With so many locations to go to and issues to do in Nova Scotia, if you happen to’re on time constraints, selecting the must-sees generally is a little bit of a problem.
Scenic drives, climbing alternatives, contemporary seafood, and vibrant fishing cities are simply a number of the many issues you possibly can count on to expertise in your journey to Canada’s second-smallest province.
15 Greatest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia
We spent 15 days on a Nova Scotia highway journey exploring Halifax, Cape Breton Island, the South Shore, Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, Bay of Fundy, The Annapolis Valley, and Northumberland Shore.
But, there are such a lot of extra locations to see and issues to do in Nova Scotia that we missed! Nova Scotia could also be small, nevertheless it has quite a bit to supply travellers.
Questioning the place to go in Nova Scotia? Take a look at our video: Greatest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia:
On this submit, I’ll listing the highest points of interest, issues to do, factors of curiosity, and the perfect locations in Nova Scotia that will help you plan your journey.
1. Halifax
The capital metropolis of Halifax is likely one of the finest locations to see in Nova Scotia — it’s additionally doubtless the primary place you’ll see while you arrive. It’s a fast 30-minute drive from the Halifax Stanfield Airport to Downtown Halifax and the colourful Waterfront space.
Halifax is sufficiently small that you simply don’t really feel overwhelmed, but has sufficient on supply to maintain you busy for a couple of days.
There are many neighbourhoods right here as properly, so if in case you have time, get out of the downtown space and discover a bit additional. Dartmouth, for instance, is only a 5-minute ferry experience ($2.50 CAD) throughout the bay.
The town is residence to inexperienced areas, historic websites, pedestrian-only walkways, occasions and festivals, galleries and museums, and naturally, tasty eating places! There are quite a few issues to do in Halifax to maintain you busy.
The place to Keep in Halifax
Halifax has so many areas you could possibly keep in, however if you wish to be close to the waterfront, nice eating places, and lots of the vacationer websites, then you definitely’ll need to be across the Downtown space.
This is a busy a part of town, nevertheless it’s a wonderful location for some spending a couple of days in Halifax.
We stayed on the historic Westin Nova Scotian (of their newly renovated rooms) and loved the view of the harbour. The workers are very pleasant, there are many onsite facilities, parking is obtainable, and the breakfast omelette and waffle station was a pleasant bonus. Click on right here to see the newest room charges and critiques.
Throughout our second keep in Halifax, we selected an Airbnb in a historic residence close to the Waterfront. In case you’re eager about reserving an Airbnb, don’t overlook your coupon.
The place to Eat in Halifax
With a mixture of seafood, worldwide delicacies, and vegan-friendly choices, Halifax is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia for foodies. Listed below are a couple of nice choices:
- Piatto Pizzeria – Italian fashion, wood-fired pizzas
- The Bicycle Thief – Wonderful location, workers, and meals. Strive the lobster roll and rigatoni pasta with ragu sauce.
- The 5 Fishermen – Though not situated on the water, the eating space is beautiful and the meals is excellent. Strive the tenderloin steak and the lobster.
- The Wood Monkey – We didn’t eat right here, nevertheless it’s extremely rated as a terrific place for vegetarians and vegans.
- Johnny Ok’s Genuine Donairs – That is the late-night hangout spot. When the bars set free, you’ll discover party-goers snacking right here!
- Smoke’s Poutinerie – Situated on the waterfront, within the cluster of vibrant meals buildings, it is a good store to pattern poutine.
2. Peggy’s Cove (and close by coves)
Peggy’s Cove is likely one of the hottest locations to go to in Nova Scotia, so I needed to put it on the listing — it’s a must-see for good purpose!
It’s a couple of 45-minute drive from Halifax alongside the Lighthouse Route to succeed in Peggy’s Cove, making it a straightforward day-trip from the Capital, or a terrific cease if you happen to’re on an extended Nova Scotia highway journey.
The group is ready proper on the ocean, with huge boulders providing viewing factors of the Atlantic. The lone white and purple lighthouse is likely one of the most photographed spots within the nation.
Spend a while exploring the slow-paced group, together with the inlets — search for jellyfish within the calm water.
