Nova Scotia Top Things To Do
The Cabot Trail, one of North America's most spectacular ocean drives, is a 298km (185-mile) ribbon of road that loops around Cape Breton Island and passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Other scenic drives
The Lighthouse Route travels along the South Shore, where seafaring traditions are especially strong. The Evangeline Trail, a rural road that goes through the beautiful Annapolis Valley, is known for its orchards, forts and Victorian mansions.
Watersports
Sailing, kayaking and canoeing are popular pastimes along the coast or on myriad inland kayaking routes, such as in Kejimkujik National Park. Try swimming on Melmerby Beach on the Northumberland Strait and tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River.
Beaches
The Sunrise Trail follows the Northumberland Strait past dozens of sandy beaches and the warmest waters north of the Carolinas.
Fishing
Anglers intending to fish in Nova Scotia's 9,000 freshwater lakes require a valid fishing licence, obtainable from any provincial Department of Natural Resources office or from one of almost 700 authorised vendors. Note that a separate licence is required for salmon. Deep-sea fishing is popular, with charter boat trips available from several places, including Halifax.
Marine life
It's easy to catch a glimpse of some dolphins and whales. Tours leave from a string of ports along the coast - those from Westport and villages along the Digby Neck peninsula (multiple daily trips from late May to mid October) are among the best.
Rocks and fossils
Eagle-eyed visitors can scavenge for amethyst, agate, quartz and jasper around Parrsboro. Fossil hunting enthusiasts can also sign up for a cliff tour at Joggins.
Celtic flavour
The Halifax Highland Games and Scottish Festival celebrates Nova Scotia's Celtic influences. It is held every summer on Dartmouth Common, across the Narrows from Halifax. For another taste of the province's Old World heritage, try the Celtic Colours International Festival on Cape Breton Island in October.
Shops and bars
You can find excellent shopping, nightlife and restaurants in both the old and new sections of Halifax.
See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.
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