Experience South Shore Nova Scotia

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South Shore Nova Scotia

For centuries, the beauty of the South Shore of Nova Scotia has inspired artists, writers, and musicians.

Peggy’s Cove – Celebrating 200 Years

Peggy’s Cove has a timeless mystique that draws fascinated visitors from around the world. The tiny harbor below the lighthouse is a painter’s masterpiece of seasoned fish sheds and colorful boats. The village is famed for its colorful homes perched on wave-washed boulders situated along a narrow inlet. Approximately 50 residents live here year-round. The stunning rock formations are perfect for exploring, but visitors are cautioned to stay well back from the water’s edge. Granite rocks in and around the village of Peggy’s Cove are estimated to be 415 million years old. These huge boulders were picked up and deposited 10 thousand years ago by retreating glaciers.

  • Visit Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in North America.
  • Post a letter from Canada’s only post office in a lighthouse, which boasts a cancellation stamp of an image of a lighthouse.
  • Don’t leave without enjoying the famous fish chowder and gingerbread with cream at the Sou’wester Restaurant.
  • Visit the Swiss Air Monument, erected is in memory of the victims of the Swiss Air crash off the coast of Peggy’s Cove.
  • William deGarthe carved a lasting monument to fisherman in the granite rock. The sculpture depicts 32 fishermen, their wives and children, and the legendary Peggy of Peggy’s Cove. The deGarthe Gallery displays 65 paintings, which follow his progression as a marine artist and sculptor.
  • Don’t miss the recently completed interpretive project in Peggy’s Cove which provides a number of informative and interesting panels which will enhance your experience and knowledge of the region.

Bridgewater

Bridgewater, with its stately homes on tree-lined streets, its friendly people and its unhurried pace, is located a protected 26 kilometers inland from the Atlantic Ocean on the banks of the beautiful LaHave River. The streams flowing down the hills to the LaHave provided great power possibilities for industry and lumber mills in particular. The town offers visitors numerous services and conveniences, outstanding shopping, restaurants and accommodations, banks, a multiplex movie theatre, a regional hospital, museums, a public library, as well as peaceful parks, tranquil gardens and stimulating trails. Bridgewater also boasts wonderful recreational amenities, including golf courses, tennis courts, a curling club, an arena, a 400-meter track, playing fields and a public outdoor swimming pool.

  • The South Shore Exhibition, one of the oldest and largest summertime exhibitions in Nova Scotia, takes place near the end of July and is a combination of agricultural and livestock displays, craft shows, food booths, musical entertainment and an impressive midway.
  • Take a walk or jog along the scenic Centennial Trail, built along eight kilometers of abandoned CNR railway lines.
  • Visit Veterans’ Memorial Park, located in Brookside Cemetery and created by veterans.
  • DesBrisay Museum is one of Canada’s oldest public museums. Explore the rich history, heritage and geography of Lunenburg County.
  • Wile Carding Mill Museum is an 1860 wool-carding mill with a working water-wheel, where costumed interpreters will take you back in time through the mill, much as it was in the 19th Century.
  • Home to the Annual Hank Snow Tribute, you might also be in the region when the Bluegrass groups come to play. Many fans come from miles around to enjoy this real treat.

Mill Village

Small riverside community named after the many gristmills and sawmills previously located along the Medway River. The trees from the forests inland were cut down and made into tall masts for Her Majesty’s navy.

  • Enjoy an ice cream from an old-fashioned village store.
  • See the river bridge built over 100 years ago (1883) by the King Bridge Company – note the crown on top.
  • Take in Village Fest – Music and family fun in August.
  • Drive along the river to see reflections of beautiful fall foliage

St. Margaret’s Bay and Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region

The 10 beaches in this area have the warmest waters along the Bluenose Coast. Hiking trails, kayaking adventures, whale watching, birding activities, golf courses, pristine beaches, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and craft shops await you in this region lying between Halifax and Chester.

  • Visit S.S. Atlantic Memorial Heritage Park, which is considered to be the site of greatest sea disaster before the sinking of the Titanic.
  • Queensland Beach is a popular recreation destination for residents and visitors. This provincial, supervised beach is conveniently located on the coastal road.
  • Whale watching tours to the area depart from Lunenburg and Halifax.
  • Kayak in a spectacular preservation area where impressive granite erratics shape the landscape.

