Spring Archives - Tourism Nova Scotia Plan Your Trip to Nova Scotia Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:35:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://novascotia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/tns-favicon-512x512-1.svg Spring Archives - Tourism Nova Scotia 32 32 Spring Escapes: Top Getaways in Nova Scotia https://novascotia.com/blog/spring-escapes-top-getaways-in-nova-scotia/ Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:51:02 +0000 https://novascotia.com/?p=115215 Spring is just around the corner which means it’s the perfect time for a getaway! Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, relaxation, live theatre, great food, wine tasting, or a cozy escape for two, Nova Scotia has just the spot to kick off the season.

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Spring is just around the corner which means it’s the perfect time for a getaway! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, relaxation, live theatre, great food, wine tasting, or a cozy escape for two, Nova Scotia has just the spot to kick off the season.

Sidanna Retreat

Soak in panoramic ocean views during a two-night Oceanfront Gourmet Getaway. Choose your Sidanna Retreat cottage stay on the South Shore, Eastern Shore, and Cape Breton. Spend the day exploring nearby trails and beaches, then relax your muscles in a private outdoor hot tub or barrel sauna. During your stay, two 3-course, locally inspired meals will be prepared by a local chef using the best seasonal ingredients and delivered right to your accommodation. After dinner, relax in front of the fire and fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the ocean.

Two women relax in a hot tub on a large deck overlooking a beach as the sun sets.

Albert’s Inn

Make your way to the historic Shelburne Waterfront for a one-night Oceanfront Indulgence package at the newly renovated Albert’s Inn. During your stay, savour a locally inspired, 4-course seafood dining experience, crafted by Charlotte Lane’s Chef Nakul and paired with a bottle of Nova Scotia’s signature Tidal Bay wine. As night falls, take a short walk back to your suite before soaking in panoramic views of the stars sparkling over the harbour.

Albert's Inn, Shelburne

Black Forest Cabins

Experience a getaway in nature with the conveniences of downtown Mahone Bay with a Stay & Cycle package at the new Black Forest Cabins. Pick up bikes from Sweet Ride Cycling and explore winding, coastal roads and scenic, wooded paths along the Rum Runners Trail. After a day of pedalling, head to Saltbox Brewing for a refreshing flight of craft beer before walking up the street to your cabin, nestled among the trees.

Two people on bikes take a rest along the water's edge overlooking the iconic Three Churches in Mahone Bay during an autumn day

Wallace River Ranch & Domes

Reconnect and unwind with a Couples’ Ranch Retreat. Enjoy 1-night accommodation in a cozy geodesic dome, complete with a private hot tub for maximum relaxation. During the day, stroll the scenic walking trail, meet friendly ranch animals, and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Two people relax in a hot tub next to a geo dome.

Fox Harb’r Resort

Try your aim with Tees & Targets at Fox Harb’r Resort. Five stand sport shooting is an exciting complement to a round of golf and this package lets you enjoy both! Stay one night in a luxurious ocean view suite and savour a gourmet breakfast in the Cape Cliff Dining Room.

A golfer on the course at Fox Harb'r

Seek Wilderness Accommodations

Adventure in Truro’s beautiful Victoria Park with a Bike & Stay package at Seek Wilderness Accommodations. Explore more than 45 kms of groomed trails with fat bike rental for two adults, delicious local snacks and beverages, and 2 nights of cozy accommodations in a yurt or container cabin.

Two people biking with a yurt in the background

Authentic Seacoast: Yurts in the Vineyard

Nestle into your cozy yurt for two, tucked away in an oceanside vineyard for two nights with the Glamping in the Vineyard: Yurts Spring Package. Enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife like otters, foxes, and eagles. Cool off with a swim in Mussel Cove, then unwind in a private sauna overlooking a serene pond. Savour a BBQ meal on your deck with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop before sampling craft beer and spirits at the on-site distillery. End the day soaking in your wood-fired hot tub or by the bonfire, under a sky full of stars.

Three kayaks paddle along the shore with a glamping yurt in the background.

FlowEdge Riverside Getaway

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax. Nestled along the Musquodoboit River, surrounded by trees, reconnect with nature and each other on a Romantic Riverside Getaway. Spend the afternoon hiking along the river and relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub. At night, feel the magic of 100 flameless candles spread around the dome. The best part? You only need to bring yourselves because dinner and breakfast are provided from local farm-to-table restaurant, Lupin Dining & Pantry.

