Eastern Canada Coastal Explorer

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Eastern Canada Coastal Explorer



Tour Description:

A FULL SENSORY EXPERIENCE, TAKE ON THE SIGHTS, SMELLS AND TASTES OF EASTERN CANADA ON THIS 10-DAY JOURNEY.

From the excitement and culture of Montreal to the scenic, easy-going nature of Nova Scotia’s seaside villages, Eastern Canada is full of contrasts. This tour offers an in-depth look at these distinctions through visits to landmark sites and diverse destinations, as well as through the best indicator of local culture: the food. Your journey begins as you arrive in the beautiful city of Montreal. You will have two full days to enjoy the lively city before you move into Canada’s Maritimes via overnight train, VIA Rail’s Ocean. Your first stop on the Eastern Seaboard is Halifax, and from here, you will continue at your own pace, as you connect destinations by rental car. You will be enchanted by the beauty of the Annapolis Valley and the many sights and activities that surround the luxurious Fox Harb’r resort in Nova Scotia. Additionally, you will have a chance to observe the highest tides in the world at the Bay of Fundy and enjoy the magnificent sights that come with traveling along the rocky coastline of the Bay. Come - the delights of Eastern Canada await.

This itinerary is also available from Halifax to Montreal based on your travel preference.

Highlights:
* Rail travel aboard VIA Rail’s Ocean (1 night on train)
* Hotel accommodations for 8 nights
* 4 meals
* 4-day full-size car rental, including GPS, LDW and unlimited kilometers
* Guided cruise of Montreal
* Old Montreal Food Tour
* Annapolis Valley Wine Tour
* Select private transfers

Map for Eastern Canada Coastal Explorer
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Dates & Pricing



ITINERARY

Day 1 - Arrive Montreal
As you arrive in Montreal, a private car will take you from the airport to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day will be yours to begin your explorations of this diverse city. Perhaps check out the local dining scene or take a step back in time with a visit to Old Montreal. Overnight Montreal.

Day 2 - Montreal
Set your own pace this morning as you tour through Montreal independently. Make your way to some of the famed landmarks throughout the city, such as Olympic Park, or get in touch with nature by climbing Mount Royal. The options are as plentiful as they are diverse. This afternoon, get a better view of the city as you embark on a guided cruise along the St. Lawrence River. Your knowledgeable guide will provide interesting tidbits of information about Montreal while you cruise through the waters, looking over the city center and the surrounding attractions. Following the boat tour, the rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Montreal.

Day 3 - Beyond the Market Walking Tour
What better way to immerse yourself in a city than through its food? This morning you will do just that on your Beyond the Market walking tour. From artisanal charcuteries to thirst-quenching craft beers, discover the surrounding areas of Jean-Talon, the largest food market. Strolling through the adjacent areas, you will gain a better understanding of why diversity is synonymous with Montreal. The Vietnamese neighbour the Italians and further east the Latinos share the streets with the Maghrebis. Sit down for a full-flavoured tasting at the city’s favourite Salvadoran hole-in-the-wall. Wrap up your day sharing comfort food with your new friends and set off on your adventure with a list of preferred spots from your insider guide. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to continue your explorations of the city. Overnight Montreal.

Day 4 - Montreal/ VIA Rail’s Ocean to Halifax
Make the most of your last day in the city by revisiting favorite sites and restaurants or set out for new adventures. Montreal has a wonderful Museum of Fine Arts, as well as a fascinating Biodome. Other options include the Botanical Garden, Parc Jean-Drapeau and La Fontaine Park. This evening, make your way Downtown to Montreal Central Station to board VIA Rail’s overnight train, the Ocean. Settle into your onboard accommodations, and watch the city lights fade into the distance as your trip towards the Maritimes begins. Overnight train. (D)

Day 5 - Halifax
As you wake this morning, your train will be heading down the coast of the Baie-des-Chaleurs. Enjoy the sights that come with this beautiful stretch of Canada as you enjoy the amenities of the train, including access to the Park Car sightseeing lounge, where domed windows provide panoramic views over the changing landscape. As your train arrives in Halifax, transfer to your hotel and then the rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Halifax. (B, L)

Day 6 - Annapolis Valley Wine Tour
Travel through the first wine-producing region in North America today with a tour through the Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. Your half-day tour will take you to three local estates producing wine or cider, where you will taste the incredible varietals only produced in Nova Scotia. Two stops are included before sitting down to a lovely lunch, which is served alongside thoughtfully paired wines or ciders as you overlook the Minas Basin. After your meal, your tour guide takes you to one more winery before returning to Halifax. You may sightsee and explore Halifax independently this evening. Overnight Halifax. (L)

Day 7 - Drive to Fox Harb’r
You will get an intimate look at Nova Scotia as you drive to Fox Harb’r luxury resort today. Pick up your rental car this morning, and begin your drive. The resort community is located just 90 minutes from Halifax, but there are many small towns and historic sites to visit along the way. Detouring south to Peggy’s Cove offers a look at one of the most charming seaside destinations in all the Maritime region. Moving north, there is an expansive wilderness preserve you can explore, as well as many interesting towns and quaint communities. As you arrive at Fox Harb’r in Wallace, Nova Scotia, check into your luxurious accommodations and discover the plethora of onsite amenities available to you during your stay. Overnight Fox Harb’r.

Day 8 - Fox Harb’r
Fox Harb’r is a true oasis, with its vast offerings and idyllic coastal scenery. The day is yours to treat yourself to everything the resort has to offer. Pamper yourself in the onsite spa or visit the wellness center. There are two golf courses on the premises: a champion-level course and a par-3 short course. Nature lovers are thrilled by the variety of activities, which range from clay pigeon shooting to horseback riding and mountain biking. If you wish to get out on the water, Fox Harb’r offers fishing and sea kayaking excursions. There is no shortage of opportunities within the resort. Overnight Fox Harb’r.

Day 9 - Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is a must-see while in Nova Scotia. Just a two hour drive from Wallace, this unique area is one of the seven natural wonders of North America, as it boasts the highest tides in the world, fossils and more. During your time at the Bay, look over the waters to try and spot the many species of whales and seabirds that call this region home. There are wonderful hiking trails that look over the water. One of the most unique sites within the Bay of Fundy is the Joggins Fossil Cliffs - a site that has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage designation, thanks to its fossils and aid in understanding Earth’s evolution. A visit to the cliffs is sure to delight, as will a trip to Cape d’Or Lighthouse which was built in the late 1800s right on the Bay of Fundy. Call ahead to the Lightkeeper’s Kitchen to enjoy a fresh, locally sourced meal at this picture-perfect destination. Overnight Fox Harb’r.

Day 10 - End of Tour
Your coastal vacation comes to an end as you make your way to Halifax Stanfield International Airport from Fox Harb’r. Drop off your rental car, and board your plane for your return flight home.