White Point

White Point is home to world-renowned White Point Beach Resort, tucked away in a wooded area along the coast. Visitors have enjoyed the Resort since 1928. Don’t miss this fully serviced, oceanfront resort with conference and spa facilities, golf course, a surfing beach, and two boating lakes. The resort is open year-round. It’s always a Great Day at White Point.

  • Learn to surf or kayak at White Point Beach
  • Play golf beside the ocean
  • Visit nearby Hunts Point Wharf – a traditional maritime fishing wharf (another location for oceanfront cottages and guest homes)
  • Take a bird-watching tour on the nature trails
  • Enjoy the indoor pool & spa facilities
  • Toast marshmallows
  • Listen to the waves breaking from your oceanfront cottage
  • Feed the bunnies!

Hubbards

Hubbards is a charming 215-year old seaside village where lobster suppers are popular. It is known as the playground of St. Margaret’s Bay because of a series of summer festivals, beaches, and other events, as well as a vibrant farmers market. Cycle, drive or hike the unspoiled beauty of the Aspotogan Peninsula, which boasts fishing villages, seaside vistas and glorious white sand beaches. Blandford, a fishing village at the head of the Aspotogan Peninsula on Highway 329, has an operating fish plant. Across from the wharf can be seen the former home of the Blandford Whaling Station, the only one of its kind in Nova Scotia.

  • The Shore Club serves the original Nova Scotia Lobster Supper and is Nova Scotia’s last great dance hall, having hosted dances every Saturday in the summer since 1946.
  • The Hubbards Barn is home to the renowned Farmer’s Market as well as other changing community events.
  • The Dauphinee Inn is host to Ceilidh on the Cove throughout the summer.
  • Enjoy the glorious beaches that have enticed locals for years who say, “The sun always shines in Hubbards”.
  • Participate in the “World Tuna Flat Races”. You could return home a “World Champion”!

Historic & Picturesque LaHave

LaHave is a historical and picturesque village nestled on the LaHave River and owes its name to Samuel de Champlain. Take the picturesque drive along the LaHave River’s east side and ride across the beautiful LaHave River on one of the last remaining cable ferries in Canada.

Stop at the LaHave Bakery for lunch or a scrumptious treat and learn about the rich history of the building in which the bakery operates. Make sure to take a journey downstairs to the LaHave Crafters Co-op before you leave and discover the unique works of art created by local artisans.

Just a short drive from the Bakery you will find a National Historic Site, the Fort Point LaHave Museum, where you will learn about life at the first capital of New France. Everyone is welcome at the Mi’kmaq Acadian Cultural Festival and Reunion in August! Enjoy traditional foods, cultural displays, fantastic entertainment, and more! If you’re in the LaHave area in early September, check out the delicious food and fabulous live entertainment at the LaHave River Folk Festival!

If it’s a warm day and the beach is calling your name, you will find two gorgeous white sand beaches less than a ten-minute drive away. Rissers Beach and Crescent Beach are local favorites and are great places to cool off or just to take a relaxing stroll.

Seaside of Kejimkujik National Park

(Port Joli/Portl’Hebert/Port Mouton)

Enjoy a hike, observe the seals basking on the rocks or have a picnic at Kejimkujik’s Seaside. This 22 square km day-use National Park is a unique example of an unspoiled Atlantic coastline.

Things to See and Do:

  • Hike the trails at Kejimkujik Seaside (Harbour Rocks Trail 5.2 km and Port Joli Head Trail 8.7 km)
  • Just across the bay is Thomas Raddall Provincial Park – Either camp overnight or as a day visitor, this 1,675-acre park offers woodland and coastal trails with beaches of varying shapes and sizes
  • The Port L’Hebert Pocket Wilderness Park – Enjoy a picnic and take in the relaxing scenery in a 150-acre tranquil natural park with a three-kilometer trail through woodlands and salt marshes leading to the ocean at Port l’Hebert Bay.
  • Visit Port Mouton – stay in the new hostel, visit the craft co-op and the art gallery
  • Birders Paradise – Excellent opportunities for birding at White Point, Summerville Beach, Port Mouton beaches, Kejimkujik Seaside, Thomas Raddall Provincial Park and Port L’Hebert Pocket Wilderness. Home of the rare Piping Plover – lookout for warning notices when nesting areas are fenced off at certain times of the year.
  • Take kayak or surfing lessons

