Nova Scotia pleasantly surprised me with its combination of untouched wilderness, stunning coastlines, and delicious seafood, notably lobster. However, what caught me off guard was the presence of 20 vineyards in the province producing exceptional wines. Despite being a young industry, these wineries primarily cater to the local market due to limited exportation. During our visit to Domaine de Grand Pre, Atlantic Canada’s oldest farm winery located in the Annapolis Valley, we delved into the region’s wine culture. Established in 1994 by the Stutz family, originally from Switzerland, the vineyard introduced European expertise to Nova Scotia, offering unique wines like Orange Wine, known for its vibrant color and pleasant taste.
Among their renowned wines is the Tidal Bay, Nova Scotia’s signature blend launched in 2012 to complement the region’s seafood. This blended wine stood out for its refreshing and addictive qualities. Domaine de Grand Pre also boasts a top-notch winery restaurant, recognized among the world’s best, offering a picturesque vineyard view during dinner. Nova Scotia is not only gaining recognition for its wine production but also for its flourishing fine dining scene, particularly in Halifax, the capital city. Our culinary exploration led us to Tribute Food Wine Fire Restaurant, led by Chef Colin Bebbington, offering exquisite dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Another gastronomic gem in Halifax is the Mystic restaurant in the Queen’s Marque district, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable five-course tasting menus. Halifax’s charm can be best experienced aboard the Halifax Harbour Hopper, a former Canadian military amphibious vehicle transformed into a unique sightseeing tour. The tour, starting at the Citadel Hill National Historic Site, provides a captivating journey through the city’s historical landmarks and vibrant downtown, culminating in a splash into the harbor, transitioning the vehicle into a boat for a waterfront exploration.
Moreover, our Nova Scotia adventure included a poignant visit to the Maritime Museum of The Atlantic, known for its Titanic exhibition, showcasing artifacts salvaged from the tragic shipwreck. Further exploring the province, we ventured along the Lighthouse Route, stopping at Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village renowned for Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, a Canadian iconic landmark. Our excursion continued with a boat tour around Oak Island, guided by the charismatic Tony Sampson of Salty Dog Sea Tours, revealing tales of buried treasures and underwater discoveries.
To savor Nova Scotia’s culinary delights, a visit to Hall’s Harbour Restaurant and Lobster Pound in Centreville is a must, offering a quintessential lobster dining experience. The province’s warm hospitality and evolving tourism industry make it an enticing destination for travelers. With its expansive landscapes, charming villages, and welcoming locals, Nova Scotia truly lives up to its reputation as Canada’s Atlantic Playground. This captivating province offers endless exploration opportunities, ensuring that each visit unveils new wonders and experiences for all to enjoy.