I called the picturesque province of Nova Scotia my home for five years. I lived in Middleton in the Annapolis Valley while John was posted to CFB Greenwood. My favourite things about my time there were being 10 minutes from the ocean, delicious seafood at reasonable prices and the majestic scenery. Though I’m happy to be back in my home province of Ontario, I would love to go back for a visit and to finish up my travel bucket list. There’s so much left to see and do!
Whether you’re touring Canada or are a native to Nova Scotia, you’ll enjoy all of the stops on this Ultimate Nova Scotia Travel Bucket List. Peggy’s Cove is number one because it was my personal favourite spot! A few of the other locations are ones I still want to visit. Take a peek and start planning your dream vacation to Nova Scotia!
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Nova Scotia Travel Bucket List
1. Peggy’s Cove. Home to over 160 lighthouses, Nova Scotia is no stranger to historic beauty. Peggy’s Point Lighthouse was built in 1915, and is still standing steadily today. You could spend the entire day here, just watching the waves and taking photos.
2. Lunenburg. Old Town Lunenburg’s unique and colourful architecture makes it a “must see” for everyone. Lunenburg’s tranquil harbour offers easy access to forests, and is a popular fishing area. Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic while you’re there.
3. Titanic Museum. The Titanic Exhibit at the Maritime Museum is something the whole family can visit and learn from. You could spend hours here, learning about the history of Halifax, and viewing photos and displays exploring the rise and fall of the Titanic. Consider visiting the Museum of Immigration while you’re in the area. It’s located at the other end of the waterfront from the Titanic Museum.
4. Cape Breton Island. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cape Breton is the place to go. They’ve got hiking trails, plenty of water for boating and kayaking, courses for golfing, and plenty of other things to do on this beautiful island. Be sure to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site!
5. Citadel National Historic Site. Travellers have the opportunity to explore the history of the fortress and the soldiers who were stationed at the Citadel. Every day, the Citadel hosts re-enactments. Every hour, watch the sentry guarding the front gate be changed. During your visit, you can walk inside and outside, visit the Citadel’s Army Museum, and get to touch a piece of Halifax’s military history. The museum showcases weaponry and uniforms from its past soldiers. They say the Citadel grounds are haunted so a guided tour might be your best bet if you’re looking to be spooked!
6. Annapolis Valley. Take a step back in time to a simpler era. From its apple orchards to its beautiful farms and vineyards, Annapolis Valley is a hidden gem that’s on most Nova Scotia bucket lists for good reason. The Annapolis River is perfect for kayaking, boating, and even sailing, with easy access to the North Atlantic and the Bay of Fundy. You’ll enjoy some of the best meals here, from locally grown vegetables to fresh cod and lobster, it doesn’t get much better than that.
7. Brier Island. Another gorgeous island on our bucket list, Brier Island is a rugged diamond in Nova Scotia’s crown. This island is nestled where the Bay of Fundy and the Gulf of Maine meet and is perfect for whale watching.
8. Lawrencetown Beach. This south-facing beach stretches on for nearly 1.5 km and is known as the destination for both local and international surfers. The spectacular waves are second to none so you’ll definitely want to bring a camera to capture their beauty! Lawrencetown Beach is where you go when you need to recharge. If you go at the right time, you might not see anyone else on the sand. Check the beach weather report and tide levels before you head over.
9. Sable Island. This small island located 300 km southeast of Halifax is remote and beautiful. It’s home to a plethora of wildlife including wild horses and grey seals. Spend hours exploring the beautiful beaches, dunes and bogs and experience the untouched wonder of mother nature.
10. Joggins Fossil Cliffs – This UNESCO World Heritage, located on the Bay of Fundy, has 15 km of coastal cliffs. Walk along and view what life was like 300 million years ago in the “Coal Age”.
What spots are on your Nova Scotia travel bucket list?
Donna Hatt, White Point Beach Resort says
Great ‘starter’ list for sure, so much to discover. Appreciated your shout out to Canada’s 43rd National Park, Sable Island. Recognizing that many will never have the opportunity to get there, we’ve brought her closer to Canadians by bringing her ashore as part of CANADA’S 150. Jan 28 & 29, 2017 she’ll be showcased and brought to life virtually at White Point: https://www.facebook.com/events/1677532069205429/
Keep exploring!
Banyan Bat says
Hi Stacie,
You have created a wonderful bucket list. The cabot trail and fossil cliffs are my top priority for my next trip to Nova scotia. If you would like to, here’s a link to my list itinerary and favorite spots.
http://banyanbat.blogspot.ca/2017/01/top-5-places-to-visit-in-nova-scotia-in.html
If possible, do share your inputs on the itinerary. Considering that you had stayed in Nova Scotia for 5 years, I could only hope that you will get something new in it for you.