Discover Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia boasts several stunning lakes, each with its unique charm, but one that often claims the title of the best is Kejimkujik Lake. Nestled within Kejimkujik National Park, this pristine lake offers a tranquil haven for nature lovers.
The clear waters of Kejimkujik Lake, surrounded by lush forests and teeming with diverse wildlife, are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The lake’s shoreline is dotted with secluded beaches and scenic viewpoints, providing opportunities for solitude and reflection. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the lake is part of a larger protected area, home to ancient Mi’kmaq petroglyphs, hiking trails, and campgrounds.
Three Interesting Facts about Nova Scotia
01
Micmac Petroglyphs
Nova Scotia is home to ancient Mi’kmaq petroglyphs and intricate rock carvings created by the Indigenous Mi’kmaq people. These petroglyphs, found at Kejimkujik National Park, provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history.
02
Cabot Trail
The Cabot Trail, one of the world’s most scenic drives, winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. The park is renowned for its dramatic coastal landscapes and vibrant fall foliage.
03
Alexander Graham Bell
The inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell, made Nova Scotia his home. He resided in Baddeck, Cape Breton, conducting many experiments, including developing hydrofoil technology.
Must See Attractions
Peggy’s Cove
Region
Peggy’s Cove is a picturesque fishing village with a historic lighthouse perched on granite rocks. The lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the world, and the town is an iconic symbol of Nova Scotia.
Lunenburg
Village
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its charming waterfront, vibrantly colored historic buildings, and rich maritime heritage.
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Nature & Parks
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is a pristine wilderness area where ancient Mi’kmaq petroglyphs, lakes, and diverse ecosystems come together.
Where to Sleep
Lakes to Explore
1. Lake Banook
Situated in Dartmouth, Lake Banook is famous for its international rowing and paddling courses, hosting numerous regattas.
2. Grand Lake
The largest lake in the Halifax area, Grand Lake, is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. It also has beautiful waterside scenery.
3. Sherbrooke Lake
One of the largest lakes in the province, Sherbrooke Lake is a favored destination for freshwater beach activities and water sports.
4. Ponhook Lake
Ponhook Lake is part of a unique lake system, offering a diverse habitat for wildlife and a variety of recreational activities.
5. Kejimkujik Lake
Nestled in Kejimkujik National Park, this lake is a haven for canoeists and kayakers, surrounded by rich wildlife and ancient petroglyphs.
6. Lochaber Lake
Located in Antigonish County, Lochaber Lake is noted for its tranquil setting, making it ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
7. Bras d’Or Lake
A UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, Bras d’Or Lake is a large, brackish tidal lake known for its excellent boating opportunities.
8. Lake O’Law
Set in the picturesque Cape Breton Highlands, Lake O’Law is known for its serene beauty, clear waters, and excellent trout fishing.
Annual Events and Festivals
TBA 2025
Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, held annually in Halifax, stands as a captivating spectacle that brings together a diverse array of performances from around the world. Established in 1979, this remarkable event has grown to become the world’s largest annual indoor show of its kind. Typically taking place in July, the Tattoo showcases an eclectic mix of military bands, precision drills, cultural dances, acrobatics, and theatrical performances. With participants from various nations, the Tattoo creates a vibrant and harmonious tapestry of music, movement, and pageantry.
October 11 – 19, 2024
Celtic Colours International Festival
The Celtic Colours International Festival, held annually in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is a vibrant celebration of Celtic music, culture, and heritage. Against the backdrop of Cape Breton’s stunning autumn landscapes, the festival spans nine days and features an impressive lineup of concerts, workshops, and community events. Artists from diverse Celtic backgrounds come together to showcase their talents, encompassing genres such as traditional fiddle and piano tunes, Gaelic singing, and contemporary Celtic fusion. Beyond the music, the festival embraces other aspects of Celtic culture, including dance, storytelling, and local cuisine.
TBA 2025
Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival
The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival, held annually in the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, is a celebration of folk music and maritime culture. Taking place in August, this festival has been a staple event since 1986, attracting musicians, artists, and folk music enthusiasts from across the globe. Set against the backdrop of Lunenburg’s historic waterfront and charming architecture, the festival offers a rich tapestry of musical performances, ranging from traditional folk and maritime songs to contemporary interpretations of the genre. The event features concerts on multiple stages and includes workshops, art exhibitions, and storytelling sessions, providing a holistic cultural experience.
Top Hiking Trails
Skyline Trail
Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia
The Skyline Trail, located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia, is one of the most renowned hiking paths in Eastern Canada, celebrated for its breathtaking views and stunning natural beauty. This well-maintained looped trail, spanning 7.7 kilometers, offers hikers an unforgettable journey through a diverse landscape. The trail is relatively easy and accessible, making it suitable for various fitness levels. One of its most striking features is the series of wooden boardwalks and stairs that lead to a dramatic headland cliff overlooking the ocean, providing an unparalleled vantage point for observing sunsets and the vastness of the Atlantic.
Pot Lake Loop
2890 St Margarets Bay Rd, Timberlea, Nova Scotia
This moderately challenging loop is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Nova Scotia’s wilderness. As hikers navigate this trail, they are enveloped by a dense, lush forest that opens up to stunning views of Pot Lake, a picturesque and tranquil body of water. The trail is well-marked and offers a variety of landscapes, including rocky outcrops, rolling hills, and wetland areas, providing a diverse hiking experience.
