Adventure Advisor:

Is it worth it? Absolutely. Nova Scotia is among the top cycling and paddling destinations on the entire Atlantic coast. I'd recommend a much longer stay, but if an extended weekend is all you've got, head to Cape Breton Island. Its coastline is known for diverse topography and wildlife, including a disproportionately high number of American Bald Eagles. Your first stop should be North River Kayak Tours (1-888-865-2925, www.northriverkayak.com), where you can rent kayaks and canoes or arrange half-day to three-day guided trips in any combination of hiking, biking and kayaking. Even if you prefer to wander solo, the guides there will help point you in the right direction.

If you can arrange to get out of Boston for a whole week, the Cape Breton Bicycling Tour (902-423-BIKE, cycling@atl-canadacycling.com) is a great excuse to head north. From Aug. 22 to 29, the tour travels about 44 miles per day on mildly hilly coastal terrain. Support crews will shuttle your gear from campground to campground while you ride, leaving you with plenty of time to explore the inland seas, forests, rocky coastline and some aboriginal reserves. Of course, another option is to avoid the pack and ride the route on your own. There are dozens of bike shops and cycling clubs to help you with rentals and maps (go to atl-canadacycling.com/clubsns.html for guidance). The number bike-related businesses in the region should tell you something -- this is a cycling destination you don't want to miss.