Chester

Chester is noted for sailing, stately homes, magnificent gardens and a relaxed lifestyle. Summer means yacht races, garden parties and band concerts. Founded in 1759 by New England Planters, the village’s scenic beauty will capture your heart. Residents and guests alike continue to be attracted to the island picnics, kayaking, the 18-hole golf course and tennis courts, as well as marvelous restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and craft shops. Just past Chester is Graves Island Provincial Park, an attractive coastal island park attached to the mainland by a causeway. The park features a campground, small beach, playground, picnic area, boat launch and trails.

  • Chester Race Week, held annually in August, is the highlight of the yachting season. Watch or sail in the races, enjoy the entertainment and share in the summer fun at the Yacht Club.
  • The Chester Playhouse offers a wide variety of live theatre productions and other entertainment year-round.
  • The Tancook Islands are one of Nova Scotia’s hidden treasures. An eight-kilometer passenger ferry service runs from Chester to Big Tancook. The ferry offers a special way to experience the beauty of the bay and, once on either island, there are many quiet country roads to enjoy. There are no services on Little Tancook, but Big Tancook features a restaurant and craft shop, and a museum.
  • Lordly House Museum and Park is a fine example of Georgian architecture. The museum is a research center and has a display on the “Butterbox Babies”.
  • Learn to draw or participate in some of the other art and craft classes offered by the new Chester Art Centre located in the heart of the village. Chester is home to many artists attracted by the beauty of the area and its relaxed lifestyle.

Riverport

Riverport, located at the mouth of the LaHave River, is a scenic fishing village with a rich culture. Take the magnificent drive along the banks of the LaHave River, lined with small community churches, and watch sailboats glide across the pristine, blue waters.

The Riverport District is chalked full of ideal locations to view and experience the best of Nova Scotia’s spectacular coastline! Stay in one of numerous coastal cottages or motels, visit the area’s unique and talented artisans, discover world-class beaches and hiking trails, or attend one of the community’s festivals or events.

Whether you’re looking for cottage or camping accommodations or a day trip adventure, the Oven’s Natural Park has it all! Home of spectacular sea caves and part of the 1861 Gold Rush, this coastal park will prove to be an intriguing place. Take a tour of the mysterious sea caves, pan for gold at Cunard’s Beach, and visit the miner’s museum.

Sand Dollar Beach is a hidden gem at high tide until the ocean reveals it for you to explore at low tide. This unique beach is considered a hot spot for sand dollars, seashells, and other treasures the tide has left behind.

Hirtle’s Beach is easily one of the most picturesque beaches in the Lunenburg region. With three kilometers of white sand surrounded by cliffs and untouched wilderness, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all of its visitors. Hikers, bird watchers, and those looking for adventure should continue to the end of Hirtle’s Beach and on to the trail at Gaff Point. This 124 acre protected headland consists of majestic cliffs, tidal pools, as well as sand and gravel beaches. The natural beauty of Gaff Point is sure to give endless photo opportunities and take your breath away!

The Riverport Rum Runners Sea Festival is sure to be a good time for fishing enthusiasts young and old. This weekend-long festival in August is full of great events onshore in addition to the fishing competition taking place on the water. Mingle amongst the locals at the beer garden or firemen’s breakfast and enjoy the live entertainment. If you don’t have your sea legs you can still participate in the competition under the wharf fishing category.

Shelburne and Area

Located adjacent to one of the most beautiful deep water harbors in Canada, Shelburne boasts a historic waterfront containing 33 original United Empire Loyalist homes to 1783 when the town was founded. A stroll along the waterfront offers you a chance to visit four museums, each highlighting a unique period in the history of the town. Enjoy great dining, wonderful craft shops and one of the many live performances in the Osprey Centre. Nearby communities offer you great vistas of lighthouses, rugged coastline, fishing villages and opportunities to bicycle, kayak and bird. In Birchtown, visit the first freed black settlement in North America.