Gaff Point and Hirtle’s Beach
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
This captivating trail begins at Hirtle’s Beach, where the rhythm of the crashing waves and the vast expanse of golden sands create a serene ambiance. The path leads to Gaff Point, a striking headland that rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the rugged coastline, pristine waters, and the distant horizon. The juxtaposition of the lush greenery against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean makes this trail a visual feast.
Best Golf Courses
Cabot Cliffs Golf Course
39 Whitman Way, Inverness, Nova Scotia
Perched along the rugged coastline of Cape Breton Island, the course offers a spectacular golfing experience with its dramatic layout that weaves along the cliffs, providing panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Designed by the acclaimed golf architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Cabot Cliffs is celebrated for its ingenious use of the natural landscape, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Each hole presents a unique challenge, with the 16th hole being particularly notable—a par 3 that plays across a chasm with the ocean as a backdrop.
Fox Harb’r Resort
1337 Fox Harbour Rd, Wallace, Nova Scotia
Fox Harb’r Golf Resort & Spa, located in Wallace, Nova Scotia, is a premier golf destination that combines luxury with the natural beauty of the Maritime landscape. Designed by the renowned golf architect Graham Cooke, the course at Fox Harb’r offers a blend of Scottish inspired link style holes and traditional parkland holes, making it a unique and versatile golfing experience. One of the highlights of Fox Harb’r is its signature hole, the par-3 11th, which requires a precise shot over a scenic inlet of the Strait.
Cape Breton Highlands Links
Middle Head Peninsula, 247 Keltic in Rd, Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Highlands Links provides an immersive experience in one of Canada’s most stunning natural landscapes. Designed in 1941 by the famed golf course architect Stanley Thompson, this course is often hailed as a masterpiece of design, seamlessly integrating the natural topography of the highlands and the rugged Atlantic coastline. The course winds through a landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and scenic vistas, challenging golfers with its undulating greens, deep bunkers, and fairways lined with native flora. The 6th hole, known as “Killer,” is renowned for its challenging layout and breathtaking views.
Water Sports
East Coast Paddle Company
Stand up paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has rapidly grown in popularity in Nova Scotia. It offers a unique and serene way to explore the province’s stunning coastline, tranquil lakes, and picturesque harbors. Nova Scotia’s diverse waterways, from the calm waters of the Northumberland Strait to the expansive Bras d’Or Lake, offer ideal conditions for paddleboarders of all skill levels. One notable company offering SUP rentals and experiences is East Coast Paddle Company, which caters to both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Brier Island Whale and Seabird Cruises
Whale Watching
Whale watching in Nova Scotia is an extraordinary experience, offering a chance to witness the majestic beauty of these marine giants in their natural habitat. The province’s waters, particularly the Bay of Fundy and the waters off Cape Breton Island, are renowned for being some of the best whale watching spots in the world. Here, visitors can see various species, including humpback, minke, fin, and the rare North Atlantic right whale, along with other marine life such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds. One of the premier companies offering whale watching tours is Brier Island Whale and Seabird Cruises, located at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy.
Chester Charters and Deep Sea Adventures
Fishing
Nova Scotia offers an angler’s paradise, from the iconic Atlantic salmon and lively brook trout to the plentiful mackerel and cod. One company that facilitates memorable fishing experiences is Chester Charters and Deep Sea Adventures, specializing in deep sea and tuna fishing excursions. With seasoned guides with intimate knowledge of local waters, participants can enjoy a thrilling day of catching big game fish like bluefin tuna or experiencing the excitement of deep-sea fishing.
Resorts to Explore
Keltic Lodge at the Highlands
Recreational, Waterfront
383 Keltic in Rd, Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia B0C 1L0
White Point Beach Resort
Waterfront, family-friendly
75 White Point Beach Resort Rd, Hunts Point, Nova Scotia B0T 1G0
Trout Point Lodge
Recreational, Waterfront
189 Trout Point Rd, East Kemptville, Nova Scotia B5A 5X9
Tips on Vacationing in Nova Scotia
Explore the Coastline
With over 13,000 km of coastline, there are countless beaches, coves, and fishing villages to explore. Don’t miss the iconic Peggy’s Cove and its famous lighthouse. Consider taking a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail or the Lighthouse Route.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Nova Scotia is known for its fresh seafood, especially lobster, scallops, and mussels. Enjoy a traditional lobster supper or visit a local seafood market.
Acadian Culture
Visit the Acadian villages in Clare and Argyle to experience their unique culture and language. Try rappie pie, a traditional Acadian dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nova Scotia
If you’re planning a vacation with your furry friend, Nova Scotia has you covered! Several pet-friendly rentals are available and have excellent reviews.
Nova Scotia has abundant oceanfront vacation rentals for those looking to relax by the sea. From Cape Sable Island to Yarmouth, many options are suited for various budgets and preferences.
Looking for a peaceful retreat by the lake? Nova Scotia offers many lakefront cottages for a serene getaway. Websites such as Lake.com are excellent resources for finding lakefront cottages in picturesque locations throughout the province.
The South Shore of Nova Scotia is rich in history, beautiful landscapes, and charming seaside villages. To find a suitable rental, you can explore Lake to browse numerous options, including luxurious homes, cozy cottages, and modern condos, all suited to your desired location and budget.
Nothing beats a relaxing soak in a hot tub after exploring. You can use filter options on websites like Lake to find cabins with hot tubs in Nova Scotia. Apply the hot tub filter, and you’ll be presented with various choices, from rustic cabins to luxurious homes.
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