What to see in Nova Scotia Canada?

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Rich history. Beautiful coastlines dotted with colourful fishing villages and fabulous inns. One of Canada’s top cities. And tremendous food and culture.

There’s a ton to do in Nova Scotia. Here are 10 of my favourites based on several visits over the years.

INTERACTIVE GRAPHIC: Explore Nova Scotia

Cape Breton is one of the top driving trips in North America, with rising, forest-green hills along the Cabot Trail that sweep you up into the sky and reveal magical views of the rugged coastline. Pretty villages dot the landscape in this breathtakingly beautiful part of the province. Another personal favourite, although not nearly as dramatic, is the road along the Bay of Fundy on Shore Rd. W., just north of Annapolis Royal. You’ll past clusters of small villages and pretty coves along the bay on a road that rises and falls with the gentle landscape. It’s an excellent cycling route.

The Bay of Fundy is one of the richest marine environments in the world, with tons of tasty appetizers that attract humpback whales, right whales, minke whales and more. You can get whale-watching tours out of Digby as well as on the south shore and off Cape Breton, where pilot whales are said to be attracted by Celtic music played aboard the whale-watching ships. If the whales don’t cooperate you might spot Atlantic dolphins or seals.

You can visit Nova Scotia without visiting Peggy’s Cove, but you shouldn’t. Yes, it can get crowded in summer but it’s a stunning spot, with that famous lighthouse and the rounded rocks and the endless views out to sea. The south coast of the province near Lunenburg and Mahone Bay features beautiful villages with towering, white church spires and quiet streets. Don’t miss the quintessential — and quiet — fishing village of Blue Rocks , just minutes from Lunenburg. The beaches along Cape Breton and near Digby are a beachcomber’s delight. And there are great stretches of sand near Halifax, including Lawrencetown (great surfing too), Conrad’s Beach and the five-kilometre stretch of Martinique Beach. Further afield, try Tor Bay near the town of Larry’s River (between Cape Breton and Halifax). Still more great kayaking can be found along Chignecto Bay in the Bay of Fundy and in the Minas Basin near the town of Parrsboro.