Travelling to Nova Scotia

From any location in this Maritime Province, an individual is never more than fifty-six km away from the sea. Perhaps not surprisingly, Nova Scotia is home to a large number of small fishing villages. Inland, however, forest can be found and low hills dominate the North of the province. The natural beauty of the Bay of Fundy Region and of the Cape Breton Islands certainly draws tourists, but the cosmopolitan centre of Halifax also attracts a number of visitors.

When to Go
The climate in Nova Scotia is moderate, with a great deal of rain and fog. Summers can be sunny, however, and winters are very snowy. Travelling to Nova Scotia is therefore best in the summer.

Where to Go
Major Attractions: Halifax, Peggy’s Cove, Cape Breton Island

Sitting by one of the world’s largest natural harbours, Halifax is the province’s capital. Perhaps because of its University, the city has a youthful charm as well as an interesting historic district and a number of parks. Some spots to visit in Halifax are:

Historic Downtown Area – A guided or self-guided tour of this area will allow the visitor the see numerous interesting sites. Province House, the home of Canada’s oldest provincial legislature, is worth a look. St. Paul’s Church is the first protestant church to be built in Canada. Be sure to stop at the Old Town Clock, which is a beloved symbol of the city.

Brewery Market – This market, part of the restored waterfront, houses boutiques, restaurants, and pubs all week long. On Saturdays, a lively farmers’ market can be found here.

Point Pleasant Park – The nature trails, picnic spots, restaurants, beaches and old tower found in this park will delight all visitors to the city.

Peggy’s Cove is Canada’s best-known fishing village and one of the most visited coves in the Atlantic Provinces. While the village houses only sixty residents, the fishing boats, lobster traps, waterfront docks and old pastel homes of the town are charming enough to attract numerous visitors. The town’s lighthouse and shoreline, where 415 million year old boulders can be seen, are well worth exploring.

Cape Breton Island is one the roughest, highest, coolest and most remote areas of the province. The Cabot Trail, a three hundred km highway, tours around Cape Breton Highlands National Park and is one of Canada’s grandest and best-known roads. In order to experience the natural beauty and historic sites of the Island, it is best to drive along the Cabot Trail. The weather is often windy, foggy and cool, but summers can be warm and sunny. Some notable stopping points along the Cabot Trail include:

Mabou – Scottish Gaelic can still be heard in this town.

Inverness – This is an ideal stopping point for those seeking sandy beaches and secluded spots.

Belle Cote – Predominantly French, this area is interesting due to the cultural differences exemplified by the local food, music and dance.

Cheticamp – This centre of the Acadian Community is the gateway to the national park. From this point forward, the Cabot Trail becomes more scenic.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park – The formidable reputation of the Cabot Trail stems from the absolute beauty of the route within this park. Whales and bald eagles can be spotted in the area and beautiful views can be seen from the top of Mackenzie and French Mountains. The Lone Shieling Trail boasts three hundred year old maple trees.

Other Highlights when Travelling to Nova Scotia Include:

• The fossils at Parrsboro
• Whale Watching at Digby Neck

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