Expect a warm welcome when you travel to Nova Scotia, Canada, where the locals' friendliness is as legendary as the rolling terrain. Bordering the Atlantic, Nova Scotia's coastline extends for miles and offers stunning vistas for picture-taking as well as placid waters for fishing. To visit Nova Scotia is to become immersed in history: the province is littered with tartan shops and Gaelic signs, evidence of its proud Scottish ancestry. A cultural melting pot despite its relatively small population, Nova Scotia is also home to Acadians of French origin and the native Mi'kmaw, as well as immigrants from around the world. Let Travel + Leisure's Nova Scotia travel guide highlight the best this charming coastal community has to offer.
Things Not to Miss in Nova Scotia
Travelers often flock to the hiking trails of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton, which offer sweeping views of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. South Shore is Nova Scotia's most visited coastline, home to picturesque lighthouses, pristine white beaches and former fishing towns that have opened their doors to tourists. Halifax is the province's party central, full of bars, nightclubs and summer music festivals that draw a young and vibrant crowd. Beyond the coastal views and urban party scenes, there's plenty more to explore, including:
• Whale watching in Cape Breton
• The historic fishing village of Peggy's Cove
• Tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River
• The majestic cliff-side views along the Bay of Fundy
• The Halifax Citadel, a National Historic Site of Canada
• The fishing village of Lunenburg
When to Go to Nova Scotia
Make the most of your Nova Scotia travel plans by planning a summer visit, when pleasant temperatures offset the cool ocean breeze. Many music festivals take place during the months of June, July and August, such as July's Halifax Jazz Festival. The wildly popular Halifax Pop Explosion takes place in the fall, however, when the largest crowds have gone. Sample local delicacies at one of Nova Scotia's many farmers' markets, most of which are open from March to December.
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