A white geodesic dome is perched above a couple in a hot tub beneath a blue sky on an autumn day.

Neptune Theatre

Enjoy an unforgettable night of live theatre paired with cozy, downtown accommodations on a Halifax Theatre Getaway. Choose from a variety of upcoming performances at Neptune Theatre, Atlantic Canada’s premier destination for live, professional theatre. After the curtain falls, retreat to your accommodations at the Haliburton Hotel or the Sutton Place Hotel Halifax, both offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere just steps away from the theatre.

Three women walk into the bright lobby of Neptune Theatre.

Nalu Retreat

Prepare to get cozy and surround yourself with nature on a Spa-inspired Dome Getaway, only 30 minutes from the Halifax Waterfront. Spend the afternoon exploring the neighbouring Crowbar Lake Hiking Trails before soaking in views of Porter’s Lake from your private outdoor hot tub and relaxing by a fire or in the stargazing Zen loft. Enjoy local farm-to-table meals from Lupin Dining & Pantry, lovingly prepared and delivered to your dome.

A geodesic dome is lit from the inside at dusk with a hot tub next to it on the deck

Domaine de Grand Pré

Wine and wellness meet on this Wine, Dine & Nordic Spa getaway for two. Learn about wine making during an expert led tasting. Enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner featuring local ingredients at Le Caveau, then get cozy in your modern suite at the Inn at Grand Pré Winery. Visit Saltair Nordic Spa & Wellness, just 30-minutes from your accommodation, to immerse in Bay of Fundy views and enjoy a 75-minute guided ritual with free flow pass to the Nordic circuit.

Two people have their backs to the camera as they relax in a Nordic spa pool overlooking the Bay of Fundy.

Lindsay Lake Farms & Lodge

Gather your closest friends and escape to the serenity of Lindsay Lake Farms & Lodge for their Goddess Empowerment Escape. Reconnect with your inner self and nature on this two-night stay with a private bodytalk session, Clydesdale horse connection and healing session, and empowering women’s circle. Delight your tastebuds with a delicious snack board and breakfast basket filled with freshly made treats from Lindsay Lake Farms.

Two women pet a horse.

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Four Seasons of Fun in Nova Scotia https://novascotia.com/blog/four-seasons-of-fun-in-nova-scotia/ Mon, 23 Sep 2024 18:20:00 +0000 https://tns.m5.ca/?p=74512 Whether you’re visiting in January, April, August, or October, Nova Scotia is open for unforgettable experiences and activities all-year round. Discover every season’s unique personality and offerings.

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Whether you’re visiting in January, April, August, or October, Nova Scotia is open for unforgettable experiences and activities all-year round. Discover every season’s unique personality and offerings.

Spring

With days getting longer and weather getting warmer, spring in Nova Scotia is the perfect time to lose a few layers and head outdoors. One of the best signs of spring is the re-opening of seasonal businesses like Provincial Parks, campgrounds, farmers’ markets and select wineries. Hiking trails, city parks, gardens and golf courses begin to green up, and local restaurants transition to menus inspired by locally-grown produce and in-season fare. Bon appetit!

Norse Cove Camping
Norse Cove Camping

Summer

Summer is Nova Scotia’s time to shine! Outdoor adventure is everywhere. You could spend the day at the beach, enjoy a coastal hike, set out on a whale watching tour, kayak along the coast, or hit the greens for a round of golf.

Summer is also the ideal time to explore Halifax’s waterfront boardwalk. Pull up a seat at a patio for a meal and a locally crafted beverage, then pop in to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, or the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to immerse yourself in local culture and history.

Be sure to spend a couple of nights in a seaside cottage or coastal campsite, take in a local festival or theatre production, and visit a community farmers’ market.

Halifax Waterfront
Halifax Waterfront

Fall

As sweater weather approaches, Nova Scotia comes awash in tones of golds, red, yellows and oranges. Fall leaf peeping is a must for visitors and a favourite pastime for locals from late September to late-October. Hiking or driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Wentworth Valley, or visiting the Valley Look-off, and Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is one of the best ways to witness the spectacular colours every year, but there are pockets of beautiful fall colours all over the province; simply cruising down the highway can offer up a dazzling display.

