This week, the Love Where You Live series focuses on unique experiences throughout Nova Scotia. The last post focused on unique accommodations, and our hope with this series is that the information given to you each week, compliment each other or provide some inspirational connections for local travel planning.
I have been to Nova Scotia and have been lucky to experience some of these things, but as always, my research has led me to places that I have not been to or seen, but have since added to my bucket list. Before we get started, it should be noted that, due to COVID, the experiences in this post may not be open and are subject to change.
Similarly, to my blog on Unique Accommodations in Nova Scotia, I had a hard time not wanting to keep adding to this list. Nova Scotia is beautiful and this list only scratches the surface. So, where can we “virtually” take you in Nova Scotia today? Let’s find out!
I was lucky to have walked on the ocean floor in New Brunswick and it never dawned on me that the same could be done in Nova Scotia, but it can. How many people can say that they have walked on the ocean floor? Sounds pretty exciting, eh?
The Bay of Fundy is home to the world`s highest recorded tides, with over 160 billion tones of water flowing daily. Be sure to dress appropriately and check the tide schedule when planning your trip to Burntcoat Head Park.
Joggins Fossil Cliffs can also be referred to as the place where the world-famous Bay of Fundy exposes a 300-million-year-old story. It is here where the most complete fossil record of the “Coal Age,” exists, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Here, you can traverse up to 15 kilometres of magnificently exposed layers of rock, revealing unique fossils that tell a story.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and if you are travelling the world to see as many of these heritage sites as possible, be sure to add this on your list.
If you are like my husband and absolutely love this TV show, then a visit here is a must. With a tour guide, you can explore the island and mystery behind what may be the elusive treasure in the world.
The mystery behind the island is the stories of buried treasure and unexplained objects found here. There is also said to be a curse that started centuries ago, stating that seven men will die before treasure is found. Do you dare explore the island or do you believe in curses?
The Sea Turtle Centre in Halifax is one of the tiniest museums devoted to the largest turtles. These leatherback sea turtles partake in its annual migration with a journey from the Caribbean Sea to the North Atlantic in pursuit of its primary source of prey, jellyfish.
Fun for the whole family, the centre is an interactive museum that is packed with information and ocean discoveries. Here you can learn about endangered sea turtles, see specimens and artifacts, and find out what marine biologists at the cutting edge of sea turtle research are working on right now.
Tidal Bore Rafting is perhaps the most unique experience on the list, as you cannot do experience this any where else in the world! The description from Nova Scotia Tourism best describes what to expect:
“Feel the rush of riding waves that can be up to 4 metres (13 feet) high in a Zodiac boat as the power of the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy turn the Shubenacadie River into a water roller coaster only found in Nova Scotia. Expert guides take you cascading down rapids as the incoming ocean reverses the flow of the river. This fun-filled voyage, also named a Canadian Signature Experience, isn’t complete without mudsliding, too.” (NovaScotia.com)
I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to go back to Nova Scotia and not experience this once in a lifetime, Canadian Signature Experience.
I have driven both Scotland and the Cabot Trail and let me tell you both are equally beautiful. Plus, you don’t have to fly halfway across the world!
This trail offers spectacular views that are hard to describe. I remember that I had to pull over many times just to take it all in. But don’t worry, there are safe areas for cars to pull over and admire.
The trail is located in Cape Breton National Park and is just shy of 300 kms in length. We did the drive in one day, but to truly experience it, I suggest finding accommodation and taking your time to explore these beautiful highlands.
I have heard from many people that the Sky Line Trail is a must. I didn’t get to do this as I was travelling with my sister and she is in a wheelchair, but I hear it is a must-see and do.
There is so much to see and do in this park, from biking, hiking, star gazing and so much more. However, the one thing that stood out is the chance to learn and connect with the Mi'kmaw culture.
As I previously mentioned in one of the first Love Where You Live posts, I am indigenous and was just recently welcomed into Caldwell First Nations. I am on a path to learn and discover my own histories and cultures and it is important to me to promote indigenous learnings when I can.
Here, at the National Park, you can witness the ancient craft of birch bark canoe building in person with master Mi’kmaw craftsman Todd Labrador.
I was hesitant to put this on the list as it is the number one tourist hotspot in all of Nova Scotia. Does that still make it unique?
Experiencing Peggy’s Cove first hand as a skeptic, I was quickly converted after my visit to this magnificent and magical place. There is something calm and inviting here and I truly believe that everyone who goes to Nova Scotia needs to stop here.
Interesting fact, don’t forget to stop at the little post office, I believe it is inside the lighthouse, and get your passport stamped while your there!
