Lunenburg
Lunenburg
Driving

Upper Stewiacke to Lunenburg

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Upper Stewiacke to Lunenburg covers approximately 165 kilometers. You will primarily use Highway 102 South toward Halifax, transitioning to Highway 103 West. The drive typically takes 2 hours depending on traffic near the Bedford bypass. This route takes you from the rural Stewiacke Valley to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg. Expect a mix of divided highway and secondary coastal roads as you approach the South Shore.

Total Distance: 165 km driving distance, 115 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via Highway 102 and 103 takes exactly 2 hours under normal conditions.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this route.
Compare Upper Stewiacke to Lunenburg Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
2 hours
Avg Price
30-45 CAD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Highway 289 to Highway 102 South, then Highway 103 West.

Avoid peak rush hour in Bedford to save 20 minutes of travel time.

Travel Tips
  • Parking
    Public parking is available near the waterfront but fills up quickly in summer.
  • Footwear
    Wear comfortable walking shoes as the town is built on a steep hill.
  • Dining
    Book dinner reservations in advance for popular seafood restaurants.
  • Weather
    Coastal fog is common; keep your headlights on during low visibility.
  • Navigation
    Download offline maps as cellular service can be spotty on secondary roads.
Safety Tips
  • Wildlife
    Watch for deer crossing Highway 289 during dawn and dusk.
  • Road Conditions
    Check 511 Nova Scotia for construction updates on Highway 103.
  • Emergency
    Cell service is reliable on major highways but limited in deep rural valleys.
  • Speed Limits
    Strictly observe speed limits in small towns like Mahone Bay along the route.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a bus to Lunenburg?
    There is no direct public bus service from Upper Stewiacke to Lunenburg.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes approximately 2 hours via Highway 102 and 103.
  • Are there tolls?
    There are no toll roads on this specific route.
  • Is the route scenic?
    The final stretch along the South Shore offers beautiful coastal views.
  • Can I take a train?
    No, there is no passenger rail service between these two locations.
Quick Info
  • From Upper Stewiacke, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to September for optimal coastal weather and open museum attractions.

Things to Do in Lunenburg
1
Bluenose II
Visit the iconic schooner docked at the Lunenburg waterfront. It is a replica of the famous racing ship.
2
Fisheries Museum
Explore the history of the Atlantic fishery. The museum features historic vessels and interactive exhibits.
3
Old Town Lunenburg
Walk the streets to see colorful 18th-century wooden buildings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4
St. John's Anglican Church
Admire the Gothic Revival architecture. It is one of the oldest churches in Canada.
Tags
Upper Stewiacke to Lunenburg Nova Scotia driving routes Highway 102 to 103 Lunenburg travel guide driving in Nova Scotia Upper Stewiacke transport Lunenburg tourism Nova Scotia road trip fastest route to Lunenburg scenic drive Nova Scotia