VISITOR AND ACTIVITY GUIDE 2019–2020
Nova Scotia’s
BAY OF FUNDY & ANNAPOLIS VALLEY
TIDE TIMES pages 13–16
TWO STUNNING PROVINCES. ONE CONVENIENT CROSSING. Digby, NS – Saint John, NB Experience the phenomenal Bay of Fundy in comfort aboard mv Fundy Rose on a two-hour journey between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
Ferries.ca
Find Yourself on the Cliffs of Fundy
Isle Haute - Bay of Fundy
Take the scenic route and find yourself surrounded by the natural beauty and rugged charm scattered along the Fundy Shore.
Find yourself on the “Cliffs of Fundy”
Cape D’or - Advocate Harbour
www.fundygeopark.ca www.facebook.com/fundygeopark
Table of Contents
Near Parrsboro
General Information................................... 7 Internet Access..................................... 7 Smoke-free Places................................ 7 Visitor Information Centres .................... 8 Important Numbers.............................. 8 Map ................................................ 10–11 Approximate Touring Distances Along Scenic Route..........................10 Information for Drivers..........................10 Canada’s Natural Wonder..........................12 Bay of Fundy Tide Times........................13–16 Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia...........................18 Explore Our Four Seasons....................20–23 Spring........................................... 20 Summer .........................................21 Fall ............................................... 22 Winter .......................................... 23 10 Don’t-Miss Attractions ....................24–27 Scenic Seacliffs and Geological Wonders (Amherst to Masstown).....28–35 Top 5 Photo Opportunities ................. 29 Top Outdoor Activities ....................... 30 Top 5 Locals’ Picks ..............................31 Top 5 Festivals and Events................... 32
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Top 5 One-of-a-Kind Shopping............ 33 Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions..................................34–35 Tidally Awesome (Truro to Avondale).....36–43 Recommended Scenic Drive................ 36 Top 5 Photo Opportunities.................. 37 Top Outdoor Activities...................38–39 Top 5 Locals’ Picks.............................. 40 Top 5 Festivals and Events....................41 Top 5 One-of-a-Kind Shopping............ 42 Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions....................................... 43 Outstanding Orchards, Valleys and Vineyards: Annapolis Valley (Windsor to Middleton) ...............44–54 Top 5 Photo Opportunities.............45–46 Recommended Scenic Drive ..........47–48 Top 5 Outdoor Activities..................... 49 Top 4 Locals’ Picks ............................. 50 Top 5 Festivals and Events.............. 51–52 Unique Shopping............................... 53 Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions..................................... 54 Map ...............................................56–57
Cape Split
Wonderful Whales and Historic Tales (Bridgetown to Brier Island).............58–66 Top 5 Photo Opportunities.................. 59 Recommended Scenic Hike ................ 60 Top 5 Outdoor Activities......................61 Top Locals’ Picks...........................62–63 Top 5 Festivals and Events..............64–65 Unique Shopping............................... 65 Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions..................................... 66 Explore Our Great Outdoors................ 67–74 Local Beaches ....................................67–69 Provincial Parks .............................69–70 Golf Courses ................................70–72 Tours and Guided Experiences.......72–73 Trails (Multi-use)............................. 73–74 Partner Directory.................................75–93
Attractions ...................................75–82 Dining .........................................82–85 U-picks and Farmers’ Markets..........85–86 Wineries and Vineyards..................86–87 Shopping and Services ..................87–88 Festivals and Events.......................89–93 Accommodations............................... 93
All photos courtesy of Tourism Nova Scotia unless otherwise indicated. Cover photos (clockwise from top): Harvest time at a Wolfville vineyard; dinner on the floor of the Bay of Fundy; exploring the |Fundy coast; a sunset ride by sea (photo: Destination Canada).
Regional tourism guides are produced by: Metro Guide Publishing 2882 Gottingen St., Halifax, N.S. B3K 3E2 t 902.420.9943 f 902.429.9058 publishers@metroguidepublishing.ca metroguidepublishing.ca
Table of Contents | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
5
Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia
Lobster dinner at Cape d’Or
General Information Most Visitor Information Centres are open from mid-May to mid-October (subject to change). Call the numbers on the following page or 1-800-565-0000, or visit novascotia.com.
Parrsboro at low tide
Internet Access
Parrsboro at high tide
Smoke-free Places
Public Internet access is available at most Visitor Information Centres and public libraries throughout the region. Look for the @ and C@P Internet access symbols.
Regulations require all public places in Nova Scotia to be smoke-free. Smoking is forbidden in outdoor licensed areas and patios of restaurants, lounges, beverage rooms, casinos, and cabarets.
Whale watching off Brier Island
General Information | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
7
Visitor Information Centres Amherst/N.S.-N.B. Border
Hantsport
Tiverton
2 Willow St. 902-684-9302
Rte. 217 902-839-2853
Kentville & Kings County
Truro
Annapolis Royal 236 Prince Albert Rd. 902-532-5454
125 Park St. 902-679-2536
Tidal Bore Visitor Centre 103 Tidal Bore Rd. 902-897-6255
Bear River
Kingston/ Greenwood
Truro Welcome Centre
510 Main St. 902-765-6678
Victoria Square 902-893-2922
Middleton
Weymouth
21 School St. 902-825-4100
4575 Rte. 1 902-837-4715
Parrsboro
Windsor
162 Two Islands Rd. 902-254-3266
321 Gerrish St. 902-798-2690
South Maitland
Wolfville
9865 Rte. 236 902-261-2250
11 Willow Ave. 902-542-7000 1-877-999-7117
90 Cumberland Loop 902-667-8429
1884 Clementsvale Rd. 902-467-0311
Oakdene Centre 1913 Clementsvale Rd. 902-467-1211
Berwick 173 Commercial St. 902-538-9229
Bridgetown 232 Granville St. West 902-665-5150
Caledonia 9874 Rte. 8 902-682-2470
Digby 110 Montague Row 902-245-5714 1-888-463-4429
Springhill 36 Main St. 902-597-8614
Stewiacke 85 Main St. 902-639-1248
Important Numbers Calling long distance in Nova Scotia requires dialing 1- before the numbers listed in this guide. If you are calling locally, dial the number as presented. Emergency / 911 Police, fire, and medical emergencies. Non-emergency Medical Information / 811 Environment Canada Weather Information: 902-426-9090 / weatheroffice.gc.ca Nova Scotia Visitor Information: 1-800-565-0000 / novascotia.com
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
VISIT EAST HANTS
HOME OF THE WORLD’S HIGHEST TIDES Ride the Tides
Ride the rapids on the world famous tidal bore on the Shubenacadie River, or discover how the tides work from the observation deck at the Fundy Tidal Interpretative Centre.
Fundy Fun
Explore the ocean floor from Burntcoat Head Park either on your own or as part of a guided tour. Climb to the top of the 150 year old Walton lighthouse for a breathtaking view of the Minas Basin.
Explore our Heritage and Culture
Spend the night in a B&B or cottage and wander through a local art gallery or craft shop. Enjoy an ice cream from Canada’s oldest general store while you explore the Maitland Heritage Conservation District. Be transported back in time at one of our local museums.
VisitEastHants.ca
Municipality of East Hants
Map
Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia
Approximate touring distances along scenic route. Digby to Brier Island (includes two ferry crossings): 69 km (43 miles) / 90 mins Digby to Annapolis Royal: 32 km (20 miles) Annapolis Royal to Wolfville: 109 km (68 miles)
Ferry
Wolfville to Halifax: 91 km (57 miles) Halifax to Truro: 96 km (60 miles) Windsor to Burntcoat Head: 63 km (39 miles)
ck &
y Ne
Digb Long Island
rry
Fe
ry
cenic
sS land
Is
217
Drive
Digby
8
UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere
Parrsboro to Advocate Harbour: 46 km (29 miles)
Joggins to Amherst: 32 km (20 miles)
Bear River
to or, rry rb Fe Ha ine r Ba Ma
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Tobeatic Wilderness Area
Yarmouth Flights to Portland, Maine
Amherst to Springhill: 32 km (19 miles)
Information for drivers Speed limits and distances are in Metric (1 kilometre = 0.62 miles). Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit within urban and residential areas is 50 km/h (31 mph) and 100 km/h (60 mph) on highways. Unless otherwise posted, it’s legal to turn right on a red light after making a full stop. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all intersections, whether crosswalks are marked or not. The use of seat belts and daytime running lights is compulsory. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. Nova Scotian law prohibits using a mobile phone while
10
2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
A Upper R Clements Park
Brier Island
Truro to Parrsboro: 97 km (60 miles)
Advocate Harbour to Joggins: 57 km (36 miles)
Cornwallis
101
St. Bernard Church
Fer
Burntcoat to Truro: 66 km (41 miles)
North Hi Museu Fort Anne Port-Royal
operating a motor vehicle, unless with a hands-free device. It’s illegal to smoke in vehicles carrying children or youths under 19. Child safety seats are required for children weighing under 18 kg (40 lbs) while booster seats are required for children under age nine or less than 1.4 metres (4’9”) in height. Helmet use is mandatory for anyone riding a bicycle or motorcycle. Refer to gov.ns.ca/tran for more information.
Cape The Bay of Fundy Chignecto Canada’s Natural Wonder Advocate
Amherst
Age of Sail Centre
104
Springhill 2
Miners’ Museum Anne Murray Centre
Waterfall Fundy Geological Williamsdale Spencer's Port Museum Island Greville Cape d’Or Lighthouse Cape Parrsboro Ottawa House Cobequid Split Lookoff 4 Interpretation 104 Museum Halls Cape Centre Harbourville Harbour Blomidon Blomidon Five Islands Bass Park Minas Basin Park Economy 2 River Prescott House Aylesford Berwick Museum Burncoat Head Park Grand 101 Masstown 1 Selma Harness Wolfville Pré Kentville Cambridge Walton Noel Racing 104 Oaklawn Cheverie Maitland Lighthouse Acadia Tidal Bore Randall Farm Zoo Truro University Summerville Area House Lawrence Victoria Park Museum Hantsport House 102 Glooscap Avondale Museum Heritage Tidal View Farms Centre Fort Edward National Historic Site Windsor Upper 2 Stewiacke Rawdon 12 14 Mastodon Ridge 1 Shand Gold Mines House Shubenacadie Uniacke Estate Museum Shubenacadie Provincial Museum Park New Haliburton 101 Wildlife Park Ross 14 Mount Uniacke House Museum Harbour
Bridgetown
Kingston Middleton
Greenwood Military Museum
west Nova Bio
sphere
Macdonald Museum Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
e
Heritage Models River Hebert
Maitland Bridge
10
UNESCO South
ills um
Joggins Fossil Cliffs
To Halifax
Inside scoop A great way to appreciate Fundy’s tidal range is to experience the bay at low tide. Compare the signs of the high-water mark found along cliff-sides and beaches for the horizontal change or on fishing wharves for the vertical change. Caution: although it takes approximately 6.5 hours for the tides to change direction, visitors should always be wary of the incoming tide when exploring the coastline. Allow plenty of time for safe return; the tide comes in quicker than people expect.
Map | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
11
Canada’s Natural Wonder
Tidal-bore rafting
Fundy Facts • Some 160 billion tonnes of water (more than the combined total of all the freshwater rivers and streams in the world) flows in and out of the bay in one 12.5-hour tide cycle each day. • The diversity of the bay’s marine ecology is comparable to that of the Amazon rainforest. • The bay is home to many world-renowned fossil discoveries, including the earliest known reptile on the fossil record found at UNESCO World Heritage Site Joggins Fossil Cliffs. • The bay is home to some 12 species of rare and endangered whales. • The bay’s Minas Channel is the best site on the planet for green tidal energy. • The bay’s incoming tide is so extreme it temporarily reverses the flow of several rivers that empty into the bay. When the
12
2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
tide and rivers collide (twice daily), you can see an unusual wave called a “tidal bore” moving upriver. If you time it right, you can see this natural phenomenon at several locations (times vary by location): – Maccan (Tidal River Park) – River Hebert (Tidal Viewing Park) – T ruro (Tidal Bore Road, see page 15 for times) –S outh Maitland (Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre – Maitland (Dawson Dowell Park) – Hantsport (Fundy Centennial Park) – Avondale (Tidal View Farm) • The Shubenacadie River is the only place in the world where visitors can experience tidal-bore river rafting.
BAY OF FUNDY TIDE TIMES
Hall’s Harbour (Baxters Harbour) The following times are predictions. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the times indicated to avoid disappointment.
AM
June PM
AM
July PM
AM
August PM
AM
PM
September AM
PM
October AM
PM
1
4:28
4:49
5:16
5:31
5:30
5:47
6:46
7:06
8:03
8:25
8:28
8:53
2
5:11
5:29
5:58
6:14
6:17
6:35
7:34
7:55
8:50
9:13
9:15
9:41
3
5:51
6:07
6:41
6:57
7:04
7:23
8:22
8:44
9:37
10:03
10:04
10:31
4
6:29
6:45
7:25
7:42
7:52
8:11
9:10
9:33
10:26
10:54
10:54
11:24
5
7:08
7:24
8:10
8:28
8:39
9:00
9:59
10:24
11:18
11:48
11:49
6
7:48
8:05
8:56
9:16
9:28
9:51
10:50
11:17
12:13
12:22
12:48
7
8:30
8:48
9:46
10:08
10:19
10:44
11:43
12:47
1:13
1:24
1:52
8
9:15
9:34
10:38
11:03
11:12
11:40
12:13
12:39
1:50
2:18
2:28
2:57
9
10:03
10:25
11:33
12:08
1:13
1:40
2:55
3:22
3:30
3:56
10
10:56
11:20
12:01
12:32
12:39
1:06
2:16
2:42
3:58
4:22
4:25
4:48
11
11:53
1:03
1:33
1:40
2:07
3:20
3:45
4:54
5:16
5:13
5:34
12
12:21
12:55
2:06
2:35
2:42
3:08
4:21
4:44
5:43
6:03
5:54
6:13
13
1:25
1:58
3:08
3:35
3:44
4:08
5:17
5:37
6:27
6:44
6:31
6:50
14
2:30
3:01
4:08
4:32
4:42
5:04
6:07
6:26
7:05
7:22
7:07
7:26
15
3:33
4:01
5:03
5:25
5:36
5:57
6:53
7:10
7:41
7:58
7:41
8:01
16
4:31
4:56
5:56
6:16
6:27
6:46
7:34
7:51
8:15
8:33
8:16
8:39
17
5:25
5:48
6:45
7:05
7:14
7:31
8:13
8:29
8:50
9:09
8:54
9:18
18
6:16
6:37
7:33
7:51
7:58
8:15
8:49
9:05
9:25
9:47
9:35
10:02
19
7:04
7:25
8:18
8:36
8:40
8:56
9:25
9:42
10:04
10:29
10:21
10:51
20
7:51
8:11
9:03
9:20
9:20
9:36
10:01
10:21
10:47
11:16
11:12
11:45
21
8:37
8:57
9:46
10:05
9:59
10:16
10:39
11:02
11:37
22
9:24
9:43
10:30
10:49
10:38
10:57
11:21
11:49
12:10
12:33
12:46
1:14
23
10:10
10:30
11:14
11:35
11:18
11:41
12:09
1:10
1:37
1:50
2:21
24
10:58
11:20
11:59
12:01
12:41
1:03
2:15
2:43
2:54
3:25
25
11:48
12:24
12:47
12:29
12:49
1:40
2:03
3:19
3:46
3:55
4:24
26
12:12
12:40
1:15
1:37
1:21
1:41
2:42
3:06
4:19
4:45
4:51
5:19
27
1:07
1:34
2:07
2:28
2:17
2:38
3:44
4:08
5:15
5:39
5:43
6:10
28
2:02
2:27
3:00
3:19
3:15
3:35
4:42
5:05
6:06
6:30
6:33
6:59
29
2:56
3:17
3:52
4:10
4:11
4:31
5:36
5:58
6:55
7:18
7:20
7:46
30
3:46
4:04
4:42
4:59
5:05
5:25
6:27
6:49
7:42
8:06
8:07
20:34
31
4:32
4:49
5:56
6:16
7:15
7:37
8:54
9:21
Note: On rare occasions, during weaker tides, the tidal bore may be hard to detect (or may not occur) during posted times.
May
12:10
Tide times may vary along the coast. Check with a local visitor information centre or call 877-775-0790.
Tide Tables | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
13
BAY OF FUNDY LOW TIDE TIMES (ADT)
Burntcoat Head Add (or subtract) approximately six hours for high tide times. Times for Five Islands and Parrsboro are similar to below. Subtract approximately 50 minutes for Joggins.
May
June
July
August
September
October
AM
PM
AM
PM
AM
PM
AM
PM
AM
PM
AM
PM
1
5:13
5:38
6:10
6:32
6:30
6:51
7:53
8:13
9:11
9:34
9:35
9:59
2
6:01
6:23
6:58
7:19
7:22
7:42
8:43
9:03
9:57
10:21
10:20
10:46
3
6:46
7:07
7:46
8:05
8:13
8:31
9:31
9:52
10:43
11:08
11:05
11:33
4
7:29
7:49
8:32
8:50
9:01
9:19
10:18
10:40
11:30
11:57
11:53
5
8:11
8:30
9:18
9:35
9:49
10:08
11:05
10:29
6
8:53
9:11
10:05
10:22
10:36
10:57
11:54
7
9:36
9:53
10:52
11:11
11:25
11:49
12:20
8
10:20
10:37
11:41
12:16
1:14
1:41
2:47
3:14
3:19
3:46
9
11:06
11:24
12:04
12:35
12:42
1:10
2:13
2:40
3:51
4:17
4:19
4:45
10
11:55
1:01
1:33
1:39
2:08
3:15
3:42
4:52
5:17
5:14
5:39
11
12:17
12:51
2:02
2:34
2:40
3:08
4:19
4:44
5:48
6:11
6:04
6:27
12
1:17
1:52
3:05
3:36
3:42
4:09
5:19
5:43
6:38
6:59
6:48
7:09
13
2:21
2:57
4:08
4:36
4:44
5:09
6:15
6:37
7:22
7:42
7:29
7:48
14
3:28
4:01
5:09
5:34
5:43
6:06
7:06
7:25
8:02
8:20
8:07
8:25
15
4:32
5:02
6:06
6:29
6:38
6:59
7:51
8:09
8:39
8:55
8:43
9:02
16
5:33
5:59
6:59
7:20
7:29
7:47
8:32
8:48
9:13
9:29
9:19
9:39
17
6:29
6:52
7:49
8:08
8:15
8:32
9:09
9:24
9:47
10:04
9:56
10:18
18
7:21
7:42
8:36
8:53
8:57
9:13
9:44
9:58
10:22
10:40
10:34
10:59
19
8:10
8:29
9:19
9:35
9:36
9:51
10:17
10:32
10:58
11:20
11:17
11:45
20
8:56
9:13
10:00
10:16
10:13
10:27
10:51
11:08
11:39
11:27
11:47
12:05
12:26
12:37
1:01
12:08
12:56
1:21
1:37
2:04
12:55
1:57
2:24
2:43
3:12
12:45
12:19
12:23
12:49
1:12
1:18
12:45 1:42
1:45
2:11
2:17
2:44
12:05
21
9:40
9:57
10:40
10:55
10:48
11:02
22
10:23
10:39
11:18
11:34
11:23
11:39
23
11:05
11:22
11:58
24
11:48
12:15
12:39
12:20
12:44
1:23
1:50
3:04
3:32
3:50
4:20
25
12:06
12:33
12:59
1:25
1:06
1:32
2:23
2:51
4:13
4:41
4:54
5:23
26
12:53
1:21
1:48
2:16
1:59
2:27
3:29
3:57
5:18
5:44
5:53
6:21
27
1:43
2:12
2:42
3:10
2:57
3:26
4:37
5:02
6:17
6:42
6:47
7:14
28
2:36
3:06
3:39
4:07
4:00
4:27
5:41
6:05
7:11
7:36
7:38
8:05
29
3:32
3:59
4:38
5:03
5:04
5:28
6:39
7:02
8:01
8:26
8:26
8:53
30
4:27
4:52
5:35
5:58
6:04
6:26
7:33
7:55
8:49
9:13
9:12
9:39
31
5:19
5:43
7:01
7:21
8:23
8:46
9:57
10:25
12:01
12:32
Tide times may vary along the coast. Check with a local visitor information centre or call 1-877-775-0790.
