Famous route

Lighthouse Route, Nova Scotia

The Lighthouse Route runs from Halifax along the Atlantic coast of the South Shore to Yarmouth. Well-known stops are Peggys Cove and the UNESCO town of Lunenburg.

Region: Nova Scotia, Canada
Start / end: Halifax – Yarmouth
Suggested time: 2–4 days
Best season: Late spring to autumn

What should you know before visiting Lighthouse Route, Nova Scotia?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $2 (ME).

Many seasonal businesses open only from spring to autumn. Tourism Nova Scotia advises checking opening dates beforehand; summer is the busiest time.
Distances between communities can be greater than they look on a map (a note for the Yarmouth region). Allow generous driving time.
In provincial parks camping is allowed only on designated sites with a permit. No rule on wild camping on Crown land was found: ask the Department of Natural Resources.
In provincial parks fires are allowed only in the grills on campsites. Check the current burn restrictions (BurnSafe NS) first.

The drive

The route runs from Halifax along the south coast to Yarmouth. According to Tourism Nova Scotia, you reach the South Shore from Halifax via Highway 103, with the coastal towns along the way. Stops include Peggys Cove with its lighthouse on granite, Lunenburg, Liverpool and the Shelburne area. At the end are Yarmouth with the Cape Forchu lighthouse and the Acadian Shores, where many residents use both French and English.

Planning

The tourism board says a car gives the most flexibility on the route. From Yarmouth the CAT fast ferry sails to Bar Harbor, Maine; check schedule and vehicle conditions with the operator. The sources reached name no length, height or weight limits for the route. Late spring through autumn offers the widest range of experiences; autumn brings fewer visitors and colourful scenery.

Camping

Provincial parks require a permit and overnight stays only on designated sites. A permit covers one vehicle and up to 14 nights at the same site; the holder must be at least 19. The speed limit in the parks is 15 km/h. The page names no size limits for motorhomes, so ask when booking. Check opening dates of private campgrounds with the operator.

FAQs

When is the best time to go?

Tourism Nova Scotia says late spring through autumn offers the widest range of experiences. Summer is the busiest, autumn quieter. Many businesses are seasonal, so check opening dates beforehand.

Can I camp wild in Nova Scotia?

In provincial parks only on designated sites. The province's Crown land page does not address camping and points questions to the Department of Natural Resources. Ask there beforehand.

How do I reach Yarmouth from the US with a vehicle?

The CAT fast ferry links Bar Harbor, Maine, with Yarmouth. Tourism Nova Scotia puts the crossing at about 3.5 hours. Check the schedule, vehicle conditions and entry rules with the operator and the authorities.

Are there fire restrictions?

In provincial parks fires are allowed only in campsite grills, never on beaches or in day-use areas. Restrictions apply in dry periods; check the province's BurnSafe NS map daily.

How much are the tolls on Lighthouse Route, Nova Scotia?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $2 (ME). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.