Pictou 11. There are endless places to visit, things to do, and dishes to eat youll never be bored on this Greek island. We chose to hike the Hemlocks and Hardwoods trail which was an enjoyable 5 km loop through the forest. Required fields are marked *. For free tips, head to over to our Nova Scotia road trip itinerary. Moon was our favorite guide from the trip. We went in October and saw a spectacular Autumn display of colors. Find all the helpful info you need to plan your visit to Nova Scotia, Canada. The boat was large enough that it was comfortable, not cramped, and the staff members were knowledgable about the ocean and the marine life. If you dont want to stay in Lunenburg and day-trip to Blue Rocks, you can stay in one of the guesthouses here. Halifax 2. "Nova Scotia" is Latin for "New Scotland", and Scottish settlers brought culture and traditions that continue to this day, albeit now mixed with the cultures of native Mi'kmaq and settlers from numerous other . Frugal and independent traveler who believes that travel yields an understanding of different cultures. If you are looking for more in-depth travel advice about Belgium and the Netherlands, I created a guidebook on behalf of Moon Travel about, The unique Soviet-era hotel in Moscow that you must see, 25 Essential Dutch phrases for traveling in the Netherlands, Your perfect itinerary for a weekend in Luxembourg road trip, A perfect day exploring the adorable town of Drnstein, Austria, The Miniaturist filming locations and must-see places for fans of the book . The highest tides on earth, the rarest whales in the world, semi-precious minerals and dinosaur fossils are all there to discover at thisNatural Wonder of North America. The Middle Head Trail starts here at the Keltic Lodge. Also, bring a hat, sunscreen, water and of course, your camera. The Savvy Sailor Cafe has tasty breakfasts and huge portions. Check out our video: Best Places to Visit in Nova Scotia: In this post, Ill list the top attractions, things to do, points of interest, and the best places in Nova Scotia to help you plan your trip. Hike the Skyline Trail. Whether youre into music, food, crafts, art, history, or sports, there will be a fun festival that interests you. Downtown Dartmouth offers playgrounds, parks, eclectic restaurants and pubs and a great view of Halifax. Your email address will not be published. With natural sites and towns less than an hour away, the White Point Beach Resort is a great place to base yourself. This is the spot to do some whale watching. It should be noted that Mikmaq are credited with inventing the ice hockey stick as hockey has been well documented throughout their history. What month were these taken? New Hampshire to Nova Scotia - 7 ways to travel via train - Rome2rio Spend the night at the worlds first Starlight hotel, Trout Point Lodge, for one of the best stargazing spots in North America. Its a quick 30-minute drive from the Halifax Stanfield Airport to Downtown Halifax and the vibrant Waterfront area. Residents of Cape Breton even refer themselves as being an Islander. Not only was the food tasty, but the setting was stunning we even saw seals popping their heads up in the water. And when is the best time for whale watching? Stop into the town of Digby, Nova Scotia, famous for its delicious scallops, or hike the trail to Balancing rock on Long Island. While youll definitely find events happening year-round, the vast majority happen during the summer months when the weather is warmer and you can enjoy the outdoor venues. Most restaurants offer scallops, lobster, salmon, haddock, mussels, and other delicious fooods. So if you're planning a trip to Cabot Links, you must travel there between late spring and early fall. Its been corrected for and we appreciate the feedback as we aim to make our posts as accurate as possible. If youre interested in booking an Airbnb, dont forget your coupon. Check out our video: Top 10 Things to Do in Halifax, Want to know where to visit in Nova Scotia? Drive the Cabot Trail (one of the most popular things to do in Nova Scotia), Now You Know What to Do and Where to Visit in Nova Scotia, Zakynthos Greece: A Complete Travel Guide for 2023, Visiting Crete in 2023: Complete Travel Guide, 15 Best Places To Visit in Montana in 2023. Most businesses seem to close around 8pm, unless you are in a larger city like Halifax. I grew up on Cape Breton Island and attended university in Halifax. Dont miss the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and Boat Shop on the waterfront. Before I tell you about Kejimkujik National Park, youre probably wondering how to pronounce its name! Whatever direction you choose, you'll travel . I hope you enjoyed my list of 15 recommended best places to visit and the top 10 things to do in Nova Scotia. The Halifax Harbourwalk is one of the