Canadian marketer from UA Lifestyle | Tips | Experience
The best places to visit in Nova Scotia through the eyes of newcomers
My family and I arrived in Nova Scotia when the war took away our home in Ukraine. We were searching for a place with a similar climate, culture, and life values to our native home, and I believe we found it in Nova Scotia. It is a beautiful province with everything one could desire, from endless fields and high mountains to bustling big cities. Although the natural surroundings are similar to Ukraine, after a few months of living here, we noticed many differences. The first one – houses. The usual landscape for Ukraine is high-rise buildings with apartments. 5, 10, 20 floors are considered the norm. Instead, Canadian housing is mostly one or two-story and accommodates only one or two families. Another interesting difference is parks. The parks in Ukraine are usually in the central part of the city and have a limited area. In contrast, Canadian parks are located in more wild parts of the province, making them amazing places for walking and relaxation. The third big difference is the abundance of wildlife. In Ukraine, it is rare to encounter deer or raccoons on the streets, but here in Nova Scotia, they are so common that they are almost considered citizens. While this may not be a big deal for Canadians, it is a rare opportunity for us to observe wild animals around our homes. Nova Scotia is a province that captivates with its diversity. You can enjoy a lobster dinner on the ocean shore one day and conquer endless mountain trails the next. So, let's talk about the five places in Nova Scotia that enchant every newcomer.
Nova Scotia is a great place for people who enjoy nature, beautiful landscapes, and spending time with friends and family. Fresh air, tasty food, and ocean breeze can make your visit here an unforgettable holiday. But how tourists and newcomers can understand what is the best place to start exploring Nova Scotia? I create a checklist, thanks to which you can reach the most charming places in the Canadian "Capital of Maritime". Off we go!
1. Peggy's Cove
Exactly, when you scream "Nova Scotia", you hear an echo of "Peggy's Cove". This is the most popular tourist spot, where you can find everything from souvenirs to a flurry of emotions from what you see before your eyes. That is true, Peggy's Cove has a variety environment for all kinds of tourists. Doesn't matter if you came here with kids or solo, this place offers you really a lot of options for spending a fabulous time:
● Peggy's Cove Lighthouse. A beautiful option for photo lovers, because it's located at the perfect point where you can catch the ocean, rocks, and a lighthouse in one shot. High waves and horizon lines make your photos truly professional. Just a little reminder – the best selfies in Nova Scotia were made at Peggy's Cove Lighthouse!
● Polly Cove Hiking Trail. Love nature and active recreation? Then you should try to conquer this trail. Coniferous trees and ocean air cause pleasant dizziness which will remain in your memory for many years. Don't forget to take with you comfortable shoes for such a fascinating activity!
● Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant. This place can be considered a tourist center of Peggy's Cove. Just imagine how you sat in front of a big window with a lighthouse view, eat a perfect-smelling lobster soup and your backpack is full of Nova Scotia souvenirs... Sounds good? All these things you'll definitely find here! Moreover, the restaurant has all the necessary infrastructure for placing people with disabilities, so your visit here will be as much comfort as possible.
Come to Peggy's Cove with the whole family. You won't regret it! Here is Peggy's Cove guide for tourists.
2. Lunenburg
The next place that I want to mention is the small, but beautiful town of Lunenburg. Red houses on a waterfront, docks, yachts... You definitely know this place, because it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Millions of people from around the world arrive here to watch the soothing town views, hear interesting ocean stories, and taste fragrant coffee in one of the Lunenburg cafés.
I really want to suggest something concrete to watch, but this town on its own looks like a museum. Unique architecture, small roads, yachts, waterfront, restaurants, and museums... All of these things make your visit here really unforgettable. Golf lovers can find here one of the best fields for playing in the world. Foodies will definitely catch a bunch of places with diverse cuisines. Oh yeah, photographers will spend a tonne of time here, because each photo perspective looks like your best shot. Don't waste a time and pack your valise. Lunenburg waits for you!
Here you can find more information about the most interesting Lunenburg spots
3. Five Islands Lighthouse
An amazing place called Five Islands Lighthouse. A place where time stands still. Endless horizon, beautiful views, fresh air, lush nature... All your thoughts will be focused on the really important things when you are here. Let us give you a recommendation. Take the most important people in your life, pack a picnic basket, leave all your problems behind, and come here for a few hours. The charge of energy you will receive here will accompany you throughout your life. A children's play area, hammocks, picnic tables, walking paths and much more will make your weekend here wonderful. One more thing. You definitely have to try to draw on stones here because this is like a ritual of this place. So, find the most beautiful stone on the beach, choose bright paints, and create tour masterpieces. You can leave your work here or take it like a memorial thing, but this stone will surely become a lucky talisman for someone in this world.
4. Victoria Park
If you get from the ocean closer to the central part of Nova Scotia, you can visit the town of Truro, which has a wonderful Victoria Park. Children playgrounds, waterfalls, a lot of hiking trails, picnic area, swimming pool... Seems too much for one place, isn't it? If so, you definitely need to visit this park. You will be able to see that all these things can be harmoniously and beautifully combined in a great piece of Canadian land. Bring comfortable clothes, snacks and a perfect mood. You will spend an unforgettable day tracking a bunch of hiking trails and enjoying the mesmerizing mountain scenery.
You can find more information and all Victoria Park updates on Instagram and Facebook pages. BTW, I really like photos on these pages, managers did a big job with these profiles, so be sure to follow! On the top of that, here is Victoria Park website link.
Beautiful place, great management, unbelievable experience!
5. The Ocean
The last point I would like to mention is a place in Nova Scotia that no one will ever be able to fully explore - the ocean. Endless and powerful, it is both beautiful and awe-inspiring. The ocean is considered the business card of Nova Scotia, and there are many interesting water-related activities you can enjoy. You can go on boat trips, scuba diving, or whale watching, or simply watch the sunset. Everyone will be able to experience unforgettable emotions that will stay with them for a lifetime. Nova Scotia is ready to share its gifts with all who visit, and all you have to do is reach out. Many stories of local residents are connected with the ocean. A huge number of museum exhibits of Nova Scotia connect their existence with this water element. It is infinite and mysterious. A lifetime is not enough to know all its secrets. Try to learn even a small part. This is a valuable experience.
Finishing
Ok, this is it, I have told you about a few places to start exploring Nova Scotia. But you have to remember that this Canadian province hides a lot of beautiful spots. Try to catch them all! Thanks for reading this article. I'll be very happy with your feedback in the comment. Tell me about your favourite spots in Nova Scotia!