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.
Regardless that we did and noticed (and ate!) so much, 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 Greatest Issues to Do in Nova Scotia
This island on the east coast of our residence nation could also be small, however it has so much to supply travellers. With so many stunning locations to see and distinctive issues to do in Nova Scotia, in case you’re brief on time, selecting the must-sees is usually a little bit of a problem.
Scenic drives, mountain climbing alternatives, recent seafood, fabulous wineries, and vibrant fishing cities are simply a few of the many issues you may 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 carried out. I’ve by no means been whitewater rafting, however I can say I’ve been tidal bore rafting! In case you’re an adventurous individual, tidal bore rafting ought to be firmly positioned in your listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia.
Two instances 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 a complete lot of swells.
In fact, quite 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). Dangle on tight and benefit from the journey.
However, it’s not all concerning 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 timber. After a couple of rounds of flying over rapids, we launched our interior little one, and did some mud sliding on the banks of the river.
There are quite a few corporations to select from, however I recommend testing Schubie River Wranglers out of Inexperienced Oaks who’ve been in enterprise because the late Eighties.
Ideas: 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 sneakers. Convey a change of clothes and towel – there are fundamental, scorching showers accessible.
2. Drive the Cabot Path
The Cabot Path is taken into account one of the vital scenic drives in North America, and this 297 km (185 mile) route presents 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 stunning locations to go to in Nova Scotia!
It’s an awesome place to drive, cycle, or expertise the curvy street by bike.
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 cherished all the 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 may select to drive clockwise, or counterclockwise. The entire path could possibly be carried out in a day, however a extra gratifying method to expertise it’s to drive for a little bit bit, hop out of your automobile and go for a hike, a swim, and a meal earlier than spending the evening someplace alongside the path.
That is what we selected to do. Mountain climbing, fishing and enjoyable alongside the way in which with stays in Inverness, Ingonish and Baddeck.
3. Go Mountain climbing 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.
Once 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 in case 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 standard for good cause!
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 tip 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 stunning 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 after 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 presents 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 tougher 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 nicely. When you have the time and the power to take action, you may embark on one of many backcountry trails (4 days lengthy), or in case you’re searching for a day hike, there are many these as nicely 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 mountain 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 completely examine your self for ticks while you go away the park, as they carry Lyme illness.
4. Absorb a Competition
We had no concept, however after we travelled to Nova Scotia, it was the Halifax Jazz Competition. Not solely that, however considered one of my favorite artists was performing – Frequent. I couldn’t consider it! In fact, we needed to get tickets and the efficiency was unimaginable. In case 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 shall be a enjoyable competition that pursuits you.
When you’ll undoubtedly discover occasions occurring all yr, most festivals are on through the summer season months when the climate is hotter and you may benefit from the outside venues.
Don’t miss the TD Halifax Jazz Competition, Royal Nova Scotia Worldwide Tattoo, Satisfaction 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 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 wish to miss.
Every a part of the province has a unique lobster season, however you could find lobster virtually any time of yr.
Don’t miss a lobster boil, eating on 1.5 kilos of lobster at a pleasant restaurant (Nick cherished 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 thought for its world-class scallops! Select your preparation (grilled, pan-fried, deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, ceviche, uncooked, and so on.) and dig in. Nick was in scallop heaven right here…
If lobster and scallops aren’t your factor, you may at all times 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 wonderful seafood is my suggestion!
6. Comply with One of many “Trails”
A extremely cool factor to do in Nova Scotia that I haven’t seen anyplace else is to comply with one of many food and drinks trails across the province.
Principally, you choose up a “passport” from a taking part vendor, or you may 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 very best meals and drinks in Nova Scotia.
When you’ve visited one of many stops, you get a stamp in your passport and upon getting 3 stamps, you may enter to win prizes.
There are 3 trails:
With so many superb eating places and bars to take pleasure in, attempting to determine the place to eat and drink is the onerous half!
7. Go Tenting
Since this submit 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 virtually fully surrounded by water, this can be a good spot to do some tenting.
We met up with our mates and loved some tenting enjoyable in Inverness. You possibly can 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 may cease which have enough facilities.
Cape Breton Island has quite a few campsites accessible round Ingonish, Meat Cove, Broad Cove, Inverness, and extra.
For different tenting alternatives, take a look at 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 our residence province of British Columbia, and Ontario produce probably the most quantity of wine within the nation, little Nova Scotia has some vineyards value visiting and distinctive grape varietals value sampling…particularly in case you like white and glowing wines.
Nova Scotia is thought for its Tidal Bay wine – the primary wine appellation given within the province. For the reason that 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.
In an effort 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 wish to spend a while.
We based mostly ourselves in Wolfville and joined a tour for the journey in order that we may totally benefit from the wine tastings!
