We spent 15 days on a Nova Scotia street journey exploring Halifax, Cape Breton Island, the South Shore, Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, Bay of Fundy, The Annapolis Valley, and Northumberland Shore.
Despite the fact that we did and noticed (and ate!) loads, there are such a lot of extra locations to go to and issues to do in Nova Scotia that we missed. We’d like to return to expertise extra of what this small, however mighty, province has to supply.
15 Finest Issues to Do in Nova Scotia
This island on the east coast of our residence nation could also be small, nevertheless it has loads to supply travellers. With so many lovely locations to see and distinctive issues to do in Nova Scotia, should you’re brief on time, selecting the must-sees generally is a little bit of a problem.
Scenic drives, mountain climbing alternatives, contemporary seafood, fabulous wineries, and vibrant fishing cities are simply a number of the many issues you’ll be able to anticipate to expertise in your journey to Canada’s second-smallest province. We LOVED our journey to Nova Scotia and are positive you’ll, too!
Right here’s our video of the ten finest issues to do in Nova Scotia:
1. Expertise Tidal Bore Rafting
That is nonetheless one of many craziest issues we’ve finished. I’ve by no means been whitewater rafting, however I can say I’ve been tidal bore rafting! Should you’re an adventurous individual, tidal bore rafting needs to 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 large inflow of water meets the Shubenacadie River, the 2 collide to create rapids, waves, and a complete lot of swells.
After all, reasonably than simply watch this pure phenomenon, we thought it’d be much more thrilling to hop on a zodiac and launch over the waves! Tidal bore rafting tops my listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia in the summertime for positive (in any other case, it’d be too chilly). Grasp on tight and benefit from the journey.
However, it’s not all in regards to the loopy journey on the river, we loved a quiet boat journey earlier than the tide got here in, and even noticed bald eagles excessive within the bushes. After a number of rounds of flying over rapids, we launched our inside little one, and did some mud sliding on the banks of the river.
There are quite a few firms to select from, however I recommend trying out Schubie River Wranglers out of Inexperienced Oaks who’ve been in enterprise because the late Eighties.
Ideas: Make sure that to put on clothes that you just don’t thoughts throwing out afterward, or put on black (the titanium within the mud will stain your garments). Go away your sun shades and hat behind, and put on water sneakers. Convey a change of clothes and towel – there are fundamental, scorching showers obtainable.
2. Drive the Cabot Path
The Cabot Path is taken into account some of the scenic drives in North America, and this 297 km (185 mile) route gives a shocking 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 fantastic place to drive, cycle, or expertise the curvy street by motorcycle.
I like to recommend taking Route 19 (Ceilidh Path) as you cross the causeway to Cape Breton Island. It is a picturesque route and we beloved all the nice locations to cease alongside the way in which – Mabou, Glenora Distillery, Celtic Music Interpretive Heart, Inverness, and Margaree Forks.
At Margaree Forks, the route splits and also you begin the Cabot Path.
Relying in your journey plans, you’ll be able to select to drive clockwise, or counterclockwise. The entire path may very well be finished in a day, however a extra satisfying method to expertise it’s to drive for slightly bit, hop out of your automobile and go for a hike, a swim, and a meal earlier than spending the night time someplace alongside the path.
That is what we selected to do. Mountaineering, fishing and enjoyable alongside the way in which with stays in Inverness, Ingonish and Baddeck.
3. Go Mountaineering in Nationwide Parks
There are some nice trails within the province and after driving, it’s at all times 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 way of the Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park, which is residence to 26 mountain climbing trails.
The most well-liked is the Skyline Path, and also you’ll want to order prematurely, however should you take pleasure in mountain climbing by your self, this path isn’t for you – at the least not in the summertime months when it’s fairly busy.
Nevertheless, it’s widespread for good purpose!
Even thought it’s busy, we loved this hike as a result of the views are epic. On the finish of the loop, you’re rewarded with huge views out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and many individuals see 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 a substitute, backtracked on the identical path making the hike shorter (6.5 km / 4 miles). If you wish to take pleasure in 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 mountain climbing alternative is the Center Head Path. We did this hike once we have been staying on the gorgeous Keltic Lodge at Ingonish.
