Discover Canada's History with Nova Scotia Vacation Rentals
Combining a rich cultural heritage and history with breathtaking scenery, Nova Scotia is a fabulous vacation destination. It lies off the eastern coast of New Brunswick with Newfoundland to the northeast. The fertile valley of Nova Scotia saw some of the earliest settlement in North America along the Annapolis River. The town of Annapolis Royal captures 400 years of history, and its tree-lined streets, gardens, historic homes and fort are some of the most visited attractions. In contrast, Nova Scotia offers unspoiled natural beauty and a diverse maritime culture.
Things to Do from Nova Scotia Cottages
Exploring the Cabot Trail which winds between small communities on the Northern Cape Breton Island is a wonderful way to see the stunning natural beauty of this area. The 184-mile trail follows the craggy coastline in the national park through French Acadian and Scottish fishing villages.
The Nova Scotia museums are wonderful ways to get a glimpse of the area's long history in restored monuments such as the Historic Fortress Louisburg. Even older history can be experienced at the Joggins Fossil Center which is a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Take an exciting whale watching tour or hike one of the coastal trails and drink in the stunning scenery. Kayaking or canoeing the inland rivers and waterways is a peaceful way to connect with local wildlife. Cycling, birdwatching, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, river rafting, sailing and surfing are all available near your Halifax vacation rentals. In the winter, skiing is a popular activity.
Getting to Nova Scotia Accommodations
The area of Nova Scotia is served by the Halifax International Airport which is 27 kilometers (17 miles) from the center of Halifax. The island of Cape Breton is served by the local airport at Sydney. There are several ferry services to Nova Scotia including routes from Portland in Maine, New Brunswick on St. John, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland. It is also easy to drive to Nova Scotia vacation rentals from mainland Canada on the Trans Canada Highway. From the New Brunswick border, it is a two to three hour hour drive to Halifax. VIA Rail also runs passenger trains to the area with stations at Halifax and Truro.
Places to Visit from Nova Scotia Vacation Rentals
The town of Annapolis Royal is a must-see for lovers of history and architecture. From the 1708 DeGannes-Cosby House, the oldest wooden home in Canada, to the fort graveyard, history is very tangible here. The Historic Royal Gardens have a fragrant rose garden with over 2,000 bushes. Close by is the Port Royal National Historic Site, a replica of the original 1605 settlement. Costumed guides tell tales of life as a French settler in the decadent 17th century.
Halifax is the main center of Nova Scotia with its deep natural harbor. Its hosts many summer festivals including the International Busker Festival. Popular visitor attractions are the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Titanic Museum. Just outside Halifax is the York Redoubt National Historic Site, a 200-year-old fortification with pleasant walking trails, interpretive boards and underground tunnels to explore.
Halifax Vacation Rentals Enjoy Warm Summer Weather and Snowy Winters
Summers are short but pleasant in Halifax, Nova Scotia with average daily highs ranging from 19 to 23 C (66 to 74 F) from June to September. Nights are a cool 10 to 14 C (50 to 57 F). The lower fall temperatures herald a vivid show of fall color on the trees before winter sets in. Average temperatures are 0 to -8 C (32 to18 F) in Nova Scotia from December through March. The area has plenty of rain throughout the year which falls as snow from October to April.