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.
Although we did and noticed (and ate!) rather a lot, 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 dwelling nation could also be small, nevertheless it has rather a lot to supply travellers. With so many lovely locations to see and distinctive issues to do in Nova Scotia, when you’re quick on time, selecting the must-sees is usually a little bit of a problem.
Scenic drives, climbing alternatives, recent seafood, fabulous wineries, and vibrant fishing cities are simply a number of the many issues you may count on 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 greatest issues to do in Nova Scotia:
1. Expertise Tidal Bore Rafting
That is nonetheless one of many craziest issues we’ve accomplished. I’ve by no means been whitewater rafting, however I can say I’ve been tidal bore rafting! In case you’re an adventurous particular person, tidal bore rafting ought to be firmly positioned in your record 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 a complete lot of swells.
In fact, moderately than simply watch this pure phenomenon, we thought it’d be way more thrilling to hop on a zodiac and launch over the waves! Tidal bore rafting tops my record 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 experience.
However, it’s not all in regards to the loopy journey on the river, we loved a quiet boat experience earlier than the tide got here in, and even noticed bald eagles excessive within the timber. After just a few 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 trying out Schubie River Wranglers out of Inexperienced Oaks who’ve been in enterprise for the reason that late Eighties.
Ideas: Be certain that 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. Deliver a change of clothes and towel – there are primary, scorching showers accessible.
2. Drive the Cabot Path
The Cabot Path is taken into account probably the most scenic drives in North America, and this 297 km (185 mile) route presents a surprising journey.
Positioned 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 highway by bike.
I like to recommend taking Route 19 (Ceilidh Path) as you cross the causeway to Cape Breton Island. This can be a picturesque route and we beloved all the nice locations to cease alongside the best way – 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 may select to drive clockwise, or counterclockwise. The entire path might be accomplished in a day, however a extra fulfilling 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 evening someplace alongside the path.
That is what we selected to do. Mountain climbing, fishing and enjoyable alongside the best way 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 all the time good to get out and stretch your legs. Nova Scotia is dwelling 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 dwelling to 26 climbing trails.
The preferred is the Skyline Path, and also you’ll want to order upfront, however when you get pleasure from climbing by your self, this path isn’t for you – a minimum of not in the summertime months when it’s fairly busy.
Nevertheless, it’s fashionable 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 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 best way again to ourselves.
One other nice climbing alternative is the Center Head Path. We did this hike once we have been staying on the beautiful Keltic Lodge at Ingonish.
The 1.5-hour peninsula hike is extra rugged than the Skyline Path and presents unbelievable 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. Deliver enough meals, water, and clothes for the hike.
Nova Scotia’s different nationwide park is Kejimkujik, which is dwelling to some nice hikes as properly. If in case you have the time and the flexibility to take action, you may embark on one of many backcountry trails (4 days lengthy), or when you’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.
Outdoors of the nationwide parks, you’ll additionally discover some nice climbing. Try the Celtic Shores Mountain climbing Path, the Bay to Bay Path, and Polly Cove path – to call just a few.
Tip: Be certain that to put on bug spray and completely verify your self for ticks while you depart the park, as they carry Lyme illness.
4. Absorb a Competition
We had no concept, however once we travelled to Nova Scotia, it was the Halifax Jazz Competition. Not solely that, however one in all my favorite artists was performing – Widespread. I couldn’t imagine it! In fact, we needed to get tickets and the efficiency was unbelievable. 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 might be a enjoyable competition that pursuits you.
Whilst you’ll undoubtedly discover occasions taking place all 12 months, most festivals are on through the summer season months when the climate is hotter and you’ll 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 Recent Seafood
Nick feasted on shellfish throughout our journey, however since I’m not a shellfish fan, I largely 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 wish to miss.
Every a part of the province has a unique lobster season, however you could find lobster virtually any time of 12 months.
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 so on.) and dig in. Nick was in scallop heaven right here…
If lobster and scallops aren’t your factor, you may 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 extremely cool factor to do in Nova Scotia that I haven’t seen wherever else is to comply with one of many food and drinks trails across the province.
Principally, you decide up a “passport” from a collaborating vendor, or you may register on-line for a digital passport. On this passport, you’ll discover a record 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 getting 3 stamps, you may enter to win prizes.