14
2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
BAY OF FUNDY TIDAL BORE TIMES
Truro Tidal Bore The following times are predictions. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the times indicated to avoid disappointment.
June
July
AM
PM
AM
PM
AM
1
11:07
11:25
11:46
11:55
11:53
2
11:46
12:00
3
12:23
12:33
4
12:58
5
1:06
6
1:40
7
August PM
September AM
PM
October
AM
PM
12:23
12:58
1:47
2:15
2:19
AM
2:42
PM
12:25
12:02
12:37
1:14
1:45
2:38
3:05
3:12
3:32
12:32
1:04
12:45
1:21
2:05
2:35
3:31
3:57
4:08
4:29
1:11
1:44
1:32
2:08
2:57
3:27
4:29
4:54
5:08
5:29
1:33
1:53
2:29
2:22
2:57
3:50
4:22
5:31
5:55
6:11
6:33
2:09
2:38
3:17
3:13
3:50
4:49
5:21
6:36
7:00
7:16
7:39
2:18
2:50
3:29
4:09
4:08
4:46
5:52
6:23
7:43
8:07
8:24
8:45
8
3:00
3:35
4:25
5:06
5:08
5:45
6:58
7:26
8:50
9:12
9:25
9:47
9
3:47
4:25
5:25
6:07
6:13
6:47
8:06
8:30
9:53
10:13
10:21
10:39
10
4:40
5:21
6:31
7:10
7:19
7:50
9:12
9:33
10:49
11:05
11:09
11:26
11
5:40
6:24
7:37
8:13
8:26
8:52
10:14
10:32
11:38
11:52
11:50
12
6:45
7:28
8:43
9:12
9:30
9:51
11:09
11:24
12:19
12:08
13
7:53
8:32
9:46
10:09
10:30
10:46
11:59
12:32
12:57
12:45
12:59
14
8:58
9:31
10:43
11:00
11:24
11:38
12:10
12:43
1:11
1:31
1:20
1:31
15
9:59
10:25
11:36
11:49
12:14
12:53
1:22
1:46
2:04
1:53
2:02
16
10:55
11:16
12:26
12:24
12:59
1:32
1:59
2:21
2:35
2:26
2:35
17
11:47
12:04
12:37
1:13
1:09
1:42
2:10
2:35
2:54
3:07
3:01
3:11
18
12:37
12:51
1:23
1:59
1:50
2:22
2:47
3:09
3:29
3:43
3:41
3:51
1:26
2:08
2:43
2:32
3:02
3:23
3:44
4:07
4:22
4:24
4:37
19
12:26
20
1:38
2:13
2:52
3:27
3:12
3:42
4:01
4:21
4:49
5:05
5:13
5:29
21
2:25
3:01
3:38
4:13
3:54
4:22
4:40
5:00
5:37
5:55
6:10
6:29
22
3:13
3:51
4:25
4:58
4:37
5:03
5:23
5:44
6:33
6:53
7:12
7:33
23
4:03
4:41
5:14
5:47
5:21
5:46
6:13
6:33
7:34
7:55
8:16
8:39
24
4:55
5:35
6:05
6:37
6:08
6:33
7:06
7:27
8:38
8:59
9:17
9:40
25
5:52
6:30
6:59
7:28
6:58
7:22
8:05
8:25
9:39
9:58
10:11
10:35
26
6:49
7:27
7:52
8:18
7:52
8:13
9:06
9:24
10:33
10:52
11:02
11:28
27
7:49
8:22
8:45
9:07
8:47
9:05
10:04
10:20
11:24
11:45
11:53
28
8:46
9:14
9:36
9:52
9:43
9:57
10:57
11:12
12:13
12:19
29
9:38
9:59
10:24
10:36
10:35
10:46
11:46
30
10:25
10:41
11:10
11:18
11:24
11:35
12:04
12:34
31
11:08
11:19
12:10
12:56
1:24
12:43
12:37
1:03
1:10
1:31
1:28
1:53
2:02
2:19
2:55
3:09
Note: On rare occasions, during weaker tides, the tidal bore may be hard to detect (or may not occur) during posted times.
May
Tide times may vary along the coast. Check with a local visitor information centre or call 1-877-775-0790.
Tide Tables | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
15
BAY OF FUNDY TIDAL BORE TIMES
Maitland
Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre South Maitland
Add (or subtract) approximately six hours for high tide times. Add approximately 30 minutes for Cape Blomidon.
The following times are predictions. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the times indicated to avoid disappointment.
May
June
July
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
May
June
July
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
1
8:08am
9:05am
9:25am
10:48pm
12:06pm
12:30pm
8:58am
9:55am
10:15am
11:38am
12:56pm
1:20pm
2
8:56am
9:53am
10:17am
11:38am
12:52pm
1:15pm
9:46am
10:43am
11:07am
12:28pm
1:42pm
2:05pm
3
9:41am
10:41am
11:08am
12:26pm
1:38pm
2:00pm
10:31am
11:31am
11:58am
1:16pm
2:28pm
2:50pm
4
10:24am
11:27am
11:56am
1:13pm
2:25pm
2:48pm
11:14am
12:17
12:46pm
2:03pm
3:15pm
3:38pm
5
11:06am
12:13pm
12:44pm
2:00pm
3:14pm
3:40pm
11:56am
1:03pm
1:34pm
2:50pm
4:04pm
4:30pm
6
11:48am
1:00pm
1:31pm
2:49pm
4:07pm
4:37pm
12:38pm
1:50pm
2:21pm
3:39pm
4:57pm
5:27pm
7
12:31pm
1:47pm
2:20pm
3:40pm
5:06pm
5:39pm
1:21pm
2:37pm
3:10pm
4:30pm
5:56pm
6:29pm
8
1:15pm
2:36pm
3:11pm
4:36pm
6:09pm
6:41pm
2:05pm
3:26pm
4:01pm
5:26pm
6:59pm
7:31pm
9
2:01pm
3:30pm
4:05pm
5:35pm
7:12pm
7:14am
2:51pm
4:20pm
4:55pm
6:25pm
8:02pm
8:04am
10
2:50pm
4:28pm
5:03pm
6:37pm
7:47am
8:09am
3:40pm
5:18pm
5:53pm
7:27pm
8:37am
8:59am
11
3:46pm
5:29pm
6:03pm
7:14am
8:43am
8:59am
4:36pm
6:19pm
6:53pm
8:04am
9:33am
9:49am
12
4:47pm
6:31pm
7:04pm
8:14am
9:33am
9:43am
5:37pm
7:21pm
7:54pm
9:04am
10:23am
10:33am
13
5:52pm
7:31pm
7:39am
9:10am
10:17am
10:24am
6:42pm
8:21pm
8:29am
10:00am
11:07am
11:14am
14
6:56pm
8:04am
8:38am
10:01am
10:57am
11:02am
7:46pm
8:54am
9:28am
10:51am
11:47am
11:52am
15
7:27am
9:01am
9:33am
10:46pm
11:34am
11:38am
8:17am
9:51am
10:23am
11:36am
12:24pm
12:28pm
16
8:28am
9:54am
10:24am
11:27am
12:08pm
12:14pm
9:18am
10:44am
11:14am
12:17pm
12:58pm
1:04pm
17
9:24am
10:44am
11:10am
12:04pm
12:42pm
12:51pm
10:14am
11:34am
12:00pm
12:54pm
1:32pm
1:41pm
18
10:16am
11:31am
11:52am
12:39pm
1:17pm
1:29pm
11:06am
12:21pm
12:42pm
1:29pm
2:07pm
2:19pm
19
11:05am
12:14pm
12:13pm
1:12pm
1:53pm
2:12pm
11:55am
1:04pm
1:21pm
2:02pm
2:43pm
3:02pm
20
11:51am
12:55pm
1:08pm
1:46pm
2:34pm
3:00pm
12:41pm
1:45pm
1:58pm
2:36pm
3:24pm
3:50pm
21
12:35pm
1:35pm
1:43pm
2:22pm
3:21pm
3:56pm
1:25pm
2:25pm
2:33pm
3:12pm
4:11pm
4:46pm
22
1:18pm
2:13pm
2:18pm
3:03pm
4:16pm
4:49pm
2:08pm
3:03pm
3:08pm
3:53pm
5:06pm
5:49pm
23
2:00pm
2:53pm
2:56pm
3:50pm
5:19pm
6:07pm
2:50pm
3:43pm
3:46pm
4:40pm
6:09pm
6:57pm
24
2:43pm
3:34pm
3:39pm
4:45pm
6:27pm
7:15pm
3:33pm
4:24pm
4:29pm
5:35pm
7:17pm
8:05pm
25
3:28pm
4:20pm
4:27pm
5:46pm
7:08am
7:49am
4:18pm
5:10pm
5:17pm
6:36pm
7:58am
8:39am
26
4:16pm
5:11pm
5:22pm
6:52pm
8:13am
8:48am
5:06pm
6:01pm
6:12pm
7:42pm
9:03am
9:38am
27
5:07pm
6:05pm
6:21pm
7:32am
9:12am
9:42am
5:57pm
6:55pm
7:11pm
8:22am
10:02am
10:32am
28
6:01pm
7:02pm
7:22pm
8:36am
10:06am
10:33am
6:51pm
7:52pm
8:12pm
9:26am
10:56am
11:23am
29
6:54pm
7:33am
7:59am
9:34am
10:56am
11:21am
7:44pm
8:23am
8:49am
10:24am
11:46am
12:11pm
30
7:22am
8:30am
8:59am
10:28am
11:44am
12:07pm
8:12am
9:20am
9:49am
11:18am
12:34pm
12:57pm
31
8:14am
9:56am
11:18am
12:52pm
9:04am
10:46am
12:08pm
1:42pm
Note: On rare occasions, during weaker tides, the tidal bore may be hard to detect (or may not occur) during posted times.
Tide times may vary along the coast. Check with a local visitor information centre or call 1-877-775-0790.
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Dempsey Corner Orchards U-Pick and Farm Fun
U-PICK, PETTING ZOO, TEAROOM, AND ACRES OF ADVENTURE
Come Play in Our Back Yard! Just north of exit 16 in Aylesford and follow the signs. 902-847-1855 or look us up on Facebook
Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia
Five Islands Provincial Park
Every day, 160 billion tonnes of water move through the Bay of Fundy. That’s more water than the combined flow of all the world’s freshwater rivers, carving the coast into four distinct eco-zones, with a world of adventure waiting in each one. To help you better navigate your visit through the Bay of Fundy, the information in this guide is divided to reflect these four distinct eco-zone regions. The first eco-zone encompasses Scenic Seacliffs and Geological Wonders. From Amherst to Masstown, you’ll experience some of the world’s most dramatic coastal seascapes and prehistoric geology. Visit the Three Sisters sea stacks at Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, experience a dinosaur discovery in Parrsboro, or walk the fossilized footprints of Coal Age creatures left in the cliffs at Joggins 300 million years ago. Next, the Tidally Awesome eco-zone from Truro to Avondale offers the experience for which the Bay of Fundy is probably best known: the extraordinary tidal variations in its upper basins. Marvel at the dramatic tidal range from high to low at Burntcoat Head or strap on a life-jacket and raft the rollercoaster waves created by the natural phenomenon known as the tidal bore. Here too, you can immerse yourself in the legends of the region’s first people, the Mi’kmaq.
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Grand-Pré National Historic Site
World-class attractions Nova Scotia boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unique attractions of cultural, and/or natural significance. In the Annapolis Valley, the landscape of Grand Pré comprises 1,300 hectares of fecund agricultural landscape, claimed from the sea by early Acadian settlers. Also on site is a memorial to the Acadian way of life and their deportation in 1755. Further along the Fundy shore, Joggins Fossil Cliffs offer a window back 300 million years, as the world’s highest tides expose rare fossil discoveries.
The lush Annapolis Valley is Nova Scotia’s agricultural heartland. From Windsor to Middleton, meander through a patchwork of rolling green farms and you’ll discover a land of outstanding orchards, valleys, and vineyards. Juicy apples, robust pumpkins, and award winning wines inspire local chefs. Indulge and enjoy a true taste of Nova Scotia. The final eco-zone is where the deep Atlantic Ocean first enters the Bay of Fundy, fostering a unique environment that’s as popular with marine life as it is with people. Here, from Bridgetown to Brier Island, you’ll discover whales and historic tales in abundance.
Fifteen whale species, along with porpoises, dolphins, seals, and seabirds, dwell in these sheltered waters. Explore Gulliver’s Cove with Fundy Adventures: clam digging, finding edible sea delicacies, and more. Embark on a whale-watching adventure to explore this incredible ecosystem up close, or stay on dry land and ramble among historic fortifications dating back 400 years.
Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
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Explore Our Four Seasons Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy region boasts four distinct and spectacular seasons to enjoy, all offering unique experiences and reasons to return again and again. Here are some favourites. The weather is moderate, neither extremely cold nor extremely hot. The daily temperatures can fluctuate near the ocean. A pullover, knit sweater, or light jacket for layering will ensure you’re comfortable.
Apple blossoms
Spring Expect temperatures to range from 10–20 degrees Celsius (50–70 degrees Fahrenheit). Nova Scotia’s spring thaw produces some of the world’s best maple syrup. Celebrate this sweet treat during the harvest in late March and early April, when you’ll find maple syrup on the menu at local restaurants and community suppers. Welcome the darling buds of May by strolling along the winding pathways of the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, through seven hectares of delicate spring blooms and green shoots. Let the luscious aroma of apple blossoms surround you
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
as you celebrate spring at the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival. Running in communities from Windsor to Digby, the festival features one of Canada’s favourite annual street parades. In Bible Hill, the Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus’s expansive rock garden springs to life. With nearly 1,000 plant species, varieties, and cultivars (all labelled), it’s a gardener’s dream. With the spring showers and run-off from melting snow, local waterfalls are at their prime. Take your camera and capture the rushing water at Victoria Park in Truro, Economy Falls in Economy, or Ward’s Falls near Parrsboro.
Tidal-bore rafting
Summer Expect temperatures from 20–25 degrees Celsius (70–80 degrees Fahrenheit). The best way to experience the world’s highest tides is to ride the wave. Tidal-bore rafting, offered at various locations along the Shubenacadie River, is an exhilarating adventure for all ages. The Fundy Coast is a unique marine environment that’s as popular with whales as it is with people. Book a whale-watching tour for a thrilling encounter with the minke, humpback, fin, and right whales that spend their summers off Digby Neck and its coastal islands (novascotia.com). The Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides have carved a coastal masterpiece. At low tide, explore the ocean floor amid sea stacks and “flower pots” and join fascinating beach tours with the Fundy Geological Museum (902-254-3814 / fundygeological.novascotia.ca) or the Joggins Fossil Centre (jogginsfossilcliffs.net / 888-932-9766).
Plan a day of family fun. Kids of all ages will love talking with and feeding the animals at Oaklawn Farm Zoo in Aylesford or Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park, or zooming down the zipline, roller coaster, and waterslide at Upper Clements Parks just outside Annapolis Royal. Be at one with nature and sleep under the stars. Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, in the heart of the UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve, and Cape Chignecto Provincial Park both offer backcountry wilderness camping sites, surrounded by old-growth forests, quiet trails, and serene waterways.
Adventures in Taste Enjoy a delectable showcase of unique-to-the-land-and-sea cuisine and a world-class wine region experience. Explore the flavours of Nova Scotia throughout our regions. World famous scallops and fresh lobster served daily. Share in the artistry of our chefs, winemakers, farmers, and producers. Learn more at tasteofnovascotia.com.
Explore Our Seasons | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
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Fall
Expect temperatures of 10–20 degrees Celsius (50–70 degrees Fahrenheit). Discover fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, sweet treats, and lively entertainment at one of our region’s many farmers’ markets or navigate your way through a giant corn maze. Check out Noggins Corner Farm Market in Greenwich (902-542-5515 / nogginsfarm.ca), Masstown Market (902-662-2816 / masstownmarket.com) or the River Breeze Corn Maze near Truro (902-895-6541 / riverbreeze.info). Burntcoat Head Park in Noel is the site of the world’s highest recorded tide shift. During the fall’s lunar cycle, the high-water mark is even more impressive as the tides are pulled to their apex by the harvest moon. Mother Nature puts on quite a show during autumn. Have a Thanksgiving weekend treat as you enjoy the gorgeous golden and red fall foliage reflected in the
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Nova Scotia Fibre Arts Festival
Mersey River’s waters during a leisurely canoe paddle in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site. You’ll be seeing orange during October. Have your photo taken with some of Kentville’s famous Pumpkin People or with the giant pumpkins at the Dill farm in Windsor. And if you dare, take in the spook-tacular events during Ghost Town in Annapolis Royal (exploreghosttown.com). Add a little fibre to your creative diet at the Nova Scotia Fibre Arts Festival in Amherst. Enjoy a celebration of knitting, quilting, rug-hooking, and more from Oct. 9–13 (fibreartsfestival.com).
