The striking coast of Nova Scotia

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and inlets, its coastline, which stretches over 7,600 kilometers, is dotted with marinas, charming coastal villages, lively towns, national parks and above all breathtaking landscapes.

 

Louise Bourbonnais

 

While many people visit Nova Scotia primarily to enjoy the magnificent beaches and miles of pristine coastline surrounding the province, it also appeals to those who appreciate breathtaking scenery, thanks to its numerous scenic drives. The spectacular Lighthouse Drive is ideal for kayaking enthusiasts. Hiking, golf, and sailing enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Whale watching is another popular activity, and cruises to encounter these majestic creatures are available. Visitors also come for its historical sites, culinary delights, delicious seafood, and the opportunity to meet its welcoming people.

 

I fell in love with Cape Breton Island

This is a must-see!

My career as a travel reporter has taken me along countless scenic routes. However, I must admit that the road encircling Cape Breton Island remains one of the most spectacular I've ever had the chance to experience, and I'm not alone in being impressed. Known as the Cabot Trail , it's considered by tourism industry experts to be one of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the world. Stretching 300 kilometers, the road is dizzying, with its numerous curves that offer no respite to the driver, and where sheer cliffs plunge dramatically into the ocean. Even if you experience moments of sheer terror, the Cabot Trail is a journey in itself and worth the trip alone. Allow a full day for the drive.

Get out of the car and admire the breathtaking view – it's absolutely stunning! Take the opportunity to capture some amazing photos. The area also boasts numerous hiking trails for stretching your legs. Sea kayaking is also available.

 

It's the best way to discover waterfalls, sea caves, and deserted beaches that are not accessible by road.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail are true wonders that constitute the two main tourist attractions of Cape Breton Island.

Among the province's 125 beaches, we should mention the magnificent 10km long fine sandy beach, Aspy Bay , on the Cabot Trail.

 

Nearby, the Fortress of Louisbourg is a major historical site worth exploring. Restored to its former glory, it offers the largest reconstruction of the fortress in North America. A wonderful way to experience the New World since 1744.

 

 

Must-see

The Bay of Fundy, shared by New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is renowned for having the highest tides in the world, a truly spectacular natural wonder. The cliffs are so impressive that the scene seems almost unreal.

 

Nova Scotia boasts the highest number of lighthouses in the country. While they are an integral part of the coastal landscape, they also serve as reminders of its rich history. Of the 160 lighthouses, the most famous remains Peggy's Cove, located about an hour's drive from Halifax.

This is the most photographed lighthouse in the province. It features a memorial erected in memory of the victims of the 1998 Swissair flight tragedy.

 

Take a detour to Lunenburg, a seaside town worth seeing along the lighthouse route. Its brightly coloured houses are reminiscent of some Scottish villages on the other side of the Atlantic.

The area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's also where you can visit the Bluenose II, a replica of the legendary Bluenose, originally built for fishing in 1920 and wrecked on a reef near Haiti in 1946. This sailing vessel, which boasts the world's largest mainsail, is most famous for its glorious racing history and is a symbol of Canada. It is the iconic figure featured on the 10-cent coin.

 

Halifax

Its capital, Halifax, remains one of the province's most visited destinations, both for its vibrancy and its culture. It is one of the world's largest fishing ports and home to a major naval base.

History buffs will want to make a stop at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where you can see a collection of objects recovered from the wreck of the Titanic.

A visit to the Halifax Citadel is also a must.

As for its four-kilometer-long tourist boardwalk along the Atlantic shore, it's the perfect place to stroll, explore museums, do some shopping, visit its impressive harbor, or enjoy a meal of seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants while watching the sunset. In the evening, why not try your luck at the Halifax Casino?

 

How to get there?

Many will opt for a flight from Montreal-Trudeau to Halifax Airport. Via Rail offers train service from Montreal to Halifax, a long 21-hour journey. It's also possible to drive there. The drive between Montreal and Halifax takes approximately 13 hours. If you plan to travel to New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia is easily accessible from either destination by road or ferry.

From Halifax, you can take the train to the city of Sydney on Cape Breton Island. Sydney also has a regional airport.

 

To know

– If you are travelling there by plane or train, renting a car locally is practically essential to visit the many tourist attractions.

– French is spoken in several places, look for signs if necessary, "French is spoken here".

– Acadian culture is well established in Nova Scotia, both in terms of language and historical sites.

– Make sure you do not venture onto the Cabot Trail in foggy weather.

– If you are not comfortable driving along the Cabot Trail , don't miss this opportunity and opt for a coach tour.

– The colours in autumn are sublime, especially along the Cabot Trail, where the landscapes are magical.

– The climate is moderate. You should bring a wool sweater with you, even in summer.

– We offer different types of accommodation to suit all budgets.

– The Highlands Links golf course on Cape Breton Island, located on the edge of the ocean, has been proclaimed as one of the best courses in the country and is found in the world's top 100 list.