cape Breton , Nova Scotia

Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour: Six / If your party exceeds six then we will quote for one luxury grade mini-coach.

Customization: As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Admission Fees: All Concert admissions and site admission fees included within quoted tour price.

Accommodations: All accommodation fees included within your quoted tour price.

Airport Transfers: Both arrival and departure transfers within your quoted tour price.

Additional Fees: Breakfast daily, All road tolls, Ferry and parking fees, Complimentary Sailing on Halifax Harbor and Complimentary Lobster Dinner in Baddeck included within your quoted tour price.

Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Cape Breton Island’s story is told in many ways. It’s etched in her craggy cliffs. Written in the trails that marble her face. Spoken in three languages and celebrated in her music and dance.Let us be your guide and experience over two decades celebrating Celtic Music with the Celtic Colours Festival.

Arrival Day

Arrive at Halifax. airport meet & greet. transfer to hotel directly in the down town core and eight minutes’ walk to the water front at the four and a half star “Halifax Hotel”. Enjoy an orientation/familiarization tour around the historic core of the city. where your hotel is located. balance of the day at leisure with an evening sailing around Halifax Harbour at dusk on Nova Scotia Van Tours.

Day One -To Cape Breton

Following breakfast, we'll head for Cape Breton. Our first stop will be in Truro so we can learn about our 'First Nation's Peoples', the Mi'Kmaq. We'll travel across the Canso Causeway - a 1,385 m rock-filled roadway crossing the Strait of Canso, with two vehicle lanes of traffic and a single railway track. It is the deepest causeway in the world, with a depth of 213 feet. The word "Canso" is believed to be derived from the Mi'kmaq word kamsok, which means "opposite the lofty cliffs".

We'll stop at the Cove Motel Restaurant for a great lunch and super views of the Causeway.

Following lunch, we’ll make our way to Baddeck following along the beginnings for the fabled Bras D’or lake. Entering Baddeck we’ll make time for a visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. This national historic site communicates the story of Alexander Graham Bell's wide-ranging interests and inventive work, much of it undertaken in Baddeck. The site boasts about 10 hectares overlooking Baddeck Bay, on Bras d'Or Lake, and Beinn Bhreagh, Bell's summer home, where Bell pursued much of his scientific work. The museum commemorates and interprets the work of Alexander Graham Bell and his associates and also functions as a centre for the study of Bell's scientific and humanitarian work, as illustrated by the artifacts and documents preserved there. We'll spend the evening in Baddeck and ready for the opening night for the festival.

Day Two - Cabot Trail

Today, we'll spend most of the day traveling the world-famous Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail is one of the best road trips in the world and winds through stunning landscapes, along the Margaree River and through the spectacular rugged highlands of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The trail was named after Italian explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) who reached our shores in 1497, sailing on a mission for King Henry VII of England. The name also celebrates the meeting of Cabot and the Mi'kmaq people, the original inhabitants of Cape Breton Island.

The Cabot Trail, completed in 1932, joined previously isolated fishing villages along approximately, a 300 km loop. Today, the Cabot Trail connects eight major communities with intriguing histories, including Acadian, Irish and Scottish settlements.

Options for this day include visiting the Gaelic College, Whale watching in one of the best spots in Nova Scotia for viewing whales on the Gulf of St. Lawrence or taking time to visit various Artisan shops along the trail.

We’ll return to Baddeck and ready for the evenings concert.

Day Three – Highland Village Iona

Following a leisurely breakfast, we'll depart for Highland Village in Iona.

Experience Nova Scotia's Gaelic culture Highland Village Museum. Today we’ll view some of the most breathtaking scenery that this Province has to offer on the shores of the mighty Bras d’Or and the Iona Peninsula is well worth that visit. The Iona Peninsula is located in the centre of Cape Breton Island, almost completely surrounded by the magnificent Bras d'Or Lakes - Canada's Only Inland Sea. The Bras d'Or is a 1,098 km2 (424 sq. mi.) basin* that is one of the finest sailing and boating venues in the world. They separate Cape Breton's Highlands and Lowlands. The Bras d'Or coastline abounds with wildlife and is particularly noted as a breeding area of the magnificent bald eagle. We’ll take in some extensive views of this area before traveling to the