There are such a lot of close by bays and coves that you could possibly go to, both earlier than or after Peggy’s Cove. Take a look on the Polly Cove climbing path, Shad Bay and the opposite little spots alongside Prospect Street.
3. Mahone Bay
Persevering with alongside the gorgeous Lighthouse Route, you’ll arrive at Mahone Bay (if in case you have an opportunity, try Chester on the way in which), which is thought for its iconic 3 church buildings, relaxed ambiance, and small-town hospitality.
Go to one of many many outlets making textiles, jewellery, and artwork, or try the cellular library bus!
The locally-sourced meals on the eating places is divine (we had espresso on the Barn Espresso and Social Home), and if you happen to’re not driving, try the Saltbox Brewery for some beers.
Mahone Bay is a good place to spend a while and is certainly one of many Nova Scotia points of interest you don’t need to miss.
In case you’re feeling extra energetic, or have additional time, there’s truly a path that connects Mahone Bay with the city of Lunenburg (beneath). This 10-kilometer pathway is named the Bay To Bay Path, and you’ll be a part of it at numerous factors, or simply hike a portion of it, relatively than the entire path. Click on right here for particulars.
4. Lunenburg
The entire city of Lunenburg is a prime Nova Scotia attraction! This fishing village turned UNESCO listed city is a picturesque place you gained’t need to miss.
Many individuals choose to do day journeys right here from Halifax, however I like to recommend spending the evening to see the city when it’s not so busy.
With its British colonial grid-style streets, Victorian and Colonial structure, and harbour-side eating places, wandering round by foot in Lunenburg is an pleasing expertise.
I like to recommend becoming a member of the 1.5 hour lengthy strolling tour to get a lay of the land and to study in regards to the fascinating historical past of town (and the distinctive properties that line the streets).
Additionally, don’t miss the Ironworks Distillery tour ($15 together with tastings and a present). Even if you happen to’re not a booze drinker, the constructing its set in is price a go to itself.
Inbuilt 1893, it was a blacksmith’s store that made ironworks for the shipbuilding business in Lunenburg.
The place to Keep in Lunenburg
There are many inns and accommodations right here in Lunenburg. One highly-rated possibility is the Sail Inn with harbour views from the rooms. The workers are pleasant and the breakfast is scrumptious. Click on right here to see the newest costs and critiques.
The place to Eat in Lunenburg
The Savvy Sailor Cafe has tasty breakfasts and big parts. The Grand Banker is extremely rated for meals and drinks, and so is the Salt Shaker.
5. Blue Rocks (among the finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia for kayaking)
The group of Blue Rocks is situated only a 10-minute drive from Lunenburg. This aptly named place is one other photographer’s dream vacation spot.
Small fishing shacks and boats are set subsequent to blue shale rocks, with the thundering Atlantic Ocean on one aspect, and the calm inlets protected by small islands on the opposite.
Many individuals come right here to wander round, take photographs and easily benefit from the quiet of all of it. Nonetheless, that is additionally among the finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia if you wish to go kayaking!
Meet up with the blokes at Nice Paddling for a day on the water. You’ll kayak by means of calm channels and slim passageways between islands whereas studying in regards to the flora, fauna, and historical past of the realm. In case you’re fortunate, you’ll spot some seals.
In case you don’t need to keep in Lunenburg and day-trip to Blue Rocks, you possibly can keep in one of many guesthouses right here. We noticed some yurts that we’d love to remain in subsequent time.
6. Shelburne
Shelburne, an oceanside city on the Lighthouse Route, is the place 1000’s of Loyalists fled the United States in the course of the American Revolution. Nonetheless loyal to the British, they have been enticed to maneuver to Shelburne with a promise of land and provisions.
Nowadays, Shelburne nonetheless has British flags flying, and there’s even a UK flag painted on the road. Right here you’ll additionally discover a shipbuilding facility, farmer’s market, cafes and eating places, and the Bowers Meadows Wilderness Space — which is a good place for fishing, canoeing, climbing, and tenting.
We didn’t truly eat right here as we simply visited on a day journey, however I do suggest persevering with to Barrington and Captain Kat’s Lobster Shack for a tasty lobster roll or fish n’ chips.