  • Visit the Islands Provincial Park, 3 minutes from Shelburne and put in your kayak or canoe and paddle around the harbor, bays, inlets or islands. The Park offers camping, picnic grounds and other amenities.
  • Walk your way along the old train trail and stop for a visit to the Town of Shelburne, a community of Birchtown or the Islands Park.
  • Take in one or several of the performances at the Osprey Centre. The Centre showcases talent, both local and from away. Every Wednesday evening, during July and August at 8 pm enjoy “Summer Nights” a series of musical performances featuring great local talent.
  • The J.C. Williams Dory Shop provides you with a chance to talk with local artisans who continue to build this traditional craft or stop by the Muir-Cox Shipyards to learn about the extensive shipbuilding history of Shelburne.
  • Peek into the oldest restored general store in North America – The Ross Thomson House and enjoy a chat with the costumed guides.
  • Looking for your roots? Visit the Shelburne County Museum (Dock Street) and the Shelburne County Genealogy Centre (Water Street), particularly if you have Mayflower, United Empire Loyalist, Black Loyalist, Mi’kmaq or Welsh blood in your veins.
  • The nearby community of Birchtown (Exit 26-27 and follow route #3) is the first freed black settlement in North America. The Museum Complex and associated buildings will provide you with an insight into their history.
  • Visit Sandy Point (route #3) 10 minutes from Shelburne and stop at the Sandy Point Lighthouse. Stay for a picnic and the sunset!
  • Enjoy these entertaining folk art pieces: the Whirligig and Weathervanes Festival on the Shelburne waterfront – (July) displays over a hundred pieces of this great folk art.
  • Enjoy our many festivals, including Founders Days (July) in the Historic District of Shelburne, including historical re-enactments and decorated boats; Blues and Jazz Festival (August), with a variety of performers in venues throughout the Town of Shelburne; and Lobsterfest (June), where you can eat lobster prepared as many ways as possible. Get some good deals and find that perfect treasure at the Annual Shelburne Town-Wide Yard & Sidewalk Sale held the first Saturday in June.

Mahone Bay

As you wind your way into Mahone Bay, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. Visible from every angle, the town’s world-famous “Three Churches” is the first thing you see as you enter the community. The breathtaking view of the Bay, dotted with 365 islands – one for every day of the year – is something to behold. Settled in 1754, it was once a safe haven for pirates and privateers. Throughout the years the town became famous for its shipbuilding. Today, Mahone Bay is home to renowned authors, filmmakers, artists, musicians, poets, intellects and wonderfully creative, dedicated citizens. Park the car and take a stroll through town, where you’ll experience unique shops, art galleries, coffee houses, restaurants and museums. And for outdoor adventure, you don’t have to go far for a sailing or kayaking excursion. Beautiful accommodations provide a place to unwind, relax and find inspiration.

  • Mahone Bay Pirate Festival
  • The Great Scarecrow Festival and Antique Fair mobilize the creativity of the local folks who decorate the entire town with handcrafted scarecrows. A pumpkin path, musical theatre, vintage car show, great kids’ activities and much more add to this three-day event.
  • Father Christmas Festival – a 10-day celebration of the season, and unique shopping experience featuring larger than life Father Christmas figures, horse-drawn carriage rides, antique fairs, wine tasting, music and more.
  • The town’s famous Three Churches, situated at the head of the Bay play host to some of the finest musical offerings from all over Canada with the Summer Concert Series.
  • Amos Pewter, one of only a few Econo-museums in Nova Scotia, is a must. Visit the shop and interpretive workshop and learn how they spin pewter disks into vessels and cast pewter into jewelry and collectibles.
  • Spruce Top Rug Hooking
  • The Settler’s Museum takes you back in time to discover Mahone Bay’s shipbuilding heritage.

Petite Riviere

Petite Riviere, originally settled by the French in the early 17th century, is a culturally colorful seaside community. Full of unique restaurant establishments and artist’s studios combined with three beautiful white sand beaches and a fantastic winery make Petite Riviere an ideal destination.

