Compare A Cycling Journey: Red Cliffs, Blue Waters and Green Gables by Road Scholar vs Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes - Classic Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 13 days |
| Price From | $ 2,499 | $ 5,258 |
| Price Per Day | $ 312 | $ 404 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches and 6 Dinners
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N/A |
| Description | Cycle along some of Prince Edward Island’s 700 miles of pristine shoreline and learn about sand dune systems and the settlers and natives who have called this lovely island their home. | Blend the best of land and sea on this 12-Day guided tour of Canada. Explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax with a Local Expert, who will tell you the tale of the city’s most historic moment: the 1912 sinking of the Titanic. See the fabled home that served as the inspiration for L.M. Montgomery’s children’s classic, ‘Anne of Green Gables,’ before going to Charlottetown, where a local Knowledge Keeper will welcome you to the Indigenous community of the Abegweit Mi’Kmaw Nation and tell you about their Seven Sacred Teachings. Watch for bald eagles as you travel one of the world’s most scenic routes, Cabot Trail. Board a lobster boat in New Brunswick for an up-close-and-personal look at lobster fishing, then indulge in a decadent lobster lunch. Later, cruise the Bay of Fundy on a whale-watching expedition, where you can see humpback, minke and fin whales. |
Day 1
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: The Hotel on Pownal
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Activity note: Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon: Meet your Group Leader in the hotel lobby between 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. and pick up your program packet. If you arrive after 5:00, please ask for your packet when you check-in.
Dinner: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Evening: Orientation. Your Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and introductions and review the program schedule. You may wish to explore what the city has to offer or continue to get to know your fellow Road Scholars. If you’d like to go out on your own, the hotel is in downtown Charlottetown, surrounded by shopping, restaurants, and within walking distance to the Farmer’s Market, Confederation Centre of the Arts, and Charlottetown’s City Hall.
Day 2
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Loyalist Country Inn
PEI Introduction, Cycling Victoria to Summerside
Activity note: Hybrid bikes (21 speed), helmet and bike rack included in cost; standard pedals and caliper brake system. Van support available. Cycling approximately 30 miles on paved roads and trails. Mostly flat terrain, some gentle slopes. Cycling on the Confederation trail is on rolled stone dust trails with gentle gradients which never exceed 2% (up or down). Van transfer from Charlottetown to Victoria approximately 45 minutes.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Our morning presentation will provide an introduction to Prince Edward Island and its history. Discover stories of the past with a local historian who will bring the early history of the Island alive using stories of the people who have made Prince Edward Island their home: native Mi’kmaq, French explorers, Acadian farmers, and British military. While Charlottetown is best recognized for its role in the founding of our nation. We transfer by van to Victoria, PEI (45 minutes) where we will be fitted for our bikes and spend some time cycling. Part of our route will be on the Confederation Trail. With beautiful rolling hill scenery, quaint villages and broad bay seascapes, it is PEI's portion of the Trans Canada Trail.
Lunch: Boxed lunch.
Afternoon: Our cycling continues in the Red Sands Shore region of PEI. Bike through scenic towns including Victoria, an historic fishing village that has become an art hub; and Bedeque, a former settlement for a large number of United Empire Loyalists who landed following the American Revolution. The rolling terrain of the region is ideal for cycling - a great way to enjoy the Island’s pastoral landscape. Red sand beaches, red jutting cliffs and red clay roads disappear over hills and beckon you to follow. Stop at the Confederation Bridge then continue cycling to Summerside, where we will check into the hotel for the next two nights.
Dinner: At the inn.
Evening: At leisure. Relax at the hotel or set out to explore the evening activities in Summerside, the Island’s second-largest city. Stroll along the lively boardwalk or take in some local entertainment.