7. Kejimkujik Nationwide Park
Earlier than I inform you about Kejimkujik Nationwide Park, you’re most likely questioning the best way to pronounce its identify! It’s “keji-ma-ku-jik”…simply say it quick and also you’ll be superb.
This nationwide park is an exquisite place to do some climbing in Nova Scotia, geocaching, canoeing, mountain biking and tenting. Plus, you possibly can keep in one of many cool forest cabins (one thing we need to do subsequent time we go to Nova Scotia).
There are 15 climbing/biking trails, plus 2 backcountry trails that you may embark on. We selected to hike the “Hemlocks and Hardwoods” path which was an pleasing 5 km loop by means of the forest.
A number of the hemlocks listed here are round 400 years previous! A portion of the hike is on a pure path, whereas a part of it’s on a boardwalk to guard the tree roots.
The humorous factor about this NP is that it’s truly break up into two separate areas — inland Kejimkujik NP and the Kejimujik Nationwide Park Seaside, which is on the Atlantic.
The seaside park is simply 25 minutes from the favored White Level Seaside Resort, which has been a Nova Scotia trip staple since 1928.
We stayed at White Level for 2 nights and drove to the Acadian Coast and Liverpool as day journeys. We then crossed the province north and made our strategy to Kejimkujik Nationwide Park (1 hour from White Level). Sadly, we didn’t have an opportunity to go to the seaside nationwide park.
With pure websites and cities lower than an hour away, the White Level Seaside Resort is a good place to base your self. Plus, the resort itself has quite a few actions and amenities on supply — strolling paths, ocean swimming, pool, bonfires, SUP, kayaking, eating, stay music…and extra.
8. Digby City and Digby Neck
Identified for being the scallop capital of the world, Digby is a spot seafood lovers gained’t need to miss. Pan-fried, deep-fried, sauteed, uncooked, bacon-wrapped, grilled, ceviche…the listing of scallop preparations is limitless!
After strolling across the city of Digby (and on the lookout for treasures at low tide), we sat down for a scallop-forward meal on the Shoreline Restaurant (now closed, sadly, however there are equally good eating places close by). Not solely was the meals tasty, however the setting was gorgeous — we even noticed seals popping their heads up within the water.
A night stroll alongside the docks to see the fishing boats, and locals spin disposing of the wharf earlier than the solar goes down is an effective way to finish the day in Digby.
About 45 minutes from the city, is the Digby Neck. This peninsula is definitely composed of the mainland, and two islands — Lengthy Island and Brier Island. One aspect of the “neck” is the calm St. Mary’s Bay, and on the opposite is the big Bay of Fundy. That is the spot to do some whale watching.
We joined the morning tour with Petit Passage Whale Watching (there are 2 per day) and have been fortunate to identify a humpback whale and a couple of finback whales, that are the second largest on the earth!
The boat was massive sufficient that it was comfy, not cramped, and the workers members have been knowledgable in regards to the ocean and the marine life.
There’s one thing magical about seeing wildlife in its pure surroundings.
We stayed at Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa, a stunning previous constructing with sweeping views throughout the Bay of Fundy.
Right here you possibly can golf 18 holes, spend a day on the spa, swim within the out of doors heated pool, or just chill out on the patio with a beer in hand. The lodge gives a complimentary shuttle to and from the city heart, which is a pleasant contact.
9. The Annapolis Valley (the perfect place to go to for wine lovers)
Annapolis Valley is situated between two mountain ranges on the shore of the Bay of Fundy. Residence to agriculture, farming, cities, and vineyards, this gorgeous valley is likely one of the most scenic locations to see in Nova Scotia.
From farmers markets and U-pick Fruit & Veg, to wineries and orchards, this valley has heaps to find. Plus, the Annapolis Valley is residence to quite a few communities. I like to recommend visiting Wolfville and Annapolis Royal — the latter is the place you’ll discover Canada’s oldest Nationwide Historic Website (Fort Anne), and one of many oldest streets in all of North America.
Wolfville is a wonderful place to base your self when touring the vineyards across the valley.
