South Shore
Discover the unexpected in Canada’s Atlantic playground. Nova Scotia combines European hospitality of quality inns and superb food with Canadian natural wonders. Pedal past peaceful coves, winking lighthouses, rugged headlands and authentic fishing villages. Relax each night in historic inns or cozy B&Bs. Discover unique history and heritage, relax on perfect white sand beaches and find an excellent souvenir among the craft and antique shops. But we’re betting that a favourite memory will be the warmth and friendliness of the Maritimers you’ll meet.
Halifax, NS, Canada
Day 1
Hubbards, NS, Canada
Day 2
Chester, NS, Canada
Day 3
Lunenburg, NS, Canada
Day 4+5+6+7
| Start any date between May 1 and Oct 31. |
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| Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details. |
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate
55 km (35 mi) daily
TerrainThis is a hilly region with moderate climbs most days
CostClassic Accommodation: CAD $2,450
Single Supplement: CAD $650
Luxe Accommodation: CAD $3,150
Single Supplement: CAD $800
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: CAD $320
Racing Bikes: CAD $420
E-Bikes*: CAD $480
Prices are per person before tax. Nova Scotia charges (HST) of 15%.
*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
Getting There
Your tour starts in Halifax, it is possible to reach Nova Scotia by both air and sea.
There is scheduled air service to Halifax from all major Canadian cities, & from all major US cities with non-stop flights to Nova Scotia from Boston, Newark, Toronto, Ottawa & Montreal. Ferry services link Nova Scotia and Maine.
A high speed catamaran operates between Bar Harbor, Maine and Yarmouth, NS, and an overnight luxury cruise can be taken between Portland, Maine (less than 2 hours north of Boston) and Yarmouth.
Halifax
Arrival to Halifax. Our Area Manager will give you the bikes and a briefing for your South Shore experience. Halifax is a wonderful city to explore on foot, filled with vibrant cafes and shops. We will provide you with our favourite restaurants for you to choose between.
Hubbards
On your first biking day, ride the Rumrunners Trail, which departs from Halifax itself. Initially paved, it follows an old railgrade, so makes for a gentle grade wtihout any motorized traffic! Your destination on this day is Hubbards and the Surfside Inn.
Ride Distance: 54 km; elevation gain: 395 m
Chester
Depart Hubbards to pedal around the ruggedly beautiful coastline of the Aspotogan Peninsula. Pass through picturesque fishing villages like Northwest Cove and Aspotogan. At Bayswater look for the Peggy’s Cove light across the head of the bay. The route along the western side of the Aspotogan Peninsula provides magnificent views of the Tancook Islands. Not far along you will arrive at the charming summer resort of Chester with a stunning harbour filled with pleasure yachts.
Ride Distance: 56 km; elevation gain: 553 m
Lunenburg
Begin your day by exploring this classical Nova Scotian village that has been a New England-like boating resort since the mid-1800’s. Wind your way along the coast of Mahone Bay to the beautiful town of that name. Along the way pass by the mysterious Oak Island (which has inspired two centuries of treasure hunters, including American President Franklin D. Roosevelt). At Mahone Bay explore the studios, galleries and unique shops that line the narrow streets of the village, and to view one of the most photographed scenes in Nova Scotia — the three waterfront churches. From here continue on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, which will be your base for the next two nights.
Ride Distance: 65 km; elevation gain: 602 m
Lunenburg
Enjoy a full day in the Lunenburg area. Take the opportunity to explore one of Nova Scotia’s oldest communities and certainly one of its most colourful. Visit the booming sea caves at the Ovens Natural Park, or cycle around the scenic Lunenburg and Riverport Peninsula’s. If you want a day off your bike, take a walking tour of the old town (be sure to watch for the “Lunenburg bump”!) and then hop on a boat to go whale-watching or try your hand at sea-kayaking.
Ride Distance: 51 up to 57 km; elevation gain: up to 453 m
Lunenburg
Cycle from Lunenburg to the LaHave River where a river ferry will carry you to the other side to continue your day’s ride. Enjoy the untouched coastal scenery you will encounter along the route; pine and spruce forests, lichen-crusted rocks and sparkling clean beaches. You can turn around at any point today so if you wish a short easy ride, you have that option.