Ski Martock
Winter Expect temperatures of 0 to -15 degrees Celsius (32 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit). Sheffield Mills is home to the largest winter population of bald eagles in North America. Visit during the annual Eagle Watch in January and February, and you can photograph these majestic birds nesting in bare-limbed trees. Strap on your ice skates and glide over the frozen surface of Long Pond in Windsor. Folks have been playing pickup hockey games here since the early 1800s. Visit in mid-February for the Long Pond Heritage Classic, an annual tournament on the pond where some historians believe hockey was born. Stanfield’s long underwear became famous during the Yukon Gold Rush. Visit the company’s hometown for the annual Long John Festival in Truro, featuring a variety of family fun winter activities from sledding to skating.
While in Truro enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on Victoria Park’s 12 kilometres of groomed trails. Alpine skiers can challenge themselves at Ski Martock near Windsor or Ski Wentworth near Truro. Learn to ride a snowboard, take to the cross-country trails, or kick back with a treat at the lodge. A winter getaway is the perfect way to escape the cold. Curl up by a cozy fireplace at one of the unique country inns and chalets found throughout the region.
Eagle Watch
Explore Our Seasons | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
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Cape Chignecto Provincial Park
Cape Chignecto Provincial Park 1108 West Advocate Rd., Advocate Harbour Discover some of Canada’s most spectacular coastal hiking and sea kayaking. Trek along the tops of sea cliffs that rise from the Bay of Fundy. Spend the day or camp overnight. Take a guided kayaking tour with NovaShores Adventures (902-392-2222 / novashores.com) and you’ll be amazed by the up-close views of towering rock spires, waterfalls, and sea caves.
Geological gems Tidal erosion has uncovered a trove of unique geological treasures on the Fundy shore. Explore the mineral-rich cliffs at Joggins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s most complete fossil record of the Coal Age. Tour the beach and the adjacent fossil institute (902-251-2727 / jogginsfossilcliffs.net) for evidence of the first reptiles to walk the earth 300 million years ago. Nearby in Parrsboro, the Fundy
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Burntcoat Head Park
Geological Museum (902-254-3814 / fundygeological. novascotia.ca) shares further discoveries, including some of the oldest dinosaur bones in Canada.
Burntcoat Head Park Burntcoat Rd., Noel burntcoatheadpark.ca In 1975, The Guinness Book of World Records declared Burntcoat Head as the site of the highest recorded tides in the world. A visit to the beach here at low tide will reveal the incredible range of the Fundy tide. Return for high tide and an amazing change in scenery.
Photo: Scott Munn
10 Don’t-Miss Attractions
Landscape of Grand Pré UNESCO World Heritage Site and Grand-Pré National Historic Site 902-542-3631 / 866-542-3631 parkscanada.gc.ca/grandpre Off Rte. 101, between Windsor and New Minas, is the sweeping landscape of Grand Pré, Nova Scotia’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, a rich agricultural area steeped in history of Mi’kmaw, Acadian, and Planter cultures. At its centre, with a memorial church marking the site of the 17th-century Acadian village, Grand-Pré National Historic Site tells the story of the deportation of the Acadian settlers immortalized in H.W. Longfellow’s poem Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie. View a dramatic sculpture based on the theme of reconciliation and created by Acadian sculptor Monette Léger, Mi’kmaw artist Gerald Gloade, and Doug Morse, a descendent of a Planter family from the Grand Pré area.
Historic Fortifications at Port-Royal and Fort Anne Explore the grounds where the French first settled the New World in the early 1600s and walk some of the most contested land in the history of our nations. At Port-Royal National Historic Site (902-532-2898 / parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal) you can marvel at the hardiness and determination of Samuel de Champlain, Sieur de Mons, and their crew, who built the original Port-Royal Habitation on the site in 1605. Nearby in Annapolis Royal, roam the well-preserved earthworks at Fort Anne National Historic Site (902-532-2397 / parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne). Enjoy a behind the scenes “White Glove” tour, explore an early 18th-century gunpowder magazine, and rent a tablet for an interactive experience.
Fundy geological tour
10 Don’t Miss Attractions | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
25
Photo: Parks Canada
Fort Anne National Historic Site
Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park
Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park 149 Creighton Rd., Stewiacke 902-758-2040 wildlifepark.novascotia.ca Shaded pathways through natural habitat provide easy and accessible viewing of the 30 species of mammals and some 60 species of birds that call this park home, making it a popular excursion for the entire family.
Tidal river-rafting Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie River is the only place in the world where you can experience this white-water thrill. The force of the incoming Fundy tide battles against the outflow of the river, forming roller-coaster waves four metres high. This wet and wild
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Tidal-bore rafting
adventure is an absolute must for any visit to Nova Scotia. Guided tours are available at several locations along the river. See page 72 for tour operators.
Upper Clements Parks 2931 Rte. 1 902-532-7557 / 888-248-4567 upperclements.com Featuring a theme park with a roller coaster, flume ride, waterslide, laser tag, and many more rides and attractions, as well as live entertainment and great food. The adventure park with ziplines, challenge courses, and elevated bridges is in a beautiful forest area. This park is a must-see and a great destination for all ages.
Photo: Wally Hayes
Luckett Vineyards
Vineyard tours The Annapolis Valley is rapidly becoming Canada’s stellar wine destination with its award-winning wines. Spend a leisurely weekend touring one boutique winery after another from Avondale through to Bear River. Chat with passionate winemakers and sample signature Nova Scotia varietals such as L’Acadie Blanc, Marechal Foch, Pinot Gris, and Tidal Bay. Tours of most wineries are available from May through October and many offer special events such as wine-and-cheese tastings and winemakers’ dinners. See page 86 for listings or visit winesofnovascotia.ca.
Whale watching and birding
Upper Clements Parks
It’s a singular thrill to see a spout of water shoot out of the ocean beside your Zodiac, just as a mighty whale breaches the waves. Hop on a Fundy tour boat; five whale species are common in the waters just off Digby Neck and Islands, along with porpoises, white-sided dolphins, seals, and an abundance of seabirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl.
Whale watching
Walk, run or bicycle on 18 km of trail featuring the Salmon River, Cobequid Bay, salt marsh, forest and farmland. Trailheads in Old Barns, Lower Truro, Truro and Bible Hill. www.colchester.ca/cobequid-trail
10 Don’t Miss Attractions | 2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
27
Scenic Seacliffs and Geological Wonders Amherst to Masstown
Joggins Fossil Tour
Five Islands Provincial Park
Fundy geological adventures, Parrsboro
The Bay of Fundy area (extending from Amherst at the New Brunswick border to Masstown on the eastern edge of the Minas Basin) offers some of the most dramatic panoramas in Nova Scotia. The relentless Fundy tides have carved the landscape here, revealing an incredible natural history. Travel down the stunning coastline to the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the ocean floor at low tide among the spectacular geological formations or look for fossils in the oceanside cliffs. This is where dinosaurs and the first reptiles roamed over 300 million years ago. Follow in their footsteps and see what you discover.
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2019 Bay of Fundy Shore Guide
Top 5 Photo Opportunities (Amherst to Masstown)
Cape d’Or Lighthouse
Cape d’Or Lighthouse
Spencer’s Island Lighthouse
Rte. 209. Cape d’Or was named by the explorer Samuel de Champlain, who mistook the copper glinting in the cliff face for gold. Perched above a glorious ocean vista just six kilometres from Advocate Harbour, this is one of Nova Scotia’s most photogenic lighthouses.
Off Rte. 209. Spencer’s Island Beach Road leads to a picturesque lighthouse and an expansive beach where a cairn commemorates the Mary Celeste, a brigantine built here that was found off the Azores in 1872 with not a soul left aboard. Its abandonment is one of the enduring mysteries of the sea and has been the subject of plays, novels, and movies.
Five Islands Rte. 2. Mi’kmaq legend claims the Five Islands were created when Glooscap flung a handful of mud into the Minas Basin. This magnificent seascape is accented by an unusual “pepper pot” wooden lighthouse and the unique Jurassic-era rocks of the cliff face.
FORCE (Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy) Visitor Centre 1156 West Bay Rd., Parrsboro. The most significant test site in the world for harnessing tidal energy offers dramatic views of the Minas Channel and its tidal rips. Off Rte. 2, Parrsboro. Partridge Island is really a small isthmus linked to the mainland by a beach that dries at low tide. Trails lead from the coast through mixed woods, rising 61 metres to natural viewing platforms that offer striking panoramas of the sea below.
Spencer’s Island Lighthouse
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Photo: Creative Commons
Partridge Island
Top Outdoor Activities (Amherst to Masstown) For more outdoor activities, see pages 67–74.
Dinosaur Discovery
Sea kayak and Zodiac boat tours
Visit the Fundy Geological Museum in Parrsboro (902-254-3814 / fundygeological.novascotia.ca) and join a geological beach tour to learn about the area’s world-renowned dinosaur discoveries.
Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, near Advocate Harbour, is one of the most dramatic outdoor adventure destinations in Nova Scotia. Explore its sheltered coves and towering 180-metre cliffs from the water. Book a guided sea kayaking tour with NovaShores Adventures (novashores.com) or a Zodiac boat tour with Advocate Boat Tours (advocateboattours.com) for an unparalleled view of the park’s pristine 29-kilometre coastline.
Fossil walk at UNESCO World Heritage Site 902-251-2727 / jogginsfossilcliffs.net Discover prehistoric Nova Scotia at the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, stretching 15 kilometres along the Bay of Fundy shoreline. Take a tour of the beach and see wonderfully preserved fossilized plants and the footprints of early reptiles and amphibians. Charles Darwin wrote about the cliffs of Joggins in his book On the Origin of Species.
Hiking Economy’s coastal and woodland hiking trails provide spectacular views of the Minas Basin. See the rising and falling tides off the Thomas’ Cove Coastal Reserve trail (8 km). Or hike inland on the Economy Falls Trail (2 km) to a deep gorge and a gushing 20-metre waterfall. Stop at the Cobequid Interpretive Centre for trail maps (colchester.ca/trails).
Zodiac tour
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Seaside golf You’ll have to fight the distraction of the spectacular Bay of Fundy view at the Parrsboro Golf Club (902-254-2733 / parrsborogolf.ca). This challenging ninehole, par-33 course on the shore of the Minas Basin borders a 30-metre cliff to the beach below.
Horseback Riding Visit Spirit Reins Ranch (902-254-3138 / spiritreinsranch.com) in Parrsboro for an extraordinary scenic trail ride. New and experienced riders welcome. Reservations recommended.
Economy Falls
Top 5 Locals’ Picks (Amherst to Masstown) For more dining options, see pages 82–85.
Dining in Parrsboro
BlackRock Bistro 151 Main St., Parrsboro 902-728-3006 / blackrockbistro.ca Located in beautiful downtown Parrsboro, this little bistro offers great food in an intimate setting with an adjacent wine bar.
Harbour View Restaurant 476 Pier Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-3507 This diner-style restaurant is a favourite of locals who count on its great home-style food and fantastic location by the bay.
Masstown Market 10622 Rte. 2, Masstown 902-662-2816 / 866-273-0614 masstownmarket.com If the bakery doesn’t do it for you, try the selection of local farm-fresh produce, deli meats and cheeses, gifts, grocery items, local
wines, or a meal from the restaurant. On-site lighthouse features a fish market, great fish and chips, information on local attractions, and an incredible panoramic view.
Diane’s Restaurant 879 Rte. 2, Five Islands 902-254-3190 A popular stop for delicious fried clams and local seafood.
Wild Caraway Restaurant 3721 Rte. 209 Advocate Harbour 902-392-2889 / wildcaraway.com This relaxed spot overlooking the bay is a must-visit when you’re exploring the rugged coastline. Soak up the view and the colourful atmosphere at this award-winning restaurant as you enjoy a delicious meal made from fresh locallysourced ingredients.
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Top 5 Festivals and Events (Amherst to Masstown)
Not Since Moses
Classics by the Bay June 28–30, Parrsboro classicsbythebay.com Enjoy classical music along the Bay of Fundy in historic Parrsboro.
Bordertown Biker Bash July 12–14, Amherst bordertownbikerbash.ca Stunt shows, guided rides, dances, live music, poker ride, and guided tours.
gems, jewellery and jewellers’ tools, beads, fossils, tumbled stones, and more at one of Canada’s largest mineral shows.
Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival August 16–31, various communities along the shore / wildblueberryfest.com A variety of community events celebrating Nova Scotia’s provincial berry and with participating restaurants featuring specialty wild blueberry menu items.
Not Since Moses August 4, Five Islands notsincemoses.com Explore the ocean floor in this extraordinary 5k and 10k running event for all ages.
Nova Scotia Gem & Mineral Show August 16–18, Parrsboro 902-254-3814 fundygeological.novascotia.ca Peruse a variety of fine minerals and precious
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Nova Scotia Gem & Mineral Show
Photo: Wally Hayes
For more festivals and events, see pages 89–93. Dates are subject to change, so please confirm with the local Visitor Information Centre before finalizing your plans.
Top 5 One-of-a-Kind Shopping (Amherst to Masstown) For more shopping options, see pages 87–88.
That Dutchman’s Farm
Antiques and Hidden Treasures
Joy Laking Studio Gallery
Pickers will love the antique shops and unique general stores along this shore. Check out the Onslow Trading Company and Great Village Antiques in Great Village, Bass River General Store, and Port Greville Country Market.
6730 Rte. 2, Bass River 902-890-8450 / 902-890-8730 joylakinggallery.com For years, Joy Laking has been painting Nova Scotia’s charming village-scapes in vivid watercolours. Visit the gallery to see her lyrical portraits, paintings in progress, and the artist making serigraphs.
Arlene Collins Gallery 10182 Rte. 209, Diligent River 902-254-2857 facebook.com/arlenecollinsgallery Inspired by her love of animals and birds, Arlene Collins is one of Nova Scotia’s most talented wildlife and nature artists.
Art Lab Studio & Gallery 121 Main St., Parrsboro 902-254-2972 facebook.com/ArtLabParrsboro A cooperative studio and gallery where the public can watch artists at work, purchase original pieces, or take a workshop.
That Dutchman’s Farm 132 Brown Rd., Upper Economy (If using GPS, search 4595 Rte. 2) 902-647-2751 / thatdutchmansfarm.com Visit the van den Hoek farm to see how they make their award-winning farmstead cheese, pick up a wedge or wheel of delicious gouda for the road, or explore the on-site nature park.
Painting by Joy Laking
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Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions (Amherst to Masstown) For more heritage and cultural attractions, see pages 75–82.
Anne Murray
Age of Sail Heritage Centre
Anne Murray Centre
8334 Rte. 209, Port Greville 902-348-2030 / ageofsailmuseum.ca The main pavilion of this family-oriented, interpretive centre is in a restored 1857 Methodist church. Shipbuilding exhibits (including photos, videos, models, and other artifacts) are on display inside the church and at several other locations on-site.
36 Main St., Springhill 902-597-8614 / annemurraycentre.com From humble Nova Scotia origins, Anne Murray has amassed more musical awards and accolades than almost any female singer in history. The centre’s audio-visuals pay tribute to Springhill’s internationally acclaimed superstar with 3D displays of her awards, memorabilia, and career highlights. Create your own “duet” in the mini recording studio and take home this signature memento to mark your visit.
Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Photo: Izzy Dempsey
Ottawa House By the Sea Museum
Age of Sail Heritage Centre
Ottawa House By the Sea Museum 1155 Whitehall Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-2376 ottawahousemuseum.ca This summer home of Father of Confederation and former Prime Minister Sir Charles Tupper now interprets the area’s Indigineous and Acadian heritage and its seafaring, lumbering, and shipbuilding industries. Ottawa House is one of the oldest structures along the Minas Basin, dating back to 1775.
Ship’s Company Theatre 18 Lower Main St., Parrsboro 902-254-3000 / 800-565-SHOW shipscompanytheatre.com
Take your seat for dynamic and engaging performances from this innovative professional theatre company, which stages several new Canadian plays each season from a unique performance venue that incorporates MV Kipawo, the last of the Minas Basin ferries. Performances run from July–September.
Springhill Miners’ Museum 145 Black River Rd., Springhill 902-597-3449 Tour the depths of a Springhill coal mine, famous in song and legend. Learn of the town’s disasters and triumphs, and see unique artifacts depicting its remarkable industrial heritage.
Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy
Tidal energy demonstration site + visitor centre. Exhibits, interactive displays, small theatre. Overlooks ocean test site. 1156 West Bay Road, Parrsboro, NS Open daily 10AM-5PM July + Aug Check hours spring + fall 902.254.2510 visitor.centre@fundyforce.ca fundyforce.ca/visit
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Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre
Tidally Awesome Truro to Avondale The coastline stretching from Truro to Avondale is an incredible place to experience the magnitude of the powerful Bay of Fundy tides. Burntcoat Head is home to the highest tidal shift ever recorded on the planet. With tides that reach up to 16.5 metres, it’s a spectacular sight that occurs nowhere else on earth. (See tide and tidal bore times on pages 13–16). Truro, “the hub of Nova Scotia,” is a great spot to see the rare natural phenomenon called the tidal bore. Twice a day, the immense incoming Fundy tide temporarily reverses the flow of several rivers that empty into the bay. The result is a rushing crest of water (known as a tidal bore) that moves upriver. In addition to Truro’s Salmon River, the bore can also be viewed on the Shubenacadie River from the observation deck at the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre in South Maitland. Or get up close and personal and take a guided tidal-bore river rafting adventure offered at three locations along the Shubenacadie in Urbania, South Maitland, and Maitland. The area is also rich with history, maintaining the vibrant culture of Nova Scotia’s indigenous Mi’kmaq population. You’ll see their language and lore reflected in place names like Cobequid, Shubenacadie, and Stewiacke. Visit the community of Millbrook during its annual powwow and let the beat of the drums stir your soul.
Recommended Scenic Drive Coastal Rte. 215 and inland Rte. 236 are scenic alternatives to the 100-series highway from Truro to Windsor. The community of Kennetcook is a halfway point along Rte. 236, offering a convenient stop for groceries and gas.
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Top 5 Photo Opportunities (Truro to Avondale)
Downtown Truro
Anthony Provincial Park
Walton Lighthouse
6889 Rte. 215, Lower Selma On the edge of the bay, stand on the Park’s wharf for an expansive view of the rippling red sand of the Minas Basin exposed at low tide.
