The top 10 things to do in Hants County, Nova Scotia. You might just be surprised at what you discover there.
We just spent a wonderful weekend at a beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Maitland, Nova Scotia, which is located in Hants County, about an hour outside of Halifax. You may not know this, but there are so many things to do in Hants County.
We were gifted a stay at Cresthaven by the Sea Bed and Breakfast. The photos of the location looked beautiful, but when we pulled up to the location, the view took our breath away. It was truly spectacular. The B&B is perched above the Bay of Fundy, home of the worlds largest tides. It’s incredible to see the difference between low and high tides which change up to 16 meters every 12 hours.
Cathrine and Warren were our hosts and they were so wonderful. Cathrine gave us a very thorough list of things to check out in the area and Warren is so knowledgable about the history of the area and the house itself. The house was originally built in the 1800s and was owned by a ship builder which was a common career in Maitland.
There are three bedrooms in the B&B, each with its own ensuite attached and all with views of The Bay of Fundy. The room on the main floor is wheelchair accessible. My family and I woke up to freshly made coffee and breakfast made by Warren, and it was delicious both mornings.
It was our very first time at a Bed and Breakfast, and the experience was exceptional! I highly recommend Cresthaven by the Sea to anyway looking to vacation in Nova Scotia, or for any Nova Scotians looking for a relaxing staycation.
Head to my Instagram page @settlingforgreat for a chance to win a 2-night stay at Cresthaven by the Sea B&B
Top things to do in Hants County:
In no particular order, here are the top things we recommend doing in the area:
1. Tidal Bore Rafting
Bring out your adventurous side and sign up for tidal bore rafting! Unique to Nova Scotia, this is one way to experience the tidal bore up close and personal. When the tide comes in from the Bay of Fundy and gets pushed into the more narrow Shubenacadie River, there is a surge of water and the first wave of this surge is called a tidal bore. Guides from the River Rafting companies take you out on a raft and you get to ride this tidal bore which can travel up to speeds of almost 30km an hour. If you are looking for a big tidal bore, book your adventure around the full moon when the tide tends to be more intense.
2. Homestead Lavender
Homestead Lavender is a beautiful family run lavender farm where they even have U-pick Lavender! There are so many beautiful products in their shop, mostly made by the owners. You can find everything lavender – from soap to oils to linen spray. It smells AMAZING inside! Make sure you bring some quarters as well because they have some animals behind the shop that you can feed. It’s fun to have the goats and pony eat right from your hand.
3. Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre
Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre is a great place to learn about the tidal bore as well as the area in general. It is free admission and has an excellent spot to watch the tidal bore. When we were there we had a guide come out and explain to us what to look for and what was happening with the tide.
4. Canada’s Oldest General Store
Established in 1836, Frieze and Roy is Canada’s oldest General store. Pop in to grab a snack (they sell alcohol as well) and to check out some antiques from that era. If you’re there around lunch time, have a meal at Mudslide Cafe, or grab dinner there on the weekend and you might be lucky enough to catch some live music!
5. The Flying Apron
The Flying Apron is a gem of a restaurant that you must check out! Support local is a mission of theirs and most of their ingredients come from within 15 minutes of the restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended. The food is of highest quality, as is the service. The inside is super unique, as it has a little art gallery, book shop, local preserves and even a spot for cooking classes.
Head to my Instagram page @settlingforgreat for a chance to win a $100 gift card to The Flying Apron
6. Burnt Coat Head
Burnt Coat Head is a great spot to experience the world’s highest tides. If you are staying nearby it is worth checking out twice – once at low tide and again at hight tide just to see the difference. According to the website, Burnt Coat Head’s has an average tide of 47.5 feet. They have the tide schedule on their website so I recommend checking that out before going. Also, make sure you have proper footwear. If you will be walking around at low tide, it is extremely mucky and slippery. I would recommend some decent watershoes to walk around in, although I did it in flip flops (but there were a few close calls)! This is definitely a must see if you’re in the area.
7. Local Artisans
One of my favourite things here in Nova Scotia is all the little artisan shops. Beyond the Wharf Artisans is a cute little shop filled with local goods from rug hooking to mustard pickles. There is a dock right behind it that you can check out which overlooks the Bay of Fundy. Gallery 215 is a beautiful, bright space that showcases local artists, you might even walk away with a painting that represents the beauty of Nova Scotia.
8. Beach Hopping
There are so many beaches in this area, just check out a map or ask a local for directions. We went to Anthony Provincial Park to go for an evening beach walk. We also checked out Summerville Beach where we were the only people there on a hot, sunny Sunday. There are many other coves and beaches along the coast so be adventurous and check one out!
9. Mud Sliding
With the tides going so far out it creates a muddy, mucky floor to play on. If you plan on doing this, bring along clothes that you don’t care about anymore because they are sure to get ruined, but the fun, pictures, and memories you will take away will sure to be worth it!
10. Local Beer & Wine Scene
If you’re into the craft beer and local wine scene, these two places are a must for you to check out and are just under 20 minutes from each other. Avondale Sky Winery is one of the oldest vineyards in the province. They harvest every grape by hand and have won prestigious awards. The owners wanted to find old buildings and repurpose them in the name of sustainability, and when they discovered a church built in 1873 was set for destruction, they decided to save it. The church was moved 42km, including across the Bay of Fundy, to it’s new home on the winery.
If you prefer craft beer or cider, head to Meander River Farm and Brewery. They produce seasonal brews and ciders and handmade products from farm resources. Included on the property are rows of lavender, gardens, and Hants County’s tallest waterfall.
While you are discovering the top things to do in Hants County, make sure you bring along your copy of
Our Best N.S. Adventure Journal to record all your fun adventures!