longest downtown boardwalks in the world at nearly 5 km (3 miles) long, with dozens of restaurants, galleries, museums, world-class hotels and tour opportunities. Getting around in Nova Scotia - Lonely Planet This 10-kilometer pathway is called the Bay To Bay Trail, and you can join it at various points, or just hike a portion of it, rather than the whole trail. There are endless things to do here. Also dont miss out on great Nova Scotia activities like kayaking, hiking, and eating seafood. Same story with the font size. These schools have been very successful and there has been an large increase inMikmaq students attending college. Most brewmasters take pride in their work and are often nearby to answer questions about their locally sourced ingredients and craftsmanship, so dont be shy. A visit to Nova Scotia is not complete without witnessing the incredible tides of the Bay of Fundy. Flying from Texas, we want to go to Nova Scotia for a couple of weeks next summer. The whole trail could be done in a day, but a more enjoyable way to experience it is to drive for a little bit, hop out of your vehicle and go for a hike, a swim, and a meal before spending the night somewhere along the trail. Nova Scotia is home to two national parks, one national park reserve, and numerous provincial and historic parks. There are some great trails in the province and after driving, its always nice to get out and stretch your legs. Check out the Celtic Shores Hiking Trail, the Bay to Bay Trail, and Polly Cove trail to name a few. Base yourself in Wolfville and check out the Grand Pre National Historic site, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Landscape of Grand-Pr. This region of Nova Scotia also holds special significance to the Mikmaq, as the home of Kluskap, a legendary figure in indigenous lore across New England and the Maritimes. Its a short walk into town and there are lots of activities nearby like kayaking, pedal boats, and SUP. On the edge of the Atlantic, Nova Scotia offers up glowing sunsets and jaw-dropping scenery which can be seen along its incredible winding coastal roads. And for a truly educational visit, swing by theDeep Sky Eye Observatory for a guided tour and a peek through telescopes. Look for the Jodry, Woodland, and Borden Brook trails at Blomidon Provincial Park. This hike is short but sweet. Depending on the tides, Ingonish Beach is either rocky or sandy and even though the water was chilly when we visited, Nick still went for a dip in the ocean! Its been well documented that First Nation members including the Mikmaq were placed into residential school system, which was a boarding school system intended to remove childrens ties to their home cultures by banning them from speaking their home languages and force them to assimilate into majority white Canadian society. Youll find excellent whale watching opportunities in the Bay of Fundy just outside of Digby on the Digby Neck (peninsula) and off of Cape Breton Island. Valley Sky Luxury Camping lets you immerse yourself in the wondrous outdoors and natural beauty of Grand Pre and offers the finest of luxuries to complement the peace of mind that comes with a rural retreat. Conversations with residents make me believe that Nova Scotia is divided into two parts: the Mainland and Cape Breton Island. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Karen. Theres a freshwater lake at Ingonish Beach and you can camp here as well. The ferry transports passengers and vehicles. You can choose to drive clockwise or counterclockwise (we did the former). one of Nova Scotia's best National Parks, Cape Breton Highlands. A portion of the hike is on a natural trail, while part of it is on a boardwalk to protect the tree roots. Road Trip: Maine to Nova Scotia. We stayed at Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa, a lovely old building with sweeping views across the Bay of Fundy. There are many places to stargaze in Nova Scotia and youre guaranteed a mesmerizing experience when visiting the province. The trail to reach the falls is around 3 kilometers long and should take about an hour to complete. Of course, this list of activities and places to see when you visit Nova Scotia is just the tip of the iceberg. Other places to visit in Cape Breton include the Glace Bay Miners Museum, the town of Sydney, Goat Island and of course, the world-famous Cabot Trail. Whether youre looking for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culinary trails or family-friendly attractions, this Maritime province has it all. Pan-fried, deep-fried, sauteed, raw, bacon-wrapped, grilled, cevichethe list of scallop preparations is endless! Most road trips in Atlantic Canada and Nova Scotia start in Halifax as that's where you'll be taking your flight. Maybe the difference is in the actual device we are reading