Corn mazes and apple and pumpkin U-picks are also favourite fall activities, and we are home to some of the world’s largest pumpkins! Fall is grape harvest time, which means a tour of the Annapolis Valley wine country is a must. Hop on the Magic Winery Bus and make a day of it. If you love music and fall colours, Cape Breton’s Celtic Colours Festival is worth adding to your list of things to do in Nova Scotia in the fall.

Cabot Trail
Cabot Trail

Winter

With winter comes an entirely new list of activities. The holiday season brings twinkly lights to already charming seaside communities, providing a festive atmosphere for parades and for finding that perfect gift from a local shop. When the snow starts flying, hit the slopes at Wentworth, Martock, Ben Eoin or Cape Smokey – home to Atlantic Canada’s first and only gondola. The hundreds of kilometres of trails popular for summer hiking are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter months, while serious surfers will enjoy riding the waves on the Atlantic Coast (watching from the shore is also fun!). Lace up and skate at Halifax’s Emera Oval, or catch a local hockey game.

February is Lobster Crawl, time on the South Shore, a month-long lobster festival, kicking off with Lucy the Lobster looking for her shadow. But of course, the great indoors is also wonderful in the winter. Book a getaway at a cozy cottage and warm up next to the fire – or maybe in a hot tub! After a day in the brisk salt air, you’ve worked up an appetite for a hearty meal at a local restaurant. Enjoy!

Cape Smokey
Cape Smokey

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Can’t Miss Gardens in Nova Scotia https://novascotia.com/blog/cant-miss-gardens-in-nova-scotia/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 23:12:06 +0000 https://tns.m5.ca/?p=58029 Nova Scotia’s coastal climate offers up four distinct seasons, lending to a variety of outdoor flowers and plant life thriving during the spring, summer and fall months before entering dormancy for the winter.

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Nova Scotia’s coastal climate offers up four distinct seasons, lending to a variety of outdoor flowers and plant life thriving during the spring, summer and fall months before entering dormancy for the winter.  Explore these gardens and nursery to discover the largest rose collection in Eastern Canada, an urban greenspace, a wildflower labyrinth, unexpected fruit growing in Nova Scotia, inventive sculptures, aromatic lavender, and more!

Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens

Named as one of Canada’s Top Garden’s Worth Travelling for in 2024 by the Garden Tourism Awards, this 17 acre setting overlooking a tidal river valley is sure to inspire all green thumbs. Don’t miss the fragrant rose gardens and rose maze, showcasing hundreds of cultivars and thousands of blossoms, the re-constructed Acadian house, butterfly garden and pine forest. Open May to October, explore the gardens for colourful displays spring through fall. Keep an eye out for a variety of sculptures throughout the gardens and enjoy a treat at the café before departing.

Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens

Halifax Public Gardens

Located in the Spring Garden Road area, this greenspace is a breath of fresh air in the heart of a bustling city district and one of the finest examples of a Victorian Garden in North America. From May to November pops of colour crop up all over the 16 acres of trails, ponds, lawns, and gardens. Visitors will enjoy springtime favourites like daffodils, crocus, and tulips; impressive dahlias, fragrant roses and colourful beds of annuals during the summer, and brilliant autumnal shades of golds, reds, and oranges. A bandstand with live music, café, and guided tours round out the experience here. Grounds open year-round.

Halifax Public Gardens

Tangled Garden, Grand Pré

A passion project thirty years in the making, a visit to the Tangled Garden offers up a magical mix of garden rooms, graceful grasses and perennials, meandering pathways, and sculptures throughout the four-acre property, plus a seven-circle labyrinth. Stop to admire views of the Minas Basin, book a Plein-Air Picnic, and take a private, guided tour with the garden’s owner and creator. After, stop into the shop to purchase jams, jellies, salsas, liqueurs and more created from ingredients grown onsite.

Tangled Garden, Grand Pré

Exotic Fruit Nursery, Lunenburg

Apples and blueberries may be the first that come to mind when thinking of Nova Scotian fruit, so visitors may be surprised by a variety of exotic fruit trees being grown just outside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg. The large greenhouses onsite are home to 100 unique trees and bushes and specialize in hardy, uncommon to Nova Scotia fruiting plants like figs, kiwi, persimmon, banana and many more. Call ahead to book a greenhouse tour, browse the gift shop, take in a workshop or even stay onsite in the guest suite.