Day 3
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Loyalist Country Inn
Cycling Mont-Carmel, Acadian Region, Agriculture
Activity note: Cycling approximately 35 miles on a looped route on paved roads; support van available. Mostly flat terrain, some gentle slopes.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: Today we will be journeying through Mont-Carmel, and Wellington. Nestled in the heart of Prince Edward Islands Acadian region, Mont-Carmel exudes the best of the coastal, French-speaking culture. This small region is comprised of a number of Acadian communities, where their vibrant culture can still be seen. The town's heritage can be seen at Our Lady of Mont Carmel Church, among the island’s oldest church’s, displaying traditional Acadian architecture and craftsmanship.
Lunch: Boxed lunch to be eaten at a scenic spot en route.
Afternoon: Continue our ride, passing through the towns we did not reach during the morning. This region is known as the North Cape Coastal route - where pie is made from seaweed, houses are made from bottles and Acadian and native Mi’kmaq cultures thrive. We will stop at Abram's Village for a musical experience and at the Acadian Museum in Miscouche. Then we ride our bikes back to the hotel in Summerside.
Dinner: On your own.
Evening: At leisure.
Day 4
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Stanley Bridge Country Resort
Cycling Summerside, French River, Green Gables, Brackley
Activity note: Cycling approximately 35 miles; on paved roads, mostly flat terrain, some rolling hills near New London Bay.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: Joined by a local expert, we will have a fascinating lecture about the history of agriculture on Prince Edward Island. Learn how the province’s unique geology and topography have affected not just the types of produce grown, but also influence the local culture and cuisine. Our expert will talk about the famed PEI potatoes, the red soil and its influence on plants, as well as how agriculture on the island first started. Next, we will be cycling a beautiful loop from Summerside to Malpeque - famous the world over for its delicious oysters; to French River - one of the most painted panoramas on Prince Edward Island; and then on to Stanley Beach. We will stop in Malpeque for a taste at a local oyster market. The region boasts miles of shoreline and we will have an opportunity to see the pristine beaches that greeted English, French, Scottish, and Irish settlers when their first arrived in the 1800s.
Lunch: Boxed lunch to be eaten at a scenic spot en route.
Afternoon: Continue cycling through the region known as Green Gables shores - millions of readers from all over the world have come to know and love Anne of Green Gables, and this is where devotees come to celebrate her. While Anne may be the main attraction for many, Green Gables Shore has more beauty and mystique to offer. The region is a spectacular example of Prince Edward Island’s classic landscape composed of red sandstone cliffs, white sand beaches and rolling farm fields. Some of the coastline has been protected in PEI National Park, which hugs the north shore in this area. Check into the hotel at Stanley Bridge then transfer to dinner.
Dinner: At a local restaurant.
Evening: Van transfer to our hotel in Stanley Bridge after dinner; check-in and the rest of the evening at leisure.
Day 5
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: North Winds Inn & Suites
Cycling New Glasgow, Rusticoville, North Rustico
Activity note: Cycling approximately 30 miles; mostly paved roads; level terrain.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: Our cycling adventure continues on the north shore as we travel through New Glasgow, Rusticoville, and North Rustico. The residents of North Rustico are proud of their heritage and closeness to both land and sea from their long fishing tradition. The nearby Prince Edward Island National Park is renowned for miles of sandy beaches while neighboring Cavendish is Prince Edward Islands largest summer resort area.
Lunch: Boxed lunch to be eaten at a scenic spot en route.
Afternoon: We will continue cycling to Green Gables National Historic Site. Parks Canada staff will present the history of this site and its significance to Canadian literary history. Spend time at Green Gables, the famed fictional home of red-haired Anne Shirley, the heroine of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic 1908 novel, "Anne of Green Gables." Discover the history of the house as well as biographical information about Montgomery. Green Gables, part of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Cavendish National Historic Site, was home to the cousins of Montgomery’s grandfather, David Jr. and Margaret Macneill. Our day of cycling continues in P.E.I. National Park and the Rustico area.
Dinner: At a local restaurant.
Evening: Van transfer and then check into hotel; the rest of the evening is at leisure.