Downtown Truro Shutterbugs will discover fine architecture and old churches throughout the designated heritage district, painted murals, and several tree sculptures depicting the town’s history.
Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre 9865 Rte. 236, South Maitland 902-261-2250 Offering views of the red cliffs and the historical cantilevered Gosse Bridge, the observation deck over the Shubenacadie River also provides a panoramic view of the roiling tidal bore as the Fundy tides push against the out-flowing river. Eagles soar, fishing the incoming tide. Check tidal bore times (if available).
Mastodon Ridge 87 Main St., Stewiacke 902-639-2345 / mastodonridge.ca Halfway between the North Pole and the Equator, you’ll see a large mastodon beckoning from the hill just above Exit 11.
Anthony Provincial Park
Especially popular with the kids, he’s a replica of a creature whose remains were found in 1991 not far from here.
Walton Lighthouse 119 Lorne Smith Rd., Walton Hants County’s last remaining lighthouse was built in 1873. Climb to the top of the shingled wooden lighthouse and enjoy a panorama of the cliffs and the Fundy tides. A walking trail leads visitors through the woods to a shady look-off. Open May 15–Oct. 15.
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Top Outdoor Activities (Truro to Avondale)
For more outdoor activities, see pages 67–74.
Birding and Wildlife in Shubenacadie 902-758-2040 wildlifepark.novascotia.ca Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park is home to bald eagles, snowy owls, peregrine falcons, and other birds that have been rehabilitated from injuries that prevent them from returning to the wild. Thirty species of native mammals are also on display, making this park a popular excursion for the entire family.
Coastal Exploring at Burntcoat Head Park
Victoria Park, Truro
627 Burntcoat Head Rd., Noel burntcoatheadpark.ca Walk on the ocean floor during low tide at the site of the world’s highest ever recorded tide shift. Walking trails and a staircase down the rocky cliff offers safe passage to the beach floor where you can observe the sea life at low tide. Climb to the top of the lighthouse tower for a great view of the surrounding shoreline.
Cycling the Cobequid Trail In the Mi’kmaw language, Cobequid means “place of rushing waters.” This 18-kilometre trail network starts in Truro and takes cyclists along a former railway bed through Acadian dykelands and deep green forests, past babbling brooks and the tidal Salmon River. Bicycle rentals are available at Bike Monkey (902-843-7111 / bikemonkey.ca) or Hub Cycle (902-897-2482 / hubcycle.ca). See trail listings on page 73.
Fundy From the Sky with Debert Flight Centre Hwy 102, Exit 13A, Millbrook Power Centre
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44 Spitfire Rd., Debert 902-662-2228 / flytfc.ca Get a bird’s-eye view of the incredible Bay of Fundy landscape with a flight tour over Five Islands.
Hike, bike, or segway in Victoria Park Off Brunswick St., Truro 902-893-4588 / 902-305-8758 cobequidsegway.ca This stunning 405-hectare natural woodland park offers several brook-side trails that lead to two magnificent waterfalls. Hike or bike the trails, or join a guided segway adventure with Cobequid Segway.
Tidal-bore rafting or viewing Cobequid Trail
A thrilling unique adventure. The white-water rapids here are generated by the immense tides of the Bay of Fundy. Navigated by motors rather than paddles, it’s a safe ride for most ages. Book a tour (see listings on page 26) and enjoy an exhilarating ride. Opportunities to view the tidal bore phenomenon can be found at several locations around the bay, including Truro, South Maitland, and Maitland (see predicted times on pages 13-16).
Flight tour over the Bay of Fundy
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Top 5 Locals’ Picks (Truro to Avondale)
The Flying Apron Inn & Cookery
The Flying Apron Cookery 3 Summerville Wharf Rd. Rte. 215, Summerville 902-633-2300 / 844-633-2300 flyingaproncookery.ca Honest, local, and seasonal fare is what you’ll find on the ever-changing menu at this award-winning restaurant. At this foodie haven you can indulge your love of food even further in their Cookery School and Gourmet Food Shop. In addition to the great food, this former hardware store features a five-room inn, an art gallery, and a used-book store.
Bicentennial Botanical Garden College Rd., Bible Hill Stroll the paths of the peaceful Alumni Garden, discover the secrets of the Butterfly Meadow, or admire native species and materials in the Maritime’s largest rock garden.
Frieze & Roy General Store 8787 Rte. 215 902-261-2860 Located in Nova Scotia’s first heritage conservation district, Frieze & Roy is Canada’s
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oldest general store and is a gathering spot for food, drink, history, and local gossip.
Free Concerts in the Parks Victoria Park and Riverfront Park, Truro truro.ca The town hosts a popular two-hour concert in Victoria Park every Sunday from 2pm–4pm (late June until early September) and a free one-hour concert at Riverfront Park every Friday in July starting at 7pm.
Truro Farmers’ Market trurofarmersmarket.org Rain or shine, farmers, artisans, and shoppers gather on the corner of Prince and Young streets in downtown Truro for this Saturday morning tradition. Munch on a crisp samosa as you browse the stalls of flowers, local beer, organic produce, eggs, meat, artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked goods, and local handcrafts. Open Saturday from April–December, 8am – 1pm; January–March, 9am – 1pm in the historic Fire Hall building.
Top 5 Festivals and Events (Truro to Avondale) For more festivals and events, see pages 89–93. Dates may change; confirm before finalizing your plans. Circuit Week July 16–21 and the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Aug. 20–24.
Photo: Nigel Gloade
Millbrook Pow Wow
Millbrook Pow Wow
TBA (usually in mid-August) Enjoy this annual celebration of Mi’kmaw culture in the community of Millbrook with traditional drumming, dancing, and arts and crafts.
Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival
Annual Acoustic Maritime Music Festival July 18–21, 5701 Rte. 215 Kempt Shore 902-633-2229 kemptshorefestivals.com From an amazing outdoor venue with incredible bay views, this festival is something the whole family can enjoy, with music workshops, a songwriter’s circle, and headline concerts featuring some of Canada’s best acoustic artists.
48th Annual Nova Scotia Bluegrass & Oldtime Music Festival July 25–28, Truro Exhibition Grounds, Bible Hill facebook.com/downeastgrass Canada’s longest-running old-time music festival features some of the best bluegrass around, with lively pickin’ and singin’ on Truro’s exhibition grounds.
Truro Raceway and Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition 73 Ryland Ave., Bible Hill 902-893-9222 truroraceway.ca / nspe.ca Spend an exciting afternoon at Canada’s fastest half-mile harness racing track at one of the regularly scheduled racing events. Mark your calendar for Atlantic Grand
Aug. 16–31 Communities from Amherst to Truro wildblueberryfest.com Celebrate Nova Scotia’s provincial berry. Region-wide farm markets, community suppers, pancake breakfasts, cooking competitions, pie-eating contests, and more.
605 prince street truro, ns (902) 897-4004 marigoldcentre.ca
Theatre
Art Gallery
Sports Hall of Fame
"Music Feeds the Soul"
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Top 5 One-of-a-Kind Shopping (Truro to Avondale) For more shopping options, see pages 87–88.
Gallery 215
Thrown Together Pottery & Art
8247 Rte. 215, Selma 902-261-2151 / artgallery215.com The old Selma School House houses a gallery displaying the works of more than 40 talented local artists in a variety of media, such as pen and paper, paint on canvas, wood, stone, and wool.
37 King St., Truro 902-895-9309 throwntogetherpottery.com Along with a wonderful selection of creative handmade pottery, this great little shop features the work of more than 20 local artists. All products here are unique.
Inglis Place
Coldstream Clear Distillery
Inglis Place, Truro Here you’ll find a pleasant pedestrian atmosphere and an eclectic blend of boutique shops featuring men’s and women’s apparel, unique gifts, and coffee shops in the heart of historic downtown Truro.
87 Main St. West, Stewiacke 902-956-3393 coldstreamclear.com Experience the spirit of Nova Scotia and enjoy a variety of unique flavours produced by this popular local distillery.
880 Prince St., Truro 902-893-8285 facebook.com/NSEmporium Take in the excellent array of giftware, collectibles, and fine Nova Scotian products in this wonderful heritage building and downtown landmark (circa 1890).
Gallery 215
Inglis Place, Truro
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Photo: Susan Sweet
The Nova Scotia Emporium & Fireside Tearoom
Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions (Truro to Avondale) For more heritage and cultural attractions, see pages 75–82.
Lawrence House Provincial Museum
Colchester Historeum 29 Young St., Truro 902-895-6284 colchesterhistoreum.ca This museum offers a variety of intriguing exhibits on the local history of Truro and Colchester County, including genealogical resources and family histories.
Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre 65 Treaty Trail, Exit 13A off Rte. 102, Millbrook 902-843-3493 millbrookheritagecentre.ca Discover the Aboriginal legends of Glooscap and the heritage and culture of Nova Scotia’s first people, the Mi’kmaq. Take a guided tour, participate in a workshop, stand at the foot of the statue of Glooscap, or immerse yourself in the centre’s innovative multimedia theatre presentation.
Lawrence House Provincial Museum 8660 Rte. 215, Maitland 902-261-2628 lawrencehouse.novascotia.ca The largest full-rigged wooden sailing ship
ever built in Canada was launched here in 1874 and named for its builder, William D. Lawrence. Lawrence’s home has been preserved and dedicated to his legacy; the original shipyard is just across the road.
Marigold Cultural Centre 605 Prince St., Truro 902-897-4004 / marigoldcentre.ca This 206-seat performing arts centre features a small art gallery, a sports heritage hall, and an intimate setting for a variety of live theatre and musical entertainment offered year-round.
Debert Military Museum 35 Acadia Ave., Debert 902-662-2860 This former barracks hut houses a huge collection of Second World War and Cold War-era militaria and peacekeeping artifacts. Open May–August, Tuesday– Sunday from 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.; open in September depending on volunteer availability, usually Friday– Sunday from 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
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Outstanding Orchards, Valleys, and Vineyards: Annapolis Valley Windsor to Middleton Discover the breadbasket of Nova Scotia. The sheltered Annapolis Valley is nestled between the Bay of Fundy on one side and the North and South Mountain ridges on the other. Threaded with gently winding rivers, the valley extends 160 kilometres from Windsor to Middleton, but its rich band of red soil is only eight kilometres wide. The sunny orchards and vineyards of this verdant land roll to the shores of the Minas Basin, inspiring the poets of the past along with some of today’s finest chefs and vintners. You’ll understand the lure as you tour graceful Victorian towns and charming villages, explore overflowing farm markets, and bask in the incomparable scenery.
Fall harvest
A View From Above With East Coast Balloon adventurers, travellers can explore from on high. Flying at sunrise and sunset, the balloon drifts over the Annapolis Valley and surrounding countryside with breathtaking views of forests, lakes, and vineyards. Typically flying around 330 metres, the balloon descends to touch the tree tops or skim across the corn fields. Relying on prevailing winds, the balloon’s flight patterns and landing sites vary due to the changing wind directions (eastcoastballoonadventures.com).
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Top 5 Photo Opportunities (Windsor to Middleton)
The Look-off
Windsor Salt Marsh Stop at the Visitor Information Centre on Colonial Road (Exit 6 off Rte. 101) to take in the 180-degree view of the saltmarsh, the wide red mudflats, and the many migrating shorebirds that feed here during their journeys.
Blomidon Inn Gardens 195 Main St., Wolfville 1-800-565-2291 / blomidon.ns.ca Lush blooms punctuate every turn in the garden path on this 1.6-hectare property. Serpentine rhododendrons, a hillside of lupins, cacti, and natural stones, a cascading brook, and a gazebo entwined with roses make this a postcard-perfect scene.
The Look-off Rte. 358, Arlington Just north of Canning, stop along the Roadside to see a breathtaking panoramic view of the Annapolis Valley stretching out below you in a patchwork of green to the red-hued Minas Basin beyond.
Cape Split Provincial Park Reserve A headland of the North Mountain range, Cape Split juts into the Minas Basin and separates it from the Bay of Fundy. It’s a challenging hike (12 km return; 4–5 hours) through steep inclines and mixed forest to
Cape Split
the tip of the peninsula. Your reward is a wildflower-filled meadow and a fantastic view of the eroding 70-metre cliffs, basalt sea stacks, and the blue tides in the channel below.
Hall’s Harbour Wharf Rte. 359 In picturesque Hall’s Harbour, lobster boats bob at the wharf’s high-tide mark. A mere six hours later, when the tide recedes, the colourful fleet of vessels lies grounded on the harbour floor. This is one of the best places to see the dramatic tide changes and witness one of Canada’s natural wonders in action. It’s also a great place for a fresh lobster dinner.
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Visit us at www.kentville.ca
Recommended Scenic Drive: You’re in wine country
Avondale Sky Winery
The Annapolis Valley is Canada’s hottest emerging wine destination. If your dream vacation includes road-tripping from one perfect boutique winery to another and chatting with passionate vintners about their art, Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley is a must.
Begin at Avondale Sky Winery in Newport Landing where you can sample its goldmedal winning Tidal Bay, the special Nova Scotian appellation blend that is getting rave reviews.
Gaspereau Vineyards
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Domaine de Grand Pré
Sainte-Famille Wines in Falmouth is known for its Marechal Foch and L’Acadie Blanc. Tours are offered here from June 1–Sept. 30. Next stop is Domaine de Grand Pré, just outside Wolfville. Known for its Vintner’s Reserve label and on-site restaurant, Le Caveau, the winery offers tours and tastings. Head to the Blomidon Estate Winery near Canning. This winery has won national awards for its Chardonnay and L’Acadie Blanc and its wine shop is open year-round by chance or by appointment. Tours offered (by appointment only) from July 1–Oct. 12. A short drive brings you to Gaspereau Vineyards, best known for outstanding Rieslings, but gaining notice for its impressive reds, such as Lucie Kuhlmann. It’s open from early May to mid-December with complimentary guided tours. L’Acadie Vineyards, also in Gaspereau, specializes in traditional method sparkling wines and is Nova Scotia’s first certified organic winery. Luckett Vineyards bears the stamp of Pete’s Frootique grocery store founder Pete Luckett and offers a unique food and wine experience from May–October.
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Sainte-Famille Wines
Further afield on the Bay of Fundy, you’ll find Bear River Vineyards. Steep, southfacing terraces form a bowl of heat to create a Mosel terroir, perfect for producing Baco Noir and Pinot Noir. Casa Nova Fine Beverages, in Bear River East, is noted for its international award winning Pinot Gris and is open from June–October.
Top 5 Outdoor Activities (Windsor to Middleton)
Pumpkin Regatta
Cycling Pack your pannier bags with plenty of water and snacks, and head out onto the Kentville Trail System. This easy seven-kilometre route extends along the old railway bed from Coldbrook to New Minas. The eastern boundary of the trail connects directly to the 28-kilometre Cambridge to Kentville ATV Trail, which is surfaced with gravel and maintained year-round.
Hiking At scenic Blomidon Provincial Park, a 13-kilometre system of interconnected trails provides access to a variety of habitats and numerous scenic look-offs. Climb from the red sand beach to the top of Cape Blomidon and enjoy a picnic lunch and the spectacular view.
Ice skating Pack your skates and head to Long Pond on College Road near Windsor’s Kings-Edgehill School. Some historians believe the game of ice hockey was created here in 1800
when students began playing “hurley” with sticks on the frozen pond. gameofhockey.com
Pumpkin racing Windsor is pumpkin country. Not only do they grow giant pumpkins, they paddle giant pumpkins. Every fall after the weighoff, contestants get dressed up, hollow out a giant gourd, and attempt to paddle it across the pond without sinking. Windsor’s internationally recognized Pumpkin Regatta takes place on the second Sunday in October. worldsbiggestpumpkins.com
Zoo exploring Have you ever seen a zonkey? Spend a day at Oaklawn Farm Zoo in Aylesford and you can meet Zena, a half-striped cross between a donkey and a zebra. You’ll also see the largest display of big cats and primates in Atlantic Canada, plus the clownish gibbons are always popular. oaklawnfarmzoo.ca
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Photo:Wally Hayes
For more outdoor activities, see pages 67–74.
Top 4 Locals’ Picks (Windsor to Middleton) Halls Harbour Lobster Pound
Pumpkin People Festival
1157 West Halls Harbour Rd. 902-679-5299 / hallsharbourlobster.com Fishermen of the Bay of Fundy believe the flavour of lobster improves immeasurably if you eat it outdoors on the coast, where the delicious aroma from your plate can mingle with the scents of pine and sea wrack at low tide. Local seafood lovers concur, flocking like seagulls to this restaurant overlooking the picturesque wharf.
Kentville kentville.ca Every fall, pumpkins leave their pumpkin patches, get dressed up, and head for Kentville. Explore the town with camera in hand, and you’ll see more than 300 hilarious pumpkin people: gathering for a picnic, skiing off rooftops, or lounging on front lawns. Pack your camera and beware of fastbraking motorists.
Middleton Railway Museum
Wolfville Farmers’ Market
61 School St., Middleton 902-825-6062 middletonrailwaymuseum.org novascotiarailwayheritage.com Family-oriented displays include model trains, antique station paraphernalia, miniature tools, and an outdoor railway trolley that the kids will love.
24 Elm Ave., Wolfville 902-697-3344 wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca An experience to remember, with live music and some 65 vendors (farmers, chefs, and artisans) selling fresh local produce and meats, specialty foods, and unique artwork in a renovated turn-of-thecentury apple warehouse. Open yearround, Wednesdays from 4 p.m.–7 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Wolfville Farmers’ Market
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Top 5 Festivals and Events (Windsor to Middleton) For more festivals and events, see pages 89–93. Dates may change; confirm before finalizing your plans.
Pumpkin People Festival
87th Annual Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival May 29–June 3 Kentville 902-678-8322 / appleblossom.com Let the aroma of apple blossoms waft over you as you celebrate the bloom of springtime at the Queen Annapolisa pageant and one of Canada’s largest and most revered annual street parades.
60th Annual Kingston Steer BBQ and Village Fair July 12–13 1490 Westwood Ave., Kingston Credit Union Centre (Arena Grounds) 902-765-2800 / kingstonnovascotia.ca The fun starts Friday evening with the Sparky 5km Fun Run, beer garden, live musical entertainment, bounce kingdom, face painting, and burgers and fries. Start your Saturday morning with a delicious pancake
breakfast at the fire hall on Sparky Street then at 10:45 a.m. take in the parade along Main Street to the arena. There the steer is taken off the spit at 11:30 a.m. and then it’s time to try the tasty beef either as chopped beef burger bits or a roast beef cold plate and then maybe some homemade strawberry shortcake. Activities include live musical entertainment, Domino Man, craft fair, bingo, beer garden, bounce kingdom.
