HIGHLIGHTS OF NOVA SCOTIA

Transcription

1 HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS OF NOVA SCOTIA JULY 7-15, 2018 TRIP SUMMARY Looking for wildlife, particularly moose, seals, puffins, and other seabird life Seeing the stunning coastline of Cape Breton and learning about its history Experiencing the huge tides of the Bay of Fundy Visiting Peggy's Cove and Lunenberg Learning about Acadian and Gaelic culture and listening to Gaelic music Phone: Outside the US: Fax:

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Jul 7-15, 2018 Location: Nova Scotia, Canada Cost: $2, Activities: Hiking Arrive: at 5:30 pm on Saturday July 7 at our hotel in Halifax Depart: at 4 pm at the Halifax airport on Sunday July 15 TRIP OVERVIEW Nova Scotia offers an enticing combination of outdoor adventure, fascinating history, and great wildlife viewing. Completely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, it is particularly known for the high tides of the Bay of Fundy, the Cape Breton Highlands, its many picturesque fishing villages, and the migratory wildlife that includes puffins and whales, as well as many other seabirds. We'll start our adventure in Halifax, Nova Scotia's capital and a very happening city. We'll visit two of its most popular sites, the craggy headlands of Peggy's Cove and the historic town of Lunenburg with its many brightly colored houses, before heading north to the Bay Of Fundy. We'll watch the tides roar in from the heights of Cape Split and the vantage point of a raft. Then it's on to the Cape Breton Highlands and the famous Cabot Trail. We'll go hiking, sea kayaking, and wildlife watching, and we'll hope to find some of the music that epitomizes its rich Gaelic heritage. Maximum group size: 12 RATING This trip has lots of activity, interspersed with time for sightseeing, and our days can be enjoyed by any active and fit woman in good health who regularly walks briskly for exercise and loves being outdoors. No previous experience in any of the activities is necessary. Rating 1 [2] WHAT'S INCLUDED A Canadian guide and an Adventures in Good Company guide All activities on the itinerary, including 2 kayak tours, a wildlife tour, and bicycle rental All meals from Saturday dinner through lunch the next Sunday Eight nights lodging in double occupancy rooms Transportation during the trip except the initial airport transfer 15% VAT tax Not included: Transportation to Halifax, alcoholic beverages, optional activities, guide gratuities, and items of a personal nature

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 JULY 7, SATURDAY Arrive Halifax anytime before 4:30 pm. We'll meet as a group for the first time at 5:30 pm at our Halifax hotel for a Welcome and introductions. We'll continue getting to know each other as we go out for our first dinner together. Since many of us will be tired from traveling, bedtime is likely to be early tonight - unless of course, we can find some music to listen to. Overnight Halifax at Lord Nelson DAY 2 JULY 8, SUNDAY We'll start our trip with a tour of Halifax by bike. Don't worry that Halifax is a hilly city; our route is largely flat and designed to be an introduction to Halifax and its history, so we'll be stopping frequently. We'll explore the historic south end, pedal through Point Pleasant Park, pass St Mary's and Dalhousie University, visit the eclectic North end, and end with a ride along the Halifax waterfront. In the afternoon we'll visit Peggy's Cove, a small fishing village that is one of Nova Scotia's iconic sites and home to the most photographed lighthouse in the world. We'll also have time to marvel at the stone sculpture William Degarthe made in his backyard as a memorial to the fishermen that have lived here for hundreds of years. After we'll go for a beautiful hike (about 1.2 miles) through the coastal barrens, learning about how the area was formed by glaciers 12,000 years ago, its unique vegetation, and the wildlife that calls it home. (3 hours biking with stops, 1.5 hours hiking walking, about 1.5 hours driving) Overnight Halifax

