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Nova Scotia

Photo of Nova Scotia

About Nova Scotia

Wind whipped and buffeted dramatically by the Atlantic, Nova Scotia is a province of bright green fields and beautiful cliffs. Its long peninsula is connected to New Brunswick by a thin strip of land and just offshore is Cape Breton Island. Halifax is the capital but if you’re looking for the serenity and dramatic views this place is known for, then the best places to stay in Nova Scotia are much more rural. Our recommendation is to choose a quintessential log cabin, complete with roaring fires, for that real back to nature feel.

The name, which you might have guessed is Latin for ‘New Scotland’, gives you a hint about the culture here as well as the landscape. Typically friendly and resourceful, the population enjoy brief summers, spectacular springs and autumns and long, beautiful white winters, making this a real year round destination.

Nova Scotia is small by Canadian standards and fairly densely populated. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure you might want to travel the whole length of it, from Yarmouth in the southwest to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, which is one of the most spectacular national parks on Canada’s Atlantic coast in the northeast.

Halifax is a major port and a great place to come to delve into the history of Nova Scotia. It’s where you’ll find the Citadel Hill National Historic Site, a huge fort built in the 18th century on top of Halifax’s central hill, the fascinating Canadian Museum of Immigration and a great Maritime Museum.

Nova Scotia also has an exceptional collection of great lighthouses and light stations, some seriously good destination wineries and breweries and some extremely rugged trails running through the interior and all along the spectacular coastline.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Nova Scotia include a gorgeous lodge which allows you to enjoy this stunning province in the lap of luxury, charming character-filled B&Bs and a handful of traditional inns.

The Best Places to Stay in Nova Scotia

For rustic chic

  • The Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia is an upscale log lodge, nestled between the Tucket and Napier rivers. There are 12 rustic chic rooms with handcrafted furniture and open fires. There’s also an elegant dining room serving fixed four course banquets. Obviously, the fishing is good, but this is also a wonderful spot for hikers.

For Halifax

  • The Halliburton is a charming option in a converted heritage townhouse. Come here for smart, traditional interiors and great central location.
  • The Lord Nelson is Halfax's original Grand Dame. Built in 1927, it offers a refined stay with classically styled rooms overlooking a large park, plus there's a fine dining restaurant and you're close to the city highlights.
  • For something more up-to-the-minute book the Cambridge Suites Hotel with its spacious contemporary studio-style rooms and great onsite facilities.

For a B&B

  • Gingerbread House Inn B&B in Wolfville is as charming and whimsical as its name suggests. Individually designed rooms have a warm homely feel and there are two suites with private hot tubs.
  • Louisbourg Harbour Inn offers an intimate and historic stay, plus epic ocean views. It's a great base for anyone wanting to explore the Eastern end of Nova Scotia with much to do in the surrounding area from great walks to lively music.

For an apartment or cabin

  • If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

  • Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) is the main airport in the province, with services from other parts of Canada, the United States and Europe.
  • By train, Via Rail Canada's Ocean travels from Montreal, Charny (Quebec City) and eastern New Brunswick to Nova Scotia.
  • The best time to visit is the summer and autumn months (May - October) when the weather is pleasant. During the winter months (November to February) conditions are very cold but ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nova Scotia

Best Hotels in Nova Scotia

  • Gaspereau Valley Bed and Breakfast Wolfville (Nova Scotia) 3 rooms from £53

    Country Escape  -  A charming farm house with a cosy feel, warm hospitality and beautiful rural vistas.
    Great walks  -  Take long scenic walks starting straight from the property's front door.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Full of character
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A quaint farmhouse B&B set in beautiful Nova Scotian countryside just outside Wolfville. Three cosy rooms are filled with antiques and offer gorgeous sink-into beds. Have full access to the country house kitchen and indulgent breakfasts are served each morning. A quiet rural escape. See More

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  • Gingerbread House Inn B&B Wolfville (NOVA SCOTIA) 7 rooms from £61

