Nova Scotia Travel Guide

Nova Scotia Travel Guide

Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Laura Cooper

Nova Scotia, the most populated province in Atlantic Canada, is irresistibly charming and culturally unique. With 4,600 miles of stunning coastline, you’re never far from the ocean. Aside from its beaches and Canadian charisma, Nova Scotia lures in guests with its rich history and natural wonders coupled with a flourishing arts and epicurean scene. From the city life of Halifax to the natural beauty of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia is a pleasant blend of modern and historic treasures.

Fun This Way

Nova Scotia shares the Bay of Fundy, one of the province’s main attractions, with New Brunswick. Dubbed one of the Seven Wonders of Canada by the CBC audience, The Bay of Fundy is famed for having the world’s highest tides. It also has a high concentration of whales and produces the region’s celebrated seafood.

History Lessons

Nova Scotia was the home of Canada’s earliest people. The Acadian community were descendants of 17th century French colonists who settled in the Maritime Provinces among other parts of northeastern North America. As such, sites such as the Grand-Pre National Historic Site and Old Town Lunenburg commemorate the Acadian settlement.

In Halifax, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 displays an important moment in history. The museum once served as an immigration shed that processed prospective Canadian citizens from 1928-1971. In Cape Breton rests the Fortress of Louisbourg, North America’s largest historical reconstruction of the original 1713 settlement. On the Bay of Fundy, Joggins Fossil Cliffs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 15 kilometers of coastal cliffs reveal rare fossils from 300 million years ago.

Lighthouse at Cape d'Or

Lighthouse at Cape d’Or

A Pretty Scene

Nova Scotia is a land blessed with many natural wonders. Hike, bike, sail, camp, and take excursions during your visit to admire the whale and bird species, lighthouses, and beaches. Explore the cycling trails, yacht clubs, marinas, and over 80 golf courses.

Nova Scotia has the highest tides in the world. Surfers can catch some waves at the beaches of Lawrencetown, White Point, and Martinique. Adventurers can raft on Shubenacadie River. For those wanting to explore the wilderness, head to Kejimkujik National Park.

Fisherman's House, Peggy's Cove

Fisherman’s House, Peggy’s Cove

A Taste of the East Coast

Ingredients fresh from the farm and sea bring remarkable cuisine right to your table. The Bay of Fundy yields the region’s renowned seafood delicacies like fresh lobster and Digby scallops while the Annapolis Valley supplies an abundance of produce. For eager seafood lovers, learn to land lobster or dig clams on your own. The region has also been producing wine since the 1600s. Vineyard tours, grape stomps, and wine tasting are exciting ways to get involved.

Creative Hub

Not only is Nova Scotia notorious for its nature and food, but it has a strong artistic heritage. Shops, galleries, and theatre productions are abundant, not to mention the 650 annual festivals celebrating everything from lighthouses to lobster. The song and dance customs of the Acadian people is especially evident on Cape Breton Island where square dance halls, fiddle music, and performances are plentiful.

Family Fun

Nova Scotia is an ideal place for the whole family. Kids will enjoy the Discovery Centre, Museum of Natural History, Ross Farm Museum, and Upper Clements Park.

Citadel Hill

Citadel Hill

The Capital

Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital city and the region’s largest, is home to six universities, giving the city its youthful vibrancy. Walk along the waterfront boardwalk and tour Fort George, a National Historic Site of Canada, stopping at Citadel Hill, Halifax’s highest point. Don’t forget to visit some notable attractions: Rum Runners Cake Factory, NovaScotian Crystal, Casino Nova Scotia, Neptune Theatre, Shakespeare by the Sea. In the evenings, enjoy the live bands, comedy shows, and the lively nightlife scene.

Enjoy a Nova Scotia tour or opt to discover the province on your own. Browse our selection of flights to Nova Scotia or hotels in Halifax, or call an agent at 1-800-665-4981.

1 Comment

  1. Thanks … luv the guide

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