Berwick Gala Days Dates TBA (typically around Labour Day weekend), Berwick 902-538-8068 / town.berwick.ns.ca Since 1945, the citizens of “Apple Town” have been gathering to celebrate the waning days of summer. Join in the fun. There are musical showcases, parades, barbecues, apple pie-eating contests, road races, and a fantastic firework display. Make sure to visit the Apple Capital Museum on Commercial Street.
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Apple blossoms
Devour! The Food Film Fest, Wolfville
Devour! The Food Film Fest
Valley Pumpkin Festival
October 23–27, Wolfville devourfest.com Combining cinematic talent with extraordinary culinary and wine creations, Devour is the world’s largest festival focused on food and film. Documentaries, dramas, and short films pair with cooking demos, food and wine excursions, street-food parties, experiential dinners, and more.
October 1–31, region-wide Sharpen your artistic skills in a pumpkincarving contest, meet the famous Kentville Pumpkin People, or cheer on your favourite paddler at the Windsor-West Hants Pumpkin Regatta. You can also join the Valley Pumpkin Hunt or get lost in a corn maze. Vineyard tours, winemakers’ dinners, community teas, and special harvest menus at local restaurants round out the month-long festivities.
Valley Pumpkin Festival
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Unique Shopping (Windsor to Middleton) For more shopping options, see pages 87–88.
deWeevers Wovens 3486 Rte. 1, Aylesford 902-847-9270 / deweeverswovens.com Browse a selection of clothing for women and men made from hand-loomed wool. Elegantly designed coats, jackets, ponchos, vests, cardigans, pullover sweaters, and accessories come in an array of vibrant colours.
Fox Hill Cheese House
Casa Bella Gifts
Casa Bella Gifts 9 Gasperau Ave., Wolfville 902-542-4400 / casabellawolfville.com Casa Bella Gifts is a high-end, independent fashion, gift, and home décor store situated on the pedestrian friendly Main Street of Wolfville. Casa Bella Gifts offers elegance and sophistication and will delight and inspire the self-indulgent or gift-giving customer.
1678 Church St., Port Williams 902-542-3599 / foxhillcheesehouse.com Sample specialty cheddar, havarti, gouda, feta, and natural yogurt, all made of fresh milk from grass-fed cows. Take a tour of the facility and then enjoy a creamy gelato on the timber-frame deck.
Tangled Garden 11827 Rte. 1, Grand Pré 902-542-9811 / tangledgardenherbs.ca Tantalizing liquors, vinegars, and jellies infused with flavours from the one hectare herb and sculpture garden.
THINGS TO DO: Tidal Bore Rafting, Truro Golf Course, Explore Historic Victoria Park, Local Kayak Tours and so much more.
Complimentary Hot Breakfast and Wi-Fi Included Hilton Honors Loyalty Program Easy access off Highway 102, exit 13a
Call 902-843-4343
Stay and Explore Nova Scotia. Ask about our stay 3 days or more rates and save. www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com
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Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions (Windsor to Middleton) For more heritage and cultural attractions, see pages 75–82.
CentreStage Theatre 61 River St., Kentville 902-678-8040 / centrestagetheatre.ca This acclaimed community theatre company stages several lively productions year-round.
Uniacke Estate Museum Park 758 Rte. 1, Mt. Uniacke 902-866-0032 / uniacke.novascotia.ca The house and grounds are part of what was once the expansive country estate of AttorneyGeneral Richard John Uniacke. Built between 1813–1815, the grand country house is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Canada. The estate offers visitors a vivid glimpse of life in the early 1800s among Nova Scotia’s gentry.
Greenwood Military Aviation Museum Ward Rd., Greenwood 902-765-1494 ext. 5955 / gmam.ca It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s—yup, it’s a plane. Spend some time with the Argus, Lancaster, Neptune, and T33 aircraft at 14 Wing Greenwood. Learn about the squadron’s military history from its beginnings as an air-force station in 1942 to its present-day status as the largest air base in Atlantic Canada.
Uniacke Estate Museum Park
Prescott House Museum 1633 Starr’s Point Rd., Starr’s Point 902-542-3984 prescotthouse.novascotia.ca Learn about the advent of commercial agriculture in the Valley at this gracious Georgian house that belonged to Charles Prescott, a horticulturalist who helped establish the Fruit Growers Association.
Joy Laking Gallery
Haliburton House Museum 414 Clifton Ave., Windsor 902-798-2915 haliburtonhouse.novascotia.ca Judge Thomas Chandler Haliburton’s elegant villa is furnished with some of his own Victorian-era possessions, including the desk where he may have written his famous Sam Slick stories. The property is the site of the recently opened Windsor Hockey Heritage Museum.
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Open June 1 until September 30 10 to 5 daily except Sundays 1 to 5 Joy has professionally painted the beauty of Nova Scotia for over fourty-five years. She has shown nationally, including a solo exhibition at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. The gallery features Joy’s watercolours, oils and acrylics, as well as prints and greeting cards.
Joy Laking Gallery
6730 Hwy. 2, Bass River 902-890-8450 or 902-890-8730 www.joylakinggallery.com and on Facebook
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Celebrating 25 Years! Join our Beach Tours and Dinosaur Digs!
fundygeological. novascotia.ca 162 Two Islands Road Parrsboro, NS 1.866.856.3466
Bay of Fundy Nova Scotia
Ferry to Saint John, N.B .
New Brunswick
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North Hills Museum Fort Anne Port-Royal
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Vineyards
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Weymouth
Church Point
Brier Island
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Winery Annapolis Macdonald Upper Royal Historic Museum Gardens Clements Park
Casa Nova Fine Beverages
UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere
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Tobeatic Wilderness Area Yarmouth Ferry to Bar Harbor, Maine
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Airport
Supervised Beach Provincial Visitor Information Centre Local Visitor Information Centre Winery Joggins Fossil Cliffs
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Heritage Models River Hebert
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Springhill Miners’ 2 Age of Sail Centre Cape Museum Chignecto Anne Murray Centre Waterfall Advocate Fundy Geological Spencer's Port Williamsdale Harbour Museum Island Greville Cape d’Or Lighthouse Cape Parrsboro Cobequid Split Lookoff Interpretation 104 Halls Cape Centre Harbourville Harbour Blomidon Waterfall Blomidon Five Islands Bass Park 2 Blomidon Estate Winery Park Economy Minas Basin River Prescott House Aylesford Berwick Museum Burncoat Head Park 1
Grand Selma Pré Cambridge Walton Noel Cheverie Maitland Lighthouse Acadia University Summerville Lawrence Avondale Sky Winery House Hantsport Avondale Museum Tidal View Farms Fort Edward National Historic Site Windsor
htfoot & Wolfville Vineyards Gaspereau Vineyards l’Acadie Vineyards Benjamin Bridge Vineyards Luckett Vineyards Planters Ridge Winery Sainte-Famille 12 WInes 14
Shand House Museum Haliburton House Museum
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Rawdon 14 Gold Mines Uniacke Estate Museum Park Mount Uniacke
To Halifax
Chester
Mahone Bay
enburg
Masstown
Wolfville
Kentville Oaklawn Randall Farm Zoo House Museum
New Ross
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Domaine de Grand Pré
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Halifax
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PEI Ferry Harness Racing
Truro Victoria Park Glooscap Heritage Centre
Upper 2 Stewiacke Mastodon Ridge Shubenacadie Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park
Halifax Stanfield International Airport
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Whale watching
Wonderful Whales and Historic Tales Bridgetown to Brier Island The western-most edge of the Bay of Fundy stretches from Bridgetown to Weymouth, and all the way along the narrow peninsula known as Digby Neck to Long Island and Brier Island at its tip. These shores provide a study in contrasts: blue waves lap against striking basalt sea stacks. The brightly painted hulls of fishing boats and scallop draggers bump against rough-hewn wharves in Digby. Skies overhead fill with the chatter of seabirds as whales and white-sided dolphins glide serenely in the deep, sheltered waters of Digby Gut. Home to North America’s first permanent European settlement north of Florida, the area is also rich in Canadian history. Some 400 years ago, early settlers established their forts, farms, and fishing villages along this picturesque coast. Following in centuries-old farming traditions, this unique microclimate today supports two outstanding wineries in Bear River where vines flourish producing distinctive, award-winning wines. Come experience the lure of this beautiful area.
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Top 5 Photo Opportunities (Bridgetown to Brier Island)
Balancing Rock, Long Island
Balancing Rock, Long Island Take the five-minute ferry ride from Digby Neck and you’ll be rewarded with an up close view of Long Island’s striking basalt rock formations. The most photographed is a climb down 235 gradual steps to the water’s edge, where a narrow column of basalt perches straight up in the air, balanced only on its tiny tip.
Fort Anne National Historic Site 323 St. George St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-2321 Explore the officers’ quarters, then climb the earthworks to have a seat in the Parks Canada red chairs. Look west over the ramparts down the river towards Goat Island, a landscape and waterway steeped in history.
and the morning mist rising off the water. Here you’ll find untouched wilderness and a peace we sometimes forget still exists.
Gulliver’s Cove, Digby Neck
Hike to the summit of Gulliver’s Head and you’re likely to spot seals and whales in the cove below. In the cliff face, watch for indigenous minerals including a rare vein of semi-precious agate, set by nature into the rocks underfoot.
Point Prim Lighthouse
The Digby Gut, flanked on one side by the Point Prim Lighthouse, is a glacially carved breach in the North Mountain, which allows the rich seawater of the Bay of Fundy to fill the Annapolis Basin.
Kejimkujik Lake In autumn, Mother Nature paints Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (Maitland Bridge / 902-682-2772) in swaths of crimson and gold. Climb the road side viewing tower for a stunning view of the Mersey River emptying into Kejimkujik Lake
Fort Anne National Historic Site
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Recommended Scenic Hike: Explore Brier Island and Digby Neck At the very end of the finger of land known as Digby Neck you will find Brier Island. Just 6.5 kilometres long and 2.5 kilometres wide, Brier Island is renowned as a sensitive and significant ecological treasure. A paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and walkers, the island has several easy to moderate trails that lead along the shore to the island’s two lighthouses or to Seal Cove, where you can sit and watch a seal colony at play. The island is located on the Atlantic Flyway, a major migration route for seabirds and shorebirds. Birdwatchers from all over the world come here just for the spring and fall spectacle. Visit Pond Cove and Northern Point to see large groups of migrating hawks, called kettles, depart for more southerly climes from August to October. At other times, you can observe semipalmated sandpipers, endangered piping plovers, and majestic great blue herons. You may even glimpse pelagic species (like shearwaters, razorbills, red phalaropes, kittiwakes, and mures) that are rarely seen this close to shore. If you prefer, seek your wildlife encounters out on the open sea. Brier Island is an iconic whale-watching destination and many cruise options are available with knowledgeable guides on-board to help you make the most of your sightseeing trip. Several whale species, including the elusive right whale, make their summer home in the sheltered waters of Digby Gut. Keep your eyes peeled for the mighty fins of these giants of the deep, as they roll languidly in the rich waters. You may even see puffins bobbing on the water, lunching on the silvery herring that always seem to be dangling from their colourful bills.
Boar’s Head Lighthouse, Long Island
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Top 5 Outdoor Activities (Bridgetown to Brier Island) For more outdoor activities, see pages 67–74.
Kejimkujik Lake Annapolis Royal graveyard tour
Beach days Slather on the sunscreen, pack your sunglasses, a paperback, and your fluffiest towel, and then head for Raven Haven Beachside Family Park in West Springhill, just minutes from Annapolis Royal. Summer’s made for swimming and lounging, and this family park on Sandy Bottom Lake is an ideal spot for both. Rent a kayak or canoe, get an ice cream at the canteen and the day is complete. Take Exit 22 off Hwy. 101.
Birding One of Nova Scotia’s top bird-watching spots, Brier Island is a popular stopover for hundreds of migrating shorebirds and raptors. Take your camera, binoculars, and field guide to Pond Cove, the Nature Conservancy site on the island. You’ll experience unparalleled opportunities to study shorebirds up close.
Come for a paddle, stay for the stars The inter-connected lakes and gently flowing rivers make canoeing the best way to explore Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site. The Mi’kmaq blazed ancient canoe routes and portages that people still use today. At night, take in the stars and the constellations in Nova Scotia’s
Whale watching
Dark Sky Preserve, one of the best night sky views in North America.
Family fun at Fort Anne National Historic Site Canada’s first national historic site turned 100 years old in 2017. Begin your family visit by picking up an Xplorer booklet in the officers’ quarters and use it to add adventure to your visit. Try a game of croquet, explore the powder magazines, and stroll in the historic graveyard.
Whale watching There’s no thrill quite as exhilarating as seeing a spout of water suddenly spray out of the ocean, as sunlight flashes on a mighty fin and a humpback, fin, or minke whale breaches the waves. There’s no shortage of opportunities to have the experience. Turn to page 72 for a list of local tour operators.
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Top Locals’ Picks (Bridgetown to Brier Island)
Digby Pines
Annapolis Royal Farmers’ & Traders’ Market 178 St.George St. Annapolis Royal 902-245-4824 annapolisroyalfarmersmarket.com There’s no sleeping in on Saturday mornings around here. You’ll have your pick of fresh fruit, veggies, and baked goods. You’re sure to leave with more than memories; local artisans offer an amazing array of treasures. May–Oct. Saturday from 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; July–August also open Wednesday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Annapolis Royal Farmers’ & Traders’ Market
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Bridgetown Ciderfest Sept. 12–15, Bridgetown facebook.com/ciderfest Celebrate the fall harvest of beautiful, juicy Annapolis Valley apples. This annual four-day festival is in its 36th year. Featured events include the Grand Street Parade, the Rubber Duck Race, the Car Rally, and the Cardboard Boat Regatta.
Digby Pines 103 Shore Rd., Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa, Digby 902-245-7712 The succulent new menu at Churchill’s Restaurant & Lounge presents new twists on old favourites, featuring local ingredients and prepared to order. World-famous Digby scallops are a resort specialty and
a must-try on the new menu. A complete selection of domestic and imported wines is also available. So, dress up a little and treat yourself to fresh, locally-sourced seafood.
Historic Digby Waterfront digby.ca This waterfront is lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, and in summer there are outdoor concerts at the marina. Check the local Visitor Information Centre for performance dates. Stroll past the fishing boats tied at the wharf, wander through the marina, observe an active boatyard, or explore the harbour in a kayak.
Historic Gardens in Annapolis Royal— TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence TripAdvisor gives top ranking to the beautiful Historic Gardens in Annapolis Royal. Here, paths wind through 7 hectares of gardens. This glorious setting with its lush plantings uniquely portrays the history of Nova Scotian settlement. 441 St. George St., Annapolis Royal / 902-532-7018 / historicgardens.com
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Top 5 Festivals and Events (Bridgetown to Brier Island) For more festivals and events, see pages 89–93. or consult novascotia.com. Dates are subject to change, so confirm with the local Visitor Information Centre before finalizing your plans.
Fort Anne National Historic Site Wharf Rat Rally
Annapolis Valley Exhibition 902-584-3339 annapolisvalleyexhibition.com Returning from Aug. 12–17, the annual “Ex” in Lawrencetown features agricultural displays and competitions, rides and attractions, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, and more.
Heritage in Annapolis Royal annapolisroyal.com/visitor-information Celebrate Canada Day on July 1 with cake, music, and family fun. Explore the lives (and deaths) of Nova Scotia’s earliest European settlers with Candlelight Graveyard Tours (June 1– Oct. 15 on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday night). Or stroll through the centuries with a costumed interpreter on a National Historic District Tour (June–September at 2pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday).
Digby Scallop Days
Wharf Rat Rally Aug. 28–Sept. 1, Digby 902-245-5924 / wharfratrally.com Atlantic Canada’s largest motorcycle rally brings thousands of bikers to town for driving, burnout, stunt, and strongmen competitions, show-and-shines, and lots of family entertainment.
Digby Scallop Days
Ghost Town
Aug. 8–11, Digby 902-308-9445 / digbyscallopdays.com Celebrate the catch of the world-famous scallop fleet with entertainment, including a street parade, music, raft races, competitions, and lots of delicious scallops.
October, Annapolis Royal exploreghosttown.com Annapolis Royal will become a ghost town. A series of events and a ghostly atmosphere will combine to create a magical time in Annapolis Royal.
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Lucky Rabbit Pottery
Flight of Fancy
Unique Shopping (Bridgetown to Brier Island) For more shopping options, see pages 87–88.
Bainton’s Tannery Outlet 213 St. George St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-2070 / 800-565-2070 baintons.ca Outfit yourself in style at Bainton’s, an Annapolis Royal institution, with highquality leather and shearling garments and accessories for men and women, including jackets, gloves, hats, moccasins, backpacks, and handbags.
15 Church St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-0928 / luckyrabbitandco.com Recipients of the 2011 Best Body of Work Award by the Nova Scotia Designer Crafts Council, Deb Kuzyk and Ray Mackie create porcelain art using both ancient and modern techniques. Mackie hand-turns or moulds each piece creating functional forms. After firing, Kuzyk hand-paints each item using brilliantly coloured glazes in intricate and distinct designs.
Flight of Fancy 1869 Clementsvale Rd., Bear River 902-467-4171 / 866-467-4171 theflight.ca This internationally-acclaimed art gallery and craft studio offers unique shopping from the work of more than 200 Nova Scotian and Canadian artists. Wood, pottery, glass, metalwork, clothing, fibre arts.
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Top 5 Heritage and Cultural Attractions (Bridgetown to Brier Island)
Port-Royal National Historic Site
Admiral Digby Museum 95 Montague Row, Digby 902-245-6322 / admuseum.ns.ca Step into the past as you enter a mid- 1800s Georgian home. Attend one of the many special events or explore your personal history with Digby County’s genealogical resources. Hours vary; confirm before visiting.
Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens 441 St. George St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-7018 / historicgardens.com Overlooking a tidal-river valley, this lush landscape offers seven hectares of horticultural displays, including a formal Victorian garden, an expansive collection of roses, and an Acadian cottage and garden. Follow the winding paths and learn about gardening methods, designs, and heirloom plants representing 400 years of local history. Take a break during your tour and enjoy some delicious refreshments in the Elm Tree Café.
North Hills Museum 5065 Granville Rd., Granville Ferry 902-532-2168 / northhills.novascotia.ca This mid-18th century wood-framed farmhouse is filled with a fine collection of antique English furnishings, ceramics, silver, paintings, and Georgian décor.
