A Taste of Prince Edward Island

Relax with included UK airport lounge access before your flight to Halifax. On arrival, head to your accommodation, a trio of heritage townhouses, cleverly combined to create a boutique hotel and downtown retreat in the heart of Halifax – the lively maritime capital of Nova Scotia. Set around one of the world's largest natural harbours, Halifax blends rich seafaring heritage with a flourishing culinary scene, historic architecture and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, spend the remainder of the day exploring at leisure. 

Today is dedicated to discovering Halifax through its food scene. On a guided culinary tour, you'll explore the city's historic streets while sampling a range of regional specialities and learning about the people, traditions and ingredients that have shaped Nova Scotia's distinctive food culture. Along the way, expect to enjoy everything from freshly caught seafood and artisanal cheeses to locally crafted beverages and sweet treats, each accompanied by fascinating insight into the city's culinary heritage.

The remainder of the day is free to continue exploring Halifax at your own pace. You may wish to wander the waterfront, browse local shops and galleries, or admire the city's impressive collection of historic buildings. Alternatively, an optional harbour cruise offers a unique perspective on the city, with views of the skyline, Georges Island and Halifax's busy working port. 

This morning, collect your rental car and set off for neighbouring New Brunswick. The route offers a fascinating introduction to the dramatic landscapes of the Bay of Fundy region, where the world's highest tides continually reshape the coastline. As you travel north, you'll pass through Nova Scotia's rolling countryside before crossing the historic Tantramar Marshes, a vast expanse of wetlands that has long served as a natural gateway between the Maritime provinces. Your destination is Moncton, a vibrant city at the heart of southeastern New Brunswick. This afternoon, you'll enjoy a Flights and Bites experience at Magnetic Hill Winery, one of the region's leading wine producers. Sample a selection of locally crafted wines paired with seasonal dishes showcasing regional ingredients, while learning about the unique challenges and rewards of cool-climate winemaking in Atlantic Canada. It's a fitting introduction to the region's growing reputation for outstanding food and wine.

Stay: Magnetic Hill Winery, Moncton

Today, you'll cross the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island, Canada's smallest province and one of its most picturesque. Following the North Cape Coastal Drive, you'll travel through a landscape of rolling farmland, red sandstone cliffs and traditional fishing villages that seem largely unchanged by the passage of time. Along the way, there are countless opportunities to pause at scenic beaches, harbours and coastal viewpoints. This evening, arrive at the western tip of Prince Edward Island, where you'll spend the night in one of the country's most distinctive accommodations. Set within a historic lighthouse overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence, your hotel offers magnificent coastal views and a wonderfully atmospheric setting in which to experience the island's maritime heritage.

Stay: West Point Lighthouse Inn

Continue east along the Green Gables Shore, one of Prince Edward Island's most celebrated regions. Famous as the setting that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's beloved Anne of Green Gables novels, the area is characterised by gently rolling farmland, dramatic red cliffs, sandy beaches and charming rural communities. A highlight of the day is your visit to Lennox Island, where you'll enjoy a traditional Bannock and Clams in the Sand experience hosted by members of the local Mi'kmaq community. As fresh clams are cooked beneath the sand and bannock is prepared using time-honoured techniques, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions and the enduring connection between the Mi'kmaq people and the surrounding land and sea.

Today's journey takes you along the lesser-visited Points East Coastal Drive, a beautiful stretch of coastline renowned for its quiet beaches, fishing harbours and historic lighthouses. With fewer visitors than other parts of the island, this region offers a more tranquil side to Prince Edward Island, where scenic backroads meander through fertile farmland and charming coastal communities. The region is also a showcase for the island's exceptional culinary heritage. Seafood features prominently on local menus, from freshly caught lobster and mussels to oysters harvested from nearby waters, while local farms produce some of Canada's finest potatoes, dairy products and seasonal produce. It's the ideal setting to continue discovering the flavours that have made Prince Edward Island a favourite destination for food lovers.

Stay: 45 Steps Culinary Beachside Inn 

Enjoy a day at leisure to further explore eastern Prince Edward Island. Scenic coastal roads lead to secluded beaches, traditional fishing villages and historic lighthouses, while artisan studios and local galleries offer an insight into the island's thriving creative community. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, perhaps spending time on one of the region's beautiful white-sand beaches.

Stay: 45 Steps Culinary Beachside Inn 

Today, continue to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island's charming capital and the historic birthplace of Canadian Confederation. It was here, in 1864, that delegates gathered to begin the discussions that would ultimately lead to the formation of modern Canada. On arrival, spend some time exploring the city's elegant Victorian streets, attractive waterfront and array of independent shops, galleries and cafés. For a deeper insight into Charlottetown's past, you may wish to join an optional guided walking tour. Charlottetown is also widely regarded as one of Atlantic Canada's leading culinary destinations. Home to the renowned Culinary Institute of Canada, the city boasts an impressive dining scene centred around exceptional local ingredients, from freshly landed seafood and world-famous PEI potatoes to artisan cheeses and seasonal produce. 

The next day presents an opportunity to further explore Charlottetown before taking part in one of the gastronomic highlights of your Maritime journey. You'll join the renowned Top Notch Lobster Tour for an authentic introduction to one of Atlantic Canada's most enduring traditions. Learn about the history and importance of lobster fishing on Prince Edward Island, hear stories from those who work on the water and gain an understanding of the sustainable practices that help protect this vital industry. The experience culminates in a classic Maritime lobster feast, showcasing freshly caught local lobster prepared in traditional fashion.

This morning, bid farewell to Prince Edward Island and begin the journey back to Nova Scotia. Crossing the Confederation Bridge, you'll travel through the Maritime landscapes that have defined much of your journey, passing fertile farmland, coastal scenery and charming rural communities as you make your way towards Halifax. Back in Nova Scotia's capital, enjoy a final evening at leisure. Perhaps return to a favourite restaurant discovered earlier in your trip, sample a final plate of Atlantic seafood or raise a glass of local wine or craft beer as you reflect on a journey that has combined spectacular coastal scenery, rich cultural traditions and some of the finest food and drink experiences in Atlantic Canada.

Return your rental car to Halifax Airport and join your flight back to the UK, arriving home on day 13.