There are 3 trails:
Lobster Path
Chowder Path
Good Cheer Path
With so many superb eating places and bars to get pleasure from, making an attempt 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 record of issues to do in Nova Scotia. Blessed with nature, and virtually fully surrounded by water, it is a excellent place to do some tenting.
We met up with our pals and loved some tenting enjoyable in Inverness. You may Both pitch a tent in one of many many campsites or spend the evening in a singular 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 just a few. For a full record of campgrounds in Nova Scotia, click on right here.
8. Tour Vineyards
Though our dwelling province 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 when 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 wished to create a wine that displays that – one thing cool and crisp.
As a way 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 beautiful 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 might totally 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 attractive environment and attractive wines.
Be certain that to have lunch at Luckett Vineyards, the meals is fabulous. Oh, and don’t neglect to make a name from the purple 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 stunned to search 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 exterior of Lunenburg.
Many individuals come right here to {photograph} the gorgeous blue shale rocks, or to walk across the quiet neighborhood, however one of the simplest ways to see the pure fantastic 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.
Although the Atlantic Ocean might be extremely tough and wild, the rock islands right here present safety for kayakers. To be taught 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 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 prospect to see humpback, fin, and minke whales. The Bay Of Fundy additionally has Northern proper whales, whereas Cape Breton presents 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.
Although 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 be taught extra about whale watching within the Bay of Fundy, click on right here.
If it’s the unsuitable time of 12 months for whales, you may all the time go on a seal watching tour. You be taught in regards to the historical past of the area and see a lot of wildlife on this fashionable tour from Pictou.
Tip: Even when it’s a sunny day, be sure to carry some heat clothes. The climate can change straight away, and it’s all the time chilly out on the water. Additionally, carry a hat, sunscreen, water and naturally, your digital camera.
15 Greatest Locations to Go to in Nova Scotia
Questioning the place to go in Nova Scotia? Try our video: Greatest 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 greatest locations to go to in Nova Scotia – it’s additionally probably 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 just a few 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 just a few hours.
Town is dwelling 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 just a few days right here and beloved it!
The place to Keep in Halifax
Halifax has so many areas you possibly can keep in, however if you wish to be close to the waterfront, nice eating places, and most of the vacationer websites, then you definately’ll wish to be across the Downtown space.
That is a busy a part of town, nevertheless it’s a wonderful location for some spending just a few days in Halifax.
We stayed on the historic Westin Nova Scotian (of their newly renovated rooms) and loved the view of the harbour. The employees are very pleasant, there are many onsite facilities, parking is accessible, and the breakfast omelette and waffle station was a pleasant bonus. Click on right here to see the most recent 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 greatest locations to go to in Nova Scotia for foodies. Listed below are just a few nice choices:
Piatto Pizzeria – Italian type, wood-fired pizzas
The Bicycle Thief – Glorious location, employees, and meals. Attempt the lobster roll and rigatoni pasta with ragu sauce.
The 5 Fishermen – Though not positioned on the water, the eating space is beautiful 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 Okay’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 – Positioned 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 record – it’s a must-see for good purpose!
We drove about 45-minutes from Halifax alongside the Lighthouse Route to succeed in Peggy’s Cove, making it a straightforward day-trip from the Capital, or a fantastic cease when you’re on an extended Nova Scotia highway journey.
The neighborhood 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 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 possibly can 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 Highway.
3. Mahone Bay
Persevering with alongside the beautiful Lighthouse Route, you’ll arrive at Mahone Bay (when you’ve got an opportunity, take a look at Chester on the best way), which is understood for its iconic 3 church buildings, relaxed ambiance, 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 cell library bus!
The locally-sourced meals on the eating places is divine (we had espresso on the Barn Espresso and Social Home), and when 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 lively, or have additional 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’ll be part of it at numerous factors, or simply hike a portion of it, moderately 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 received’t wish 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 fulfilling 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 be taught in regards to the attention-grabbing historical past of town (and the distinctive properties that line the streets).
Additionally, don’t miss the Ironworks Distillery tour. Even when you’re not a booze drinker, the constructing its set in is price a go to itself. It was in-built 1893, it was a blacksmith’s store that made ironworks for the shipbuilding trade in Lunenburg.
The place to Keep in Lunenburg
There are many inns and inns right here in Lunenburg. One highly-rated choice is the Sail Inn with harbour views from the rooms. The employees are pleasant and the breakfast is scrumptious. Click on right here to see the most recent 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 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, when you don’t wish to get out on the water, it’s nonetheless definitely 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 aspect, 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 the US through the American Revolution. Nonetheless loyal to the British, they have been enticed to maneuver to Shelburne with a promise of land and provisions.
