Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg & Annapolis Valley: Small Group Day Trip

Summary

Nova Scotia coastlines, fishing villages and vineyard stops in one easy day

You’ll feel like you’re road-tripping with friends as you climb Peggy’s Cove rocks, stroll Lunenburg’s painted streets, dip your toes in chilly water, and maybe taste Nova Scotia wine overlooking rolling vineyards. With flexible stops and Sam’s local warmth guiding you all day, expect small surprises — not just sights.

What’s the experience like?

We started out from Halifax in that soft morning light you only get near the ocean — kind of blue-grey, with gulls already yelling at each other. Sam picked us up right at the hotel. She’s got this way of making you feel like you’re just piling into a friend’s car for a road trip, not joining some official “Peggy’s Cove day tour from Halifax.” There wasn’t really a schedule, which I liked more than I expected. We stopped for coffee before even hitting the rocks at Peggy’s Cove. The sea air there smells different — sharp and cold, but somehow clean. I watched a couple of kids daring each other to get closer to the spray. I tried climbing over the rocks myself (not very gracefully) and nearly lost my hat to the wind.

Sam told us stories about fishermen and storms as we drove along — she grew up nearby, so it felt like getting all the family gossip. Mahone Bay was quick but pretty; everyone took photos of those three churches (it’s almost required). In Lunenburg, we wandered down these wild-colored streets that looked too cheerful to be real. Lunch was on our own — I had chowder that tasted like butter and saltwater, honestly can’t remember the name of the place but it was right by where the Bluenose schooner docks. Some folks hopped on a boat tour; I just sat in the sun for a bit watching people paint or eat ice cream.

The drive into Annapolis Valley was quieter — fields opening up, less chatter in the van. Sam dared us to try local wine at this vineyard with a view that made me want to just stand there forever (I still think about that). Tasting wasn’t included but most of us went for it anyway; mine tasted like apples and something flowery I couldn’t quite place. On the way back we spotted a bald eagle over the Bay of Fundy — someone gasped and Sam just grinned like she sees them every week. The whole thing felt loose and friendly, not rushed or scripted.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Peggy's Cove and nearby sights

• Climb rocks and sip coffee at Peggy's Cove
• Dip feet in water and draw in sand
• Snap photo of Mahone Bay three churches
• Take walking tour and lunch in Lunenburg
• View tides and watch for bald eagles
• Optional stop at vineyard for wine tasting

Top questions

How long is the Peggy's Cove & Lunenburg day trip?

This is a full-day tour from Halifax with flexible timing based on group pace.

Is hotel pickup included for this small group tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included in Halifax.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and young children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Are service animals allowed on this day trip?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Will we have time to explore Lunenburg on our own?

Yes, there is free time in Lunenburg for walking around or grabbing lunch.

Is wine tasting included at the Annapolis Valley stop?

No, wine tasting is optional and available for an extra fee.

What are some highlights along the route?

Peggy's Cove lighthouse, Mahone Bay churches, colorful Lunenburg streets, Annapolis Valley vineyard views.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to pickup locations.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Halifax by air-conditioned vehicle with space for bikes or strollers if needed. You’ll travel with a small group led by Sam (your local guide), stopping flexibly at Peggy’s Cove rocks and lighthouse, Mahone Bay churches for photos, colorful Lunenburg village (with time for lunch), plus an optional vineyard visit in Annapolis Valley before heading back together.