Within the city itself, you’ll discover a terrific strolling path, boutique outlets, a cidery (made with native apples), and plenty of enjoyable pubs and eating places. Don’t miss Church Brewing — in-built a transformed church, it is a very distinctive place to seize a craft beer.
Surrounding Wolfville is the place you’ll discover the 11 established vineyards — which make some crisp white wines and a few reds as properly. Taking a vineyard bus tour with a chosen driver is one of the best ways to discover the vineyards.
We went with Grape Escapes, a tour that really originated in Halifax however picked us up in Wolfville. We visited 3 vineyards – Benjamin Bridge, Luckett and Gaspereau – and loved a superb lunch with our wine at Luckett Vineyards.
*Insider tip, attempt the Marquette purple at Luckett, it was my favorite Nova Scotian wine.
Not solely is the Annapolis Valley picturesque, however there’s additionally a UNESCO Heritage Website right here (the Grand Pre Nationwide Historic Website), fruit and herb gardens, and among the finest vineyard eating places on the earth, Le Caveau.
For individuals who love contemporary and domestically grown produce, and supporting small companies, you’ll undoubtedly need to add the Annapolis Valley to your listing of locations to go to in Nova Scotia.
One gorgeous lodge with a wonderful location in Wolfville is the Locust & Starr Inn. The property is surrounded by fairly gardens, and it consists of breakfast.
10. Pictou
Nova Scotia interprets to “New Scotland” in Latin, and Pictou was the primary place the Scottish settlers landed once they arrived in Nova Scotia. Nowadays, you’ll nonetheless see Scottish tartans on the sunshine posts, and there’s a reproduction of the ship (Hector) that they arrive on in 1773.
Vibrant properties and outlets line the water, and the general really feel of the city is fairly relaxed. The Scotsman Inn is correct on the Northumberland Strait, wanting throughout to Pictou Island and Prince Edward Island past.
It’s a brief stroll into city and there are many actions close by like kayaking, pedal boats, and SUP.
11. Inverness
Inverness and the encompassing space is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia for golfers, fishermen, and people who need to do some tenting.
Crossing the two kilometer Canso Causeway from the mainland of Nova Scotia, you’ll arrive on Cape Breton Island. Seemingly, if you happen to’re taking the Ceilidh Path clockwise, your first fundamental cease on the island can be Inverness.
The city itself is residence to the oceanfront boardwalk, the Cabot Hyperlinks golf course, Route 19 Brewing, some church buildings, and a campsite with good views over the water. Do because the locals do and scour the seaside for sea glass — which they name “mermaid tears”.
A ten-minute drive from Inverness is the Glenora Inn and Distillery — the longest-running producer of single malt whiskey in North America.
In reality, there are solely two on the continent! Take a tour of the distillery, pattern the whiskey, eat a meal on the restaurant, take heed to stay music and spend the evening in one of many rooms there. The grounds listed here are gorgeous and it’s a terrific place to remain.
12. Margaree Forks
Simply outdoors of Inverness is Margaree Forks, which is the perfect place in Nova Scotia to do some fly fishing, the place 40-pound salmon run the Margaree River.
Get a fishing license for round $62 and a few flies and head out to the river. Take a look at the Tying Scotsman for a license and flies, and A Nice Day Fishing for respected guides.
There are many locations to remain proper alongside the river, equivalent to my favourite, Cajun Cedar Log Cottages. In you’d relatively keep in Inverness, then Cape Breton Villas is a wonderful selection.
13. The Cabot Path
The Cabot Path isn’t a lot a “place” as it’s a drive, however I had so as to add it to the listing. At Margaree Forks, the 298 km (185 mile) Cabot Path begins. You’ll be able to select to drive clockwise or counterclockwise (we did the previous).
This route meanders alongside the shoreline of Cape Breton Island, and excessive up into the plateaus of the aptly named Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. Get pleasure from views of the wild, rocky shoreline, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the gorgeous forest.
Take your time (and plenty of photographs) throughout this drive. The Cabot Path is likely one of the most wonderful locations to go to in Nova Scotia, and among the finest drives in North America.
14. Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park
In case you’re driving the Cabot Path, you’ll reduce by means of Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. After paying $7.80 (for adults), you’re free to benefit from the pure fantastic thing about this a part of Cape Breton Island.
