Savour the Maritimes

Canada's Atlantic Coast

Discover Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island through their distinctive flavours, on a journey guided by the tastes of the sea and land.

This itinerary brings you to the heart of the Maritimes' culinary scene, from Nova Scotia's vibrant coastal kitchens, where fresh seafood is prepared with creative flair, to PEI's fields and orchards, where local producers offer unique artisanal goods. Along the way, you’ll meet chefs, farmers, and fishers who are reshaping the region’s food culture, crafting memorable experiences that go beyond the plate.

Day 1:

Halifax

Halifax is Nova Scotia's capital city, a vibrant urban centre situated on the Atlantic Coast. From live music and entertainment to interesting museums and top-notch culinary experiences, Halifax offers a wide range of options.

Start your exploration of Halifax by the water. Begin your day with a visit to the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market. While it has been at its current location by the seaport since 2010, the market's roots in the city go back to 1750, making it one of the oldest markets in North America. Among the farm-fresh vendors, you'll also find a food kiosk selling all the fixings for a delicious start to your day.

After breakfast, walk over to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.

For lunch, head to The Bicycle Thief — a local favourite by the water. The restaurant serves North American fare with an Italian twist.

End your first day in Halifax with a sunset sail around the harbour.

J Farewell Sailing Co offers a wine and cheese sailing that allows you to take in the setting sun and the sweeping views of Halifax Harbour while enjoying a sampling of local wine paired with a local cheese board.

The hosted tasting gives you insight into the local vineyards and the people who make the Nova Scotia wine you are enjoying.

Day 2:

Halifax

Today, enjoy downtown Halifax. The city's downtown core is built into a hill and one of the best ways to see it is a visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. The fortress overlooks the city, giving you both a history lesson and a great photo opportunity. At noon, you can listen for the daily cannon fire which has been signalling the noon hour since 1857.

For lunch, head to Argyle Street. Packed with restaurants, bars and cafes, there's plenty to choose from when it comes to a good meal. If the weather is nice, dine outside on one of the many patios.

If you're feeling like a pleasant stroll after lunch, visit the Halifax Public Gardens. This Victorian-era garden has acres of colourful floral displays in the summer and fall, as well as mature trees, pretty water features and an meandering walkway.

For dinner, head to the waterfront for a sensational meal at Drift Restaurant. The restaurant is led by Chef Anthony Walsh and the food is a celebration of the region’s natural bounty.

Day 3 & 4:

Trout Point Lodge

The next morning, take a leisurely drive to Kemptville for a two-night luxurious experience at Trout Point Lodge.

Trout Point Lodge is an eco-lodge situated in the wilderness of southwestern Nova Scotia. Guests can enjoy paddling, guided stargazing, forest bathing and an outdoor barrel sauna and wood-fired hot tub.

Food is at the heart of the experience. The on-site chef prepares fresh Nova Scotia fare, including a luxurious breakfast, a lunch (either packed for an outing or in the dining room) and a 4-course dinner every night. The dinner menu changes daily based on the day's freshest produce and what is available from local farmers.

In the evening, head outside for a guided stargazing event that might just prove to be the highlight of your stay.

Day 5:

Lunch in the Annapolis Valley

Located on the Bay of Fundy and shaped by the highest tides in the world, the Annapolis Valley is a haven for farms, wineries and nature experiences.

Stop for lunch at Le Caveau Restaurant, located in the heart of Nova Scotia Wine Country. Le Caveau specializes in global cuisine using seasonal local ingredients, matched with fine wines. On a fair-weather day, dine outdoors on the patio.

If you'd like to stay in the Annapolis Valley longer, check out our article on the amazing experiential tourism offerings in the region.

Day 5:

Confederation Bridge - Charlottetown

On your way to Prince Edward Island, you'll pass over Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge in the world over ice-covered water.

The bridge officially opened in 1997, providing a much-needed consistent link between the provinces of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

As you make your way across the curved, 12.9-km-long bridge, know that you are crossing the world's longest bridge crossing ice-covered water.

There are viewpoints available on both sides of the bridge where you can stop to take pictures.

Upon arriving in Charlottetown, explore the city's quaint downtown. For dinner, head to The Gahan House Pub for a fun evening of pub-style food and local craft beer.

Day 6:

Charlottetown

Prince Edward Island is known as the Food Island, packed as it is with incredible culinary offerings. At the heart of the island is its capital city, Charlottetown. This seaside city has charm, culture and a taste of all that makes PEI so amazing.

Start with a walking food tour to get a taste of what is on offer in Charlottetown. A guided food tour will allow you to sample tasty offerings in the city without feeling overwhelmed to make just one choice. The experienced and local food guide will also be able to tell you the stories of the city.

In the afternoon, head northwest to PEI's Cavendish area for a hands-on oyster experience. The Raspberry Point Oyster Shuck & Learn combines education with taste. You'll learn about oyster farming and harvesting and get to try oysters right out of the ocean.

End your day by the ocean with dinner at the famous Blue Mussel Cafe in North Rustico.

Day 7:

Explore PEI

Staying in Charlottetown as your base in PEI will allow you easy access to other parts of the island.

Stop in at the Prince Edward Island Preserve Co. to pick up jars of their famous jams to bring home as a souvenir. There is a lovely restaurant here as well for lunch.

After exploring the island, you'll have worked up an appetite for dinner. This evening, head to the Table Culinary Studio, located inside a converted historic church, for a chef's dinner and storytelling.

This is a unique experience that offers a true taste of place.

Day 8:

Inn at Bay Fortune

Today, leave Charlottetown and head to the east side of the island for a culinary retreat at the Inn at Bay Fortune.

This highly-acclaimed country inn is set on 75 acres, offering access to farm, forest and sea. During your stay, explore the woodland trails and whimsical grounds.

The highlight of your experience, however, is likely to be the FireWorks Feast, created by Chef Michael Smith, one of Canada's most well-known celebrity chefs.

The FireWorks Feast is prepared with ingredients from the inn's own Culinary Farm and herb gardens, as well as from wild foraging, and local partners. As the name suggest, it is prepared with live fire.

The multi-course feast, which highlights many local ingredients, is an interactive event that's not to be missed. It marks the perfect end to a culinary journey in the Maritimes.

To learn more about the FireWorks Feast and Inn at Bay Fortune, read our interview with Chef Michael Smith