The Iona area is rich in Gaelic heritage. It was first settled in the early 1800's by MacNeil’s from the Island of Barra in Scotland. Donald 'Og' MacNeil spotted Iona during his service with the British Army. On a trip back to Barra, Donald 'Og' told his family and friends of the advantages of the Iona area; "Besides the fuel in the forests, water in the ground, and fish in the sea, you will find there more shelter from the North wind, better and earlier ripening harvests, and good fishing ground." Donald 'Og' came back to Canada to fight in Louisbourg in 1758 and Quebec City in 1759, where he died. His message was followed. In 1800 four MacNeils from Barra arrived at Iona. Several years later two of Donald 'Og's own sons also settled here. Today, the MacNeils' and MacKenzies, the MacLeans and MacDonald’s, and the Gillises and Campbells "All Call Iona Home.” We’ll learn about how these families lived with a visit to the Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village, an outdoor living history museum that tells the story of Gaelic settlement in Nova Scotia. We are located on a stunning 43-acre property overlooking the majestic Bras d’Or Lakes in Iona.11 historic buildings are staffed by costumed animators who are passionate about sharing the Gaelic culture of their ancestors. A favourite of Nova Scotia Van Tours and internationally acknowledged for advancing research, fostering appreciation, learning and sharing authentic Gaelic language and heritage while serving a vibrant Gaelic cultural community. Before returning to Baddeck we can make our way through spectacular scenery to Bras d' Or Look-off which will allow for amazing views of the Bras d'Or lakes before returning to Baddeck to ready for this evenings concert.

Day Four – Fortress Louisbourg & the Marconi Trail

Our first stop of the morning will be at the National Historic Site, Fortress Louisburg.

Fortress Louisbourg is an intimate part of the fabric of Nova Scotian history, involving French, English, American, and Mi'kmaq peoples. It has been called the 'Gibraltar of North America’ and in 1928, Fortress Louisbourg was proclaimed a National Historic Site and in 1961, the Government of Canada began to reconstruct one-fifth of Louisbourg, using the original blueprints to recreate identical building units. Today, it's the largest fortress re-construction site in North America, with over 25 open buildings for you to explore.

During your visit, you will find dozens of costumed animators who portray the residents of 1744. Period costumes and exhibits line the streets and along the busy waterfront. See how the wealthy elite lived, contrasting to the very different life experienced by the poor. We will provide you with a private, one-hour, guided tour of this Fortress, then you will have ample time to explore the unique site on your own.

We'll be dining in Louisbourg, so bring your hunger to one of the 18th-century restaurants. The food is fresh and plentiful, the recipes are from the 18th-century and the atmosphere is New France in the New World! Hotel De la Marine is a busy waterfront tavern and where mariners, soldiers and fishermen would have supped, with only a spoon on the table. Grandchamps is another lively waterfront cabaret or perhaps you would prefer L'Epee Royale, which recreates the atmosphere and menu of a comfortable inn, an upscale eatery where the tavern crowd rarely ventured…and a place where you can show your proper breeding and eat with a full set of cutleries!

Time considered and based on your interest we’ll leave Louisbourg behind travelling through some spectacular scenery, we'll head to Glace Bay to visit the Miners Museum, home of 'Men of the Deeps'. We'll tour this mine, take a trip underground and learn first-hand, from miners themselves, what this harsh life was like.

We'll return to Baddeck for this evenings concert.

Day Five – Celtic Sounds and a “Wee Dram”

Following breakfast we'll meander our way to Judique to visit the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre. Explore the centre and our Celtic musical heritage then enjoy a ‘lunch time ceilidh'.

Leaving Judique and just north of Mabou is the Town of Glenville where you'll find a true gem of Cape Breton, the Glen Breton Distillery. Renowned for its rare Canadian Single Malt Whisky, the only single malt whisky made in Canada, produced by using traditional copper pot stills method and only three ingredients: barley, yeast and water. (It cannot be called 'Scotch' unless it is produced in Scotland, hence the name, Canadian Single Malt Whisky). Glen Breton offers a guided tour of their operation, a fine restaurant, walking trails.

We’ll return to Baddeck for this evening’s concert.

Day Seven – Beautiful islands

Today following breakfast we’ll be heading to Cape Bretons only winery, Eileanan Brèagha Winery.

As Nova Scotia's northernmost estate winery, Eileanan Brèagha (Scottish Gaelic for beautiful islands), the vineyard was named in homage to the owner's Gaelic heritage and for the majestic view of the numerous small islands in the Bras d'Or Lakes. Enjoy, what has been said to be, "the most stunning vineyard vista in the Province" with a little island in every glass!"

Wine making in Cape Breton is relatively new, but tea drinking is a long-standing tradition! We'll pop into Rita MacNeils Tea room to enjoy some true island tea hospitality. We'll continue on to St. Peter's, where we'll cross St Peter's Canal - the only functioning lock system in Nova Scotia.

Returning to Baddeck for our last evening of concerts before departing for Halifax the next day.