Exotic Fruit Nursery, Lunenburg

Seafoam Lavender Gardens, Seafoam

For a few weeks each summer, the fragrant aromas of blooming lavender fill the air around this charming, family-run operation. But visitors can explore the grounds anytime during opening between Mother’s Day weekend in May and Thanksgiving in October. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the property and explore the other flower gardens on the grounds. Lavender lovers will enjoy browsing the shop for a variety of handcrafted products which are also made on the property.

Seafoam Lavender Gardens, Seafoam

Cosby’s Garden Centre: Concrete Creations, Liverpool

Nestled in the trees behind Cosby’s Garden Centre on the outskirts of Liverpool, visitors will discover a walking trail with lots of surprises along the way. From Nova Scotian sculptor, Ian Higgins, uncover the creative concrete creations hiding amongst the trees. Open year round, visitors will be delighted as they discover the cast of characters and critters that call this sculpture garden home.

Cosby’s Garden Centre: Concrete Creations, Liverpool

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Quintessential Boutique Shopping in Halifax https://novascotia.com/blog/quintessential-boutique-shopping-in-halifax/ Tue, 14 May 2024 14:31:00 +0000 https://tns.m5.ca/?p=77209 Halifax is often said to be best explored by foot. With many hidden gems nestled amongst the city streets full of unique finds, local talents, and great designers, you don’t want to miss them! What better activity to include in your urban adventuring than a little shopping?

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Halifax is often said to be best explored by foot. With many hidden gems nestled amongst the city streets full of unique finds, local talents, and great designers, you don’t want to miss them! What better activity to include in your urban adventuring than a little shopping?

Argyle Fine Art

1559 Barrington Street, Halifax
Here, at one of Halifax’s most loved galleries, you’ll find a unique variety of contemporary art such as paintings, drawings, limited edition prints, fibre, sculpture and photography by established and emerging Canadian artists. Their shop windows on Barrington street are sure to catch your eye with something fabulous!

Argyle Fine Art
Argyle Fine Art

Amos Pewter

1535 Saltyard Way, Halifax Waterfront, Halifax
A walk on the Halifax Waterfront is not complete without a visit to Amos Pewter. Here, you can find hand-crafted pewter gifts and jewelry to delight anyone on your shopping list. You can visit Amos Pewter at other locations around the province including Peggy’s Cove and flagship location in Mahone Bay.

Amos Pewter
Amos Pewter

Black Market Boutique

1545 Grafton Street, Halifax
A downtown Halifax staple for over 30 years, Black Market Boutique carefully sources products from artisans and small-scale producers across India, Bali, Nepal, and Thailand. Find colourful treasures like jewellery and apparel, home décor and furniture, textiles, stationary and more on Grafton Street.

Brilliant Clothing Boutique

1539 Birmingham Street, Halifax
Swing by Brilliant Clothing Boutique on Birmingham Street for a carefully curated selection of “pre-loved” designer labels and current styles. From bags and accessories to clothing and footwear, here you will find brands like Michael Kors, Rag and Bone, Steve Madden, and Louis Vuitton, all at fantastic prices.

Duggers

5409 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
For over 25 years, Duggars has offered an exclusive shopping experience in the Spring Garden Shopping district in downtown Halifax… and it keeps getting better. Here you’ll find contemporary classic and top brand names and stylists that can help transform your wardrobe.

Foreign Affair

5639 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Known for offering one of the most curated and sought after selections of contemporary clothing in Canada, shoppers love the thought that is put into the carefully hand selected items found in this boutique.

FRIDA | Fine Jewellery

1477 Lower Water Street, Bishop’s Landing, Halifax
Known for exclusive signature collections and distinctive beautifully made fine jewellery, FRIDA is an independent luxury Canadian brand located within Bishop’s Landing on the Halifax Waterfront. As seen in British Vogue, FRIDA is more than stunning custom jewellery made with the finest gems, diamonds and pearls – it is a brand governed by an unwavering passion for the creative process.