Lace-up your climbing boots and wander down one of many 26 trails within the park, discover a hidden cove all to your self and luxuriate in a snack, or do some tenting, fishing, and kayaking! There are limitless issues to do right here.
We hiked the Skyline Path, which could be completed as a return journey, or a loop. We opted for the 9.2 km (5.6 mile) loop stroll by means of the forest.
On the finish, the path opens up and also you’re greeted by the huge Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Cabot Path winding by means of the mountainside, and Cheticamp Island.
We loved this stroll, nevertheless it was fairly in style — for good purpose. Your finest wager could be to get there early and benefit from the quieter path — you might even spot a moose.
There are many pull-offs and factors of curiosity, however I like to recommend Lakie’s Head, which is an exquisite spot the place you could possibly doubtlessly see whales.
One other quirky place is Groovy Goat, which is a family-run goat farm and cleaning soap firm, and the Dancing Moose, which is a restaurant that serves up tasty Dutch-style pancakes.
15. Ingonish (among the finest locations in Nova Scotia {for golfing}, climbing and tenting)
Of all of the locations to go to in Nova Scotia, Ingonish was considered one of our favourites for positive. Ingonish is definitely an space of 6 totally different communities — Ingonish ferry, harbour, seaside, centre, and North Ingonish.
This space gives climbing, tenting, swimming, whale watching offshore, and extra.
Relying on the tides, Ingonish Seaside is both rocky or sandy and although the water was chilly once we visited, Nick nonetheless went for a dip within the ocean!
There’s a freshwater lake at Ingonish Seaside and you’ll camp right here as properly. In case you’re not into tenting, try the Keltic Lodge on the Highlands, which has probably the most picturesque environment of any lodging we’ve had.
With sweeping views of the ocean and the craggy cliffs, even if you happen to’re not staying right here, undoubtedly come by for the view.
The Center Head Path begins right here on the Keltic Lodge. It’s a straightforward, 1.5-hour loop that takes you out to the top of the purpose for a implausible view. This hike is brief however candy.
One other tougher possibility is the close by Franey Mountain Path, which takes round 3 hours and has a 300 m ascent, however gives unimaginable views from the highest.
16. Bonus! Baddeck
Final however not least on my listing of finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia is Baddeck. Set on the attractive Bras d’Or Lake (Alexander Graham Bell had a household property residence right here), this city is a good place to sit back out for some time.
Get pleasure from water sports activities (kayaking SUP, jet skis, and so forth.), go on a ship tour to see puffins, go to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, get pleasure from a leisurely espresso on the town, or try the close by Usige Ban Waterfall.
The path to succeed in the falls is round 3 kilometers lengthy and will take about an hour to finish.
We stayed on the Inverary Resort, which had the right setting proper on the lake. Get pleasure from late afternoon paddleboarding, kayaking, jet-skiing, or boat using right here — or simply chill out with a beer in hand!
10 Greatest Issues to Do in Nova Scotia
You now know the perfect cities and locations to go to in Nova Scotia, and listed here are the highest 10 actions and issues to do within the province that you simply gained’t need to miss!
Right here’s our video of the ten finest issues to do in Nova Scotia:
1. Expertise Tidal Bore Rafting
In case you’re an adventurous individual, tidal bore rafting must be firmly positioned in your listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia.
Two occasions a day, the tides within the Bay of Fundy rise and fall (between 3.5 meters (11 ft) and 16 meters (53 ft)). When this huge inflow of water meets the Shubenacadie River, the 2 collide to create rapids, waves, and an entire lot of swells.
In fact, relatively than simply watch this pure phenomenon, it’s way more thrilling to hop on a zodiac and launch over the waves! Tidal bore rafting tops my listing of Nova Scotia actions for positive. Cling on tight and benefit from the experience.
However, it’s not all in regards to the loopy journey on the river, you’ll additionally get pleasure from a quiet boat experience earlier than the tide is available in, whereas recognizing bald eagles excessive within the timber. After a couple of rounds of flying over rapids, launch your interior youngster, and do some mud sliding on the banks of the river.
