The Atlantic coast between Yarmouth and Halifax is that quaint, maritime Nova Scotia you see on laminated place mats and calendars. Lighthouses and weathered, shingled buildings perch at the rocky edge of the sea, as if tenuously trespassing on the ocean's good graces. But as rustic and beautiful as this area is, you might find it a bit monotonous to visit every quaint village along this coastline -- which involves some 300-plus kilometers (200-plus miles) of slow, twisting road along water's edge. If your heart is set on fully exploring this fabled landscape, then, be sure to leave enough time for the many nooks and crannies along this stretch of the coast. Towns such as Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Peggy's Cove are well worth the time.

It's sensible to allow more time here for one more reason: fog. When the cool waters of the Arctic currents mix with the warm summer air over land, the results are predictably soupy. The fog certainly adds atmosphere. But it can also slow driving to a crawl.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.