Nova Scotia Vacation Guides
Nova Scotia Guides
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Nova Scotia History and Culture
Combining a rich cultural heritage and history with breathtaking scenery, Nova Scotia is a fabulous vacation destination. It lies off the eastern coast of New Brunswick with Newfoundland to the northeast. The fertile valley of Nova Scotia saw some of the earliest settlement in North America along the Annapolis River. The town of Annapolis Royal captures 400 years of history, and its tree-lined streets, gardens, historic homes and fort are some of the most visited attractions. In contrast, Nova Scotia offers unspoiled natural beauty and a diverse maritime culture.
Nova Scotia Cities and Towns
The town of Annapolis Royal is a must-see for lovers of history and architecture. From the 1708 DeGannes - Cosby House, the oldest wooden home in Canada, to the fort graveyard, history is very tangible here. The Historic Royal Gardens have a fragrant rose garden with over 2,000 bushes. Close by is the Port Royal National Historic Site, a replica of the original 1605 settlement. Costumed guides tell tales of life as a French settler in the decadent 17th century.
Halifax is the main center of Nova Scotia with its deep natural harbor. It hosts many summer festivals including the International Busker Festival. Popular visitor attractions are the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Titanic Museum. Just outside Halifax is the York Redoubt National Historic Site, a 200-year-old fortification with pleasant walking trails, interpretive boards and underground tunnels to explore.
Nova Scotia Outdoor Activities
Exploring the Cabot Trail which winds between small communities on the Northern Cape Breton Island is a wonderful way to see the stunning natural beauty of this area. The 184-mile trail follows the craggy coastline in the national park through French Acadian and Scottish fishing villages.
The Nova Scotia museums are wonderful ways to get a glimpse of the area's long history in restored monuments such as the Historic Fortress Louisbourg. Even older history can be experienced at the Joggins Fossil Center which is a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Take an exciting whale watching tour or hike one of the coastal trails and drink in the stunning scenery. Kayaking or canoeing the inland rivers and waterways is a peaceful way to connect with local wildlife. Cycling, bird watching, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, river rafting, sailing and surfing are all available near your Halifax vacation rentals. In the winter, skiing is a popular activity.
Nova Scotia Vacation Rentals
Most popular destinations in Nova Scotia to rent a vacation rental home or cottage:
7 Regions of Nova Scotia, each boasting different attractions:
- Cape Breton Island
Cabot Trail is one of the world’s most scenic drives, with stops for whale watching, kayaking, hiking, golfing and traditional Celtic singing and dancing. - Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore has Canada’s best surfing year-round along Nova Scotia’s longest beaches. - Halifax Metro
Old meets new in Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital, where tall ships of yesteryear mix with a hopping modern nightlife. - South Shore
Lighthouses, historic fishing villages, sandy beaches and breathtaking beauty along the South Shore captivate photographers. - Yarmouth & Acadian Shores
Steeped in artisan crafts and Acadian history, the Yarmouth & Acadian Shores region is rich with wonderful culture and has many festivals. - Annapolis Valley & Fundy Shore
The Bay of Fundy’s tidal change – the world’s largest – could submerge a 4-story building! You can actually walk on the ocean floor, and even go fossil hunting. - Northumberland Shore
Great Scot! The Northumberland Shore is the landing place of the first Scottish immigrants, and home to many culture-rich festivals.
Nova Scotia Facts:
- Lobster can be eaten all day when in season. You can even get a McLobster sandwich at McDonald’s
- Cape Breton Island is the missing west coast of present day Scotland.
- 1500 miles of coastline – Nova Scotia is almost completely surrounded by water, sporting 100 publicly accessible beaches, 129 national parks and 16 historic sites.
- Nova Scotia is home to incredible scenic drives, including the Lighthouse Route, Evangeline Trail and Cabot Trail.
- Nova Scotia has the mildest winters and warmest average climate in Canada.
- Oak Island’s “Money Pit” is the epicenter of one of the world’s longest running treasure hunts.
- Located in the heart of the world’s largest lobster fishing grounds, Yarmouth has Canada’s highest lobster catch.
- Parrsboro, the gateway to the Bay of Fundy, is famous for the number of fossils that have been found in and around its cliffs.
- Nova Scotia is Latin for New Scotland.
- More Gaelic is spoken in Nova Scotia than in Scotland itself. Nova Scotia has the only Gaelic college and the oldest highland games in North America.
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