from. Driving from the Western shore to the Eastern shore is a ten hour drive. Top 25 | Trip Ideas | Tourism Nova Scotia, Canada That being said, it was an amazing trip with a day spent on the Cabot Trail and a couple of half days on a birdwatching cruise, and just driving the backroads to see the landscape. Nova Scotia Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2023) - Nomadic Matt's Travel Site The earliest hockey stick was carved by the Mikmaq in Nova Scotia. If youre looking for things to do in Nova Scotia year-round, take in one of the many festivals! In the cove itself, brightly colored houses and fishing shacks cradle the small but busy wharf in this working fishing village. You'll find helpful information on this page. The fortress Louisbourg is one of the best places to visit in Nova Scotia a recreation of a French fort. Driving Tips for the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island - TripSavvy It was a two-hour experience with music performances, audience questions, and explanations. Thanks. Having said that, we went whale watching in the Bay Of Fundy in mid-July and only spotted 1 humpback whale. Basically, you pick up a passport from a participating vendor, or you can register online for a digital passport. Here are the best things to do in Nova Scotia. From lazing on beaches in Turkey to sipping Guinness in Dublin or traveling through Mongolia, here are the best places to visit in September. For a full list of campgrounds in Nova Scotia, click here. This route meanders along the coastline of Cape Breton Island, and high up into the plateaus of the aptly named Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Tourism Nova Scotia - Plan Your Trip to Nova Scotia From epic coastal drives to historic maritime villages, these are Nova Scotia's best things to do Bryan Juurlink / 500px, Lighthouses, whales and fishing villages: 10 best places to visit in Nova Scotia. Brier Island, a small island jutting out into the Bay of Fundy on Nova Scotias Western tip, is one of the best places to visit in Nova Scotia. Summer vacation, at least for our family, is synonymous with road trips. Another great hiking opportunity is the Middle Head Trail which starts at the stunning Keltic Lodge at Ingonish. There are many ways to experience this phenomenal site beyond just pulling up for a quick roadside visit. Continuing along the stunning Lighthouse Route, youll arrive at Mahone Bay (if you have a chance, check out Chester on the way), which is known for its iconic 3 churches, relaxed atmosphere, and small-town hospitality. This Nova Scotia road trip guide will introduce you to beautiful beaches, succulent lobster, and awe-inspiring lighthouses by way of a 10-hour driving loop around Nova Scotia's southwest coast. They even have onsite astronomers to help guests learn about the stars overhead. One side of the neck is the calm St. Marys Bay, and on the other is the large Bay of Fundy. Once youve had your fill of lobster, head to Digby, which is known for its world-class scallops! Here your experience includes a private picnic and wine tasting with a sommelier on the island, which you have all to yourself. Forecast Eye Path updated 2 hours ago. Peace. Its about a 45-minute drive from Halifax along the Lighthouse Route to reach Peggys Cove, making it an easy day-trip from the Capital, or a great stop if youre on a longer Nova Scotia road trip. Located along a harbor and bordered by dramatic hills, the town is dotted with beguiling pastel-colored buildings, most of which were constructed between the 18th and 19th . Click here to see the latest room rates and reviews. Digby Town and Digby Neck 9. If you are travelling without kids September is perfect. My two daughters took me on a long weekend trip to Nova Scotia when I turned 60. Click here to see the latest prices and reviews. Dont miss a lobster boil, dining on 1.5 pounds of lobster at a nice restaurant (Five Fishermen in Halifax), sampling a lobster roll (Capt. Itineraries | Trip Ideas | Tourism Nova Scotia, Canada Tourism Nova Scotia website for more info! Disclaimer: GoatsOnTheRoad.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary in Nova Scotia Ordinary Traveler Ted S. Warren/AP. We then crossed the province north and made our way to Kejimkujik National Park (1 hour from White Point). Ingonish is actually an area of 6 different communities Ingonish ferry, harbour, beach, centre, and North Ingonish. Best Times To Visit Halifax. The best way to explore Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island is by queuing up your favorite playlist and hitting the road. With its rugged coastline, it should come as no surprise that Nova Scotia is home to the largest collection of lighthouses in Canada. Our trip took us around the Digby Neck, past Brier and Long Island, and into the Bay Of Fundy. Depending on your travel plans, you can choose to drive clockwise, or counterclockwise. