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Nova Scotia

The Best of Nova Scotia: Highlands, History and Halifax

Program No. 23038RJ
Explore the seaside villages of Nova Scotia from Halifax to the Highlands to see whales and puffins, and experience the Celtic and French roots of this spectacular region.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
11 days
Program Begins
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Program Concludes
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Meals
26 ( 10B, 8L, 8D )
Activity Level
From the bustling harbor of Halifax to the colorful row of historic sea captains’ homes in Lunenburg—discover the best of Nova Scotia! Experience Peggy’s Cove, where a historic lighthouse balances on giant granite boulders and Cape Breton, where forested cliffs drop spectacularly to the ocean below. Explore the island’s fascinating Celtic influences and French roots as you savor culinary delights and learn about the local seafood industry, including Digby’s scallops and fresh lobster.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Travel along the world-famous Cabot Trail as it skirts along the edges of the stunning Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and learn about the wildlife and history of Cape Breton Island.
  • Enjoy a study cruise with a chief naturalist to watch for whales and seabirds near Brier Island in the Bay of Fundy, where the local residents are outnumbered by seals and migrating birds.
  • Visit the Highland Village and learn what life was like for the Scottish settlers from the mid-1700s through early 1900s.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
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Shelley Lonergan
Whales have been Shelley Lonergan’s passion since she was young. It was this passion and her photography background that led her to the Bay of Fundy for her first whale watch. From the moment she saw her first whale fin, she was hooked! Shelley is the Chief Naturalist for Brier Island Whale & Seabird Cruises, a career obtained through volunteering. I enjoy the research and seeing the first humpback of the season best. Of the latter, it’s like seeing the first robin of spring.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of James White
James White
James (Jay) White is an expert in history, having earned his PhD in Canadian History from McMaster University in 1994. After a two-year stint at Western Washington University, Jay migrated home to Nova Scotia where he has lived ever since, teaching a variety of historical subjects. He even instructed members of the Canadian Armed Forces in military history. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and photography, is a Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadiens fan, and is of Loyalist and Acadian descent.
Profile Image of Cheryl Bray
Cheryl Bray
Cheryl Bray's work is deeply rooted in Cape Breton's rich history, weaving ancestral tales of resilience and hope. From the French era at Louisbourg to the journeys of Highland Gaels and Irish immigrants who shaped the island's identity, their stories are a testament to the land's enduring spirit. As a Gaelic learner, singer, and active member of the island’s theatre community, Cheryl serves as a set designer for Cape Breton University’s Boardmore Theatre.
Profile Image of Lerenda Donovan
Lerenda Donovan
Lerenda Donovan was born in Halifax. Her 6th-great-grandfather arrived in Nova Scotia from France in 1604, and her mother's family were one of the founding Acadian families along the Eastern Shore. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling the lesser known roads of Nova Scotia by motorcycle and spending time with her grandchildren. During her career, she traveled to many places in the U.S. and Europe seeking business opportunities for Nova Scotia agriculture companies, inspiring her to begin leading travel groups in 2017 after retiring.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Boarding transportation and walking up to two miles on varied terrain.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (6 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
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Assurance Plan

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