Travel in city Annapolis, county Valley

On a map, Nova Scotia resembles a duck or a lobster – both fitting references for a province defined by its proximity to the North Atlantic.

This article is part of our airport food survival guide, which includes tips and tricks—even a hot take or two—that challenge the notion that airport meals are always dull, overpriced, and tasteless.

The gateway to Atlantic Canada, Nova Scotia is set to host The Congrès Mondial Acadien 2024. Taking place in the South West of the province, from 10 – 18 August 2024, the international event will celebrate over 400 years of Acadian culture over nine days of festivities featuring outdoor concerts, culinary experiences, family reunions, music, and heritage. Discover opportunities to celebrate Acadian joie de vivre. Enjoy a bonfire overlooking the beach or a lively kitchen party where everyone is not just welcome but encouraged to join in the celebration.  Immerse yourself in the heritage of the area by exploring local museums, join a walking tour, or savour the authentic flavors of the region featuring lobster and traditional Acadian dishes.  Come discover the warm and welcoming people of this rural corner of Nova Scotia, as well as the tastes and traditions of the region.

It might be surprising but Nova Scotia is one of the only destinations in Canada with its own wine appellation. Tidal Bay—a briny and refreshing white wine blend—has become one of the distinct flavors of the East Coast of Canada, not unlike lobster rolls or donairs, and although it’s easy to find a bottle of the stuff in most liquor stores in the province, tasting Tidal Bay straight from the source is way more fun.

The gateway to Atlantic Canada and only a 6-hour flight from the UK, Nova Scotia is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty and diverse cultures. The province is home to a myriad of small, independent accommodations from cozy, off-grid cabins and luxurious waterfront glomes to an exclusive vineyard farmhouse and wilderness yurts. Check out our top picks to experience Nova Scotia’s nature and local flavours this year: Nalu Retreat: Perched on a granite cliff, overlooking Porter’s Lake only 30 minutes from the capital, Halifax this retreat offers solitude with all the conveniences of the city. Soak in the views from your private outdoor hot tub, immerse yourself in nature on the nearby trails at Crowbar Lake Wilderness Area, relax by the fireplace or in the stargazing Zen loft, and indulge in delicious local farm-to-table meals. Relax and rejuvenate, surrounded by nature with all the luxuries of a boutique hotel!  Click here for more information.

Nova Scotia is a landscape of a thousand views—from the dramatic tides in the Bay of Fundy to the rolling vineyards of Annapolis Valley—you’ll see it all. Here, over one million shore birds migrate through every summer along with some of the rarest whales in the world. While nature tends to steal the show don’t let that distract you from Nova Scotia’s vibrant locally infused culinary scene, fueled in large part by this island’s naturally abundant provender. Farmer’s markets feature bins piled high with brussel sprouts, broccoli, apples and squash while distilleries and breweries deliver on the local libations. And, while fresh and local are just part of the experience, it is also worth noting that most every restaurant, winery and coffee shop is a boutique family-owned and operated affair.