The 1.5-hour peninsula hike is extra rugged than the Skyline Path and gives unimaginable views on either 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. Convey 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 flexibility to take action, you’ll be able to embark on one of many backcountry trails (4 days lengthy), or should you’re searching 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 mainly had the path to ourselves.
Exterior of the nationwide parks, you’ll additionally discover some nice mountain climbing. Try the Celtic Shores Mountaineering Path, the Bay to Bay Path, and Polly Cove path – to call a number of.
Tip: Make sure that to put on bug spray and totally verify your self for ticks if you go away the park, as they carry Lyme illness.
4. Absorb a Competition
We had no thought, however once we travelled to Nova Scotia, it was the Halifax Jazz Competition. Not solely that, however certainly one of my favorite artists was performing – Widespread. I couldn’t consider it! After all, we needed to get tickets and the efficiency was unimaginable. Should you’re round in the summertime, don’t miss the Jazz Competition.
Whether or not you’re into music, meals, crafts, artwork, historical past, or sports activities, there might be a enjoyable pageant that pursuits you.
When you’ll undoubtedly discover occasions occurring all yr, most festivals are on in the course of the summer time months when the climate is hotter and you may 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 Contemporary Seafood
Nick feasted on shellfish throughout our journey, however since I’m not a shellfish fan, I principally caught to fish – which was so good. The world is understood 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 (Nick beloved his lobster at 5 Fishermen in Halifax), sampling a lobster roll (Nick’s picks: 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 understood for its world-class scallops! Select your preparation (grilled, pan-fried, deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, ceviche, uncooked, and many others.) and dig in. Nick was in scallop heaven right here…
If lobster and scallops aren’t your factor, you’ll be able to at all times discover mussels, Atlantic salmon, halibut, haddock, and oysters available on most menus. Should you’re questioning what to do in Nova Scotia on a wet day, consuming glorious seafood is my advice!
6. Comply with One of many “Trails”
A extremely cool factor to do in Nova Scotia that I haven’t seen wherever else is to observe one of many food and drinks trails across the province.
Mainly, you choose up a “passport” from a collaborating vendor, or you’ll be able to 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’ll be able to enter to win prizes.
There are 3 trails:
With so many superb eating places and bars to take pleasure in, making an attempt to determine the place to eat and drink is the exhausting half!
7. Go Tenting
Since this publish is a few 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 fully surrounded by water, it is a excellent spot to do some tenting.
We met up with our buddies and loved some tenting enjoyable in Inverness. You possibly can Both pitch a tent in one of many many campsites or spend the night time in a novel oTENTik. Should you’re pulling a trailer or driving an RV, there are many spots you’ll be able to 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 number of. For a full listing of campgrounds in Nova Scotia, click on right here.
8. Tour Vineyards
Though our residence province of British Columbia, and Ontario produce essentially the most quantity of wine within the nation, little Nova Scotia has some vineyards price visiting and distinctive grape varietals price sampling…particularly should you like white and glowing wines.
Nova Scotia is understood for its Tidal Bay wine – the primary wine appellation given within the province. For the reason that province is understood for its seafood, ties with the ocean, and funky climate, the winemakers needed to create a wine that displays that – one thing cool and crisp.
With the intention 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 understood 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.
We primarily based ourselves in Wolfville and joined a tour for the journey in order that we may absolutely benefit from the wine tastings!
Whereas there are a lot of vineyards to go to, I like to recommend Benjamin Bridge, Luckett and Gaspereau. All three have beautiful environment and engaging wines.
Make sure that to have lunch at Luckett Vineyards, the meals is fabulous. Oh, and don’t overlook to make a name from the crimson telephone field 😉
9. Do Some Kayaking
Being surrounded nearly fully by water, and residential to quite a few coves, bays, and islands, we weren’t shocked to search out out that kayaking is likely one of the high actions in Nova Scotia.
There are many locations you’ll be able to go paddling, however I like to recommend Blue Rocks, which is a neighborhood simply exterior of Lunenburg.