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Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site Rte. 8, Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Kejimkujik is the only National Park that’s also a National Historic Site, celebrating the presence of the Mi’kmaq since time immemorial. Home to the largest collection of petroglyphs in North America, these rock carvings tell age-old stories of the land and its people. Daily petroglyph tours July 1– Sept. 1. Free admission ages 17 and under.
Port-Royal National Historic Site 53 Historic Ln., Granville Ferry Port Royal 902-532-2898 parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal This national historic site features a reconstruction of early 17th-century buildings representing the former colony of the French who settled for a time along the Nova Scotia coast. Costumed interpreters and period demonstrations help re-create the look and feel of Port- Royal, one of the earliest settlements in North America. Visitors can also relax in the red chairs and take in the panoramic view of the Annapolis River and Basin. Free admission for youth 17 and under.
Photo: Dale Wilson
Photo: Parks Canada
For more heritage and cultural attractions, see pages 75–82.
Explore Our Great Outdoors
The Bay of Fundy region offers some of the most remarkable outdoor experiences in the country: unique tidal-bore river rafting, world-renowned fossil and rockhounding, stunning sea kayaking, bird and wildlife viewing, and extraordinary walking and hiking. The following resources will help you enjoy all this region’s great outdoors offers.
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Local Beaches
Glooscap Park Beach Two Islands Rd., Parrsboro
Also see page 69 for Provincial Park listings or visit parks.novascotia.ca for a complete list of provincial day-use parks, campgrounds, and additional beach parks.
Jacob’s Lane Off Rte. 2, Economy
Beaches in Amherst to Masstown Advocate Beach Rte. 209, Advocate Harbour Driftwood Park Retreat Beach Old Wharf Rd., off Rte. 209, West Advocate Carr’s Brook Wharf Beach Site of the old wharf, Rte. 2, Carr’s Brook Economy Cove Cove Rd. (Rte. 2), Upper Economy First Beach Pier Rd., Parrsboro Fox Point Beach Fox Point Rd., off Rte. 209, Port Greville
Lower Debert Beach Debert Beach Rd., off Rte. 4, Lower Debert Partridge Island Beach White Hall Rd., Parrsboro Port Greville Beach Merriam Rd., off Rte. 209, Port Greville Saints’ Rest Beach Wharf Rd., off Rte. 2, Bass River Sand Point Beach Wharf Rd., off Rte. 2, Five Islands Spencer’s Island / Old Shipyard Beach Beach Rd., Rte. 209, Spencer’s Island Thomas’ Cove Coastal Reserve Economy Point Rd., Economy Ward’s Brook Beach Ward’s Brook Rd., Rte. 209, Ward’s Brook
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Three Sisters, Cape Chignecto Provincial Park
Beaches in Truro to Avondale Burntcoat Head Park Beach 611 Burntcoat Rd., Noel Cheverie Beach Rte. 215, Cheverie Dawson Dowell Park Rte. 215, Maitland
Hobart’s Beach Hobart’s Beach Rd., off Rte. 215, Summerville Kempt Shore Beach Rte. 215, Kempt Shore Lower Burlington Beach Rte. 215, Burlington Ocean Beach Ocean Beach Rd., off Rte. 215, Bramber Rainey Cove Beach Rte. 215, Pembroke Shipyard Beach Shipyard Rd., off Rte. 215, Cheverie Summerville Beach Summerville Wharf Rd., off Rte. 215, Summerville Walton Beach Rte. 215, Walton
Day park with spectacular Minas Basin view, historic lighthouse, ship playground,
Beaches in Windsor to Middleton Avonport Beach Off Rte. 1, Avonport Aylesford Lake Beach From Rte. 101 take Exit 13, turn left then right at the Irving Station, then turn left and go 22 km. Blue Beach Blue Beach Rd., Hantsport Evangeline Beach Beach Row, off Rte. 1, North Grand Pré Hall’s Harbour Beach Off West Halls Harbour Rd. Harbourville Beach Rte. 360, Harbourville
Lower Five Islands, NS www.colchester.ca/parks
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Kingsport Beach Off Rte. 221, Kingsport
Margaretsville Beach Rte. 362, Margaretsville
Beaches in Bridegetown to Briar Island
Culloden Beach Culloden Rd., off Rte. 217, near Digby Gilbert’s Cove Beach Rte. 101, Gilbert’s Cove Hampton Beach Off St. Croix River Rd., Hampton
Caddell Rapids Lookoff Provincial Park 1609 Riverside Rd., Stewiacke Small picnic area overlooking the Shubenacadie River’s incoming tides. Bald eagles can often be seen patrolling the coast for food. MacElmons Pond Provincial Park 219 MacElmon Rd., Onslow Small picnic park and short walking trail adjacent to a pond and wildlife sanctuary.
Port George Beach Off Shore Rd. East, Port George
Smiley’s Provincial Park 109 Clayton McKay Rd., off Rte. 14, Brooklyn Wooded and open picnic area and 86-site campground on the Meander River, offering playground and walking trails.
Raven Haven Beachside Family Park 2239 Virginia Rd., off Rte. 8, West Springhill
Windsor to Middleton
Lake Midway Rte. 217, Digby Neck
Sandy Cove Beach Rte. 217, Digby Neck
Provincial Parks Visit parks.novascotia.ca for a complete list of provincial day-use parks, campgrounds, and beach parks.
Amherst to Masstown
Blomidon Provincial Park 3138 Pereau Rd., north of Canning Blomidon’s 759 hectares include striking natural features and abundant wildlife, a 70-site campground, two picnic areas, an unsupervised beach, and hiking trails. Clairmont Provincial Park 1405 Rte. 1, Clairmont A small picnic area provides a cool oasis beneath a stand of red pine.
Cape Chignecto Provincial Park Rte. 209, West Advocate A wilderness park with some 40 kilometres of trails and walk-in campsites, featuring pristine coastline, deep valleys, rare plants, and remnant old-growth forests. Five Islands Provincial Park 618 Bentley Rd., off Rte. 2, Lower Five Islands Sea cliffs overlook the world’s highest tides, a spectacular setting for camping, hiking, clam digging, and ocean kayaking. Londonderry Provincial Park Off Rte. 4 A wayside memorial park with interpretive display. Newville Lake Provincial Park Rte. 2, Halfway River Small picnic site under softwood trees, along the shore of Newville Lake.
Truro to Avondale
Anthony Provincial Park Rte. 215, Lower Selma An open picnic park at the edge of the Bay of Fundy. Exposed red sand at low tide offers a great opportunity for wading in the warm water.
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Gael Tours, Smith’s Cove
Coldbrook Provincial Park 7073 Rte. 1, Coldbrook A pleasant picnic area under a canopy of pine offers an excellent lunch stop.
Lake Midway Provincial Park 7600 Rte. 217, Lake Midway A small roadside picnic park with lake access and good trout fishing in season.
Cottage Cove Provincial Park 11935 Shore Rd., Port George A picnic park overlooking the Bay of Fundy offering an interesting walk along the rocky shore.
Mickey Hill Pocket Wilderness Trails Exit 22 from Rte. 101, 5 km south on Rte. 8 Day use park trail and swimming area. Consists of three hiking trails: Picnic Trail (10 min.), Beach Trail (20 min.), and Ski Trail (2 hrs.).
Falls Lake Provincial Park 1541 Rte. 14, Vaughan A small picnic park on Falls Lake with beach access and a boat launch. Lake George Provincial Park 125 North River Rd., Lake George Freshwater sandy beach with a small picnic area. Canoe/kayak launch. Lumsden Pond Provincial Park 2530 Corkum Burns Rd., Lumsden Pond A small roadside picnic park with water access and change houses. Scots Bay Provincial Park 16 Wharf Rd., Scots Bay Small picnic park with beach access.
Bridgetown to Brier Island
Annapolis Basin Look Off Provincial Park 260 Shore Rd., Bay View Small area with interpretive display. Central Grove Provincial Park 1731 Rte. 217, Long Island A small picnic area with a trail to the rocky shore of the Bay of Fundy. Ideal for photography.
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Savary Provincial Park 7409 Rte. 1, Plympton A small picturesque picnic area overlooking St. Mary’s Bay. At low tide, you can beachcomb along the rocky shoreline. Valleyview Provincial Park 960 Hampton Mountain Rd., Bridgetown A 30-site woodland campground and picnic area offering breathtaking vistas overlooking Bridgetown and the Annapolis Valley.
Golf Courses 14 Wing Greenwood Golf Club Thunderbird Way, Greenwood 877-765-5800 / greenwoodgolfclub.ca 18-hole, par 72. Driving range, drive carts, bar and grill. Above Par Golf Course 9725 Rte. 201, South Farmington 902-824-0363 9-hole, par 3. Amherst Golf Club 487 John Black Rd., Amherst 902-667-1911 / amherstgolfclub.com 18-hole, Par 71. Combine natural beauty with a
challenging open course. Fast greens and lush fairways in immaculate condition. Annapolis Royal Golf & Country Club 902-532-2064 / annapolisroyalgolf.com 18-hole, par 70. Overlooking the Annapolis River and Fort Anne. Restaurant and pool on-site. Guests welcome. Avon Valley Golf & Country Club 595 Falmouth Back Rd., Falmouth 902-798-2673 / avonvalleygolf.com 18-hole, par 71. Berwick Heights Golf Course 3060 Rte. 211, Berwick 902-847-9000 / berwickheightsgolf.com 18-hole, par 72. Beautiful views, rolling hills, and wooded areas. Guests welcome. Brookfield Golf Club 785 Rte. 2, Brookfield 902-673-3352 / brookfieldgolf.com 18-hole, par 70. Green fee players welcome. Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa 103 Shore Rd., Digby 902-245-7709 / 800-667-4637 digbypines.ca/activities/golf 18-hole, par 71. Designed by Stanley Thompson. Accommodation and golf packages available. Eagle Crest Golf Course 2075 Lakewood Rd., Centreville 902-679-3033 / eaglecrestgolfcourse.com 18-hole, par 72. Green fee players welcome. Eden Golf & Country Club 5359 Rte. 201, Paradise 902-665-4257 / 800-782-8814 / edengolf.ca 18-hole, par 72. Country setting. Green fee players welcome. Fox Hollow Golf Club Stewiacke 902-639-2535 / foxhollowgolfclub.ca 18-hole, par 72. Island Green Golf Club 7005 Rte. 12, Kentville 902-678-7577 / islandgreengolf.ca 18-hole, par-64 executive course, plus relaxed 9-hole, par-32 course. Guests welcome. Ken-Wo Golf Club 9514 Commercial St., New Minas 902-681-5388 / 902-681-0678 / ken-wo.com 18-hole, par 70. Located in the beautiful Annapolis Valley, Ken-Wo is a traditional treelined layout that measures more than 6,300 yards. Guests are
Farmersgolf at Hennigar’s Farm Market
welcome and encouraged to play this classic semiprivate layout. Full-service facility with instruction. Minas View Golf Links Cambridge 902-528-2360 / minasviewgolflinks.com 9-hole, par 31. Spectacular views of the Minas Basin. Mountain Golf & Country Club 1195 Pictou Rd., Truro 902-893-2841 / mountaingolf.ca 18-hole, par 71. Rentals available. Green fee players welcome. Practice green. Paragon Golf & Country Club 380 Brookside Dr., Kingston 902-765-2554 / 877-414-2554 /paragongolf.ca 18-hole, par 72. A lush mix of open holes and treelined fairways. Driving range, canteen, and bar. Parrsboro Golf Club Two Island Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-2733 / parrsborogolf.ca 9-hole, par 33. New clubhouse overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Visitors welcome. Renfrew Camping & Golf 824 Renfrew Rd., Nine Mile River 902-883-7930 / campingandgolf.com 9-hole, par 3. Riverrun Golf Club North River 902-893-8400 / riverrungolf.ca 9-hole, par 34. Practice facility, power carts, rentals; soft spikes required. Rosevale Par 3 Family Golf Course 136 Redden Rd., Windsor 902-880-8048 Springhill Centennial Golf Club 2770 Pleasant Valley Rd., River Philip 902-686-3870 / springhillgolfclub.ca 9-hole, par 36. Green fee players welcome.
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The Links at Penn Hills 14049 Rte. 215, Shubenacadie 902-758-1406 / linksatpennhills.com 18-hole, par 72. Championship golf course with mixture of wooded and open links along the Shubenacadie River. Truro Golf Club 86 Golf St., Truro 902-893-4650 / trurogolfclub.com 18-hole, par 71. One of the oldest golf clubs in Nova Scotia (established 1903), this semi-private course provides a well-manicured, traditional challenge for all levels. Full services available. Uniacke Pines Golf Club 83 Alder Ln., Mount Uniacke 902-866-2440 / uniackepines.com 9-hole. The course winds through 32 hectares, offering fabulous vistas and a clubhouse complete with food and beverage service.
Tours and Guided Experiences Bára Whitewater Rafting 3974 Riverside Rd., Princeport 902-305-1434 / barawhitewater.com Get in, hold on, have a blast! With optional tour lengths and mud sliding, there’s something for everyone. Digital photo album provided.
NovaShores Adventures
Gael Tours 33 Wilson Ln., Smith’s Cove 902-245-4689 / gaeltours.ca Stones, steeples, ships, and seafood. Experience Digby’s historic street scapes and the culture of an active fishing community. Plankton, periwinkles, and predators. Explore the Bay of Fundy’s spectacular rocky shore for a close-up view of the intertidal zone.
Brier Island Whale & Seabird Cruises 223 Water St., Westport 902-839-2995 / 800-656-3660 brierislandwhalewatch.com Daily boat and Zodiac tours of an area teeming with marine life and seabirds.
Go North Tours/Uncork Nova Scotia 563 Clifton Ave., Windsor 902-472-2668 / 1-877-365-2552 gonorthtours.com / winetoursns.com Go North Tours has been showcasing Nova Scotia to visitors since 2009 with a variety of guided tours for small groups from May to November. We are proud to offer unique ways to experience Peggy’s Cove and Halifax, and our Uncork Nova Scotia division offers a variety of guided wine tours that include wine tastings and local cuisine.
Diamond Tours 866-414-6883 / bluediamondtours.com halifaxshoreexcursions.com Tidal-bore rafting, awe-inspiring views, whale watching, travel to remote islands, kayaking, walking on the seabeds soon to be covered by the tides, and more.
The Historical Association of Annapolis Royal 902-532-3034 / tourannapolisroyal.com Stroll through the centuries on a walking tour of Annapolis Royal’s historic district, explore Canada’s oldest English graveyard by candlelight, or discover the Acadian heritage experience with music and dance.
Fundy Adventures Gulliver’s Cove on Digby Neck 902-245-4388 / fundyadventures.com Explore secluded beaches and Fundy cliffs and reap the bounty of the bay. Go clam digging or learn from local rockhounds, lobster fishermen, and dulse harvesters.
Mariner Cruises Whale & Seabird Tours 325 Water St., Westport, Brier Island 902-839-2346 / 800-239-2189 novascotiawhalewatching.ca Offering Nova Scotia whale-watching and birding tours for over a decade, from the whale-watching capital of Nova Scotia. Fin and minke whales arrive in early June, followed by humpbacks.
Freeport Whale & Seabird Tours RR #1, Freeport 902-839-2177 / whalewatchersnovascotia.ca Three-hour tours aboard a fully enclosed 12-metre Cape Islander with washroom facilities on board.
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NovaShores Adventures Advocate Harbour 1-866-638-4118 / novashores.com Paddle the waters around Cape Chignecto Provincial Park; explore the Three Sisters rock formation, towering cliffs, natural arches, and rock spires. Watch wildlife and enjoy lunch on the beach. Suitable for beginners. Ocean Explorations (Zodiac) Whale Cruises 3395 Rte. 217, Tiverton 902-839-2417 / 877-654-2341 oceanexplorations.ca Exhilarating up-close Zodiac tours of the rich feeding areas off Brier Island and Digby Neck conducted by a marine biologist. Shubenacadie River Runners 8681 Rte. 215, Maitland 800-856-5061 / riverrunnersns.com Open your eyes to the Bay of Fundy’s history and incredible natural forces with tidal bore river rafting. Tidal Bore Rafting Resort 12215 Rte. 215, Urbania 902-758-8433 / raftingcanada.ca Raft and relax in a fully equipped cottage or log chalet in a natural Nova Scotia setting. Full kitchens, televisions, Wi-Fi, fireplace, deck, barbecues. Licensed lodge/pool area. Centrally located. Valley Ghost Walks 902-692-8546 / valleyghostwalks.com Historical, family-friendly walking productions about the region’s fascinating past. Join Jerome the Grave Keeper and his ghostly friends on twohour tours of Hall’s Harbour, Kentville, Windsor, Wolfville, and Grand Pré Winery. Shubenacadie River Adventure Tours 10061 Hwy 215, South Maitland 902-261-2222 or 1-888-878-8687 / shubie.com Experience the awesome force of the Bay of Fundy tides in the rapids of the Shubenacadie River. Mud-sliding and new zip-line tours also available.
Trails
For detailed trail descriptions, directions, and maps, visit trails.gov.ns.ca. For snowmobile trails, visit snowmobilersns.com.