4 DAY 3 JULY 9, MONDAY This morning we leave Halifax and head for the south shore. Our day starts with seeing Nova Scotia from the perspective of the sea as we kayak along the coast, exploring inlets and islands, and watching the varied birdlife. No previous kayaking experience is needed; our kayaks are stable and our location is protected. After a morning of paddling we drive to the town of Lunenberg. Known for its colorful houses, wellpreserved architecture, and very interesting history, the old part of the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After a picnic lunch you'll have an hour to wander through some of the many art galleries and shops, the Knaut-Rhuland house museum, the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, or a microdistillery. In late afternoon we'll head north to the Annapolis Valley area, location of the Bay Of Fundy with its famously high tides and also one of the centers of Acadian history. (2 hours kayaking, 1 hour walking, total of 3.5 hours driving) Overnight Wolfville DAY 4 JULY 10, TUESDAY Today we'll hike the Cape Split Trail, a well-graded trail of 4 miles through forest that emerges onto an absolutely stunning bluff with magnificent views of the Bay of Fundy below. The trail up is a steady and mostly moderate climb with a couple of steeper parts to the top of the ridge, after which it is mostly flat. The footing is generally good with some areas of roots and rocks, and it may be muddy in parts if it has rained recently. After a picnic lunch and good rest, we return the way we came. With its cool climate, long summers, and rich soil, the Annapolis Valley area has recently become a center for the production of Nova Scotian wine. This afternoon we'll visit one of the many wineries located here and learn more about the wine they make here with a wine tasting. Returning to our lodging there may well be time for a swim before dinner. (4 hours and 8 miles hiking, 1 hour driving). Overnight Wolfville DAY 5 JULY 11, WEDNESDAY We start the morning with a visit to the Grand Pre National Historic site. Grand Pre, the largest Acadian community in the 1750s, was destroyed during the mass deportations by the British. Immortalized in the famous poem, Evangeline, by William Wadsworth Longfellow, the deportations occurred after the Acadians refused to take an unconditional oath of loyalty to the British during the British-French conflict. The movie and exhibits at the Center leave us with a much better understanding of this devastating history and its legacy as well as the culture that thrived there. We'll then head to Cape Breton, considered by many to be the crown jewel of Nova Scotia with its dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife on both land and sea, striking scenery, and Gaelic culture. It's definitely a drive today but cape Breton is well worth it! Our route takes us through the Margaree River Valley, regarded as the center of Gaelic music, and beautiful in its own right. There are many trails in this area and we'll stop to hike for 1-2 hours before continuing to our lodging, the Normaway Inn. With any luck, we'll find traditional music there tonight. 1-2 hours hiking, hours driving

5 DAY 6 JULY 12, THURSDAY Today we start our circumnavigation of the Cabot Trail, considered one of the most scenic drives in North America with its loop around Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We'll stop at the Visitor Center and then continue on into the Park, making stops to take photos of the magnificent scenery. Of course, there is no better way to see and experience Cape Breton than by foot. We'll hike the world famous Skyline Trail, a gentle and well-graded path which follows a mountain ridge out to panoramic views of the surrounding highlands and the Bay of St. Lawrence 1000 ft below. We'll keep our eyes open for our first sighting of the park's largest land animal, the majestic Moose. Returning to the van we continue driving across the highlands with its vast expanse of mountain plateaus and glacial valleys. Our lodging tonight, Markland Coastal Cottages, is situated right near a quiet beach on the Atlantic Ocean and if you've been wanting to swim in the ocean, this is the time! Hiking 2 hours, driving 2 hours. Overnight Dingwall DAY 7 JULY 13, FRIDAY Another day packed with fun and beauty! After a relaxed breakfast we start the day with a couple of hours of delightful kayaking. Paddling the waters of the South Harbour lagoon, we're likely to see bald eagles. The water is so clear here you can even see fish swimming underneath your kayak. This is also the location of an oyster farm and our guide will explain how they're raised. You might think after this that it just doesn't get any better - but it definitely doesn't get any worse! A short drive brings us to our next hike, past the seaside village of White Point out onto the peninsula where pink granite cliffs rise from the sea. This location is a great place to spot eagles, whales, and various seabirds. If you didn't know better, you would think you were in Scotland. From there we continue further down the coast to our lodging for the night. We'll spend the next two nights in Baddeck where we are likely to find some more local music. (1.5 hours hiking, 2 hours kayaking, 2 hours driving)

6 DAY 8 JULY 14, SATURDAY We start today with one of the most interesting wildlife boat trips you're likely to ever experience. Donelda's Puffin Boat Tours takes us out to the Bird Islands where Atlantic Puffins nest in the summer months. In addition to Puffins, we'll see Razorbills, Black Guillemots, Great and Double-crested Cormorants, Black Legged Kittiwakes, Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles. We're also likely to see some Gray Seals hauled out on the nearby rocks. But what makes it special is Donelda herself, a Cape Bretoner whose enthusiasm and knowledge is infectious. Even if you don't consider yourself a birder, you may be by the end of the tour. We'll return to Baddeck for a picnic lunch at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. Alexander Graham Bell had his summer home here and the museum is widely acclaimed for its representation of both his work and life. After lunch you can choose between visiting the museum and having some time in the town, or going for one final hike: a 2.4 mile trail that follows Falls Brook upstream, passing through a hardwood forest of maple, birch, and beech on the way to 50 foot high Uisge Ban Falls (Gaelic for "white water"). The deep stream valley narrows dramatically and at the falls, the sheer walls of the gorge tower 500 feet on either side. We can also hike an additional 1.8 miles along the North Branch River with beautiful hardwood stands along granite cliffs. Whether you've chosen the museum or the hike, we'll join up together for our final farewell dinner and, if it's available, we'll finish up with a traditional ceildh (pronounced "kaylee") with local musicians. (3 hours wildlife watching, 1-2 hours hiking, 1-2 hours driving) DAY 9 JULY 15, SUNDAY We'll end our trip to Nova Scotia with a visit to the Highland Village Museum, a living history museum and cultural center that celebrates Nova Scotia's Gaelic culture and Heritage. It's a fitting end to our magical nine days together and though we may not be ready to leave, we'll feel as if we have come to really know how special Nova Scotia is. From the museum we'll head directly to the airport. We'll be back at the airport by 3:30pm and you can plan to fly out after 4:45pm. (4 hours driving)