Many individuals come right here to {photograph} the gorgeous blue shale rocks, or to walk across the quiet neighborhood, however the easiest way to see the pure fantastic thing about the world is to hop in a kayak.
We paddled by way 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
There’s nothing higher than seeing animals of their pure habitat. Our whale watching journey to the Bay of Fundy was nothing in need of magical.
The whales begin arriving in early spring and keep till fall, however sometimes, the humpbacks don’t present up till mid-June.
You’ll discover glorious whale watching alternatives within the Bay of Fundy simply exterior of Digby on the Digby Neck (peninsula) and off of Cape Breton Island.
Each whale watching spots in Nova Scotia provide the possibility 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 planet!). It was a pinch me second for positive!
To study extra about whale watching within the Bay of Fundy, click on right here.
If it’s the improper time of yr for whales, you’ll be able to at all times go on a seal watching tour. You study in regards to the historical past of the area and see plenty of wildlife on this widespread tour from Pictou.
Tip: Even when it’s a sunny day, make certain to carry some heat clothes. The climate can change right away, and it’s at all times chilly out on the water. Additionally, carry a hat, sunscreen, water and naturally, your digital camera.
15 Finest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia
Questioning the place to go in Nova Scotia? Try our video: Finest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia:
Listed below are 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 go to in Nova Scotia – it’s additionally probably the primary place you’ll see if 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 just don’t really feel overwhelmed, but has sufficient on provide to maintain you busy for a number of days.
There are many neighbourhoods right here as properly. We took the 5-minute ferry throughout the bay to Dartmouth and loved wandering round over there for a number of hours.
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. We spent a number of days right here and beloved it!
The place to Keep in Halifax
Halifax has so many areas you might keep in, however if you wish to be close to the waterfront, nice eating places, and lots of the vacationer websites, then you definately’ll need to be across the Downtown space.
This is a busy a part of the town, nevertheless it’s a wonderful location for some spending a number 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 offered, and the breakfast omelette and waffle station was a pleasant bonus. Click on right here to see the newest room charges and critiques.
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 number of nice choices:
- Piatto Pizzeria – Italian fashion, wood-fired pizzas
- The Bicycle Thief – Wonderful location, workers, and meals. Attempt the lobster roll and rigatoni pasta with ragu sauce.
- The 5 Fishermen – Though not situated on the water, the eating space is gorgeous and the meals is superb. Attempt the tenderloin steak and the lobster.
- The Picket Monkey – We didn’t eat right here, nevertheless it’s extremely rated as a fantastic place for vegetarians and vegans.
- Johnny Ok’s Genuine Donairs – That is the late-night hangout spot. When the bars let loose, 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!
We drove about 45-minutes from Halifax alongside the Lighthouse Route to achieve Peggy’s Cove, making it a simple day-trip from the Capital, or a fantastic cease should you’re on an extended Nova Scotia street journey.
The neighborhood is ready proper on the ocean, with large boulders providing viewing factors of the Atlantic. The lone white and crimson lighthouse is likely one of the most photographed spots within the nation.
Spend a while exploring the slow-paced neighborhood, together with the inlets – search for jellyfish within the calm water.
There are such a lot of close by bays and coves that you might go to, both earlier than or after Peggy’s Cove. Take a look on the Polly Cove mountain 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 (you probably have an opportunity, try Chester on the way in which), which is understood for its iconic 3 church buildings, relaxed environment, and small-town hospitality.
We beloved this cute city and spent a while trying out the numerous retailers making textiles, jewellery, and artwork…and 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 should you’re not driving, try the Saltbox Brewery for some beers.
Mahone Bay is a superb place to spend a while and is unquestionably one of many Nova Scotia points of interest you don’t need to miss.
Should you’re feeling extra lively, or have further time, there’s truly a path that connects Mahone Bay with the city of Lunenburg (under). This 10-kilometer pathway is known as the Bay To Bay Path, and you may be a part of it at varied factors, or simply hike a portion of it, reasonably than the entire path. Click on right here for particulars.
4. Lunenburg
The entire city of Lunenburg is a high 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 we spent an evening and undoubtedly advocate it! It was nice seeing 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 satisfying 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 attention-grabbing historical past of the town (and the distinctive houses that line the streets).