Stop at the Best Coast Coffee Gallery in nearby Broad Cove for delicious food and great local hospitality. Ask for a Petite Riviere Artisan Map and plan your Petite Riviere adventure over lunch.

As you explore the region you will find some very interesting and unique galleries. Local artists Tom Alway and Peter Blais of the Maritime Painted Saltbox are a great example. Their gallery features heritage reproduction furniture, fine art, and folk art, all inspired by the Nova Scotian landscape and culture. Their work was twice featured on HGTV while at their former location in nearby Mahone Bay and you are guaranteed to find something truly one of a kind during your visit.

The coastal trails and scenic roadways in the Petite Riviere region offer endless opportunities for enjoyable hiking and cycling. The many coves and inlets provide spectacular spots for windsurfing and ocean kayaking.

If windsurfing isn’t for you visit Rissers Beach or Crescent Beach, where you can enjoy the coastal scenery and smell of the salt air around you while you feel the soft white sand squish between your toes with every step. When you’re done combing Crescent Beach, drive to the end and on to the LaHave Islands. Here you will find the LaHave Islands Marine Museum where you can discover the rich heritage of the islands and their seafaring past.

Camp out at nearby Rissers Beach Provincial Park and wake up to the beach at your feet and an ocean view. Before you leave don’t forget to visit Petite Riviere Vineyards for a tour, tasting, and beautiful view of the oldest winegrowing region in Canada. The first vine was planted in the area by French settlers in the early 17th century. Petite Riviere Vineyards has revived this tradition by creating wines made only of grapes grown in the LaHave River Valley.

The intriguing history, beautiful shoreline, and one of kind establishments of Petite Riviere make it a must on any vacationer’s list!

Lockeport and Area

Winding along the #3 highway brings you to the quaint fishing community of Lockeport. White sand beaches and colorful boats provide a picturesque backdrop. Crescent Beach, is the most famous in the area, having at one time been on the back of the Canadian $50 bill. There are several other beaches and seven coastal habitats within the town limits. Stroll the boardwalk to the Marine Room to learn more about the workings of this historic fishing community, whose early settlers include Planters, Icelanders, and British. The Crescent Beach Centre affords views of two lighthouses and showcases a quilt mural by renowned fabric artist Laurie Swim.

    • Celebrate July 1st with the Town of Lockeport. Stay for the festivities, parade, crafts, booths, fireworks, and strawberry shortcakes.
    • Bring your beach gear and spend the day building sandcastles, surfing and watching the sunset at the end of the day on one mile of silver sand at Crescent Beach.
    • Climb to the top of the Crescent Beach Centre for a view of Gull Rock lighthouse, and stroll to the harbor front for a view of Carter’s Light.

Stroll the boardwalk along the back harbor while enjoying the birds and salt air. Stop at the Little School House Museum for a peek into the workings of the fishing of the area and return via the beach.

    • See the first Provincially Registered Streetscape, featuring five historic homes, built for descendants of the founder, Jonathan Locke.

Bring your kayak and enjoy the views of the back harbor. Paddle to the working fishing wharves where you can stop for a rest and enjoy a meal at a restaurant or other amenities close by. Bicycle around the town and area and spend some time exploring. Good birding and the coastal wetlands contain a variety of flora species, some of which it is the most northerly location for, in the area. (check at Visitor Information Centre) Nearby, the community of Little Harbour offers you an opportunity to see artisans at work or tour their shop- Tutor Tiles and Stanton Pottery

  • Walk the trails located in the following communities: Sable River, where you can walk across the “Swinging Footbridge”. Lockeport Exit 23 or 24 following the old rail line over train trestles, along the back harbor to the beach (this is a loop). In Jordan Falls, where you will enjoy the views of the river and the great hardwood trees, great for the autumn “leaf peepers” as you cross over the Jordan River, continue on to the village for a rest at the Donald McKay Park, the birthplace of the builders of the fastest clipper ships in the world.

