A Beginners Guide To Nova Scotia
This picturesque province offers a diverse range of places to visit from coastal areas and charming fishing villages. In this beginner's guide to Nova Scotia, we'll help you get started with your trip planning and explore some of the top things to do while you're there.
Getting Around Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is a small province, so particularly in rural and remote regions, they may have limited public transportation options. Planning ahead and checking schedules and availability is definitely recommended. The best way to travel between the cities is by car, ferry or bus. Car rentals are available at airports and in major cities, but make sure you have a valid driver's license and insurance.
Top Places to Visit in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia has many amazing places to visit, and it's tough to narrow it down to just a few. Here are some top places that you shouldn't miss:
Halifax
Halifax is a coastal city that serves as the capital of Nova Scotia. The city is renowned for its maritime heritage, stunning natural landscapes and historic background. You can explore the cities many popular attractions such as, pleasant point park, the maritime museum of the atlantic and the citadel.
If you're after some adventure and history, head to Point Pleasant park for a walk along one of the many trails and discover the historic preserved ruins of the early fortifications and check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the maritime history of the region. We’d also recommend visiting the Citadel, a unique star shaped fornification that provides you with a glimpse into Halifax's military past.
Overall Halifax is a delightful destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
If you are planning on visiting Halifax and want a must see and do itinerary for 48 hours here, then this city blog is for you!
Lunenburg
Lunenburg is a port town nestled along the picturesque south shore of the province. Known for It’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status, its boasts well-preserved historic architecture. The towns narrow streets are lined with beautifully restored 18th and 19th-century buildings and colourful houses that are surrounded by scenic landscapes, including nearby beaches and hiking trails.
Popular attractions include the Lunenburg Waterfront, Ironworks Distillery and Lunenburg Ocean Adventures where you can do a spot of fishing, or even a dive if you fancy braving the waters.
Cape Breton Island
Cape Breton is a beautiful Island located on the northeastern coast known for its rich Celtic heritage. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape as it is home to the Cabot Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail is world famous scenic drive that loops around the northern part of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering dramatic views of the mountains, the gulf of St. Lawrence and the coastline.
The island is also home to Bras d'Or Lake, a designated UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve due to its ecologic and socioeconomic characteristics.
Bay Of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its exceptional natural value and ecological importance. A natural wonder known for having the highest tides in the world with 100 billion tons of water rising and falling from 35 – 52 feet twice daily. It’s shoreline cliffs and beaches are also home to the world’s most complete fossil record of life from 300 million years ago.
Peggy's Cove
Peggy's Cove is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nova Scotia. Located just one hour from Halifax, resides a quaint fishing village with a majestic lighthouse that is one of the most well known beacons in Canada. Visitors can explore coastal trails, immerse themselves in the area's maritime history at the Peggy's Cove Museum, and try the local seafood delicacies. Peggy's Cove offers a glimpse into the coastal beauty and the way of life in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia is a spectacular province perfect for showcasing the the beauty of the coast and this beginner's guide is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends you have met at summer camp, there's something for everyone in Nova Scotia. Just make sure to plan your trip well in advance to make the most of your time in the province.