There are quite a few corporations to select from, however we went with Tidal Bore Rafting Resort out of Urbania who’ve been in enterprise since 1985.
Suggestions: Be certain to put on clothes that you simply don’t thoughts throwing out afterward, or put on black (the titanium within the mud will stain your garments). Depart your sun shades and hat behind, and put on water footwear. Carry a change of clothes and towel — there are fundamental, sizzling showers obtainable.
2. Drive the Cabot Path (one of the crucial in style issues to do in Nova Scotia)
The Cabot Path is taken into account one of the crucial scenic drives in North America, and this 297 km (185 mile) route gives a surprising journey.
Situated on Cape Breton Island which is an island related to the mainland by a 2 km causeway, the Cabot Path is likely one of the most lovely locations to go to in Nova Scotia.
It’s a terrific place to drive, cycle, or expertise the curvy highway by motorcycle.
I like to recommend taking Route 19 (Ceilidh Path) as you cross the causeway to Cape Breton Island. This can be a picturesque route with good locations to cease alongside the way in which — Mabou, Glenora Distillery, Celtic Music Interpretive Middle, Inverness, and Margaree Forks.
At Margaree Forks, the route splits and also you begin the Cabot Path.
Relying in your journey plans, you possibly can select to drive clockwise, or counterclockwise. The entire path could possibly be completed in a day, however a extra pleasing strategy to expertise it’s to drive for somewhat bit, hop out of your car and go for a hike, a swim, and a meal earlier than spending the evening someplace alongside the path.
3. Go Mountain climbing in Nationwide Parks
There are some nice trails within the province and after driving, it’s all the time good to get out and stretch your legs. Nova Scotia is residence to 2 nationwide parks, one nationwide park reserve, and quite a few provincial and historic parks.
If you’re travelling alongside the Cabot Path, it cuts by means of the Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park ($7.80 CAD park payment), which is residence to 26 climbing trails.
The preferred is the Skyline Path, however if you happen to get pleasure from climbing by your self, this path isn’t for you — at the very least not in the summertime months when it’s fairly busy.
Nonetheless, it’s in style for good purpose!
On the finish of the loop, you’re rewarded with huge views out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and many individuals encounter moose on this path (sadly, we didn’t).
Tip: Whereas the hike to the top of the Skyline Path was busy with different hikers, it appeared as if many individuals didn’t full the 8.2 km (5.1 mile) loop, however as an alternative, backtracked on the identical path making the hike shorter (6.5 km / 4 miles). If you wish to get pleasure from some quiet on this lovely path, I like to recommend doing the loop — we just about had the way in which again to ourselves.
One other nice climbing alternative is the Center Head Path which begins on the gorgeous Keltic Lodge at Ingonish. This 1.5-hour peninsula hike is extra rugged than the Skyline Path and gives unimaginable views on each side of the peninsula. Search for woodpeckers, squirrels, and seabirds.
Close by, you’ll discover the Franey Mountain Path, which is more difficult than Center Head. It’s about 3 hours lengthy, with a 300m ascent. Carry enough meals, water, and clothes for the hike.
Nova Scotia’s different nationwide park is Kejimkujik, which is residence to some nice hikes as properly. You probably have the time and the power to take action, you possibly can embark on one of many backcountry trails (4 days lengthy), or if you happen to’re on the lookout for a day hike, there are many these as properly starting from 0.2 km to five km in size.
We selected the longest of the day hikes, Hemlocks and Hardwoods, and principally had the path to ourselves.
Exterior of the nationwide parks, you’ll additionally discover some nice climbing. Take a look at the Celtic Shores Mountain climbing Path, the Bay to Bay Path, and Polly Cove path — to call a couple of.
Tip: Be certain to put on bug spray and totally test your self for ticks while you go away the park, as they carry Lyme illness.
4. Absorb a Competition
In case you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Nova Scotia year-round, absorb one of many many festivals! Whether or not you’re into music, meals, crafts, artwork, historical past, or sports activities, there can be a enjoyable pageant that pursuits you.
Whilst you’ll undoubtedly discover occasions taking place year-round, the overwhelming majority occur in the course of the summer season months when the climate is hotter and you’ll benefit from the out of doors venues.