    Local exploring  -  A charming property well positioned for exploring the historic sites and natural beauty of Nova Scotia.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Port-Royal National Historic Site featuring a reconstruction of the Habitation, a fun family trip.
    Private Hot Tub  -  In the suites
    Full of character
    GardenNo pets

    A candy pink house offering a whimsical stay in the heart of Nova Scotia. A handful of rooms are all individually dressed and have a warm homely feel. Opt for one of the two vast suites which also feature private hot tubs. The breakfasts are hearty and there's a large fire lit lounge. Charming. See More

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  • Addington Arms B&B Lunenburg 4 rooms from £76

    Value chic  -  A beautiful heritage builiding, with charming and well thought out rooms, offering views of the sea- at a reasonable price!
    Hotel Entertainment  -  Grab a bottle of wine and enjoy an evening in, the chic rooms offer wine glasses and cockscrew as well as comfortable seats
    Great walks  -  Explore the picturesque Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO heritage site filled with orginal 18th century woodern architecture
    Local markets  -  The waterfront, just minutes away, offers many restaurants, cafes and artisan shops
    Air conditioningViewsParkingNo pets

    A hidden gem in this stunning heritage town. The rooms are beautifully laid out, with rich fabrics, wicker chairs, local artworks and extremely comfortable beds. With views overlooking the harbour and waterfront this unique family run property is really a show stopper. See More

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  • Tattingstone Inn Wolfville 13 rooms from £80

    Local exploring  -  A tranquil base to explore Wolfville and its surrounds.
    Short break  -  Well placed for those visiting Acadia University.
    Local markets  -  Visit the Wolfville Farmers’ Market which runs every Saturday.
    Birdwatching  -  Get out of town and spot the magnificent bald eagles.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Set in mature gardens this is an elegant inn offering a peaceful stay in the heart of Wolfville. Spacious rooms are filled with a choice selection of antiques and all offer lovely views from their large sash windows. An outdoor pool is a real plus during the summer months. Fabulous. See More

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  • In Wolfville Luxury Bed and Breakfast Wolfville 4 rooms from £81

    Local exploring  -  A cosy base to explore the countryside, coastline and vineyards of the region from
    Sailing  -  Search for whales on a sailing expedition
    Birdwatching  -  Good birding near the hotel.
    Full of character
    GardenParking

    A charming small bed and breakfast in a delightful wine-region of Nova Scotia. Interiors are traditional and homely and the hosts match this with boundless hospitality. Set in beautifully manicured gardens and dotted with quiet seated spots to unwind on the wide veranda. See More

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  • The Halliburton Halifax, NS 29 rooms from £71

    Local exploring  -  Just a short walk from Halifax’s historic waterfront, boutique shops and the downtown business district
    Value chic  -  With rooms from as little as CAD119 per night, it's excellent value for money.
    Sights nearby  -  Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is less than 2 minutes' walk and the historic waterfront is less than 10 minutes' walk
    Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    A charming boutique property set in a converted heritage townhouse, offering signature dining and well appointed guest-rooms making it a favourite downtown retreat. Ideally placed to explore the centre, with the port a short stroll away as well as restaurants, sights and bars. See More

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  • Lunenburg Arms Lunenburg 24 rooms from £81

    Great walks  -  Enjoy long and scenic coastal walks
    Fishing  -  Fishing excursions can be arranged
    Views  -  Some rooms offer views of the sea
    Seaside  -  Port town
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    This small hotel is set in the charming seaside maritime town of Lunenburg, which is a designated UNESCO world heritage site. It offers stunning views of the sea, lovely sea walks, and local restaurants serving locally caught fish. It also has its own in-house restaurant and extensive spa. See More

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  • Lord Nelson Hotel Halifax, NS 262 rooms from £84