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. The grounds here are stunning and its a great place to stay. Dariece is a co-founder of Goats On The Road, and an expert in saving money, finance management, building an online business and of course travel. The community is set right on the ocean, with massive boulders offering viewing points of the Atlantic. At the end, the trail opens up and youre greeted by the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Cabot Trail winding through the mountainside, and Cheticamp Island. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. The Bay Of Fundy also has Northern right whales, while Cape Breton offers the largest of them all, the blue whale, as well as pilot whales. A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia Choose your preparation (grilled, pan-fried, deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, ceviche, raw, etc.) Look for woodpeckers, squirrels, and seabirds. There are lots of places to stay right along the river, such as my favorite, Cajun Cedar Log Cottages. The Annapolis Valley (the best place to visit for wine lovers) 10. There are many answers, and we've compiled the best suggestions to help you plan your next trip. For locals, Luneburg is known as home to the Bluenose II, an elegant schooner featured on the tails side of the Canadian dime. The best season for visiting is between May through October. The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary in Nova Scotia (Massive Guide) By Christy Woodrow Updated on May 19, 2023. Many of the large rental companies offer large discounts by reserving early. From there, a great first stop is the town of Inverness. Although the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario produce the most amount of wine in the country, little Nova Scotia has some vineyards worth visiting and unique grape varietals worth sampling especially if you like white and sparkling wines. One of the most pleasant parts of Cape Breton Island ( CBI) is the ceilidh (pronounced kay-le) It is a Gaelic phrase meaning social visit so a major part of their history includes music and dancing. I find the font easy to see and Im usually the one to grumble as I reach for my readers. You might also like:Canada's best wildlife experiencesLeaf peeping and lobster: when should you visit Nova Scotia? After travelling Crete is a destination thats bound to steal your heart. While grapes are grown in many areas of the province, The Annapolis Valley is known for being wine country and with stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and 11 wineries to visit, its a place youll want to spend some time. After walking around the town of Digby (and looking for treasures at low tide), we sat down for a scallop-forward meal at the Shoreline Restaurant (now closed, unfortunately, but there are similarly good restaurants nearby). Do not miss this unique experience no matter where it is offered. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nova Scotia - Tripadvisor Sign up for our weekly newsletter and well send you our 101 Ways To Earn Money For Travel eBook for Free, plus well send you a series of emails to show you how to travel in a financially sustainable way. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the town center, which is a nice touch. Nova Scotia is not to be missed! If youre looking for an incredibly diverse travel destination, look no further than Montana! Wondering where to go in Nova Scotia? The seaside park is just 25 minutes from the popular White Point Beach Resort, which has been a Nova Scotia vacation staple since 1928. Many people come here to photograph the pretty blue shale rocks, or to stroll around the quiet community, but the best way to see the natural beauty of the area is to hop in a kayak. The Scotsman Inn is right on the Northumberland Strait, looking across to Pictou Island and Prince Edward Island beyond. Just be warned that gas may seem expensive if youre traveling from the United States. From a quick weekend getaway to an extended visit, with so much to see and do in Nova Scotia, consider these suggestions to get your trip planning started. Nova Scotia translates to New Scotland in Latin, and Pictou was the first place the Scottish settlers landed when they arrived in Nova Scotia. Its also one of the most interesting cities in Nova Scotia to explore. You cross the Canso Causeway that separates Nova Scotia into two separate entities. There is so much within walking distance that you won't need to drive on Day 2 of this itinerary. Nova Scotia's roads are, for the most part, well-maintained. We went with Grape Escapes, a tour that actually originated in Halifax but picked us up in Wolfville. I really enjoyed reading your