Day Six – Halifax Bound

Following breakfast and Depending on your requests and timing provided we can take a different route to Halifax and We'll follow the Ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee, a Gaelic word meaning party or gathering) Trail along the shoreline of the Gulf of St Lawrence. The roadway clings to a rugged shoreline (Saint George's Bay of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, “Canada's in-land sea”) and skirts along the thickly-wooded, mountainous and rough terrain of central Cape Breton Island (Creignish, Big Ridge Mountains and Mabou Highlands). The scenery here is spectacular. We'll be passing places such as Port Hood, Mabou, Glenville, Dunvegan, St. Rose, Chimney Corner and Margaree Harbour, with breathtaking scenery and stunning seascapes found around every turn in the road.

Once again, we'll cross the Canso Causeway back onto the mainland and head for home. Hoarse from singing and toe-tapped out, we won't be offended if you doze off on our return journey.We'll return to Halifax in time for your evening meal.

Departure Day

At the appropriate time we’ll transfer you and yours to the Halifax International Air Port and bid you farewell with fond memories of Nova Scotia.

Each evening, during Celtic Colours, an after-hours (11pm) party is held at Colaisde Na Gàidhlig / The Gaelic College, St. Ann's

This tour can be combined with our other N.S. based Day tours prior to the Celtic Colours Festival dates, the choices abound.

Contact us today for your quote on this private, pre-booked fully narrated packaged tour today !

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Mon, 09 Dec 2019 03:00:14 +0000
Peggy's Cove Tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/62-peggys-tour https://novascotiavantours.com/index.php/package-list/item/62-peggys-tour Peggy's Cove

Port / Departing from : Halifax

Maximum Persons Per Tour : Six / If your party exceeds six then the appropriate passenger count must be selected to the right before moving on the check out process to dispatch either two luxury grade vans or SUVs and two driver/guides or In the case of larger groups one luxury grade mini-coach.
Customization : As with all our excursions, nothing is fixed and Our tours can be custom-tailored to your interests and we welcome the opportunity to make your tour unique and personal; however, keep timing in mind and the fact that additional time spent at various attractions may affect getting to others.

Our route to Peggy’s Cove allows us to view numerous vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and see many of its scenic inlet's and coves. You'll experience the dramatic changing topography as we get closer and closer to Peggy’s Cove

{youtube}https://youtu.be/oxl0p61Zflg{/youtube}

Departing from your local accommodator or cruise dock We'll circle the Public Gardens and the Citadel, drive along the shores of the harbour, stop near the 1917 Explosion site and Bedford Basin and drive by the Titanic Cemetery.

Leaving the city behind us we will make our way toward Peggy’s Cove. Only 15 minutes outside the city on route to the cove you will see a remarkable change from the urban economy of the city to the rural economy of Nova Scotia. This means you will be seeing fishing coves, villages and wilderness views that are a photographer’s playland.

The next stop is one of the most photographed places in Canada and the most photographed lighthouse in North America: Peggy’s Cove. We’ll discuss the namesake of the area before entering the village.

Like stepping back in time, Fisherman’s cottages line the shore, with lobster pots, rowing boats and fishing nets paying testament to the fact that this is still a working community. Picturesque it may be, but Peggy’s Cove is alive and well. Signs directing the many visitors through the village stress the need to respect the inhabitants as they go about their working lives.

After a very brief orientation we’ll allow you and your group some time to self-explore the light house site, weather depending take in the sounds of the local bag piper, shop at the various artisan shops, take in a snack or lunch and satisfy your inner culture vulture at William deGarthe Art Gallery.

Leaving the fabled lighthouse behind We’ll be able to view, and if time permits, stop at the Swiss Air Flight 111 Memorial and discuss its impact on the local area. Then we will travel along a winding picturesque route toward Halifax. Be sure to let your guide know if you’d like a stop at the Acadian Maple Product retail store so you can learn about the Maple syrup industry in Nova Scotia or find the perfect gift to take home. Maple syrup doesn’t get any cheaper than where it is made.

*IMPORTANT NOTE: Regarding your exploration and walk about at Peggy’s Cove; The rocks at water’s edge are as dangerous as they are iconic and if boundaries and warnings are not heeded there is a possibility of falling into the ocean. We have never lost anybody because so far everyone has heeded warnings, signage, and boundaries. We simply ask that you do that too.

The private, pre-booked Peggy's Cove Tour will take approximately 3.5 to 4.0 hours (+/-) and is fully narrated by your driver/guide.

]]>
[email protected] (Nova Scotia Van Tours) Packages Tue, 08 Oct 2019 02:46:27 +0000