FRIDA | Fine Jewellery
FRIDA | Fine Jewellery

Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia

5635 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
Nestled in the heart of Spring Garden Road and just one block away from the beautiful Public Gardens, you’ll find Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia – a two level shop for all things Nova Scotia. Discover local-made apparel and jewelry, bath and body, home and décor, keepsakes, food and unique and toys for infants and children from over 250 local artists and makers!

Shoppers outside Jennifer's of Nova Scotia on Spring Garden Road
Shoppers outside Jennifer's of Nova Scotia

Kept

75 King Street, Dartmouth
This is truly one of Dartmouth’s best “Kept” secrets. A visit to Kept will leave you with ideas and inspiration and an appreciation of local makers with  balance of locally sourced goods, fine gifts and home decor. From pottery, candles and books to locally roasted coffee beans, jewelry, and assorted giftware, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list – including yourself.

Londonderry Market

1339 Lower Water Street, Halifax
Discover sustainable, luxury fashion when you visit Londonderry Market, a clothing boutique inspired by the vibrant high streets of the UK that is located in the Cunard Residences on the Halifax waterfront. Each item in the shop has been thoughtfully chosen for its exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable origins, which supports the business’ vision of creating a space where fashion meets responsibility and allows the community to shop with purpose.

Snover Fashion and Fragrance

5640 Spring Garden Rd, Suite 203, Halifax
Visit Snover Fashion and Fragrance to view their extensive collection of high-quality and luxury men’s clothing, curated selection of leather shoes, and luxury perfumes. Whether you’re in search of the perfect suit, a signature scent, or the finest footwear, Snover is your destination for impeccable style and sophistication in Halifax.

Sweet Pea Boutique

1542 Queen Street, Halifax
Recognized with many “Best of Halifax” awards from the Coast, Sweet Pea Boutique has been offering beautiful, unique dresses and accessories and personalized shopping experiences from their Queen Street location for over a decade. Be greeted by owner Johanna or her mother Jan, for a true boutique shopping experience you’ll love!

The Trainyard General Store

137 Portland Street, Dartmouth
Hop on the ferry from the Halifax waterfront to Alderney Landing for just $2.75. Downtown Dartmouth is busting with unique finds, local eats and drinks, and a personality of its own. Visit The Trainyard General Store on Portland Street for all things Dartmouth and a wide selection of whimsical and practical handcrafted goods. Everything you’ll find here at the Trainyard is Canadian made!

Wildflower Clothing

5431 Doyle Street, Halifax
This destination boutique is just steps away from Spring Garden Road and known for its reputation for fresh, unique finds and exceptional service. Proudly independent for over two decades, getting to know their clientele and tailoring merchandise accordingly makes them a must visit shop.

Stay and Shop

Halifax and Dartmouth also pack a serious supply of outlets, big box stores, farmers’ markets, and some of the best shopping centres east of Montreal. Visit our accommodations page to find a home base for your perfect shopping getaway!

** Store operating hours may very season to season so be sure to check the business’ open hours before visiting.

Two friends shopping in Bishop's Landing on the Halifax Waterfront in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia
Shopping in Bishop's Landing

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Spring Hikes and Bikes https://novascotia.com/blog/spring-hikes-and-bikes/ Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:59:00 +0000 https://tns.m5.ca/?p=77552 Spring in Nova Scotia is all about amazing hiking and biking! Step into spring with spectacular hiking and biking trails for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike! Check out some of our trailblazing favourites to enjoy right now!

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Spring in Nova Scotia is all about amazing hiking and biking! Step into spring with spectacular hiking and biking trails for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike! Check out some of our trailblazing favourites to enjoy right now!

Hikes

 

Blomidon Provincial Park

Known for its spectacular lookoffs and picture-perfect vistas of the Minas Basin, Blomidon Provincial Park is filled with striking natural features and lush forests, all surrounded by the world’s highest tides on its shores. The park offers breathtaking backdrops and a variety of all-season trails (13 km in total) depending on your skill level.

Blomidon Provincial Park

Taylor Head Provincial Park

Jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, the trail at Taylor Head Provincial Park has no shortage of ruggedly beautiful ocean views. Located just southwest of Sheet Harbour with over 14 kilometres of hiking trails, you’ll experience a variety of natural habitats, interesting geological features, secluded beaches, and breathtaking lookoffs.