article. Sadly, we didnt have a chance to visit the seaside national park. Peggy's Cove (and nearby coves) 3. You might see several signs in Gaelic as well as English! Copyright 2023 Goats On The Road | GOTR Media LLC, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFekUQdkqLY. The Halifax Visitor Guide highlights the best things to see and do in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They offer discounts before June and you can save up to $150 by buying early. Base yourself in Wolfville or out in the valley, and hire a driver (or join a tour) for the trip so that you can fully enjoy the wine tastings! Lunches were significantly less expensive. In the USA, the term Native America is used but the term First Nation is found throughout the Mainland and the Island. Located halfway between the equator and the North Pole, the Bay of Fundy is often on every list of best things to do in Nova Scotia. Simply, take the opportunity to learn more about the Mikmaq Nation, who is happy to share their culture and history with those interested in learning about it. 15 Best Places to Visit in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 2023 Want to explore the romantic side of Nova Scotia? Yet, there are so many more places to see and things to do in Nova Scotia that we missed! In the Mainland, it was Truro and Dartmouth. Filed Under: Canada, North America, Uncategorized. Your photos in the article are beautiful. The Skyline Trail is easily the most popular hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. At the end of the loop, youre rewarded with vast views out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and many people encounter moose on this trail (sadly, we didnt). Currently: Very Strong Typhoon, approximately 322 mi from manila, philippines. Connected to mainland Nova Scotia via a short causeway, the island of Cape Breton is quite distinct from mainland Nova Scotia, with lush, dramatic mountains and a warm, laid-back vibe. The city is home to green spaces, historical sites, pedestrian-only walkways, events and festivals, galleries and museums, and of course, tasty restaurants! This area offers hiking, camping, swimming, whale watching offshore, and more. Lobster everything! Nova Scotia is a slice of seaside heaven, perfect for those who seek adventure DOPhoto / Shutterstock. Tip:While the hike to the end of the Skyline Trail was busy with other hikers, it seemed as though many people didnt complete the 8.2 km (5.1 mile) loop, but instead, backtracked on the same path making the hike shorter (6.5 km / 4 miles). When is the best time to go to Nova Scotia? With a mix of seafood, international cuisine, and vegan-friendly options, Halifax is one of the best places to visit in Nova Scotia for foodies. Book early; the festival attracts a ton of visitors from around the world and accommodation fills up fast. A 10-minute drive from Inverness is the Glenora Inn and Distillery the longest-running producer of single malt whiskey in North America. Violent Typhoon DOKSURI 2023 | AccuWeather There many cultural centers around Nova Scotia offering many opportunities to meet, understand, and learn first hand from Mikmaq. Kats Lobster Shack, or The Bicycle Thief), or simply enjoying bits of lobster in a chowder or a pasta dish. Check out our video Maritime Travel: Our Highlights and Tips from Travelling Nova Scotia. These days, Shelburne still has British flags flying, and theres even a UK flag painted on the street. Of all the places to visit in Nova Scotia, Ingonish was one of our favourites for sure. If its the wrong time of year for whales, you can always go on a seal watching tour. Severe Weather AccuWeather Ready Winter Center. Here's our guide to the province's highlights. Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit, Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary, How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary. The phrase comment is within a header, which receives special formatting within themes. An evening stroll along the docks to see the fishing boats, and locals spin casting off the wharf before the sun goes down is a great way to end the day in Digby. Everyone's drawn to Nova Scotia for different reasons some like searching for . There are potholes, bumpy cold-patched areas and gravelly spots along the way. Walk on the ocean floor at low tide atBurntcoat Head Park, where kids will enjoy examining ocean life in the tidal pools and exploring caves while parents gawk at the jaw-dropping scenery. The best season for visiting is between May through October. Im trying to decide on when to go in the second half of the year. Nova Scotia's harsh winters and summer tourists' vehicles take their toll on the Cabot Trail. Theres also lobster beer and lobster fries to add to your list. For other camping opportunities, check