Don’t miss the TD Halifax Jazz Competition, Royal Nova Scotia Worldwide Tattoo, Pleasure Parade, Lobster Crawl, Ribfest, Wild Blueberry Competition, BuskerFest…and extra!
5. Eat Seafood
The world is thought for its abundance of seafood, so consuming freshly caught shellfish is likely one of the issues to do in Nova Scotia you don’t need to miss.
Every a part of the province has a special lobster season, however you will discover lobster virtually any time of yr.
Don’t miss a lobster boil, eating on 1.5 kilos of lobster at a pleasant restaurant (5 Fishermen in Halifax), sampling a lobster roll (Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack, or The Bicycle Thief), or just having fun with bits of lobster in a chowder or a pasta dish.
When you’ve had your fill of lobster, head to Digby, which is thought for its world-class scallops! Select your preparation (grilled, pan-fried, deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, ceviche, uncooked, and so forth.) and dig in.
If lobster and scallops aren’t your factor, you possibly can all the time discover mussels, Atlantic salmon, halibut, haddock, and oysters available on most menus. In case you’re questioning what to do in Nova Scotia on a wet day, consuming glorious seafood is my advice!
6. Observe One of many “Trails”
A very cool factor to do in Nova Scotia that I haven’t seen anyplace else is to comply with one of many foods and drinks trails across the province.
Mainly, you choose up a “passport” from a taking part vendor, or you possibly can register on-line for a digital passport. On this passport, you’ll discover a listing of tasty eating places, bars and distilleries to pattern the perfect meals and drinks in Nova Scotia.
When you’ve visited one of many stops, you get a stamp in your passport and after you have 3 stamps, you possibly can enter to win prizes.
There are 3 trails:
With so many wonderful eating places and bars to get pleasure from, attempting to determine the place to eat and drink is the exhausting half!
7. Go Tenting
Since this submit is a couple of Canadian province, it’s no shock that tenting makes it on this listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia. Blessed with nature, and nearly utterly surrounded by water, it is a excellent place to do some tenting.
Both pitch a tent in one of many many campsites or spend the evening in a novel oTENTik. In case you’re pulling a trailer or driving an RV, there are many spots you possibly can cease which have enough facilities.
Cape Breton Island has quite a few campsites obtainable round Ingonish, Meat Cove, Broad Cove, Inverness, and extra.
For different tenting alternatives, try Ovens Pure Park campground, Thomas Raddall Provincial Park, Kejimkujik Nationwide Park, Murphy’s Tenting on the Ocean…to call a couple of. For a full listing of campgrounds in Nova Scotia, click on right here.
8. Tour Vineyards
Though the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario produce probably the most quantity of wine within the nation, little Nova Scotia has some vineyards price visiting and distinctive grape varietals price sampling — particularly if you happen to like white and glowing wines.
Nova Scotia is thought for its Tidal Bay wine — the primary wine appellation given within the province. Because the province is thought for its seafood, ties with the ocean, and funky climate, the winemakers wished to create a wine that displays that — one thing cool and crisp.
With a view to get the stamp of approval for a Tidal Bay wine, all grapes should be grown in Nova Scotia, be not more than 11% alcohol, and have a sure flavour profile (minerals, acidity, and inexperienced fruit).
Whereas grapes are grown in lots of areas of the province, The Annapolis Valley is thought for being wine nation and with gorgeous views of the Bay of Fundy and 11 wineries to go to, it’s a spot you’ll need to spend a while.
Base your self in Wolfville or out within the valley, and rent a driver (or be a part of a tour) for the journey in an effort to absolutely benefit from the wine tastings!
Whereas there are numerous vineyards to go to, I like to recommend Benjamin Bridge, Luckett and Gaspereau. All three have attractive environment and engaging wines.
Be certain to have lunch at Luckett Vineyards, the meals is fabulous. Oh, and don’t overlook to make a name from the purple telephone field 😉
9. Do Some Kayaking
Being surrounded nearly utterly by water, and residential to quite a few coves, bays, and islands, kayaking is likely one of the prime actions in Nova Scotia.
