The eastern Canadian province of Nova Scotia is certainly one of the country’s most scenic and friendly.
There are many popular sites to visit such as Cape Breton Island, the Cabot Trail, and the wonderful capital city of Halifax.
However, there are also several excellent destinations that are considered to be off the beaten track.
These are some of the province’s best-hidden gems and are well worth a visit.
1. The Maude Lewis Memorial House
Maude Lewis was a well-known folk artist from Nova Scotia. Her house has been rebuilt and it stands on the site of her original house in the community of Marshalltown. If you’d like to see Lewis’ original home, which she painted by hand outside and inside, you’ll be able to view it at Halifax’s Folk Art Museum.
2. The Halifax Seaport Market
(photo credit: spacing )
This wonderful market features arts and crafts and local food. The local artisans are definitely worth checking out and some of the city’s best buskers take to the streets here during the summers. It’s a great place to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
3. Annapolis Royal
(photo credit: wjklos)
Annapolis Royal is known as Canada’s oldest European settlement, making it one of the most historical in the province and the country. The picturesque town lies on the water and at one time was the capital of Nova Scotia. The traditions, architecture, and cuisine are distinctly Acadian and it’s simply a must see site.
4. Kejimkujik Lake
(photo credit: stickmanuk )
This lovely lake lies inside of Kejimkujik Lake National Park. The water appears to be quite dark in color because it’s filled with so many minerals.
However, it’s perfectly safe for people to swim in, but marine life struggles here due to the mineral content.
5. Memorial Tower
(photo credit: mr_john)
This tower is located in Halifax’s Sir Sandford Fleming Park and is known by locals as Dingle Tower. The park is actually referred to as Dingle by them as well, which translates into wooded valley. You’ll get some fantastic views of the port city from here.
6. Ovens Natural Park
(photo credit: marksundstrom)
This stunning park is located on Nova Scotia’s famous coastal trail known as the Lighthouse Route. It’s actually a private park and is home to some scintillating natural sea caves. Camping is allowed here and there are also cabins for rent. Some of the caves are man-made and others were formed naturally. The area was popular for mining back in the 19th century.
7. Faerie/Tea Pot Cottages
(photo credit: travel.sympatico.ca)
This site features some gorgeous cottages that appear to be from another place and time. There are four colorful, exquisite cottages that are quite magical in appearance.
8. The Annapolis Valley Dykes
(photo credit: robbish)
If you head down to the Annapolis Valley, you’ll come across some amazing dykes which were built by the French. The dykes were erected originally to help protect the local communities from the Bay of Fundy’s high tides. They’re quite historical and are also still functional.
9. Amethyst Cove
(photo credit: egs)
This site lies between Blomidon and Cape Spilt. It’s basically a hidden beach that can only be accessed by boat or climbing down a cliff near Cape Split.