Oak Island

The Oak Island mystery began in 1795 when three boys discovered unmistakable proof that someone had buried something deep in the ground. The “Money Pit” is drenched in legends and lore that suggest the treasure is buried at the bottom of the pit. Oak Island is the scene of the world’s longest-running treasure hunt and the source of speculation as to who buried what and where. Theories include Captain Kidd’s treasure, pirates, and even connections to the Holy Grail.

  • Oak Island is open to the public during ‘Explore Oak Island Days,’ which includes displays, presentations, and a guided tour; wear your own pirate costume. Surprises await you!

Cape Sable Island

Follow Route 330 across the causeway and you are in the birthplace of the world-renowned Cape Islander- those brightly colored fishing boats you see at wharves, bays and harbors dotting the coast. Seafood, including lobster is always on the menu. Here too, is one the best birding sites in Nova Scotia and a designated Important Bird Area. Miles of white sand beaches offer you great vistas of the ocean. Wiggle your toes in the sand, fly a kite, stroll the beaches, listen to the pounding surf. This is where the Bay of Fundy meets the Atlantic Ocean. The tallest lighthouse in Nova Scotia- the Cape Sable Light at 101 ft. tall is viewed best from the most southerly point – The Hawk.

  • Enjoy the 28 miles of white sand beaches – take a picnic, listen to the gulls, watch the many species of shorebirds and just relax.
  • Bring your own kayak and paddle the bays and inlets.
  • Stroll along the boardwalks and learn the history of the area from the storyboards provided.
  • Eat lobster at the local restaurants
  • Enjoy the Nova Scotia Marathon
  • Visit the Archeleaus Smith Museum, Centreville and learn about the history of the people who founded the area and the seafaring heritage. (Open June-September)
  • Want to know more about “The Cape Islander” fishing boat? Then a visit to the Seaside Heritage Centre, Clark’s Harbour is a must. On display is a wooden Cape Island design boat, built by Freebert Atkinson, one of the few remaining wooden boat builders in the area. While there, see one of the original surf boats used on Seal Island in the late 1800’s. Drop by for a chat with local residents.( Open: June-September)
  • Venture down to one of the fish wharves and talk with local fishermen.
  • If you are a birder, then Cape Sable Island is one of the best birding sites in Nova Scotia and is a designated Important Bird Area and is a migratory route for shorebirds, warblers and rare species. Only site in Canada for the American Oyster Catcher.

New Ross

Travel slowly inland on Route 12, through peaceful farm country to New Ross, as you may want to stop to buy fresh eggs and flowers and visit along the way. New Ross is home of Nova Scotia’s living museum of agriculture, Ross Farm Museum. Step back in time to 1816 when Captain William Ross and his wife settled here. New Ross is also home to the Christmas Tree Interpretive Centre and the Hildaniel Brown Museum.

  • At Ross Farm Museum experience a hayride or a sleigh ride. There are costumed interpreters, barrel making, wooden crafts, spinning, oxen and horse teamsters, and heritage animals, including the renowned horses.
  • Parkdale/Maplewood Museum is near Barrs Corners and hosts a popular blueberry festival.
  • Farms and historic churches dot the pastoral timeless landscape.
  • Delights are discovered on each turn of the winding roads.

Shag Harbour

Best known for the reputed 1967 UFO visit witnessed by citizens and the RCMP, Shag Harbour is one of the most charming fishing villages on the Lighthouse Coast. Home to one of the most productive lobster fishing fleets in Canada.

  • Post Office with UFO cancellation stamp
  • Chapel Hill museum in a former church
  • Chapel Hill Harbour lookout
  • Wreckwood Chair, constructed out of wood from local shipwrecks

New Germany

New Germany and Area, located north of Highway 103, is ideal for hikers, cyclists, ATV users, and outdoor enthusiasts with its magnificent trails and parks surrounded by the beautiful countryside.  The area has a lot to offer with its down-home restaurants, a national award-winning winery and renowned festivals.

The many lakes and rivers that dot the majestic landscape are ideal for kayaking and canoeing adventures.  On a hot summer day cool off in the crystal clear water at Lake Mushamush Beach Park in Sweetland.  This local favorite is fully equipped with wheelchair water access and a play area for children.