Taylor Head Provincial Park

Middle Head Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Following a long, narrow peninsula that separates two ocean bays, this 3.8 km looped trail ends dramatically on headland cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Smokey, and Ingonish Island. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot seabirds, seals, whales, and eagles from the trail, along with fishing boats in early summer.

Middle Head Trail

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Waiting west of Liverpool, on the South Shore, are 22 km2 of wild coastline at Kejimkujik National Park Seaside. Featuring two scenic trails, the Port Joli Head Trail (7.5 km return), and the Harbour Rock Trail (5.5 km return). Hikers will take in glacier-carved headlands, secluded rocky coves, and the iconic South Shore white sand.

La Nuit Stella Night Hike

For a uniquely sensory hiking experience, book your spot on a La Nuit Stella Night Hike in Church Point. Beginning at dusk, these guided hikes commence as the dark Acadian sky comes alive with constellations, planets, and views of the moon. Learn how Acadian colonists viewed the dark skies of Acadie, how the Stella Maris (the Star of the Sea) guided Acadians in the new world, and how our bodies and senses adapt to the night. Reservations are required.

 

La Nuit Stella Night Hike

Pennant Point Trail at Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park

Known for its three white-sand crescent beaches, Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park is also home to Pennant Point Trail. This popular, moderate 10 km looped trail, features rugged oceanside terrain, crisp ocean air, bird watching, and ship viewing in the summer.

 

Pennant Point Trail

Delaps Cove Wilderness Trail

The Delaps Cove Wilderness Trail system features two scenic loops: Bohaker Trail (2.2 km) and Charlies Trail (1.9 km), connected by the Shore Road Trail (2.7 km one way). Winding through 130 acres of forest, the trails offer breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy’s rugged coastline, a picturesque waterfall, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

A man and woman sit on rocks with a waterfall in the background.

Bikes

The Railyard Mountain Bike Park

At the south end of Victoria Park in Truro, you’ll find a biker’s haven. With more than 96(!) mountain bike trails ranging from family-friendly to difficult there’s something for ever skill level. Riders will get their heart pounding in no time with the pump trail, double black diamond, and more.

Ukme’k Trail at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site

This 6.3 kilometre bike ride weaves through Kejimkujik National Park and offers an incredibly varied trail with winding forest routes, views of the Mersey River, challenging rock crossings, berms, and many more natural features. Considered moderately difficult, this shared used trail is the perfect addition to your Keji camping adventure!

Ukme'k Trail

Keppoch Mountain

Located just outside Antigonish, this former alpine ski hill is home to more than 30 kilometres of mountain biking trails. Abundant with scenic vistas and a four-season adventure facility, the park offers visitors more than 15 kilometres of technical single track for experienced riders, more than 10 kilometres of wide double track for beginners, and more than 9 downhill specific trails for adrenaline seekers.

Keppoch Mountain 

Harvest Moon Trailway

If a trail that takes you past nearby wineries, farm markets, restaurants, cideries, breweries, and historic sites is what you’re after, the Harvest Moon Trailway experience is for you! This 100-kilometre trail connects the UNESCO World Heritage Site Grand Pre to historic town Annapolis Royal. With more than 15 trailheads to choose from, there are options for every cyclist.

Harvest Moon Trailway

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

This former railbed turned 92-kilometre multi-use trail is where you’ll find a smooth, hard-packed biking base. From stunning coastal views to beautiful fall colours, this trail features multiple trail heads along Cape Breton’s awe-inspiring coast.

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail 

Rum Runners Trail

Extending from Halifax to historic Lunenburg, this flat, multi-use trail, combines the culture of charming seaside communities with relaxing bike routes and coastal sight-seeing. With more than 119-kilometres, this trail has multiple biking options for beginners seeking a short ride, and options for seasoned adventurers looking for a multi-day excursion.

 

Rum Runners Trail 

Wentworth Bike Park

Wentworth is Nova Scotia’s only lift-accessible downhill mountain bike park. The Climb Zone and the Lift Zone offer 30 kms of trails. Visitors can also enjoy full-day tickets, season passes, rentals, and lessons with options for all skill levels.