Amherst to Masstown Trails
• Advocate (45 km total) • Cape d’Or Lighthouse Interpretive Trail, Cape d’Or • Five Islands Provincial Park trails (9 km total) • Fox Point Look-off and Walking Trail, Rte. 209, Port Greville
• Kenomee Hiking Trails, Economy (4 trails, 28.5 km total) • MacElmon’s Pond Provincial Park, Masstown (1 km) • Mi’kmaway Debert Interpretive Trail, Debert (4.4 km) • Naz MacDonald Fitness Trail, Springhill (1.8 km) • Partridge Island Look-off and Hiking Trail, Parrsboro (1.5 km) • Thomas’ Cove Coastal Reserve Trails, Economy (2 looped trails, 8 km total) • Wards Falls Hiking Trail, Parrsboro (6 km)
Truro to Avondale Trails
• Burntcoat Head Park, Noel • Cobequid Trail Network, Truro/Bible Hill/ Old Barns (4 trails, 18 km total) • Earltown Lake and Portage Trail, Earltown (6.1 km) • Greenwing Legacy Interpretive Trails, Stewiacke (1 km) • Gully Lake Trail System, Earltown (4 trails, 22 km total) • Rogart Mountain Hiking Trail, Earltown (6 km) • St. Andrews Marsh Trail, Stewiacke, behind Wildlife Park (3 km) • Shubenacadie Wildlife Park, Stewiacke (2 km) • South Maitland Tidal Interpretive Centre Trail and observation deck (1 km) • Stewiacke River Park (1.5 km) • Victoria Park, Truro (20 km network)
Windsor to Middleton Trails • Annapolis Valley Multi-use Trail System (200 km following abandoned rail lines through the Valley from Wolfville through to Digby). Nonmotorized section in Annapolis Royal. • Black Rock Community Trails (4 looped trails, 20 km total) • Blomidon Provincial Park (8.5 km) • Bell Park, off Rte. 101, Mount Uniacke (1.7 km) • Eldridge Settlement Rd. Trail, Falmouth (11.5 km) • Gaspereau Canal Trail, Rte. 12 from Kentville (5 km) • Kentville Ravine Trail, Kentville Agricultural Centre (4.3 km) • Lockhart & Ryan Memorial Park Trails, New Minas (2.6 km) • Martock Cross Country Ski Trails, Rte. 14, Martock (5 km, winter only) • Miner’s Marsh Trail, Kentville (1.5 km)
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• Rawding Ravine Trail, Wolfville (0.7 km) • Smileys Provincial Park, off Rte. 14, Brooklyn (0.8 km) • Uniacke Estate Trails, Mount Uniacke (7 trails, 15 km total) • Woodville Community Hiking Trails (6 interconnected loops, 10 km total)
Bridgetown to Brier Island Trails • Acacia Trail, Acaciaville (2.5 km) • Annapolis Valley Multi-use Trail System (200 km following abandoned rail lines through the Valley from Wolfville through to Digby). Non-motorized section in Annapolis Royal. • Balancing Rock Trail, Tiverton, Digby Neck (1 km) • Central Grove Provincial Park, Long Island, Digby Neck (1.6 km) • Delaps Cove Wilderness Trails (3 linked trails, 9 km total) • Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site Trail System, off Rte. 8; 16 front trails,18 trails through mixed habitat, ranging from an easy 0.2-km stroll that’s wheelchair accessible
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(Mersey Meadows Trail) to a challenging 60-km, multi-day hike (Liberty Lake Trail) in the backcountry. Five trails offer mixed hiking/ bicycling opportunities. • Mickey Hill Pocket Wilderness Trail, Rte. 8 (3 short trails, 5.6 km total) • Mountain Top Cottages Trail, Granville Ferry (1.4 km) • Old Winchester Rd., Granville Ferry (5.4 km, private Rd.) • Port Royal Farm & Country Museum Trail (4.2 km) • Roxbury Rd., West Lawrencetown (8 km) • Sentier de Clare/Clare Trail, Weymouth (88 km return) • Valleyview Provincial Park Trail, Bridgetown (short trails in picnic park) • Walk Annapolis Royal: approximately 15 km of trails and walkable streets. Brochure available.
Explore Our Great Outdoors END
Partner Directory
In the following pages, you’ll find listings of attractions, shopping venues, restaurants, and festivals and events. Wheelchair accessible: W
Attractions Also see shopping listings on page 87 for details on artisans, galleries, and studio tours.
Amherst to Masstown Joggins Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site 100 Main St., Joggins 902-251-2727 / 888-932-9766 jogginsfossilcliffs.net The coastal cliffs at Joggins reveal the world’s best example of life during the Coal Age, a time millions of years before the dinosaurs. Join a guided tour and find fossils that have been newly revealed in the cliffs by the Bay of Fundy tides. Enjoy exhibits and have a bite to eat at the award-winning Joggins Fossil Centre. Open April–October. Advocate Harbour Cape Chignecto Provincial Park Off Highway 104, West Advocate Harbour 902-392-2085 parks.novascotia.ca/content/cape-chignecto The park maintains more than 40 kilometres of trails, both for day-use hikers and overnight backpackers. An interpretation centre, picnic area, washrooms, and gift shop are based at the trailhead at Red Rocks near the community of Advocate Harbour.
harnessing tidal energy in the Minas Passage of the Bay of Fundy and houses interpretive exhibits, interactive displays, and a small theatre. Fundy Geological Museum 162 Two Islands Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-3814 / fundygeological.novascotia.ca More than 350 million years of history. Unearth Nova Scotia’s rich geological past and discover the Triassic and Jurassic landscapes where Canada’s oldest dinosaurs once roamed. Ottawa House By the Sea Museum 1155 Whitehall Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-2376 / ottawahousemuseum.ca Built circa 1775, this Georgian-style dwelling overlooking Partridge Island and the Minas Basin was once the summer home of Sir Charles Tupper, sixth Canadian prime minister and Father of Confederation. Museum exhibits and interprets Tupper’s life, also seafaring, lumbering, and social history of the Parrsboro Shore. Genealogy and archives on-site. Enjoy an ice cream or cup of tea on the veranda while you watch the tide come in. May 19–Sept. 30. Ship’s Company Theatre 18 Lower Main St., Parrsboro 902-254-3000 / 800-565-7469 shipscompanytheatre.com
Port Greville Age of Sail Heritage Centre Museum 8334 Rte. 209, Port Greville 902-348-2030 / ageofsailmuseum.ca Museum, housed in 1854 church with five additional buildings, preserves the local lumbering and shipbuilding history. Café and giftshop. Open Victoria Day–Thanksgiving. Parrsboro Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE) Visitor Centre 1156 West Bay Rd., Parrsboro 902-254-2510 / fundyforce.ca The centre overlooks the technology test site for
Tangled Garden
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An acclaimed professional theatre company, presenting new Atlantic Canadian works in a spectacular waterside venue. W
offering a spectacular setting for camping, hiking, clam digging, and ocean kayaking. Open May 11–Oct. 14.
Springhill Anne Murray Centre 36 Main St., Springhill 902-597-8614 / annemurraycentre.com A tribute to the legendary singer’s amazing career, featuring rows of gold and platinum albums. Open mid-May–mid-October. W
Economy Cobequid Interpretive Centre 3246 Rte. 2, Economy 902-647-2312/facebook.com/cobequid.tower Descriptive panels, pictures, and literature on the culture, history, and geology of the region. A preserved Second World War tower offers scenic views. Tourist and hiking trail information.
Five Islands Five Islands Lighthouse Park 140 Broderick Ln., Lower Five Islands 902-897-3180 / colchester.ca/parks Park features a pepper pot-style lighthouse, picnic area, playground, beach access, walking paths, and an incredible view of the Five Islands. Open May 7–mid-October. Five Islands Provincial Park 618 Bentley Rd., off Rte. 2, Lower Five Islands 902-254-2980 / novascotiaparks.ca Sea cliffs overlook the world’s highest tides,
Bayside Farm & Cottages #agiftfrombayside
www.baysidefarm.com
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That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm 132 Brown Rd., Upper Economy (If using GPS, search 4595 Rte. 2) 902-647-2751 / thatdutchmansfarm.com A local family favourite, offering a rustic, easygoing atmosphere to learn about and sample awardwinning cheeses. Browse Dutch gifts and treats or search for treasures in the attic antiques shop. That Dutchman’s Farm, Animal, and Nature Park 132 Brown Rd., Upper Economy (If using GPS, search 4595 Rte. 2) 902-647-2751 / thatdutchmansfarm.com
A family-friendly park for young and old. Follow sheltered paths through wood trails, meadows, and hidden animal enclosures. Take time to stretch your legs and enjoy nature with naturalized gardens, ponds, flowers, and heritage animals. Bass River Bass River Heritage Museum & Interpretive Park Rte. 2, Bass River 902-647-2648 / bassrivermuseum.ca The museum and park share the dynamic heritage of Bass River, including the story of the community’s world-famous chairs. Joy Laking Gallery 6730 Rte. 2, Bass River 902-890-8450 / 902-890-8730 joylakinggallery.com Joy is one of Nova Scotia’s best known realist painters. She has had national solo exhibitions and is an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists. Open Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m. from June 1–Sept. 30. Evenings and off-season by chance or by appointment.
Wentworth Ski Wentworth 14595 Rte. 4, Wentworth Valley 902-548-2089 / skiwentworth.ca Rising almost 250 vertical metres,, this ski hill offers 25 alpine runs, terrain park, and a variety of trails that will challenge any skier from beginner to expert. Open mid-December–April.
Truro to Avondale Truro Cobequid Arts Council—Marigold Cultural Centre 605 Prince St., Truro 902-897-4004 / marigoldcentre.ca Houses a 208-seat theatre, reception lobby, art gallery, sports heritage museum, boardroom, and office rental space. Arts and culture educational programs. Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre 65 Treaty Trail, Millbrook 902-843-3493 / millbrookheritagecentre.ca Sharing Mi’kmaw legends, heritage, and culture through artifacts, exhibits, displays, and guided interpretation. W
Truro–Glengarry Trade & Convention Centre bwglengarry.com | 1-800-567-4276
For business or leisure, there’s always a little something extra.
Free hot breakfast in our Dining Room, Coffee Shop & Sherlock's Lounge. Indoor & Outdoor Pool • Whirlpool • Seasonal Oasis Bar. Close to golf, Victoria Park and the Tidal Bore. Best Western Rewards Loyalty Program. Free highspeed Internet, WiFi & 42” flat screen TVs.
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Tidal-bore rafting
Tidal Bore Visitor Centre 103 Tidal Bore Rd., Truro 902-897-6255 The tidal bore surges up the Salmon River twice daily. See pages 15–16 for times.
Stewiacke River Park 902-897-3180 / colchester.ca/parks Quiet riverside park shaded by mature pine, hemlock, and spruce trees. Picnic areas, playground, walking trail, river access.
Truro Farmers’ Market 15 Young St., Truro 902-843-4004 / trurofarmersmarket.org @trurofarmersmarket Facebook.com/TruroFarmersMarket In the historic Fire Hall building. Features fresh produce, home baking, unique crafts and art, food products, meats, seafood, flowers, plants, and more. Music, children’s activities, garden space, and one-stop shopping in an energetic, friendly market. Open Saturdays from April–December, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; January–March,9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Shubenacadie Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park 149 Creighton Rd., Shubenacadie 902-758-2040 / wildlifepark.novascotia.ca Native and exotic species are the pride of Nova Scotia’s premier wildlife destination. Open May–October.
Victoria Park 29 Park Rd., Truro 902-893-6078 truro.ca/victoria-park.html A natural woodland park of roughly 160 hectares located in the centre of town. Waterfalls, several trails, picnic areas, large pool, playground, and tennis courts. Scenic chairlift rides, guided hikes, barbecues. Stewiacke Mastodon Ridge 87 Main St., Stewiacke 902-639-2345 / mastodonridge.com Life-sized mastodon replica located in beautiful playground. Mini-golf, ice cream, Tim Hortons and KFC, gift and art gallery, visitor information.
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Urbania Tidal Bore Rafting Resort 12215 Rte. 215, Urbania 902-758-8433 /raftingcanada.ca Raft and relax in a fully equipped cottage or log chalet in a natural Nova Scotia setting. Full kitchens, TVs, Wi-Fi, fireplace, deck, barbecues. Licensed lodge/pool area. Centrally located. Shubenacadie River Adventure Tours 10061 Rte. 215, South Maitland 1-888-878-8687 / shubie.com Experience the awesome force of the Bay of Fundy tides in the rapids of the Shubenacadie River. Try mudsliding or the new zipline tours.
South Maitland Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre 9865 Rte. 236, South Maitland 902-261-2250 Visitor information, tidal interpretation, and observation deck overlooking tidal Shubenacadie River. Maitland Lawrence House Provincial Museum 8660 Rte. 215, Maitland, Hants Co. 902-261-2628 / lawrencehouse.novascotia.ca In 1874, William D. Lawrence constructed the largest wooden full-rigged ship ever built in Canada. Tour his Victorian home and learn about the golden age of sail along the Fundy Shore. Open June 1–Oct. 5. W Shubenacadie River Runners 8681 Rte. 215, Maitland 902-261-2770 / 800-856-5061 riverrunnersns.com Ride the tidal bore and shoot the rapids in Zodiacs as the tide rushes up the Shubenacadie River. Noel Burntcoat Head Park 627 Burntcoat Rd., Noel 902-369-2529/ burncoathead.com Enjoy the lighthouse and 1.2-hectare park, the world’s highest recorded tides, walking trails, beach access, fossil hunting, and the scenic view of the Bay of Fundy.
Newport Landing Avondale Sky Winery 80 Avondale Cross Rd., Newport Landing 902-253-2047 / avondalesky.com Where wine, food, and service align for an unforgettable experience. Guests of the winery can taste the award-winning wine portfolio, tour the vineyard, and enjoy lunch at D’Vine Morsels winery restaurant.
Windsor to Middleton
Windsor Fort Edward National Historic Site 67 Fort Edward St., Windsor 902-798-2639 See the sole remains of the fort, the blockhouse, the oldest structure if its kind in Canada. Open June 26– Labour Day, Tuesday–Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Haliburton House Museum Windsor See details page 54. Hantsport Blue Beach Fossil Museum 127 Blue Beach Rd., Hantsport 902-790-9541 / bluebeachfossilmuseum.com The 350-million-year old fossils found on the shoreline of Blue Beach show evidence of the first animals to ever walk on land. The fossils of these creatures are adding a piece to the missing-link of evolution. Blue Beach is a unique fossil site. Port Williams Prescott House Museum Starr’s Point See details page 54.
This...
437 Prince St., Truro, NS 902.895.1651 reservations@hitrurohotel.com
and that.
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Kentville CentreStage Theatre, Kentville See details page 54. Aylesford Oaklawn Farm Zoo, Aylesford See details page 49. Greenwood Greenwood Military Aviation Museum 14 Wing, Greenwood 902-765-1494 ext. 5955 / gmam.ca Displaying artifacts that illustrate the roles performed by military aviation in Atlantic Canada, particularly those flying from Greenwood. Middleton Annapolis Valley MacDonald Museum 21 School St., Middleton 902-825-6116 / macdonaldmuseum.ca Operated by the Annapolis Valley Historical Society, in the first consolidated school in Canada, this community museum features antique clocks and other exhibits. Middleton Railway Museum, Middleton See details page 50.
THANKSGIVING WEEKEND OCTOBER 12&13 • 10AM-4PM
SCENIC CHAIRLIFT RIDES, GUIDED HIKES, BBQ, ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND MORE
FOR MORE INFORMATION
VISIT SKIWENTWORTH.CA
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Bridgetown to Brier Island
Granville Ferry North Hills Museum, Granville Ferry See details page 66. Annapolis Royal Annapolis Royal Golf & Country Club 902-532-2064 / annapolisroyalgolf.com 18-hole, par 70. Overlooking the Annapolis River and Fort Anne. Restaurant and pool on-site. Guests welcome. Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, 441 St. George St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-7018 / historicgardens.com Seven hectares of horticultural displays, including a formal Victorian garden, an expansive collection of roses, and an Acadian cottage and garden. See details page 66. Fort Anne and Port-Royal National Historic Sites, Annapolis Royal and area Fort Anne: 902-798-2639 parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne Port-Royal: 902-532-2898 parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal Discover drama and intrigue at the National Historic Sites in southwest Nova Scotia. See details page 25.
Upper Clements Parks 2931 Rte. 1 902-532-7557 / 888-248-4567 upperclements.com Featuring a theme park with a roller coaster, flume ride, waterslide, laser tag, and many more rides and attractions. An adventure park with ziplines and challenge courses and elevated bridges located in a beautiful forest area. See details page 26.
Discover its nature.
municipal day park with picnic facilities, walking trails, playground and river access
Maitland Bridge Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / 877-RESERVE parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Spanning almost 400 square kilometres of gentle wilderness, visitors will also discover natural diversity and a rich Mi’kmaw heritage. See details page 66. Digby Admiral Digby Museum, Digby See details page 66.
Free Wi-Fi
Dining
528 Stewiacke River Park Road East Stewiacke, NS www.colchester.ca/parks
Spa
Lounge
Tennis
Pool
Hot Tub
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Brier Island Hooking By The Sea Retreats 33 Church St., Westport Brier Island 902-308-2107 / hookingbythesearetreats.com Experience a getaway on Brier Island and try traditional rug hooking, whale watching, bird watching, and hiking. Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Cape Forchu Light Station 902-742-4522 / capeforchulight.com novascotiawebcams.com Located at the tip of scenic Cape Forchu, approximately 10 minutes from the town of Yarmouth, the Cape Forchu Light Station with its 22 metres of statuesque beauty, houses a museum, gift shop, The Mug Up Restaurant, and 8 hectares of well-groomed grounds to explore. Rudders Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub 96 Water St., Yarmouth 902-742-7311 / ruddersbrewpub.com Good times, great food, and hand-crafted ales are served up daily at Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub. Live entertainment. Open year-round.
Dining
Boasting abundant fresh seafood, a bounty of fresh, locally-grown produce, and the most acclaimed boutique wineries in Eastern Canada, the Bay of Fundy region offers a wonderful selection of dining experiences to suit all tastes. Choose from the following selection of dining options that await your visit. Wheelchair accessible: W
Amherst to Masstown
Advocate Harbour Advocate Harbour Rite Stop 3554 Rte. 209, Advocate Harbour 902-392-2292 Gas and diesel, groceries including an NSLC store along with fresh produce, eat-in/take-out services, meal specials for each day of the week, breakfast services all week long, Advocate Harbour Gift Shop, and free Wi-Fi. Open to 9 p.m. daily. W Wild Caraway CafĂŠ & Restaurant 3721 Rte. 209, Advocate Harbour 902-392-2889 / wildcaraway.com Affordable, delicious, locally-sourced meals served in a uniquely colourful setting overlooking the tides of the Bay of Fundy.
Dining in the Annapolis Valley
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Parrsboro BlackRock Bistro & Resto Bar 151 Main St., Parrsboro 902-728-3006 / bistro@blackrockbistro.ca blackrockbistro.ca BlackRock Bistro offers a casual dining experience featuring fresh locally-sourced produce, seafood, and meats complimented by a selection of Nova Scotian and international craft beers and fine wines. Five Islands Diane’s Restaurant 874 Rte. 2, Five Islands 902-254-3190 Specializing in fried clams and local seafood, Diane’s is a fantastic stop when travelling the Fundy Shore. Masstown Masstown Market Rte. 104, Exit 12, Masstown 902-662-2816 / 866-273-0614 masstownmarket.com See details on page 31.
Truro to Avondale Truro Best Western Plus Truro-Glengarry Trade and Convention Centre 150 Willow St., Truro 902-893-4311 / bwglengarry.com Dine in the light and friendly coffee shop or in the main atrium-style dining room.