Day 6
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: North Winds Inn & Suites
Cycling PEI National Park, Stanley Bridge
Activity note: Cycling approximately 25 miles; on mostly paved roads and bike paths within the park. Mostly level terrain.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: Our adventure continues this morning as we cycle to spectacular Prince Edward Island National Park. Encompassing a vast distance along Prince Edward Island’s northern coast, the park is home to salt marshes, sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, and the remnants of an Acadian forest. Along the way, learn about the ecology, history, and culture of PEI and take an expert-led walk on the beach and the dunes at Stanhope. Within the park are a number of Historic Sites including Green Gables and Dalvay-by-the-Sea, elegant Victorian homes inspired by the natural beauty of the park.
Lunch: Lunch on your own at a shore market.
Afternoon: After lunch there will be time to independently explore the fascinating background of this National Historic Site of Canada. This elegant Queen Anne Revival home was built in 1895 by a Scottish-American oil tycoon. We continue cycling in the area, a region of rolling hills and farmland, making our way back to Brackley Beach and our hotel.
Dinner: At a local restaurant.
Evening: At leisure.
Day 7
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: The Hotel on Pownal
Cycling, Confederation Trail, Charlottetown
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island B,L,D The Hotel on Pownal
Activity note: Cycling approximately 25 miles on paved roads and paths. Mostly level terrain.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: For our last full day of cycling, we will return to Charlottetown. We will ride from Brackley to our final destination of Charlottetown.
Lunch: Boxed lunch to be eaten at a scenic spot en route.
Afternoon: Our cycling continues after lunch as we make our way back to Charlottetown, travelling on parts of the Confederation Trail. The capital of PEI is an amazing city, enjoy some leisure time to explore boasting sites such as Beaconsfield Historic House, Great George Street, and of course, it is the birthplace of confederation. Charlottetown is home to a network of trails and waterside boardwalks; a vibrant music scene and tasty morsels from land and sea.
Dinner: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Charlottetown.
Evening: Evening wrap-up session.
Day 8
Meals: Breakfast
Program Concludes
Activity note: Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon.
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast.
Morning: The program concludes with breakfast. Independent departures per individual travel plans. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Day 1: Welcome to Halifax
Arrive in Halifax. A mix of sea breezes and cultural charms, you’ve arrived in your quintessential maritime destination. You’ll be picked up from Halifax International Airport and taken to your downtown hotel, where you can relax next to the waterfront before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers at 18:00, for a Welcome Dinner with drinks.
Marriott Harbourfront, Halifax.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Sightseeing and Relaxation in Halifax Relaxed Start
Delve into Halifax's nautical history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where your Local Expert will engage you in stories of key historic events, including the Halifax Explosion and the tragic sinking of the Titanic in 1912. Join a Local Expert for an informative exploration of eclectic Halifax. This afternoon, enjoy an Insight Choice between a visit to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, the Maud Lewis Gallery, or the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.
Marriott Harbourfront, Halifax.
Breakfast
Day 3: Historic Lunenburg and Peggy's Cove
Journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg. Experience one of the best surviving examples of a planned British Colonial settlement in North America, before meeting a Local Expert for a walking tour. Hear tales of the fishing industry's impact on the region before visiting scenic Peggy's Cove, a small rural community located on the eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay. You'll end the day by heading back to Halifax for the evening, followed by a Highlight Dinner with live music in the heart of the city, at Le Bistro by Liz, a local favorite.
Marriott Harbourfront, Halifax.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 4: Cape Breton Island and Blooming Baddeck
Journey to Cape Breton Island. In the evening, experience warm hospitality and Cape Breton-style home cooking at your waterfront hotel, featuring tempting seafood favourites and hearty dishes that are sure to satisfy. Continue your night with traditional music and song at a Ceilidh, a Celtic Evening where you'll enjoy a night of Acadian hospitality and entertainment.