Additionally, don’t miss the Ironworks Distillery tour. Even should you’re not a booze drinker, the constructing its set in is price a go to itself. It was in-built 1893, it was once a blacksmith’s store that made ironworks for the shipbuilding business in Lunenburg.
The place to Keep in Lunenburg
There are many inns and motels 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 large parts. We loved a pint at The Grand Banker, which is very rated for meals and drinks, and dinner on the Salt Shaker.
5. Blue Rocks
As I discussed above, Blue Rocks is a superb place for kayaking. Nevertheless, should you don’t need to get out on the water, it’s nonetheless well worth the 10-minute drive from Lunenburg to see the world.
Small fishing shacks and boats are set subsequent to blue shale rocks, with the thundering Atlantic Ocean on one facet, and the calm inlets protected by small islands on the opposite. This place is a photographer’s dream.
Should you don’t need to keep in Lunenburg and day-trip to Blue Rocks, you’ll be able to 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 america 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.
Today, 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 superb place for fishing, canoeing, mountain climbing, and tenting.
We loved wandering round this little city, however we didn’t truly eat right here as we simply visited on a day journey. I like to recommend 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 let you know about Kejimkujik Nationwide Park, you’re in all probability questioning tips on how to pronounce its title! It’s “keji-ma-ku-jik”…simply say it quick and also you’ll be wonderful.
This nationwide park is a gorgeous place to do some mountain climbing in Nova Scotia, geocaching, canoeing, mountain biking and tenting. Plus, you’ll be able to keep in one of many cool forest cabins (one thing we need to do subsequent time we go to Nova Scotia).
There are 15 mountain climbing/biking trails, plus 2 backcountry trails that you could embark on. We selected to hike the “Hemlocks and Hardwoods” path which was an satisfying 5 km loop by way of the forest.
A number of the hemlocks listed below 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 Seashore 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 method 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 Seashore Resort is a superb place to base your self. Plus, the resort itself has plenty of actions and amenities on provide – strolling paths, ocean swimming, pool, bonfires, SUP, kayaking, eating, stay music…and extra.
8. Digby City and Digby Neck
Recognized 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 infinite!
After strolling across the city of Digby (and searching 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 doing away with the wharf earlier than the solar goes down is a good 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 facet of the “neck” is the calm St. Mary’s Bay, and on the opposite is the massive Bay of Fundy. That is the spot to do some whale watching.
Try the extremely rated Hillside Touchdown B&B with a fantastic host and engaging breakfast.
9. The Annapolis Valley
Annapolis Valley is situated between two mountain ranges on the shore of the Bay of Fundy. It’s recognized for agriculture, farming, and vineyards – this gorgeous valley is likely one of the most scenic locations to see in Nova Scotia.
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.
We stayed in Wolfville on the pretty Blomidon Inn, and located that it was a wonderful place to base ourselves for touring the vineyards across the valley.
Within the city itself, you’ll discover a fantastic strolling path, boutique retailers, a cidery (made with native apples), and many enjoyable pubs and eating places. Don’t miss Church Brewing which is in-built a transformed church! Grabbing a craft beer right here was one of many extra distinctive issues we did in Nova Scotia.
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 the easiest way 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 wonderful lunch with our wine at Luckett Vineyards. For wine lovers, this present day journey must be in your listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia!
*Insider tip: attempt the Marquette crimson 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 the most effective vineyard eating places on the planet, Le Caveau.
Should you 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.
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. Today, 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 houses and retailers line the water, and the general really feel of the city is fairly relaxed. It was undoubtedly a cute place to see throughout our journey. We stayed on the Pictou Lodge Seashore Resort, however you may also try the extremely rated Willow Home Inn B&B, which is near the middle of city.
11. Inverness
Inverness and the encircling space is someplace we may’ve stayed for much longer. This 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, should you’re taking the Ceilidh Path clockwise, your first primary cease on the island might be Inverness.
The city itself is residence to a stunning 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 seashore 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!
We took a tour of the distillery, sampled the whiskey, and wandered across the lovely grounds. However, you may also take pleasure in a meal on the restaurant, hearken to stay music and spend the night time in one of many rooms there.
