Drive the coast of Maine and visit Nova Scotia

Question

My friend and I will be flying into Boston in July and will have 7 full days to drive the coast of Maine and visit Nova Scotia.

We’d like to be able to visit quaint coastal villages, see a lighthouse or two, do some shopping with local artisans and eat at local restaurants. We’d like to stay off busy highways, if possible, and take a scenic route. As far as lodging, we’re open to B&B’s, cabins, houseboats or motels.

Looking for recommendations of the routes we should take, areas to visit, lodging, and places to eat, along Maine's coast and into Nova Scotia.

Answer

Your plan to drive the coast of Maine and visit Nova Scotia sounds like an incredible trip! Both Maine and Nova Scotia offer stunning coastlines, charming villages, and fantastic seafood. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your 7-day trip, focusing on scenic routes, quaint coastal towns, and local experiences.

### Day 1: Boston to Portland, Maine (approx. 1.5–2 hours drive)

Start your journey by heading from Boston to Portland, Maine, which offers a vibrant arts scene, great food, and a historic waterfront. The drive is short but scenic along Route 1A. Once in Portland, explore the Old Port district with its cobblestone streets and boutique shops. For lunch, try Eventide Oyster Co. for amazing seafood.

Lodging: Consider staying at a local B&B in Portland, such as Francis Hotel or Portland Harbor Hotel for a charming experience.
Things to Do: Visit Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine.

### Day 2: Portland to Camden (approx. 1.5–2 hours drive)

Drive up the scenic Route 1 to Camden, a beautiful coastal town known for its charming downtown and views of the harbor. Take the Mount Battie Trail for a short hike that offers spectacular views of the harbor and surrounding islands.

Lodging: Camden Harbour Inn offers luxury with views of the harbor, or opt for a cozy B&B like The Captain Swift Inn.
Things to Do: Stroll through Camden’s downtown for shopping and stop by Camden Hills State Park for scenic views and hiking.
Dining: Dine at Owl & Elm for a farm-to-table experience or enjoy a lobster roll at The Lobster Pound.

### Day 3: Camden to Bar Harbor (approx. 2–2.5 hours drive)

Head further along the coast to Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island and the gateway to Acadia National Park. This is a scenic drive, so take your time along Route 1 and enjoy the ocean views.

Lodging: Consider staying at a B&B or charming inn like The Bayview Hotel or Bar Harbor Inn with stunning views of the harbor.
Things to Do: Explore Acadia National Park. The Park Loop Road offers incredible views, and you can stop at Thunder Hole to hear the waves crash against the rocks. If you’re up for a short hike, take the Jordan Pond Path for a beautiful walk around the pond.
Dining: Try Havana for excellent Cuban-inspired cuisine or head to Stewman's Lobster Pound for fresh Maine lobster.

### Day 4: Bar Harbor to Saint John, New Brunswick (approx. 4–5 hours drive + ferry ride)

On Day 4, you’ll make your way toward Nova Scotia, crossing the border into Canada. Take Route 1 south to Calais, Maine, and then cross over into Canada via the St. Stephen–Saint John border crossing. From there, drive to the ferry terminal in Saint John, New Brunswick.

Ferry: Take the ferry from Saint John to Digby, Nova Scotia (this is a scenic and relaxing ride across the Bay of Fundy).
Dining: Enjoy dinner at The Gahan House in Saint John for craft beer and seafood before heading to Nova Scotia.

### Day 5: Digby to Annapolis Royal (approx. 1 hour drive)

Once you’ve arrived in Nova Scotia, drive along the scenic Nova Scotia Coastal Route towards Annapolis Royal, a charming historic town with a rich maritime heritage. Stop at local shops for artisanal goods, and be sure to visit Fort Anne National Historic Site for a taste of history.

Lodging: The Queen Anne Inn offers a cozy and elegant stay in Annapolis Royal.
Dining: Try The Dining Room at the Queen Anne Inn for a fine dining experience in town.

### Day 6: Annapolis Royal to Halifax (approx. 2.5–3 hours drive)

Drive along the scenic coastal route to Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia. Spend the afternoon exploring this lively city, known for its historic waterfront and lively arts scene. Walk along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk for views of the harbor, and visit the Halifax Citadel for a taste of the city’s history.

Lodging: Stay at a historic B&B like Halifax Marriott Harbourfront for views of the waterfront.
Dining: Enjoy seafood at The Five Fishermen or Salty’s for fresh catches.

### Day 7: Explore Halifax and Head Back

On your last day, take some time to explore more of Halifax or take a short day trip to nearby Peggy’s Cove to see the famous lighthouse and enjoy the coastal beauty. Afterward, head back to the airport for your flight back home.

### Summary of Route Recommendations:

Portland to Camden (via Route 1A) for quaint shops and scenic views.
Camden to Bar Harbor (via Route 1) for hiking, lighthouses, and Acadia National Park.
Bar Harbor to Saint John (via Route 1 and ferry) for a cross-border adventure.
Saint John to Digby (via ferry) for a scenic coastal drive through Nova Scotia.
Digby to Annapolis Royal (along Nova Scotia Coastal Route) for history and artisan shopping.
Annapolis Royal to Halifax for a lively city experience and fresh seafood.

This trip will allow you to explore charming coastal villages, enjoy scenic routes, and experience the best of Maine and Nova Scotia, all while staying off the busy highways as much as possible. Make sure to book your lodging in advance, especially for B&Bs and inns, as they can fill up quickly during the summer months!

Drive the coast of Maine and visit Nova Scotia

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