Nova Scotia is aptly named Canada's Ocean Playground with its 13,000km of coastline and its proximity to four major bodies of water: The Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the Bay of Fundy, the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean. You never need to look far to find yourself in a quaint and colourful seaside village.

The South Shore, west of Halifax, is spotted with lighthouses, including the postcard perfect Peggy’s Cove, beaches, sea caves, coastal cliffs, and charming seaside hamlets serving up some of the best seafood the Maritimes have to offer. For example, the picturesque town of Lunenburg is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts traditional coloured houses hugging the harbour where the famous Bluenose II is frequently docked. It is a replica of the world-famous fishing and racing schooner also known as the Queen of North Atlantic. The Bluenose was first engraved on the Canadian dime at the height of its fame in 1937 and is still featured on the coin today. Nova Scotia’s reputation for wooden ship building contributed to the region’s popularity and the first industries like coal mining and notably liquor distillation prospered. Halifax would become home to historic railway lines heading inland and is also where Alexander Keith's original brewery was founded in 1820 and remains to this day.

In the early 20th century, the new and illegal trade of “Rum Running” was a response to prohibition and smuggling liquor to the US became exciting and highly profitable. The Rum Runners Trail is a former rail bed and preserves this part of history for those visiting Nova Scotia today. Popular year round, this multi-use trail begins in Halifax and meanders through forested areas, beaches and small villages to Lunenburg. This scenic trail is perfect for active travellers and history lovers.

In the west, the wild Kejimkujik National Park Seaside is an isolated 22 km² stretch of coastline characterized by glacier-carved headlands, secluded rocky coves and broad sweeps of silver sand. East, you can find the world famous Cabot Trail takes you on a 298km loop through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This scenic roadway is deemed as one of ‘The World’s Most Beautiful Drives’, popular with international tourists as well as experienced cyclists. To the north, enjoy Annapolis Valley wineries, succulent sea scallops in Digby, and coastal hiking and whale watching in the Bay of Fundy.

As you might expect, Nova Scotia's cuisine focuses heavily on flavourful seafood dishes and is sure to satiate every food lover's palate. Hearty clam chowders, fresh scallops, lobster, and oysters are all readily available. When paired with some of the Annapolis Valley's local award-winning wines, your east coast fare will not be forgotten.