12. Margaree Forks
Simply exterior 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. After all, since Nick is an avid fly-fisherman and Canada has a number of the finest spots, he needed to attempt his luck with the fishing…sadly, the fish weren’t cooperating!
You will get a fishing license for round $62 and a few flies and head out to the river. Try the Tying Scotsman for a license and flies.
There are many locations to remain proper alongside the river, similar to my favourite, Cajun Cedar Log Cottages – we beloved this cabin. Should you’d reasonably keep in Inverness, then Cape Breton Villas is a wonderful selection.
13. Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park
Should you’re driving the Cabot Path, you’ll minimize by way of Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. After paying the nationwide park price, you’re free to benefit from the pure fantastic thing about this a part of Cape Breton Island.
Lace-up your mountain 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 infinite issues to do right here.
We hiked the Skyline Path, which could be finished as a return journey, or a loop. We opted for the 9.2 km (5.6 mile) loop stroll by way 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 way of the mountainside, and Cheticamp Island.
There are many pull-offs and factors of curiosity alongside the Cabot Path, however I like to recommend Lakie’s Head, which is a gorgeous spot the place you might 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.
14. Ingonish
Of all of the locations to go to in Nova Scotia, Ingonish was certainly one of our favourites for positive! It’ss truly an space of 6 totally different communities: Ingonish ferry, harbour, seashore, centre, and North Ingonish.
This space gives mountain climbing, tenting, swimming, whale watching offshore, and extra.
Relying on the tides, Ingonish Seashore 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 Seashore and you may camp right here as properly. Should you’re not into tenting, try the Keltic Lodge on the Highlands, which has essentially the most picturesque environment of any lodging we’ve had. One other nice possibility is the Lantern Hill & Hole which has nice views as properly.
With sweeping views of the ocean and the craggy cliffs, even should you’re not staying right here, undoubtedly come by for the view.
One among my favorite trails in Nova Scotia was The Center Head Path, begins right here on the Keltic Lodge. It wasn’t difficult, nevertheless it was a scenic, 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.
15. Baddeck
Final however not least on my listing of finest locations to go to in Nova Scotia is Baddeck. Set on the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake (Alexander Graham Bell had a household property residence right here), this city is a superb place to sit back out for some time.
Take pleasure in water sports activities (kayaking SUP, jet skis, and many others.), go on a ship tour to see puffins, go to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, take pleasure in a leisurely espresso on the town, or try the close by Usige Ban Waterfall.
The path to achieve the falls is round 3 kilometers lengthy and will take about an hour to finish.
We stayed on the Inverary Resort, which had the proper setting proper on the lake. Take pleasure in late afternoon paddleboarding, kayaking, jet-skiing, or boat using right here – or simply chill out with a beer in hand!
FAQs
Nonetheless have some questions in regards to the issues to do in Nova Scotia? Check out these continuously requested questions.
I feel 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 web site 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 essentially the most visited place within the province. It’s additionally some of the attention-grabbing 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, mountain climbing, and consuming seafood.
The summer time months, from June to August, are the perfect time to go to Nova Scotia. They’ve the warmest climate.
Until you’re content material to discover Halifax (the most effective cities in Nova Scotia) for a weekend, then I recommend at the least every week. We spent 15 days there and I feel we may have spent even longer!
Take pleasure in Nova Scotia!
Relying on the size of your journey, you won’t have the ability to see all of those vacationer points of interest in Nova Scotia that I listed. So, simply select those that stand out to you essentially 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.
After all, this listing of issues to do and locations to see if 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 25 advisable finest locations to go to and the highest issues to do in Nova Scotia. Take pleasure in your keep and take a look at our movies right here:
Wish to know what to do in Halifax? Try our video: High 10 Issues to Do in Halifax
Wish to know the place to go to in Nova Scotia? Try our video Maritime Journey: Our Highlights and Ideas from Travelling Nova Scotia
A particular thanks to the Nova Scotia tourism board for making this journey potential. As at all times, all ideas and opinions stay our personal.
Like This Article? Pin It!