    Sights nearby  -  Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, the Halifax Public Gardens, and Halifax Central Library are all within easy distance
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Built in 1927 this grand hotel is the first of its kind in Halifax. Overlooking the 16-acre park, a downtown oasis, it's an ideal spot for those seeking green space as well as bustling town vibes. Featuring a fine dining restaurant, and just a stone's throw from the town's main sights. See More

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  • Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax, NS from £98

    Local exploring  -  Ideally positioned in the heart of the city, ideal for accessing the city's main attractions
    Sights nearby  -  Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is less than 2 minutes' walk and the historic waterfront is less than 10 minutes' walk
    Spa  -  Wellness centre with hot tub and sauna
    Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Centrally located in downtown Halifax, an ideal spot from which to explore the city's restaurants, sights and bars. For active types there is a well equipped fitness centre and morning runs organised through the hotel. There is an on-site restaurant, bar and a roof-top offering stunning views. See More

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  • Louisbourg Harbour Inn Louisbourg, Nova Scotia 3 rooms from £88

    Sights nearby  -  The Fortress of Louisbourg, Louisbourg Lighthouse, and the picturesque harbour are all within easy distance
    Great walks  -  The Simon Point Nature Trail is located about a mile beyond the Fortress, on the way to Kennington Cove
    Views  -  Two of the guest rooms offer stunning ocean views
    Hideaway  -  Tranquil and intimate.
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    This intimate and historic 3-bedroom harbourside B&B offers stunning views of the ocean. An ideal retreat for those seeking wholesome walks, beautiful beaches and refreshing swimming. The town organises a lively program of celtic music, dance and comedy in the summer months. See More

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  • Keltic Lodge Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia 120 rooms from £91

    Foodies  -  Choose from dinner in the elegant Thistle dining room or at the celebrated Arduaine Restaurant, both with locally sourced menus
    Country Escape  -  Set on a beautiful country estate in the Canadian Highlands complete with an 18-hole golf course
    Romantic Break  -  With stylish guestrooms and romantic sea views, book this hotel for a luxury couples' getaway
    Great walks  -  Explore the beautiful coastal trails on Cape Breton during your stay; enquire at the hotel for details
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    This chic hotel is located in the Cape Breton Highlands. Guest accommodation is spread across a range of heritage properties, including the original Keltic Lodge and cosy cottages with homely and inviting interiors. Boasting its own golf course and spa; a luxurious rural escape. See More

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  • Fox Harb'r Resort Fox Harbour, Nova Scotia 88 rooms from £122

    Active Holiday  -  There are a wealth of activities both on & off-site whether you want to try your hand at archery, spend a day sailing or fishing
    Golf  -  The hotel boasts a championship course and a short par 3 course set on the coast as well as golf clinics, camps, and academy
    Families  -  Multi-room accommodation with kitchens & outdoor areas plus a wide range of activities — ideal family holiday material
    Fishing  -  Enjoy fishing right on the Fox Harb’r grounds at the property's two fully stocked ponds (catch and release only)
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A luxury resort set on Nova Scotia’s dramatic Northumberland Coast. Accommodation ranges from spacious doubles to self-contained houses with kitchens and private outdoor spaces. All about the activities, there are two golf courses, a luxury yacht, kayaking and much more. Well suited to families. See More

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  • Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia East Kemptville 12 rooms from £155

    Back to Nature  -  Tobeatic Wilderness Area is the largest wild area in the Maritimes, enjoy this unique opportunity to submerse yourself in it.
    Great walks  -  A variety of nature and hiking trails wind through the surrounding area with guests able to arrange guided tours,
    Fishing  -  The lodge has fishing holes with catch and release holes and decking for you to sit in comfort!
    Restrictions on children  -  Children older than 14 years are welcome.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    An upscale log Lodge, nestled between the Tusket and Napier rivers in the Tobeatic Wilderness Area. The rustic chic rooms feature handcrafted wooden furnishings, along with plush linens and warm fires. Delicious four course fixed meals are served in the elegant dining room. Sustainable and spoiling. See More

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