Locally owned restaurants in the community of New Germany are great places to enjoy delicious home-style meals and local hospitality.  Taste traditional Lunenburg County dishes at the Heritage Blueberry Festival held by the Parkdale-Maplewood Museum the first Saturday after Labor Day. Discover the intriguing history of the region’s past inhabitants during your visit.

Stop at the Lunenburg County Winery and find out why their blueberry and grape wines have received national recognition.  Also, enjoy fresh blueberries and raspberries from their u-pick.

Whether you’re touring the region by car or bicycle, be sure to take in the natural beauty of Indian Falls, a spectacular twenty-five-foot waterfall surrounded by a walking trail.  If you’re looking for a great picnic spot, stop at Veteran’s Memorial Park along the LaHave River and enjoy the sights and smells of nature that surrounds you.

To tour all of what New Germany and Area has to offer, camp out at the LaHave River Campground or stay at 100 Acres and an Ox Country Inn located directly in the picturesque wilderness.

Liverpool & Area

A vibrant and lively community the “Port of the Privateers” boasts many festivals and attractions.  Come and experience the majestic colonial houses of captains past and visit our wonderful museums showcasing our area’s rich history, country music, folk art, world-class photography, and wildlife.  Hike along our beautiful coastline dotted with lighthouses and dig your toes into our unspoiled white sand beaches.  At the end of the day sit by the Mersey River and bask in the glow of the setting sun all the while imagining the Privateers of long ago.

  • Visit the Cultural Village at the Rossignol Cultural Centre  – a rich cornucopia of fascinating artifacts and exhibits for the whole family – see a polar bear, authentic log trapper’s cabin, an outhouse museum, and learn about our Mi’kmaq culture.
  • Our annual festival of privateering heritage and unofficial homecoming, Privateer Days (www.privateerdays.ca ) entertains each July with music, rides, booths, and historical re-enactments.
  • The Liverpool International Theatre Festival (www.litf.ca ) is a treat in even years and the International Ukulele Ceilidh (www.ukuleleceilidh.ca) delights in odd years – all at the Astor Theatre (www.astortheatre.ns.ca ) – the oldest performing arts theatre in the province (1902).
  • Visit the Hank Snow Home Town Museum (www.hanksnow.c a) at the restored Canadian National Railway Station – the most unique country music attraction northeast of Nashville, with live music every Wednesday afternoon during July/August.
  • Enjoy croquet or lawn bowling at the Perkins House
  • Visit Fort Point Lighthouse Park – listen to memories from the son of a previous lightkeeper, see interpretive displays, local art and collectibles, scenic picnic park.
  • So Ye Wanna Be A Pirate? Join the scurvy dogs in Pirates Lagoon at the Queens County Museum.
  • Visit the Sherman Hines Museum of Photography – the only one of its kind east of Montreal – a dazzling insight into the history of photography.
  • Take a boat tour or fishing trip from Brooklyn Marina and Waterfront Park – home to the annual Queens County Sea Fest  – fishing tournament and entertainment for the whole family!
  • Visit the farmers market – open Fridays 10am-2pm Mid-May until mid-October

Visit the Sherman Hines Museum of Photography – the only one of its kind east of Montreal – a dazzling insight into the history of photography.

Take a boat tour or fishing trip from Brooklyn Marina and Waterfront Park – home to the annual Queens County Sea Fest – fishing tournament and entertainment for the whole family!

Barrington and Area

Welcome to the Lobster Capital of Canada – this is where we have the largest landed catch of this tasty crustacean. A visit to Sand Hills Provincial Park affords you the opportunity to walk the beach and unique sand spit, go swimming in the ocean while you relax and picnic in the park. A network of walking trails along the shore invites you to wonderful vistas, great birding, white sand beaches and strolls along the boardwalk. Lighthouses and museums offer a glimpse into the history of the area. Birding, sea kayaking, and golfing will provide many hours of enjoyment.

