This city by the sea is a perfect base to explore Nova Scotiaâs delights.
Enjoying Halifaxâs world-class restaurants, vibrant neighborhoods, fun bar scene, and historical attractions is a great way to experience the east coast way of life before setting out to explore. Within a few hourâs drive of this provincial capital, youâll find remote beaches and parks, fishing villages where you can go whale watching, lighthouses, and deep woods filled with serene lakes and waterfalls.
The South Shore
Follow the Lighthouse Route south of the city to explore charming stops such as Peggyâs Cove with its red and white lighthouse, making your way past stretches of white-sand beaches, the fishing towns of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay (great stops for ice cream or lobster rolls), making your way to the epic petroglyphs and myriad adventures at Kejimkujik National Park. Youâll find beachfront camping all the way down the shore, as well as inland sites.Â
Annapolis Valley
Following the shores of the Bay of Fundy, which has the worldâs highest tides, this area is studded with wineries and sweet little towns and villages. Explore the historic fort at Annapolis Royal, home to some of Europeâs first North American settlers in 1605. There are amazing beaches and hikes out over cliff tops (the 4- to 5-day Cape Chignecto Coastal Loop, for example). There are tons of campgrounds in the valley, with a couple located in orchards or within walking distance of wineries.Â
Cape Breton
The jewel in Nova Scotiaâs crown, Cape Breton Island is attached to the mainland by a causeway and driving the Cabot Trailâa highway that winds around Cape Breton Highlands National Parkâis considered one of the worldâs most beautiful road trips. Expect to see moose, eagles, whales (even from shore) and enjoy unforgettable hiking. Thereâs plenty of camping in the park (tent sites, RV sites, and otentiks) as well as many private campgrounds offering unique amenities such as on-site oyster farms.Â
Halifax is a fun city any time of the year, with its student population keeping things upbeat year-round. But many tourism spots donât open up until late May or early June, so planning a trip beyond the city before that can mean limited options. The weather can be pretty chilly until then anyway, so your best bet is to come in summer or fallâthe weather can be glorious through October.Â