While most people think Nova Scotia is an island, like its popular neighbor, Prince Edward Island, it is actually a peninsula. It’s an 8-hour drive from Boston to Saint John without stopping, so why not break it up and see some of New England and New Brunswick’s best-kept secrets on the way?
Even though ferry service has been temporarily interrupted in Bar Harbor, you can still reach Nova Scotia by driving up through Maine. Portland, Maine is a smaller version of Boston, with some really great restaurants worth mentioning, like The Salt Exchange right on the waterfront. Enjoy shredded duck sliders with a view of the harbor. Stop in at LeRoux Kitchen and pick up a lobster cookie cutter as a souvenir or some homemade balsamic vinegar.
As you continue northward, Bar Harbor is most definitely worth a stop. Be sure to stop at Acadia National Park, a breathtaking national park discovered by Frenchman Samuel Champlain in 1604. A number of tours are available, everything from ranger-led walking hikes, to harbor tours of Frenchman Bay.
Route 9 is referred to as the “airline route” as it is shorter than taking Route 95 all the way to the Canadian border. However, it is a two-lane road, so if caught behind a slow-moving vehicle, it can take just as long.
St. Stephen right on the border of New Brunswick has one place worth mentioning, Ganong Chocolates. It is Canada’s oldest candy factory, in operation since 1873. Learn about how the French family Guenon became Ganong in Canada, first developing the wrapped candy bar. After enjoying a few tasty treats, it’s only 1 1/2 hours to Saint John to catch the ferry to Nova Scotia.
Be sure to note the tides–especially if you’re lucky enough to see low tide, where you can actually walk across the ocean floor. The Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia is home to the world’s highest tides, with a tidal range of 55.1 feet. It is one of the final contenders for the 7 natural wonders of the world. To see the contenders for North America, click here.
Finally, as you reach the ferry in Saint John, be sure to stop at the City Market, their version of Boston’s Quincy Market.
You can actually drive your car onto the ferry, if you want to enjoy Nova Scotia by car, or walk on as a passenger. For pricing and schedules, click here.
In most cases, the journey of the trip is half the fun, so enjoy traveling through Maine & New Brunswick on your way to new discoveries in Nova Scotia.
Had the pleasure of sailing on the Fundy Ferry between Saint John, NB and Digby, NS – fabulous trip. Ride the Bay of Fundy – home of the world’s highest tides, home of the migrating whales – even saw one! And the complimentary interpretive programs were marvelous – very informative and really add to the overall experience. A gret, convenient way to travel to Nova Scotia!
I am there! Thank you for an informative description of this unique place. I really like maps and description of what I will so traveling to my destination. I wish more travel sites were like this personal and with enticing pictures.
I agree–there are many ways to get to Nova Scotia–ferry, car, plane. It’s a great way to take it all in!
Thanks LW!
I’ll be writing a follow up post about specific ways to get there. Stay tuned!