Bistro on Prince Holiday Inn, 437 Prince St., Truro 902-897-8008 / facebook.com/bistroonprince From kids’ meals to fine dining. W The Nova Scotia Emporium & Fireside Tearoom 880 Prince St., Truro 902-893-8285 Enjoy lunch or dessert then take in the giftware, collectibles, and fine Nova Scotian products in the gift shop. Maitland Frieze & Roy General Store 8787 Rte. 215, Maitland 902-261-2860 Visit Canada’s oldest general store in Nova Scotia’s first Heritage Conservation District. Open 8 a.m.–8 p.m. A local hotspot for subs, sandwiches, baked goods, ice cream, groceries, cold beer, wine, and laundromat. Summerville The Flying Apron Inn & Cookery 3 Summerville Wharf Rd. and Rte. 215, Summerville 902-633-2300 / flyingaproncookery.ca Charming accommodations, locally-sourced honest food and culinary education.
La Caveau restaurant at Grand Pré Winery
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Windsor to Middleton Grand Pré Le Caveau Restaurant at Grand Pré Winery 11611 Rte. 1, Grand Pré 902-542-7177 / 866-GP-WINES grandprewines.ns.ca/restaurant Chef Jason Lynch emphasizes seasonal Nova Scotia product with a global flair. Named one of 20 world’s best winery restaurants by Wine Access 2011. Taste of Nova Scotia Prestige Awards 2012 and 2015 Restaurant of the Year for chef-inspired fine dining. Wolfville The Library Pub and Merchant Wine Tavern 472 Main St., Wolfville 902-542-4315 / thelibrarypub.ca Local farm-fresh products, a fine selection of premium import and domestic beers and local wines, amid an inviting atmosphere. Kentville Paddy’s Brewpub & Rosie’s Restaurant 42 Aberdeen St., Kentville 902-678-3199 / paddyspub.ca
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With a second location in Wolfville, this traditional Irish country pub and family restaurant has lots of character and plenty of charm. Cameron’s Seafoods 1157 West Hall’s Harbour Rd. 902-679-5299 / cameronseafoods.ca Locals believe the flavour of lobster improves immeasurably if you eat it outdoors on the coast, where the delicious aroma from your plate can mingle with the scents of pine and sea wrack at low tide. Local seafood lovers concur, flocking like seagulls to this restaurant overlooking the picturesque wharf.
Bridgetown to Brier Island Annapolis Royal The Garrison House Inn 350 St. George St., Annapolis Royal 902-532-5750 / 866-532-5750 garrisonhouse.ca Three intimate fine-dining rooms and a charming 22-seat screened verandah facing the sunset over Fort Anne National Historic Site.
Downtown Truro
Digby Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa Churchill’s Restaurant & Lounge and 19th Hole Clubhouse & Eatery 103 Shore Rd., Digby 902-245-2511 / digbypines.ca The succulent menu at Churchill’s Restaurant & Lounge presents twists on old favourites, featuring local ingredients and prepared to order. The worldfamous Digby scallops are a resort specialty and a must-try on the new menu. A complete selection of domestic and imported wines is also available. Fundy Restaurant 34 Water St., Digby 902-445-4950 / fundyrestaurant.com Specializing in fresh Digby scallops, live lobster, seafood, pasta, and steak. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a great children’s menu.
U-picks and Farmers’ Markets Annapolis Royal Farmers’ & Traders’ Market Town Centre, Annapolis Royal 902-245-4824 annapolisroyalfarmersmarket.com May–October. See details page 62. Blueberry Acres U-Pick 1225 Middle Dyke Rd., Centreville 902-582-1482 Chipman Farms U-Pick Rte. 201, Tupperville 902-665-2374 Dempsey Corner Orchard 2717 Rte., 221, Aylesford 902-847-1855 / dempseycorner.com June–October.
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Elderkin’s Farm Market & Cider Company 10362 Rte. 1, Wolfville 902-542-7198 / facebook.com/Elderkins Open year-round. Hennigar’s Farm Market 10272 Rte. 1, Wolfville 902-542-3503 / hennigars.com Kentville Farmers’ Market Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Oct.–May at the Calkin Building, 38 Cornwallis St.; May–Oct. in the Kentville Centre Square 902-679-2514 / kentvillefarmersmarket.ca Wednesdays 10 a.m.–2 p.m., year-round. Masstown Market 10622 Rte. 2, Masstown 902-662-2816 / 866-273-0614 masstownmarket.com See details on page 31.
Wineries and Vineyards l’Acadie Vineyards 310 Slayter Rd., Gaspereau 902-542-8463 / lacadievineyards.ca Avondale Sky Winery 80 Avondale Cross Rd., Newport Landing 902-253-2047 / avondalesky.com Bear River Vineyards 133 Chute Rd., Bear River 902-467-4156 / wine.travel Benjamin Bridge Vineyards 1966 White Rock Rd., Gaspereau Valley 902-542-1560 / benjaminbridge.com Blomidon Estate Winery 10318 Rte. 221, Canning 902-582-7565 / blomidonwine.ca
Noggins Corner Farm 10009 Rte. 1, Greenwich 902-542-5515 / nogginsfarm.ca
Casa Nova Fine Beverages 2635 Clementsvale Rd., Bear River East 902-467-0363 / casanovafinebeverages.com
Truro Farmers’ Market Corner of Prince and Young streets, Truro 902-843-4004 / trurofarmersmarket.org Open Saturdays 8 a.m.–1 p.m., April–December.
Domaine de Grand Pré 11611 Rte. 1, Grand Pré 902-542-1753 / 866-GPWINES grandprewines.com
Windsor Farmers’ Market Waterside Coach House, 6 King Rd. Extension farmersmarketsnovascotia.ca/windsorfarmers-market Open Saturdays 10 a.m.–2 p.m., June–December.
Gaspereau Vineyards 2239 White Rock Rd., Gaspereau 902-542-1455 / gaspereauwine.com
Withrow’s Farm Centre 206 Rte. 1, Mount Uniacke 902-866-1113 / withrowsfarmmarket.ca Open April–December with a garden centre open May–July. Wolfville Farmers’ Market 24 Elm Ave., Wolfville 902-697-3344 wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca Saturdays year-round. See details page 50.
That Dutchman’s Farm, Upper Economy
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Truro to Avondale
Luckett Vineyards 1293 Grand PrĂŠ Rd., Wolfville 902-542-2600 / luckettvineyards.com
Truro Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre Store 65 Treaty Trail, Millbrook 902-843-3493 Showcasing stunning Mi’kmaw artisans, offset with a collection of Nova Scotian products.
Planters Ridge 1441 Church St., Port Williams 902-542-2711 / plantersridge.ca Sainte-Famille Wines Ltd. Dyke Road and Dudley Park Lane, Falmouth 902-798-8311 / 800-565-0993 st-famille.com
Shopping and Services Amherst to Masstown Masstown Masstown Market 10622 Rte. 2, Masstown 902-662-2816 / masstownmarket.com Quality produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods; garden and gift centre; restaurant.
Leisure Days RV Centre 45 Treaty Trail, Truro 902-893-2619 / 877-855-4678 leisuredaystruro.ca Full service and parts department with a selection of new and used products. Open daily. Nova Scotia Emporium & Fireside Tearoom 880 Prince St., Truro 902-893-8285 While enjoying lunch or dessert, take in the array of giftware, collectibles, and fine Nova Scotian crafts.
2019
2019.
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Stanfield’s Factory Outlet 1 Logan St., Truro 902-895-5406 / stanfields.com Known as “the underwear company,” offering underwear, winter thermal wear, socks, and athletic wear. Truro Farmers’ Market See details page 85. Maitland Frieze & Roy General Store See details page 40. Gallery 215 8247 Rte. 215, Selma 902-261-2151 / artgallery215.com Community-owned gallery showcasing contemporary fine art, representing over 40 emerging and established artists. Located along scenic Rte. 215, in the 1865-era Selma Schoolhouse, near the historic town of Maitland. Consult the website’s events calendar for ingallery art and cultural experiences.
Windsor to Middleton Tangled Garden Grand Pré See details page 53.
fashion, gift, and home décor store situated on the pedestrian-friendly Main St. of Wolfville. Offers elegance and sophistication and will delight and inspire the self-indulgent or gift-giving customer. Port Williams Fox Hill Cheese House, Port Williams See details page 53. Aylesford deWeevers Wovens Aylesford See details page 53.
Bridgetown to Brier Island Annapolis Royal Bainton’s Tannery Outlet, Annapolis Royal See details page 65. Bear River Flight of Fancy, Bear River See details page 65. Freeport Arts ‘n Adventures in the Cove shopping 324 Overcove Rd., Freeport 902-839-2144 / artsnadventuresinthecove.com Hands-on activities and experiences for visitors seeking to learn about Long Island and Brier Island.
Wolfville Casa Bella Gifts 9 Gaspereau Ave., Wolfville 902-542-4400 / casabellawolfville.com Casa Bella Gifts is a high-end, independent
Mastodon Ridge
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Photo: Perry Dyke
Kayaking on Shubenacadie River
Festivals and Events Experience great festivals throughout the region. Dates listed are subject to change, so confirm before finalizing your plans. For a full list of festivals and events, visit novascotia.com May 18 “Dark as Keji” Twilight Party and Moonlight Dip Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge parkscanada.gc.ca/keji May 29–June 3 86th Annual Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival See details page 51. May 25–26 3rd Annual Tour de Keji Omnium Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Road cyclists from all over Atlantic Canada meet at Kejimkujik to compete for two days in a time
trial, criterium, and road-race. See keji.bnsroad.ca for race details. June–Aug. (dates TBA) Movie Nights in Victoria Park Truro 9 p.m. at Victoria Park June–Sept. First Friday Community Celebrations at Fort Anne Annapolis Royal June–Sept. Sunday in the Park Concerts Victoria Park, Truro from 2–4 p.m. June 7–8 Ravenous for Rhubarb Festival Stewiacke stewiacke.net June 8 FIZZ at the Wolfville Farmers Market Wolfville 902-697-3344 /wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca
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June 14–15 Annual Mount Uniacke Firefighters’ Fair Mount Uniacke 902-866-2828
July 3–Sept. 16 Two Planks and a Passion: Theatre Off the Grid Canning artscentre.ca/twoplanks
June 15–23 Canada’s Garden Days Historic Gardens, Annapolis Royal historicgardens.com
July 5–6 Smokin’ Blues Fest Hants County Exhibition Grounds, Windsor 613-661-0662 /smokinbluesfest.ca
June 20–23 Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival
July 5–7 Lobster Bash Digby 902-247-1313 / lobsterbash.ca
June 21–23 Full Circle Music Festival Avon River Heritage Society Museum Newport Landing 902-475-1058 /fullcirclefestival.ca June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / parkscanada.gc.ca/keji June 22 Mud Craft 2050 Rte. 202, East Gore veithhouse.com/mudcraft Six-km adventure race featuring 20+ obstacles designed for all skill levels. Plus youth event. June 23 Wine & Dash 2205 Grand Pré Rd., Grand Pré 902-422-3387 / wineanddash.ca June 27–30 19th-annual Fox Mountain Bluegrass Festival Berwick 902-847-3747 / foxmountaincampingpark.com June 28–30 Classics by the Bay Parrsboro sites.google.com/view/classicsbythebay/home July (dates TBA) Riverfront Park Concert Series Truro 7–8 p.m. at Riverfront Park July–Sept. Ships Company Theatre Summer Festival Parrsboro 800-565-SHOW / shipscompanytheatre.com Professional live theatre and summer concert series.
July 6 House and Garden Tour Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens 902-532-7018 / historicgardens.com July 6 Savour the Seaside – Crab Fest 2019 Kejimkujik Seaside National Park parkscanada.gc.ca/keji July 6 Mud Hero Nova Scotia Ultra 10K Mount Martock / mudhero.com July 11, 25; Aug. 8, 22 Traditional Music on Thursdays at Port-Royal Port-Royal National Historic Site parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal July 12–13 Kingston Steer BBQ and Village Fair See details 51. July 14 Mi’kmaw Culture Day Port-Royal National Historic Site 902-532-2898 / parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal July 18–21 14th Annual Acoustic Maritime Music Festival 5701 Rte. 215, Kempt Shore 902-633-2229 / kemptshorefestivals.com July 18–21 Canadian Superbike Championship Series, Round 5 Atlantic Motorsport Park, Shubenacadie atlanticmotorsportpark.com
July 1 Canada Day Celebrations Province-wide
July 12–14 British Motoring Festival Kings Edgehill School, Windsor britishmotoringfestival.com
July 1 to 8 Annapolis Royal Rose Festival Historic Gardens, Annapolis Royal historicgardens.com
July 13 CARP’S Annual Annapolis River Festival Jubilee Park, Bridgetown 902-532-7533
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Mid-July (dates TBA) Bear River Cherry Carnival 1277 River Rd., Bear River 902-467-3633 / brfd.ca
July 21 Massed Band Concert at Fort Anne Fort Anne National Historic Site parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne
July 18–21 Annual Acoustic Maritime Music Festival 5701 Rte. 215, Kempt Shore 902-633-2229 / kemptshorefestivals.com
July 20–21 Masstown Market Seafood Festival 10622 Rte. 2, Masstown 902-662-2816 / masstownmarket.com
July 20 The Historical Association of Annapolis Royal celebrates its 100th Anniversary at Fort Anne Fort Anne National Historic Site parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne
July 25–28 Nova Scotia Bluegrass & Oldtime Music Festival Exhibition Grounds, Truro/Bible Hill 902-662-2896 / facebook.com/downeastgrass
July 20 Hantsport Homecoming Music Festival Hantsport 902-790-0030 / hhmf.ca July 20–21 Sea to Shore Sea Glass Festival Berwick Fire Hall, Berwick 902-790-6901 July 20–21 Learn-To-Camp at Kejimkujik Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / parkscanada.gc.ca/keji
July 27 Age of Sail Museum Anniversary Day Port Greville Free Admission July 27–28 Anne Murray Centre 30th Anniversary Celebration 36 Main St., Springhill annemurraycentre.com July 28 Construction Traditions at Port-Royal Port-Royal National Historic Site parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal Aug. 2–4 Avon River Days Windsor 902-798-9773 / town.windsor.ns.ca
Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival, Truro
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Aug. 2–4 Stewiacke Town Days 902-639-2231 / stewiacke.net Aug. 2–4 Annapolis Royal Natal Days 902-532-2043 / annapolisroyal.com Aug. 2–4 Encampment Days on Natal Day weekend at Fort Anne Fort Anne National Historic Site parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne Aug. 4 Not Since Moses Five Islands notsincemoses.com Aug. 3 Keji’s 50th Birthday Celebration Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Aug. 5 Civic Holiday Concert in the Park Truro 2–4 p.m. Victoria Park Aug. 8–11 Digby Scallop Days See details page 64. August (dates TBA) Millbrook Powwow millbrookfirstnation.net Aug. 12–17 Annapolis Valley Exhibition Lawrencetown, Annapolis County 902-584-3339 / annapolisvalleyexhibition.com Aug. 16–31 Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival Communities throughout the Bay of Fundy and Northumberland Shore wildblueberryfest.com Aug. 16–18 Nova Scotia Gem and Mineral Show Parrsboro 902-254-3814 Aug. 20–24 Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Ryland Avenue, Truro/Bible Hill nspe.ca Aug. 25 Cobequid Trail Run 5K, 10K, and half marathon, Truro 902-897-3155 /colchester.ca
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Aug. 28–Sept. 1 Wharf Rat Rally Digby See details page 64. Aug. 29–Sept. 2 Berwick Gala Days See details page 51. Aug. 31–Sept. 1 Annual Labor Day Events at the Age of Sail Museum Port Greville Saturday supper, Sunday outdoor church service, breakfast, special displays, free admission. Sept. (date TBA) EMBRACE Festival Truro Marigold Cultural Centre & Civic Square truro.ca Sept. 12–15 Bridgetown Ciderfest Bridgetown See details 63. Sept.–Oct. Nova Scotia Fall Wine Festival winesofnovascotia.ca Sept. 2 Labour Day Concert in the Park Victoria Park, Truro truro.ca Noon–5 p.m. Sept. 6–8 Keji Multisport Festival: Women’s Triathlon and Mixed Team Relay Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site Maitland Bridge parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Sept. 7 Colchester Highland Games Gathering Truro colchesterhighlandgames.com Sept. 14–16, 21–23 Hants County Exhibition Windsor 902-798-0000 / hantscountyex.com Sept. 15 Open Farm Day, Nova Scotia meetyourfarmer.ca Sept. 21 Avondale Garlic Fest Avondale Sky Winery, Newport Landing 902-757-3138 / avondalegarlicfest.com
Sept. 27–28 11th Annual Annapolis Valley Giant Vegetable Growers Weigh Off Waterville
Nov. 7–10 Nova Scotia Music Week Truro nsmw.ca
Sept. 27–29 Canadian Deep Roots Music Festival Wolfville 902-542-7668 / deeprootsmusic.ca
Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve on the Town Truro truro.ca Starting at 11:30 a.m.
October Pumpkin People Festival Kentville kentville.ca
Accomodations These accommodations are advertisers in this publication. For a complete directory of accommodations, see novascotia.com.
Oct. (dates TBA) 10 Days in October 121 Main St., Parrsboro 902-254-2972 Oct. 12 Pumpkin Palooza Wolfville 902-678-8568 / wolfvillefarmersmarket.ca Oct. 12–14 Thanksgiving Weekend Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Maitland Bridge 902-682-2772 / parkscanada.gc.ca/keji Oct. 15–19 Nova Scotia Fibre Arts Festival Amherst fibreartsfestival.com Oct. 22–27 Devour! The Food Film Fest Wolfville devourfest.com
Suncatcher Bed & Breakfast 25 Wile Crest Ave., North River 902-893-7169 / 877-203-6032 suncatcherbnb.com A warm welcome awaits you at Suncatcher B&B, located in North River, a suburban area of Truro only a five-minute drive from downtown. Two large airy rooms each with a spacious four-piece en-suite. Easy access from highways 102 and 104. On-site parking. The Sunshine Inn Motel & Cottages 4487 Rte. 2, Parrsboro 902-254-3135 / 877-706-6835 thesunshineinn.net Motel with 11 units and 4 cottages, Free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, hot breakfast included with stay. Nestled in a lush green valley on the outskirts of Parrsboro.
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Desitination B rier
Island
Brier Island Lodge and Restaurant Whale Watching Packages are Available Whale Watching, Oceanview Dining and Accommodations
www.brierisland.com | 1-800-662-8355 Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/BrierIslandLodge/
Brier Island’s Original and #1 Chosen Whale Watch CELEBRATING 33 YEARS!
Dedicated to Research and Education since 1986
1-800-656-3660 www.brierislandwhalewatch.com