As only one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a World Heritage Site, Old Town Lunenburg is must-see when visiting Nova Scotia. Known as of the best surviving planned British colonial community, you will feel like you have stepped back in time when you walk its beautiful streets. The colourful buildings truly add to that 18th century vibe and make for great photos!
When we went, we were told to head over the water to the golf course for a spectacular view, and it did not disappoint.
I wasn’t sure if this should be in my next post about food or here, but I added it here because the experience above all else would be unforgettable. I do not want to do this any injustices so will just show you what is says on their website.
Experience the ultimate culinary adventure at the site of the world’s highest tides. Savour the best Nova Scotia food, beer and wine in this exceptional experience. Begin by learning about the wild edibles of Nova Scotia, followed by a lunchtime seafood feast where you meet the Chef and enjoy beer and wine pairings. Enjoy a guided tour of the ocean floor, then take a seat at a dining table with a view of the incoming tide for an intimate 3-course dinner on the ocean floor; all followed by an ocean floor campfire.
So, what do you think, yes, no or OHHHH YESSSS!
I have heard of so many people being interested in seeing Puffins and it is because of this that I thought I would put this experience on the list. Known as one of the cutest birds in the world, the best time to see them in Nova Scotia is from mid-May to mid-August. They live off-shore in Nova Scotia on three islands and you can see them by taking a tour. The following companies offer tours:
What I love about Puffins are that they have the same partner for life, isn’t that romantic?
When I am on vacation, I always like to sit back, relax and enjoy a good drink or two and that is why Good Cheer Trail made in on the list.
The Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail is Canada’s first winery, craft brewery, cidery and distillery trail. Highlighting the craftsmanship and creativity of the many wineries, craft breweries, cideries and distilleries throughout Nova Scotia.
A self-driving trail with about 80 stops where you can try the latest vintage of Tidal Bay, meet an award-winning brew-master or sampling a fresh cider or single malt whisky straight from the barrel. Whatever it is, this trail has you covered. You can even play a long and stamp your Good Cheer Passport every time you visit one of these stops. By stamping your passport, you can win prizes, the more stops the better the chance you have.
No list about unique experience in Nova Scotia is complete without whale watching. With over 12 species of whales that visit every year, the summer in Nova Scotia is the best time to experience this.
There are many companies that you can use when whale watching and I was skeptical to list one as I couldn’t find enough information on the best “eco” options and which, if any, have the least impact on animal welfare.
Do what feels best for you and remember, if you decide to add this to your itinerary, make reservations in advance.
Perhaps the “grooviest” experience on this list is the Magic Winery Bus. This bus is North America’s only hop-on hop-off wine tour experience. With this tour, you can visit captivating destinations in one day and learn from local winemakers. They have also been recognized as a “Destination Canada bucket list experience.”
Their moto is “Believe in the magic. We’ll take care of the rest.” and that they do. Taking care of all the details, they also share stories of the region and answer questions, all in an effort to elevate your experience.
Who’s in? Let’s hop on and off…wait, which one will allow me a drink, off or on? Let’s do that one first.
While in Halifax you definitely have to experience the waterfront. There is so much going on here and as one of the longest boardwalks in the world, you need to make sure you leave enough time to soak it all in.
While on the waterfront you can:
With Fundy Adventures, you can experience a clam digging adventure and meet a local resident who has been a clam digger since he has been a young boy. You’ll also learn about the history of the claming industry and how they are reseeding there claming areas to make it more sustainable so there can be clams for many years to come.
Get hands on experience hacking through sand and mud looking for clams and end with a have a bite to eat on the beach.
Let’s end our experiences with the most “bucket-list” option on the list. Can you imagine taking a helicopter, to a private island and enjoying a picnic? Sounds like I am watching an episode of the Bachelor, but Vision Air Services Inc. can take you there.
In their own words:
Take a thrilling helicopter journey from Halifax Harbour over stunning Nova Scotia coastlines to Sambro Island. Indulge in Nova Scotia bubbly on a private beach, explore the secluded cove and enjoy a tasting picnic by the lighthouse featuring wine, charcuterie and cheeses sourced locally and hosted by your personal sommelier.
I hope something in this post resonated with you and gives you something to look forward to when lockdown is over and it is safe to leave our homes. In the interim, be sure to follow these businesses on Facebook and Instagram so you can keep updated on their re-opening plans, or new initiatives that some of these businesses are embarking on.
Next week, we will focus on all thing’s food for Nova Scotia. I have a feeling I will be talking about a lot of seafood, something that I do not eat…but I will do my best at being excited so I can share the best places to indulge with all of you!
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