7 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Many airlines fly into Halifax Stanfield Airport (YHZ). From there you need to take a bus or shuttle to the hotel. A shuttle service is available from the airport to the hotel for $64 CAD (2017 price, about $47 USD) and can transport 4-5 people. Details will be provided in the PreDeparture Information. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call ACCOMMODATIONS We'll be staying in a variety of lodging: 2 nights at the Lord Nelson Hotel, 2 nights at Roselawn Lodging in Wolfville, 1 night each at the Normaway Inn and The Markland Coastal Beach Cottages, and 2 nights at Silver Dart Lodge in Baddeck. All of the hotels have rooms with two beds and en suite bathrooms. WEATHER The weather in July is typically lovely with highs in the 70s and 80s and lows in the high 50s. Occasional rain is not unusual but heavy all day rain is rare. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

8 PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots: boots need to be well broken in and comfortable 1 pair of comfortable athletic shoes, Teva sandals, crocs etc, preferably that can that can get wet 2 pair Hiking socks: wool or synthetic equivalent (Thorlo, Smartwool, Ultrex, or Teko) OUTDOOR CLOTHING 2 pair lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants (supplex/nylon/blend). Zip offs are a good option. 1-2 pairs of shorts (one should be quick-drying) 3 4 synthetic or lightweight wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight, light-colored, long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun and wearing around our lodging 1 lightweight long underwear top: silk, wool or synthetic equivalent (Capilene, Thermastat, MTS, Polartec, or polypropylene) 1 medium-weight top layer: wool shirt/pull-over or synthetic equivalent. A fleece or wool vest works well for this layer. 1 rain parka with hood and rain pants: coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex 1 lightweight warm hat or buff 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for rain and protection from the sun Underwear/nightwear 1-2 outfits of casual clothing after a day outside and for going out to dinner (pants, long-sleeved shirt, etc.) EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for size recommendations) 1 pack cover or large plastic bag to line backpack for waterproofing Pair of trekking poles (optional, recommended but not required) Sunscreen and lip block with SPF of at least 15 Sunglasses (100% UV blocking) and retention strap 2-liter water carrying capacity Sandwich box (Tupperware or equivalent, for packed and picnic lunches) Travel alarm/watch with alarm Insect repellent TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, and sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 small personal patch kit : Band-Aids, Compeed or Second Skin, moleskin, cloth athletic tape, ibuprofen, personal medications, if any. Individuals allergic to insect bites must bring an anaphylactic kit. OPTIONAL (not required, personal preference) Small journal and pen Camera and memory card Favorite snack(s) Book or small game Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep) Extra batteries/charger Compact binoculars (recommended) Bathing suit (we stay 4 nights at hotels with swimming pools; there is also an option for an ocean swim)

9 NOTES ON PACKING Daypacks: You will need a daypack that is large enough to hold the following items: 2 liter of water, rain jacket, lunch/snacks (for the day), warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), warm hat or buff, personal items such as camera, journal, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2100 cubic inches and preferably with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps and lifters, all of which will make your pack much more comfortable. If you re not sure if your pack is large enough, try packing it with everything you need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy hiking boots are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them as much as possible and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general trekking/hiking there are many choices in both materials and styles of boots. Your choice will depend on the environment you will be hiking as well as your personal preferences and physical condition of your feet and ankles. Boots can be made of leather, nubuck leather, synthetic materials or a combination and come in low, mid or ankle cut styles. For general trekking/hiking we recommend low/mid-height height, lightweight/midweight hiking boots/shoes with Vibram or Vibram type soles. Please note: If you have weaker ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury consider either the mid-height or the ankle height boots. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. (Even boots billed as waterproof still need to be treated with a waterproofing product it s the interior lining that is actually the waterproof part of the boot, not the exterior.) Personal First Aid Kit: We recommend bringing a small first aid kit with the following items: blister and/or foot remedies for blisters, hot spots, etc. (band aids/compeed/moleskin/personal choice), personal prescription medications, over the counter medications for common ailments (respiratory/colds, stomach issues, sore muscles/joints). Your AGC guide will have a first aid kit as well but if you already know what works for you it s best to have that with you. Clothing: All clothing for active wear should be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. NO COTTON for your active wear. The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are essential for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. In addition they help conserve your energy by transferring some of the work to your arms and chest. For a detailed description of considerations when purchasing a pair of trekking poles please see: If you are purchasing trekking poles for your trip please make sure they meet the following guidelines: 1. Height of the poles can be adjusted 2. They have an upright (as opposed to cane-like) handle 3. Have wrist straps that can be adjusted.