South Shore
Discover the unexpected in Canada’s Atlantic playground. Nova Scotia combines European hospitality of quality inns and superb food with Canadian natural wonders. Pedal past peaceful coves, winking lighthouses, rugged headlands and authentic fishing villages. Relax each night in historic inns. Discover unique history and heritage, relax on perfect white sand beaches and find an excellent souvenir among the craft and antique shops. But we’re betting that a favourite memory will be the warmth and friendliness of the Nova Scotians you’ll meet.
Only Great Explorations:
Halifax, NS, Canada
Hubbards, NS, Canada
Day 2
Chester, NS, Canada
Day 3
Mahone Bay, NS, Canada
Day 4
Lunenburg, NS, Canada
End Location
| 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|
| May 25-31 | May 24-30 |
| Jun 1-7 | May 31- Jun 6 |
| Jun 8-14 | Jun 7-13 |
| Jul 20-26 | Sep 13-19 |
| Sep 14-20 | Sep 20-26 |
| Sep 21-27 | Oct 4-10 |
| Oct 5-11 |
Trip can start at any date. Self-guided and custom trips also available. Call or email for details.
Trip Size
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate
55 km (35 miles) daily average
Van supported
Extra km possible
TerrainRolling
CostLand Cost:
CAD $3,150
Includes 6B/2L/5D
Single Supplement:
CAD $800
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: CAD $320
Racing Bikes: CAD $420
E-Bikes*: CAD $480
*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
Prices subject to HST (15%) for trips in Nova Scotia.
It is possible to reach Nova Scotia by both air and sea. Halifax is Nova Scotia’s capital and major entry point for most travel. There is scheduled air service to Halifax from all major Canadian and US cities with non-stop flights to Nova Scotia from Boston, Newark, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal.
Halifax
We will meet at 6pm for a walking tour through Halifax. Halifax is a wonderful city to explore on foot, filled with vibrant cafes and shops. After a welcome reception at 7pm, we will dine at our favourite local restaurant.
Hubbards
On our first cycling day, we will ride the Rumrunners Trail, which departs from Halifax itself. Initially paved, it follows an old railgrade, making for a gentle grade without any motorized traffic! Our destination on this day is the town of Hubbards and the Surfside Inn.
Riding distance: 54 km; 395 m gain
Chester
We will depart Hubbards to pedal around the ruggedly beautiful coastline of the Aspotogan Peninsula. Pass through picturesque fishing villages like Northwest Cove and Aspotogan. At Bayswater look for the Peggy’s Cove light across the head of the bay. The route along the western side of the Aspotogan Peninsula provides magnificent views of the Tancook Islands. Not far along we will arrive at the charming summer resort of Chester with a stunning harbour filled with pleasure yachts.
Riding distance: 56 km; 553 m gain
Lunenburg
We will begin our day by exploring this classical Nova Scotian village that has been a New England-like boating resort since the mid-1800’s. We will wind our way along the coast of Mahone Bay to the beautiful town of that name. Along the way we will pass by the mysterious Oak Island (which has inspired two centuries of treasure hunters, including American President Franklin D. Roosevelt). At Mahone Bay explore the studios, galleries and unique shops that line the narrow streets of the village, and to view one of the most photographed scenes in Nova Scotia — the three waterfront churches. From here we continue on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, which will be our base for the next two nights.
Riding distance: 65 km, elevation gain 602 m.*
Lunenburg
Enjoy a full day in the Lunenburg area. Take the opportunity to explore one of Nova Scotia’s oldest communities and certainly one of its most colourful. Visit the booming sea caves at the Ovens Natural Park, or cycle around the scenic Lunenburg and Riverport Peninsula’s. If you want a day off your bike, take a walking tour of the old town (be sure to watch for the “Lunenburg bump”!) and then hop on a boat to go whale-watching or try your hand at sea-kayaking.
Riding distance: 51-58 km; up to 453 m gain
Lunenburg
We will cycle from Lunenburg to the LaHave River where a river ferry will carry you to the other side to continue your day’s ride. Enjoy the untouched coastal scenery we will encounter along the route; pine and spruce forests, lichen-crusted rocks and sparkling clean beaches. You can turn around at any point today so if you wish a short easy ride, you have that option – if your goal is to finish with a century ride, you can make it all the way to Liverpool and back. We’ll finish the trip as we always do, with a celebratory dinner.
Riding distance: 58 km; 453 m gain
Departure
Take a final stroll or ride through the village of Lunenburg before heading off on your next adventure. We can arrange a transfer at your convenience between Lunenburg and Halifax.
Set in a historic landmark on Halifax’s vibrant waterfront, this hotel offers upscale accommodations with harbour views and modern amenities. Located in the Seaport District, it’s steps from key attractions and features an indoor saltwater pool, fitness centre, and on-site dining.
This 4-star oceanfront Inn on the golden sands of Queensland Beach is a restored heritage building providing all modern amenities. Originally built by a sea captain in the late 1800s, this charming inn maintains all its Victorian elegance and antiques. All rooms have whirlpool baths, and most have water views.
This historic Inn is located on a hill in the heart of Chester with a commanding view of the ocean two blocks away. Shipwrights constructed the Inn over 100 years ago and the finishes, including wide pine flooring, have been restored to their original state. All rooms have down duvets, Frette linens, locally made quilts, and most have water views.
In the centre of this historic village, with views of the harbour, this boutique style hotel was converted from a former tavern and boarding house. Rooms are furnished with king beds and plush duvets – some have jacuzzis and some feature incredible harbour views. Rissers Restaurant offers fabulous seafood and live jazz on some evenings.
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