A woman mountain bikes through the Wentworth Bike Park on a fall day.

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Maple Season Magic https://novascotia.com/blog/maple-season-magic/ Tue, 28 Feb 2023 17:17:00 +0000 https://tns.m5.ca/?p=76113 March is a special time in Nova Scotia. When the sap starts moving and the sugar maple trees begin to wake up, that means maple season is on the way.

Wondering how to take advantage of this tasty season? Follow along as we share where to taste maple syrup, purchase unique maple products, and enjoy maple experiences across Nova Scotia.

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March is a special time in Nova Scotia. When the sap starts moving and the sugar maple trees begin to wake up, that means maple season is on the way.

Wondering how to take advantage of this tasty season? Follow along as we share where to taste maple syrup, purchase unique maple products, and enjoy maple experiences across Nova Scotia.

Maple Experiences

Sugar Moon Farm

You can’t talk about maple season in Nova Scotia without mentioning Sugar Moon Farm. Deep in the sugar woods of the Northumberland Shore region, in Earltown, this working maple farm, woodlot and cozy log restaurant has been producing maple syrup for almost 25 years.

At Sugar Moon, the maple adventures are endless. Visit for a maple-inspired brunch, learn about the process of making maple syrup, enjoy a hike through the sugar woods on the Rogart Mountain Trail, browse the retail shop, or reserve your spot at their next chef night and have your culinary senses wowed. Open Saturdays and Sundays, reservations recommended.

Maple-inspired brunch at Sugar Moon Farm
Maple-inspired brunch at Sugar Moon Farm

Acadian Maple Products

Visit Nova Scotia’s largest processor of maple syrup, Acadian Maple Products at their retail shop in Upper Tantallon. Give in to your maple cravings as you shop for maple coffee, maple butter, maple jams, maple BBQ sauce, and of course maple syrup, along with many other maple inspired products.

Acadian Maple’s staff are thrilled to educate visitors on the making and history of maple syrup in Nova Scotia, in addition to on-site videos and demonstrations. In the summer and fall, Acadian Maple also hosts pre-arranged tour groups, inviting visitors from around the world to experience a little piece of Nova Scotia’s maple story.

Acadian Maple Products
Acadian Maple Products

Ross Farm Museum

On March 22–23 and 29–30, 2025, experience The Wonders of Maple Syrup at Ross Farm Museum in New Ross. This special event, taking place over a weekend, encourages visitors to enjoy a sweet day at the museum. Sample maple syrup and pancakes in the learning centre’s hearth room and learn about the process of tapping trees, collecting sap and boiling sap over a fire outside. The farm workshop, Rosebank cottage, and Ross barn will also be open for this event.

Ross Farm Museum
Ross Farm Museum

Maple Products

Sweet Maple Treats

Nova Scotia artisans know just how to take our local maple syrup to the next level. If maple and chocolate are the combination you crave, look for maple chocolate bars from Peace by Chocolate at their retail stores in Antigonish and Halifax, shop for maple chocolates from Tatamagouche’s Appleton Chocolates, or pick up fancy hand-made maple chocolates from Gourmandises Avenue Chocolaterie in Dartmouth.

If a maple cookie is what you’re after, we suggest maple shortbreads from Mrs. MacGregor’s Shortbreads in Pictou and maple cream shortbreads from Sable Shortbread in Windsor.

Peace by Chocolate
Peace by Chocolate

Spirited Maple Sips

Nova Scotia is home to a plethora of talented craft distillers, brewers, cider and winemakers, so it’s no surprise maple syrup is reflected in products across this industry.

Ironworks Distillery makes a maple rum and rum cream that’s delicious in everything from cocktails to baking. Stop by their shop in Lunenburg to pick some up and enjoy a tour of the facility while you’re there!

Steinhart Distillery’s maple vodka features the comforting flavours of maple, caramel, butterscotch and burnt sugar. Visit the distillery in Arisaig for a tour and tasting, while you learn all about the locally produced fruit, herbs and spices that go into their award-winning products.

Stop by Raging Crow Distillery in Canning for their maple vodka, which is made with locally harvested maple syrup.

Not able to make a trip to these spots? Some of these products can also be found at local retailers or ordered online directly from the suppliers.

Steinhart Distillery
Steinhart Distillery

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