Ride Distance: 58 km; elevation gain: 453 m
Depart
Take a final stroll or ride through the village of Lunenburg before heading off on your next adventure. We can arrange a transfer at your convenience between Lunenburg and Halifax – the cost is approximately $125.
Set in a historic landmark on Halifax’s vibrant waterfront, this hotel offers upscale accommodations with harbour views and modern amenities. Located in the Seaport District, it’s steps from key attractions and features an indoor saltwater pool, fitness centre, and on-site dining.
This 4-star oceanfront Inn on the golden sands of Queensland Beach is a restored heritage building providing all modern amenities. Originally built by a sea captain in the late 1800s, this Country Inn maintains all its Victorian elegance…and antiques. All rooms have whirlpool baths and most have ocean or lake views.
This historic Inn is located on a hill in the heart of Chester with a commanding view of the ocean two blocks away. Shipwrights constructed the Inn over 100 years ago and the finishes, including wide pine flooring, have been restored to their original state. All rooms have down duvets, Frette linens, locally made quilts and most have water views.
In the centre of this historic village, with views of the harbour, this boutique style hotel was converted from a former tavern and boarding house. Rooms are furnished with king beds and plush duvets – some have Jacuzzis and some feature incredible harbour views. Rissers restaurant offers fabulous seafood and live jazz on some evenings.
This contemporary, boutique hotel offers an elevated hospitality experience in the heart of Halifax. With a standard of luxury and a nod to its maritime heritage, you will find bespoke suites, dramatic ocean views, locally inspired cuisine and top of the line amenities.
This 4-star oceanfront Inn on the golden sands of Queensland Beach is a restored heritage building providing all modern amenities. Originally built by a sea captain in the late 1800s, this Country Inn maintains all its Victorian elegance…and antiques. All rooms have whirlpool baths and most have ocean or lake views.
This historic Inn is located on a hill in the heart of Chester with a commanding view of the ocean two blocks away. Shipwrights constructed the Inn over 100 years ago and the finishes, including wide pine flooring, have been restored to their original state. All rooms have down duvets, Frette linens, locally made quilts and most have water views.
Located in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, this inn exudes historic elegance and maritime charm. It has been meticulously restored to maintain its old-world character and offers the highest standard of comfort, with 12 charming guest rooms and exceptional hospitality.
Tour Reviews
“The office staff was very responsive with the timeliness and quality of their communications. They must keep meticulous notes, as we received flawless service, even when we spoke with various reps. Alex, your local rep, was A+ too. She went out of her way to keep in contact with us. She was a pleasure!”
“The office staff was very responsive with the timeliness and quality of their communications. They must keep meticulous notes, as we received flawless service, even when we spoke with various reps. Alex, your local rep, was A+ too. She went out of her way to keep in contact with us. She was a pleasure!”
“Just got back from Nova Scotia and want to say that we had a fabulous trip. Thanks so much for doing your job so well. The routes were great and so were the accommodations. The Queen Anne was a particular treat. The Area Managers were great too. Not a glitch in sight!”
“The pre-tour material was very comprehensive… Service was very good by all concerned. The trip exceeded our expectations.”
“We loved this vacation… Randonnée did a great job setting up these wonderful accommodations and scenic rides. This trip exceeded our expectations.”
“Loved the scenery on the Blue Rocks/Stonehurst ride out of Lunenburg. Suzy at the Mecklenburgh Inn in Chester was great, very helpful and served a great breakfast!”
“Blue Rock and Stonhurst ride oustanding scenery, lower Lehave a nice ride. 2nd day nice as well, despite the rain! Enjoyed Mecklenbug. This was our 4th trip with Randonnee, why? Routes are well scouted and generally easy to follow. Accommodations are good, bikes usually in good shape.”
“Loved the location and routes along the ocean – beautiful! The communities we stayed in were lovely. The GPS option was great – our 2 previous trips were paper-based and challenging to ride and follow print instructions. That said, I really appreciated the details and information in the route instructions – especially as it related to historical notes, places to stop, options for snack, lunches, etc. The Travel Advisors were very helpful in trip planning. Good routes with great views and the accommodations were lovely too.”
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