Whereas there are lots of vineyards to go to, I like to recommend Benjamin Bridge, Luckett and Gaspereau. All three have beautiful 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 crimson cellphone field 😉
9. Do Some Kayaking
Being surrounded virtually fully by water, and residential to quite a few coves, bays, and islands, we weren’t shocked to seek out out that kayaking is likely one of the high actions in Nova Scotia.
There are many locations you may go paddling, however I like to recommend Blue Rocks, which is a neighborhood simply outdoors of Lunenburg.
Many individuals come right here to {photograph} the beautiful blue shale rocks, or to walk across the quiet neighborhood, however the easiest way to see the pure great thing about the world is to hop in a kayak.
We paddled by way of slender passageways, and alongside rock islands, all whereas having fun with the calm water.
Regardless 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 usually, the humpbacks don’t present up till mid-June.
You’ll discover wonderful whale watching alternatives within the Bay of Fundy simply outdoors of Digby on the Digby Neck (peninsula) and off of Cape Breton Island.
Each whale watching spots in Nova Scotia provide the prospect to see humpback, fin, and minke whales. The Bay Of Fundy additionally has Northern proper whales, whereas Cape Breton presents the biggest 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.
Regardless that we solely noticed 1 humpback whale, we ended up seeing 2 fin whales (that are the second largest whale on this 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 mistaken time of yr for whales, you may at all times go on a seal watching tour. You study concerning the historical past of the area and see plenty of wildlife on this standard tour from Pictou.
Tip: Even when it’s a sunny day, be sure that to carry some heat clothes. The climate can change immediately, and it’s at all times chilly out on the water. Additionally, carry a hat, sunscreen, water and naturally, your digicam.
15 Greatest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia
Questioning the place to go in Nova Scotia? Take a look at our video: Greatest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia:
Listed here are the very best 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 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 provide to maintain you busy for a couple of days.
There are many neighbourhoods right here as nicely. We took the 5-minute ferry throughout the bay to Dartmouth and loved wandering round over there for a couple 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 couple of days right here and cherished it!
The place to Keep in Halifax
Halifax has so many areas you would 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 wish to be across the Downtown space.
This is a busy a part of town, however it’s a superb 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 opinions.
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 here are a couple of nice choices:
- Piatto Pizzeria – Italian type, 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 beautiful and the meals is superb. Attempt the tenderloin steak and the lobster.
- The Wood Monkey – We didn’t eat right here, however it’s extremely rated as an awesome place for vegetarians and vegans.
- Johnny Okay’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, this can be 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 cause!
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 an awesome cease in case you’re on an extended Nova Scotia street journey.
The neighborhood is about proper on the ocean, with huge 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 would 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 Highway.
3. Mahone Bay
Persevering with alongside the gorgeous Lighthouse Route, you’ll arrive at Mahone Bay (in case you have an opportunity, take a look at Chester on the way in which), which is thought for its iconic 3 church buildings, relaxed environment, and small-town hospitality.
We cherished this cute city and spent a while testing the various outlets 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 in case you’re not driving, take a look at the Saltbox Brewery for some beers.
Mahone Bay is a good place to spend a while and is unquestionably one of many Nova Scotia sights you don’t wish to miss.
In case you’re feeling extra energetic, or have additional time, there’s really 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 part of it at numerous factors, or simply hike a portion of it, quite 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 wish to miss.
Many individuals decide 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 gratifying 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 concerning the attention-grabbing historical past of town (and the distinctive houses that line the streets).
Additionally, don’t miss the Ironworks Distillery tour. Even in case you’re not a booze drinker, the constructing its set in is value a go to itself. It was in-built 1893, it was once a blacksmith’s store that made ironworks for the shipbuilding trade in Lunenburg.
The place to Keep in Lunenburg
There are many inns and accommodations right here in Lunenburg. One highly-rated choice 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 opinions.
The place to Eat in Lunenburg
The Savvy Sailor Cafe has tasty breakfasts and big parts. We loved a pint at The Grand Banker, which is extremely rated for meals and drinks, and dinner on the Salt Shaker.
5. Blue Rocks
As I discussed above, Blue Rocks is a good place for kayaking. Nevertheless, in case you don’t wish 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.
In case you don’t wish to keep in Lunenburg and day-trip to Blue Rocks, you may 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 through the American Revolution. Nonetheless loyal to the British, they have been enticed to maneuver to Shelburne with a promise of land and provisions.
Lately, 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, mountain climbing, and tenting.
We loved wandering round this little city, however we didn’t really 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 inform you about Kejimkujik Nationwide Park, you’re most likely questioning pronounce its identify! It’s “keji-ma-ku-jik”…simply say it quick and also you’ll be advantageous.
This nationwide park is an attractive place to do some mountain climbing in Nova Scotia, geocaching, canoeing, mountain biking and tenting. Plus, you may keep in one of many cool forest cabins (one thing we wish to do subsequent time we go to Nova Scotia).
