The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
The winding road curves along miles of rugged coastline, showcasing the glimmering ocean before a charming town comes into view along the Lighthouse Route. This idyllic coastal scenery is classic Nova Scotia, yet it’s only the beginning of this beguiling province’s story. Found in the historic streets of colourful Lunenburg, the ancient petroglyphs at Kejimkujik National Park or sailing across the Bay of Fundy’s waters, Nova Scotia’s rich depths become apparent when you spend a little time here. Discover the unique locations, cultural treasures, and friendly people of this lesser-known province during an exhilarating road trip adventure.
As found on the province’s licence plates, Nova Scotia is famously referred to as ‘Canada’s Ocean Playground’ due to its position almost surrounded by the sea in eastern Canada. The province is famous for its fascinating maritime history which can be uncovered in the capital city of Halifax, and its unspoilt 13,000 km of coastline that has been decorated with charming fishing villages for centuries. Beyond the well-known highlights, a road trip exploring the province rewards travellers with a varied assortment of local delights enjoyed by residents.
Canada’s first people, the Mi’kmaq, resided in Nova Scotia for thousands of years before Europeans arrived. This can be evidenced on the scenic lakeshores of Kejimkujik National Park in the southwest peninsula where carvings reveal fascinating Mi’kmaw stories from ancient times. More recently, Nova Scotia (Latin for ‘New Scotland’) became a strategically important location for the British military’s global ambitions in the eighteenth century. The harbour port of Halifax was founded in 1749, named after the Earl of Halifax and completed using funding from the British Crown.
Visiting the capital city today, travellers can find imposing military landmarks that leave clues to the country’s colonisation history. The second smallest province’s maritime heritage springs to life in Halifax and Lunenburg’s impressive collection of museums. Tales of seafaring mysteries and immigration stories can be discovered by visitors that can be traced back several generations.
No road trip would be complete without visiting Halifax, the harbour city that overlooks Georges Island and offers a warm welcome with a variety of activities and cultural highlights to explore. Take a stroll along the city’s recently revamped boardwalk for a taste of local culture, where you’ll find the Queen’s Marque Cultural District and a collection of distinctive modern art sculptures including ‘Sail,’ an unusual mesh installation by Eduardo Tresoldi. In addition, it’s here that you’ll find several of the city’s museums, including the world-famous Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. Striking art murals adorn many of the streets which reflect the city’s optimistic outlook, you’ll find these enroute to Halifax’s excellent array of restaurants. For gourmet lovers, the food scene in Nova Scotia is continuing to flourish, with nationally recognised chefs and an exciting restaurant scene providing fresh, high-quality cuisine throughout the province.
Beyond the capital, don’t miss the iconic Lighthouse Route to uncover sea-faring legends and learn about life by the ocean in the quaint fishing villages that adorn the route. Enroute fuel up on coffee at Acadian Maple and browse the range of tempting maple syrup treats before making a stop at Peggy’s Cove. This dilapidated fishing village is famed for Peggy’s Point Lighthouse which has lit up the treacherous granite rocks for ships for centuries. Continue driving until you discover the quaint spires of Mahone Bay’s three churches – at sunset the waterfront reflects the iconic buildings to great effect. If you have time, make a stop to admire the ocean views at the working fishing village of Blue Rocks, a romantic location and an ideal setting for painters and photographers.
Another of Nova Scotia’s most famous destinations is old town Lunenburg, distinctive for its unique German and Swiss-inspired architecture and home to the province’s famous racing schooner, Bluenose II. Enjoy observing the scene on the harbourfront, where the colourful buildings and ornate architecture offer clues to the town’s rum-running and ship-building heritage. There is much to explore here in the town’s historic streets and selection of artisan shops, cafes, and distilleries.
After visiting the province’s picturesque towns, drive along the sandy shorelines to Summerville Provincial Park for a coastal escape before exploring the wilderness country of Kejimkujik National Park. Embrace the solitude and lose yourself in the peaceful surroundings of this enchanting park that is steeped in mystery and legends. Hiking and canoeing are a popular way to enjoy the serene woodlands and waterways that Nova Scotia is famous for.
For wine lovers, Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley is a must-visit offering an abundance of vineyards with twenty-two grape growers and a growing reputation for a high-quality selection of wines. After pausing at Blomidon Look-Off for sweeping views across the valley, stop by vineyards including Luckett’s Vineyard and Benjamin Bridge for a taste of the province’s award-winning sparkling wine.
Whilst navigating the diverse terrain that stretches across the province, there are many different types of exciting activities and experiences to enjoy during your road trip adventure. The Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail, Canada’s only winery and distillery trail, is a great way to sample locally produced wine, beer, and spirits from over fifty artisans and award-winning brew masters across the region. Other options include the Chowder and Lobster Trails depending on your preference.
For thrill seekers, head to Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort where visitors embark on an exciting river adventure. Prepare to get wet and make a splash whilst spotting bald eagles on the trees of the riverbanks. If you’re interested in the history of the greater Mahone Bay area, take a trip to Oak Island with Salty Dog Sea Tours and learn about the mysterious past and treasures of Oak Island.
Nature lovers will enjoy traversing the province’s range of hiking trails through tranquil woodlands and secluded beaches – whilst potentially glimpsing one of Nova Scotia’s 10,000 black bears! From visiting the region’s six UNESCO-designated sites and whale watching around the Bay of Fundy to tasting local seafood cuisine, there is plenty to discover during your road trip.
From upscale 5-star hotels in the city to charming inns and boutique hotels in the province’s far-reaching valleys, visitors won’t be disappointed by the wide variety of accommodation options available for a road trip throughout the province.
In Halifax, situated conveniently next to the city’s lively boardwalk, the Westin Nova Scotian provides sizable comfortable beds and lavender essential oil to aid a good night’s sleep upon arrival in the coastal city. Alternatively, the recently opened Muir Autograph Collection, Atlantic Canada’s first luxury boutique hotel, provides waterfront rooms with bespoke furnishings inspired by Nova Scotia’s unique culture and offers unrivalled views of the harbour in the Queen’s Marque Cultural District.
Whilst exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg on the South Shore, there are several colourful boutique inns and hotels to choose from. Panoramic views of the harbour at dusk can be found at the delightful Rum Runner Inn in the heart of the town, only a few steps walk from the town’s cafes and shops.
Booking a stay only steps from the beach is a trip highlight for many visitors to Nova Scotia, so the Quarterdeck Resort close to the town of Liverpool provides an ideal location for sandy days relaxing by the ocean. Options include spacious beach villas next to Summerville Beach within Summerville Provincial Park.
Whilst tasting Annapolis Valley’s sparkling wines, it’s worth taking a trip to stay in the August House in Windsor. A labour of love, this beautifully converted boutique inn offers eleven elegant individually designed bedrooms and the warmest welcome. After busy days exploring, unwind in Myrtle’s Common Lounge and enjoy the glowing ambience, before retreating to find luxuriously soft white towels to envelope in after a hot bath and deliciously comfortable beds.
The feeling of freedom as you hit the road: every day your road trip will bring a fascinating new experience of the province, from exploring coastal landscapes to thriving cultural hotspots. Dine on world-class seafood, become immersed in the cultural highlights of Lunenburg, and hike across the majestic National Parks where you’ll make unforgettable memories of your own. It is whilst discovering your favourite locations and experiences along the way that you’ll understand why ‘Canada’s Ocean Playground’ province is truly unique.