As of late, 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 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 most likely questioning find out how to pronounce its identify! It’s “keji-ma-ku-jik”…simply say it quick and also you’ll be positive.
This nationwide park is an attractive place to do some 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 climbing/biking trails, plus 2 backcountry trails you can embark on. We selected to hike the “Hemlocks and Hardwoods” path which was an fulfilling 5 km loop by way of the forest.
A number of the hemlocks listed here are round 400 years outdated! 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 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 a lot of actions and services 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 received’t wish to miss. Pan-fried, deep-fried, sauteed, uncooked, bacon-wrapped, grilled, ceviche…the record of scallop preparations is countless!
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 beautiful – 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 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.
Try the extremely rated Hillside Touchdown B&B with a fantastic host and attractive breakfast.
9. The Annapolis Valley
Annapolis Valley is positioned between two mountain ranges on the shore of the Bay of Fundy. It’s recognized for agriculture, farming, and vineyards – this beautiful valley is likely one of the most scenic locations to see in Nova Scotia.
Plus, the Annapolis Valley is dwelling 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 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 plenty of 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 delegated driver is one of the simplest ways 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 superb lunch with our wine at Luckett Vineyards. For wine lovers, at the present time journey must be in your record of issues to do in Nova Scotia!
*Insider tip: strive 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 top-of-the-line vineyard eating places on the planet, Le Caveau.
In case you love recent and regionally grown produce, and supporting small companies, you’ll undoubtedly wish to add the Annapolis Valley to your record 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. As of late, 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 properties 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 Seaside Resort, however you too can 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 might’ve stayed for much longer. This is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Nova Scotia for golfers, fishermen, and those that wish to do some tenting.
Crossing the two kilometer Canso Causeway from the mainland of Nova Scotia, you’ll arrive on Cape Breton Island. Doubtless, when you’re taking the Ceilidh Path clockwise, your first important cease on the island might be Inverness.
The city itself is dwelling 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 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!
We took a tour of the distillery, sampled the whiskey, and wandered across the lovely grounds. However, you too can get pleasure from a meal on the restaurant, take heed to stay music and spend the evening 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. In fact, since Nick is an avid fly-fisherman and Canada has a number of the greatest 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. 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. In case you’d moderately keep in Inverness, then Cape Breton Villas is a wonderful selection.
13. Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park
In case you’re driving the Cabot Path, you’ll minimize by way of Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. After paying the nationwide park payment, 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 revel in a snack, or do some tenting, fishing, and kayaking! There are countless issues to do right here.
We hiked the Skyline Path, which might be accomplished 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 possibly can 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 one in all our favourites for positive! It’ss truly an space of 6 totally different communities: Ingonish ferry, harbour, seaside, centre, and North Ingonish.
This space presents climbing, tenting, swimming, whale watching offshore, and extra.
Relying on the tides, Ingonish Seaside is both rocky or sandy and though 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, 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 properly.
With sweeping views of the ocean and the craggy cliffs, even when 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 improbable view. This hike is brief however candy.
One other more difficult choice is the close by Franey Mountain Path, which takes round 3 hours and has a 300 m ascent, however presents unbelievable views from the highest.
15. Baddeck
Final however not least on my record of greatest locations to go to in Nova Scotia is Baddeck. Set on the attractive Bras d’Or Lake (Alexander Graham Bell had a household property dwelling right here), this city is a good place to sit back out for some time.
Take pleasure in 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, get pleasure from a leisurely espresso on the town, or take a look at the close by Usige Ban Waterfall.
The path to succeed in the falls is round 3 kilometers lengthy and may 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 incessantly 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 outdated 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 probably the most attention-grabbing cities in Nova Scotia to discover.
Scenic Peggy’s Cove is likely one of the greatest 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 (top-of-the-line cities in Nova Scotia) for a weekend, then I recommend a minimum of per week. We spent 15 days there and I feel we might have spent even longer!
Take pleasure in 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 decide an space of the province and work your method round there.
The excellent news is that Nova Scotia is sort of compact, making getting round and visiting quite a few cities a breeze.
In fact, this record 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 record of 25 really useful greatest 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 doable. As all the time, all ideas and opinions stay our personal.
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