There are many locations you possibly can go paddling, however I like to recommend Blue Rocks, which is a group simply outdoors of Lunenburg.
Many individuals come right here to {photograph} the beautiful blue shale rocks, or to walk across the quiet group, however one of the best ways to see the pure fantastic thing about the realm is to hop in a kayak. We paddled by means of slim passageways, and alongside rock islands, all whereas having fun with the calm water.
Despite the fact that the Atlantic Ocean could be extremely tough and wild, the rock islands right here present safety for kayakers. To study extra about kayaking at Blue Rocks, click on right here.
10. Go Whale Watching
You’ll discover glorious whale watching alternatives within the Bay of Fundy simply outdoors of Digby on the Digby Neck (peninsula) and off of Cape Breton Island.
The whales begin arriving in early spring and keep till fall, however sometimes, the humpbacks don’t present up till mid-June.
Having stated that, we went whale watching within the Bay Of Fundy in mid-July and solely noticed 1 humpback whale. The crew stated that this yr the whales have been late arriving. So, it’s the luck of the draw!
Each whale watching spots in Nova Scotia supply the prospect to see humpback, fin, and minke whales. The Bay Of Fundy additionally has Northern proper whales, whereas Cape Breton gives the most important of all of them, the blue whale, in addition to pilot whales.
Our journey took us across the Digby Neck, previous Brier and Lengthy Island, and into the Bay Of Fundy. Despite the fact that we solely noticed 1 humpback whale, we ended up seeing 2 fin whales (that are the second largest whale on the earth!). There’s one thing magical about seeing wildlife in its pure habitat.
To study extra about whale watching within the Bay of Fundy, click on right here.
If it’s the fallacious time of yr for whales, you possibly can all the time go on a seal watching tour. You study in regards to the historical past of the area and see plenty of wildlife on this in style tour from Pictou.
Tip: Even when it’s a sunny day, make certain to convey some heat clothes. The climate can change instantly, and it’s all the time chilly out on the water. Additionally, convey a hat, sunscreen, water and naturally, your digital camera.
FAQs About The place to Go in Nova Scotia
Nonetheless have some questions on the place to go to in Nova Scotia? Check out these regularly requested questions.
I believe Lunenburg is likely one of the most lovely cities to go to in Nova Scotia, and UNESCO agrees, having made the previous city a world heritage website in 1995. A number of the most lovely pure locations to see in Nova Scotia are Kejimkujik Nationwide Park, Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park, and the rock islands of Blue Rocks.
Because the capital and largest metropolis, Halifax is probably the most visited place within the province. It’s additionally one of the crucial fascinating cities in Nova Scotia to discover.
Scenic Peggy’s Cove is likely one of the finest locations to see in Nova Scotia, so don’t miss it. Additionally don’t miss out on nice Nova Scotia actions like kayaking, climbing, and consuming seafood.
The summer season months, from June to August, are the perfect time to go to Nova Scotia. They’ve the warmest climate.
Except you’re content material to discover Halifax (among the finest cities in Nova Scotia) for a weekend, then I recommend at the very least every week. We spent 15 days there and I believe we may have spent even longer!
Now You Know What to Do and The place to Go to in Nova Scotia
Relying on the size of your journey, you won’t be capable to see the entire locations to go to in Nova Scotia that I listed. So, simply select those that stand out to you probably the most, or choose an space of the province and work your manner round there.
The excellent news is that Nova Scotia is kind of compact, making getting round and visiting quite a few cities a breeze.
In fact, this listing of actions and locations to see while you go to Nova Scotia is simply the tip of the iceberg. There are quite a few different spots that we didn’t have an opportunity to get to!
I hope you loved my listing of 15 advisable finest locations to go to and the highest 10 issues to do in Nova Scotia. Get pleasure from your keep in Nova Scotia and take a look at our movies right here:
Need to know what to do in Halifax? Take a look at our video: Prime 10 Issues to Do in Halifax
Need to know the place to go to in Nova Scotia? Take a look at our video Maritime Journey: Our Highlights and Suggestions from Travelling Nova Scotia
A particular thanks to the Nova Scotia tourism board for making this journey potential. As all the time, all ideas and opinions stay our personal.
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