  • Climb the tower of the Seal Island Light Museum and view Barrington Bay. See the fresnel lens up close! (Open May –September)
  • Visit the oldest non-conformist Meeting House where costumed guides retell the history of the Planters who settled the area.(Open May – September)
  • Hear the story of the Nova Scotia Tartan, and see the large wall mural at the Old Woolen Mill, the last water-powered mill in Eastern Canada. (Open- May-September)
  • Climb to the top of Chapel Hill Museum and view three lighthouses. This is where you will learn about Evelyn Richardson, winner of the Governor General’s Award for her book- We Keep A Light and whose family lived on Bon Portage Island. (Seasonal)
  • The Samuel Wood Museum in Woods Harbour offers a peek into the history of this fishing community.(Seasonal)
  • Interested in birding – then a visit to the Baccaro Lighthouse is a must for great seabird watching. While there enjoy the picnic area.
  • Interested in UFO’s – then a visit to Shag Harbour is a must. Send your mail from the post office and see the unique cancellation stamp. This is the sight of one of Canada’s most well documented UFO sightings.

Caledonia in Queens County

Welcome to Caledonia, one of Nova Scotia’s most tranquil and picturesque destinations. Located in the northern part of Queens County, Nova Scotia, it is situated in the center of Destination South West Nova Scotia just a 45-minute drive to Annapolis, Liverpool, or Bridgewater. It is a paradise for the naturalist or for those looking for a quiet and relaxing setting surrounded by natural wildlife and beauty.

Scenic drives, fall color, canoeing, swimming, fishing, winter sports, picking wild blueberries, and strawberries are just a few of the main attractions for visitors to Caledonia. You will find picnic parks with hiking trails, wilderness camping, North Queens Heritage House Museum where you can check into your genealogy, and discover the life span of the speckled trout at McGowan Lake Fish Hatchery. Tour the scenic roads of Queens and Annapolis Counties for the lakes and streams we are so famous for. There is so much to see!

Stop to admire the gardens and chat with the locals. Stay for one of our many Community Suppers or breakfasts, or visit the Farmer’s Markets held every Saturday mid-May to mid-September. Enjoy a coffee and sweet treat at the market while browsing the stalls that have everything from veggies, baked goods, crafts, furniture, to cozy wool socks! In September enjoy the Queens County Fair, a five-day agricultural exhibition – one of the oldest fairs in Canada, 130 years and growing!

Visit Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site from Victoria Day in mid-May to our October Thanksgiving weekend.  Keji is a Naturalist’s Delight, with various choices of camping, a variety of wildlife, canoeing, hiking trails, and a freshwater lake for swimming. Approved as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, the first in Nova Scotia!  When you are ready for a meal try one of our many seasonal restaurants.  In fall and winter season stop in at the Hollow Log Café open year-round to serve you home-cooked meals and offer free wifi.  We also boast year-round accommodations at a B&B, Hostel, Inn, and Chalets.

  • Discover the lifespan of speckled trout or view over 100 chimney sweeps at dusk at the McGowan Lake Fish Hatchery
  • Check your genealogy at North Queens Heritage Museum
  • Enjoy Queens County Fair, a five-day agricultural exhibition – one of the oldest in Canada – 130 years and growing! (September)
  • Open year-round for your pleasure, visit Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site; a naturalist’s delight, with camping available in the wilderness as well as RV electrical hookups in the main campground, enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking and biking trails, and freshwater lakes for swimming. Perfect for all seasons with a multitude of birdlife and wildflowers in the spring, extraordinary fall foliage colors and the crispness of cross country skiing. Designated a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC), the first in Nova Scotia!
  • Fall color all along Route 8.
  • Stay in a Tipi at a riverside location or a cozy Chalet, Inn, B&B or Hostel.
  • Caledonia Historic Tour – self-guided brochures available from Caledonia Visitor Centre, together with crafts and world-famous vanDyk’s Blueberry Juice.
  • Cameron’s Brook Provincial Picnic Park
  • Woodsman Competitions at a lakeside campground.
  • Enjoy a coffee and sweet treat at the Queens County Farmers’ Market while browsing stalls that have everything from veggies, baked goods, crafts, furniture, to cozy wool socks!
  • Located in the middle of a UNESCO Biosphere a great place to stop and reconnect with nature.
  • All seasons photo opportunity at South Brookfield where Highway 208 and Highway 8 meet by the Medway River.
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