out Ovens Natural Park campground, Thomas Raddall Provincial Park, Kejimkujik National Park, Murphys Camping on the Oceanto name a few. The good news is that Nova Scotia is quite compact, making getting around and visiting numerous towns a breeze. Its a great place to drive, cycle, or experience the curvy road by motorbike. However, the Mikmaq were left behind as production grew. As the capital and largest city, Halifax is the most visited place in the province. She loves meeting new people, trying new cuisines, and learning about the unique cultures of our world. True North Destinations 5-star eco-resort offers luxury domes that come with full bathrooms, kitchenettes and hot tubs. If youre not into camping, check out the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands, which has the most picturesque surroundings of any accommodation weve had. Location: 3138 Pereau Rd, Canning, Nova Scotia - 19 miles/31 km from Wolfville. Best Things to do in Nova Scotia - The Ultimate Travel Guide One tip is to buy the tickets before June because the ferry price quickly rises. We paddled through narrow passageways, and alongside rock islands, all while enjoying the calm water. Colourful homes and shops line the water, and the overall feel of the town is pretty relaxed. Best way to tour Nova Scotia - Nova Scotia Forum - Tripadvisor I wish we had had more time as we barely saw the area. Lea. Your best bet would be to get there early and enjoy the quieter trail you may even spot a moose. I attended ceilidhs at the St. Michaels Parish House at Baddeck. Read more:When is the best time to go to Nova Scotia? Make sure to have lunch at Luckett Vineyards, the food is fabulous. United States to Nova Scotia - 10 ways to travel via train - Rome2rio This is normal across blogs. A visit to Nova Scotia Canada, including Cape Breton Island, will surprise you in the best way possible. For inspiration, you can see our itinerary. Here are a few great options: Peggys Cove is one of the most popular places to visit in Nova Scotia, so I had to put it on the list its a must-see for good reason! Many have cultural centers that offer opportunities to meet Mikmaq in different locations. The Westin Nova Scotian in downtown Halifax makes a great central resting spot for the next two nights. If youre wondering what to do in Nova Scotia on a rainy day, eating excellent seafood is my recommendation! Hike the Rockies, marvel at the Northern Lights and indulge in Montreal's caf culture all with your trusted travel companion. Your email address will not be published. Depending on the length of your trip, you might not be able to see all of the places to visit in Nova Scotia that I listed. # 1 Jud Compton Guest Posts: n/a Maine to Nova Scotia: What's the best way? There's a reason the cove is consistently named one of the best things to do here. Another more challenging option is the nearby Franey Mountain Trail, which takes around 3 hours and has a 300 m ascent, but offers incredible views from the top. I had never been there and always wanted to go. So, its the luck of the draw! Still loyal to the British, they were enticed to move to Shelburne with a promise of land and provisions. When coal mining stopped, tourism took its place. Before, I describe the Europeans (French, Scottish, British and others) who emigrated, immigrated in or from Nova Scotia, First Nation history must be discussed. Scenic drives, hiking opportunities, fresh seafood, and colourful fishing towns are just some of the many things you can expect to experience on your trip to Canadas second-smallest province. Its old town was named a Unesco World Heritage City because it is the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. How to Plan an Epic East Coast Canada Road Trip [2023] - Explore With Lora I'm a Nova Scotia local, and I can promise you that it includes some of the best things to see in Nova Scotia . Lover of tennis. With sweeping views of the ocean and the craggy cliffs, even if youre not staying here, definitely come by for the view. The Perfect 7-Day Nova Scotia Road Trip Guide Nomadic Matts Travel Site, Vienna Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Vienna, Where to Stay in Nashville When Your Visit, Top 5 Things to See and Do in Nova Scotia, Other Things to See and Do in Nova Scotia, Backpacking Nova Scotia Suggested Budgets, Nova Scotia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips, Nova Scotia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources, Nova Scotia Travel Guide: Related Articles. There are lots of pull-offs and points of interest, but I recommend Lakies Head, which is a beautiful spot where you could potentially see whales. She has over 10 years of experience helping others to realize their travel dreams and has worked in numerous jobs all over the world to help pay for travel.