The Maritimes Uncovered: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick & Prince Edward Island

Nova Scotia

Halifax is your home base, and it's a good one. It's a charming city with one catch: It's hilly. I enjoy staying at the Prince George Hotel, but know it's about eight blocks uphill from the boardwalk, which is worth keeping in mind if you'll be walking up and down throughout the day. If walkability is a concern, the Muir and the Nova Scotian are both excellent waterfront options.

Two essential Halifax rituals: a stroll along the waterfront boardwalk, and, while you're there, Cows ice cream is worth a stop. I don't particularly care for ice cream, yet felt compelled to try the cleverly named Cownadian Maple—one scoop turned into two. The museums are wonderful; the Maritime Museum (I visited twice, went home, watched Titanic for the 50th time and then went back), the Immigration Museum, and the Natural History Museum are worthwhile.

Dinner: My unequivocal favorite is 5 Fishermen. It's housed in a former morgue—the very building where John Jacob Astor was first brought after the Titanic. The ghost stories are told with enthusiasm. If that level of atmosphere isn't your thing, head next door to Little Fish Wine Bar, where the only spirits are the cocktails!

Halifax, Nova Scotia

The South Shore drive is an outstanding day trip. I was lucky enough to be taken by local family friends who knew every back road and hidden gem. A few of my favorite spots:

• Peggy's Cove, home to the iconic lighthouse, deserves a brief visit. Arrive early, before the tour buses roll in.

• Just outside town is the Oceanstone Resort, a serene place to stay, with adorable cottages right on the Atlantic. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or to host a retreat.

• Chester is a darling town. Have lunch at the Rope Loft for fish and chips, then stop at Fo'c'sle, the oldest pub in Nova Scotia, for some local ales.

• Lunenburg is the crown jewel. UNESCO-listed, colorful buildings, deep fishing heritage. Take the Bluenose harbor tour or join a walking tour of the historic town. Lunch at the Salt Shaker Deli is the perfect spot to take in the town.

Lunenburg

There are many more magical places in Nova Scotia, but in an effort to save space, I've just included the highlights here. I am happy to share my insider tips or guides of these areas—just ask.

New Brunswick

Most travelers come to New Brunswick for the Bay of Fundy. They're right to. Getting down to the ocean floor is part of the experience: about a 20-minute hilly walk followed by steep, switchback stairs that made me question why I was carrying such a ridiculously heavy backpack. At low tide, you are standing on an exposed seabed: total silence. Don't wear your best shoes; they will get muddy. A few hours later, that silence is 50 feet underwater, replaced by a tidal force that moves more water in six hours than every river on earth combined!

Bay of Fundy

Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort was a highlight of the trip for me. Set along the Fundy shoreline, its thoughtfully designed cabins, wood-fired hot tubs, and wellness spaces feel worlds away from everyday life. It's the kind of place that quietly resets your pace and reminds you that nature nurtures. The owners—two dynamo women and lifelong friends—are wonderful. I'd be happy to make an introduction if this place is calling your name.

Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort

From there, I crossed into Prince Edward Island via the Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge over ice-covered waters—eight miles of open sky and water. On a calm day, it's spectacular. On a rainy, windy day like mine, it was a white-knuckled drive.

Prince Edward Island

PEI has a way of slowing everything down in the most wholesome way. Anne of Green Gables is part of the story here, but what lingers more is the red soil that clings to your shoes and the rolling farmland. If you have even a passing interest in Anne of Green Gables, the original site is worth the detour and is one of those cultural landmarks that feels more grounded in person than expected.

Prince Edward Island

Dalvay by the Sea is the historic stay on PEI, but it comes with a few important realities. The rooms are drafty, modern amenities are limited, and space heaters are handed out readily. You don't come here for contemporary luxury. You come for the atmosphere and sweeping ocean views. A standout was the Dalvay spa. Charlotte, who oversees the quaint space, has created a warm and welcoming experience. If you have time for a treatment, book one—you'll thank yourself later.

Dalvay by the Sea

Don't miss the Root Cellar. Part apothecary, part organic market, and entirely too easy to spend money in. Ask for Stephanie—she is so knowledgeable! For food, Water Prince Corner Shop is the go-to for seafood chowder and lobster rolls. Small, local, beloved—make a reservation. Deep Roots Cider Distillery was a standout surprise. I fully expected to politely sip and move on. Instead, I left with a new appreciation for apple brandy and a bottle in hand. Rustico is all waterfront charm, with plenty of outdoor outfitters if water sports are your thing.

And then there's golf. PEI has 27 public courses, which is a lot for a small island. The day we drove past, it was freezing and blustery. I was sitting in a car wearing five layers. Yet, every course had people out there playing like it was the most natural thing. I respected their oblivion (and grit)!

The Maritimes have a way of exceeding expectations. If you have any questions or are interested in planning a trip, please reach out.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Canada page.