There are 15 mountain climbing/biking trails, plus 2 backcountry trails that you would be able to embark on. We selected to hike the “Hemlocks and Hardwoods” path which was an gratifying 5 km loop by way 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 really cut 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 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 Seaside Resort is a good 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
Identified for being the scallop capital of the world, Digby is a spot seafood lovers gained’t wish 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 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 getting rid of 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 big Bay of Fundy. That is the spot to do some whale watching.
Take a look at the extremely rated Hillside Touchdown B&B with an awesome 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 identified 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 beautiful Blomidon Inn, and located that it was a superb place to base ourselves for touring the vineyards across the valley.
Within the city itself, you’ll discover an awesome strolling path, boutique outlets, 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 nicely. Taking a vineyard bus tour with a delegated driver is the easiest way to discover the vineyards.
We went with Grape Escapes, a tour that truly 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, at the present time journey needs to be in your listing of issues to do in Nova Scotia!
*Insider tip: strive 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 this planet, Le Caveau.
In case you love recent and domestically grown produce, and supporting small companies, you’ll undoubtedly wish 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 after they arrived in Nova Scotia. Lately, you’ll nonetheless see Scottish tartans on the sunshine posts, and there’s a duplicate of the ship (Hector) that they arrive on in 1773.
Vibrant houses and outlets 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 Seaside Resort, however it’s also possible to take a look at 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 wish to do some tenting.
Crossing the two kilometer Canso Causeway from the mainland of Nova Scotia, you’ll arrive on Cape Breton Island. Possible, in case you’re taking the Ceilidh Path clockwise, your first primary cease on the island shall be Inverness.
The city itself is residence to a beautiful 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. Actually, there are solely two on the continent!
We took a tour of the distillery, sampled the whiskey, and wandered across the stunning grounds. However, it’s also possible to take pleasure in a meal on the restaurant, take heed to stay music and spend the evening in one of many rooms there.
12. Margaree Forks
Simply outdoors of Inverness is Margaree Forks, which is the very best place in Nova Scotia to do some fly fishing, the place 40-pound salmon run the Margaree River. In fact, since Nick is an avid fly-fisherman and Canada has a few of the finest spots, he wished to strive 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. Take a look at the Tying Scotsman for a license and flies.
There are many locations to remain proper alongside the river, reminiscent of my favourite, Cajun Cedar Log Cottages – we cherished this cabin. In case you’d quite keep in Inverness, then Cape Breton Villas is a superb selection.
13. Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park
In case you’re driving the Cabot Path, you’ll reduce by way of Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. After paying the nationwide park price, you’re free to benefit from the pure great 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 limitless issues to do right here.
We hiked the Skyline Path, which could be carried out 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 an attractive spot the place you would probably 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 considered one of our favourites for positive! It’ss really an space of 6 completely different communities: Ingonish ferry, harbour, seashore, centre, and North Ingonish.
This space presents mountain climbing, tenting, swimming, whale watching offshore, and extra.
Relying on the tides, Ingonish Seaside is both rocky or sandy and despite the fact that the water was chilly after we visited, Nick nonetheless went for a dip within the ocean!
There’s a freshwater lake at Ingonish Seaside and you may camp right here as nicely. In case you’re not into tenting, take a look at the Keltic Lodge on the Highlands, which has probably the most picturesque environment of any lodging we’ve had. One other nice choice is the Lantern Hill & Hole which has nice views as nicely.
With sweeping views of the ocean and the craggy cliffs, even in case you’re not staying right here, undoubtedly come by for the view.
One in all my favorite trails in Nova Scotia was The Center Head Path, begins right here on the Keltic Lodge. It wasn’t difficult, however it was a scenic, 1.5-hour loop that takes you out to the tip of the purpose for a incredible view. This hike is brief however candy.
One other tougher choice is the close by Franey Mountain Path, which takes round 3 hours and has a 300 m ascent, however presents 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 good place to relax out for some time.
Get pleasure from water sports activities (kayaking SUP, jet skis, and so on.), 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 take a look at 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 right setting proper on the lake. Get pleasure from late afternoon paddleboarding, kayaking, jet-skiing, or boat driving right here – or simply loosen up with a beer in hand!
FAQs
Nonetheless have some questions concerning the issues to do in Nova Scotia? Check out these ceaselessly requested questions.
I believe Lunenburg is likely one of the most stunning 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 stunning 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 vital 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 season months, from June to August, are the very best time to go to Nova Scotia. They’ve the warmest climate.
Except you’re content material to discover Halifax (the most effective cities in Nova Scotia) for a weekend, then I recommend at the least per week. We spent 15 days there and I believe we may have spent even longer!
Get pleasure from Nova Scotia!
Relying on the size of your journey, you won’t be capable to see all of those vacationer sights 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 means 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 issues to do 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 25 advisable finest locations to go to and the highest issues to do in Nova Scotia. Get pleasure from your keep 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 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.
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