Inverary Resort, Baddeck.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 5: The Natural Beauty of the Cabot Trail
Head back to school as you immerse yourself in a unique experience at The Gaelic College, devoted to the study and preservation of the Gaelic and Celtic cultures. Learn about the tradition of fabric milling and see a kilt-making demonstration in action. Enjoy a relaxing drive along the Cabot Trail, a world-famous scenic highway, which runs along coastal borders on both sides of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, as well as crosses highlands that offer remarkable views.
Inverary Resort, Baddeck.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Baddeck and Charlottetown
In the morning, embark on an insightful visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Ferry across the Northumberland Strait to magical Prince Edward Island and quaint Charlottetown, where you'll spend the next three nights. This little city is a nautical dream, with its colourful fisherman’s cottages and picturesque harbour. The city is also known for hosting the famous Anne of Green Gables musical every year.
Delta Prince Edward, Charlottetown.
Breakfast
Day 7: Prince Edward Island Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Discover picturesque Prince Edward Island with a Local Expert before heading on to Cavendish. Here you'll visit the Green Gables House, the fabled home that provided inspiration for L.M. Montgomery's children's classic, "Anne of Green Gables." Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Abegweit Mi’Kmaw Nation, an Indigenous community located east of the city.You’ll be met by your local Knowledge Keeper who will welcome you to the community, before introducing you to the Seven Sacred Teachings and how they guide the Miꞌkmaq people. Be among the select first to gain an insight into ceremony and teachings that have traditionally only been available to community members.
Delta Prince Edward, Charlottetown.
Breakfast
Day 8: Flavours of Charlottetown Relaxed Start
Head for the quaint seaside fishing village of Georgetown in eastern Prince Edward Island. Meet a local fisherman who will regale you with tales of life at sea and teach you all about the area's lobster and mussel industry. Enjoy a delicious Highlight Lunch at the Historic Georgetown Inn featuring delicious Island blue mussels and lunch made with local products. A visit to a maritime province wouldn't be complete without a lighthouse tour - after lunch, head out to the first lighthouse on Prince Edward Island and end your day with a tasting at Rossignol Winery, the first winery on Prince Edward Island specializing in table and fruit wines.
Delta Prince Edward, Charlottetown.
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: The Tides of Hopewell Rocks
Journey to New Brunswick where you will cruise the waters of Shediac Bay onboard a lobster boat (weather permitting) and get a glimpse into the fascinating world of these sea creatures, as well as the lobster industry. You’ll also indulge in a delicious seafood Highlight Lunch with wine before traveling on to Hopewell Rocks shores of the bay where you'll meet your Local Expert, ultimately making your arrival in the fun hub city of Moncton.
Crowne Plaza Moncton.
Breakfast, Lunch with Wine
Day 10: Lively Moncton to Digby
Travel along the Fundy Trail Parkway, which hugs the coast with stunning views in every direction. With it's final portion completed in 2020, the Fundy Trail Parkway provides a coastal access network from Alma to St Martin complete with hiking trails, beaches, scenic lookouts and an Interpretive Centre. Afterwards, head to the Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa, which overlooks the Bay of Fundy, known for its incredible tides.
Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa.
Breakfast
Day 11: Delightful Digby and Annapolis Royal Relaxed Start
Begin your day by embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching cruise (weather permitting) on the Bay of Fundy. Move on to the historic town of Annapolis Royal where you'll take a stroll with a costumed interpreter and discover a cultural mosaic of history before returning to your spa resort in Digby. In the evening, meet a former scallop fisherman for a culinary demonstration and Celebration Dinner featuring the highly prized seafood. Considering the economic impact the scallop industry has in Digby, there is no better place to learn firsthand from a local expert and no better place to enjoy a fresh, sea-to-table scallop dinner.
Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 12: Farewell Halifax
It’s time to wave goodbye to Halifax and your fellow travellers as your trip comes to an end. Stops will be made at Halifax International Airport and The Marriott Harbourfront Halifax for guests wishing to extend their stay. Airport arrival will be at 12:00.
Breakfast
