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Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea

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Welcome to St. Cecilia by the Sea
St. Cecilia by the Sea
Welcome!
Front hall
Interior detail

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 41500 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View in a map
Purcells Cove, NS
  • Place, Sir Sandford Fleming Park
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, York Redoubt National Historic Site
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Chocolate Lake Beach
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Halifax, NS (YHZ-Stanfield Intl.)
    ‪33 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Loft Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Main Bath

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master 1/2 bath

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea

Here's a chance to rent an amazing fully furnished house that was once a Catholic church. Lovingly restored complete with spectacular stained glass, murals and breathtaking oak woodwork as well as lots of little treasures we're sure you'll enjoy.

St. Cecilia has two cozy bedrooms each with a queen-sized bed and superior linens. The master, once the choir loft, has a lovely two piece ensuite and is accessed through a staircase off the front hall. The second bedroom is an open loft style that is accessed by an enchanting spiral staircase in the great room.

You'll find everything you need in the well stocked kitchen: dishes, wine glasses, pots and pans, lobster pot, and coffee maker. The main bathroom with a combined shower/tub and stackable washer & dryer is on the ground floor and there is a 1/2 bath ensuite off the master. We provide towels and basic bathroom necessities and we clean to the highest standards.

There is high speed internet and the great room has a large wide screen TV with many popular streaming services (CBC Gem, Crave, Netflix, Disney+, AppleTV, Prime).

Located in beautiful Purcells Cove, only 15 minutes from downtown Halifax, 30 minutes from the Halifax International Airport and less than five minutes from the grocery store, pharmacy, liquor store and other essential amenities. We will share a list of our favorite restaurants and things to do before you arrive.

There is a public tennis court across the street, and access to several beautiful walking trails including the Shaw Wilderness Park. Minutes away from York Redoubt, a National Historic Site with breathtaking panoramic views of Halifax Harbour and lovely, easy walking trails. Crystal Crescent Beach, one of Nova Scotia's most popular beaches is a 20 minute drive. If you are without a car, there is a Halifax transit bus stop right at the foot of St. Cecilia Lane with easy connecting routes to all of Halifax's destinations.

If you want to stick close to home, you couldn't do better than relaxing on the deck overlooking Purcells Cove with your morning coffee or evening wine and watching the boats come and go. The deck's southern exposure allows you to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset over this beautiful little cove.

St. Cecilia by the Sea ...... The right amount of bliss!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No parties allowed.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Property Registration Number STR2627A7722

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Halifax

Located in Halifax, this holiday home is by the ocean. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Long Lake Provincial Park and Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park, while Museum of Natural History and Rebecca Cohn Auditorium are cultural highlights. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Scotiabank Centre or Dartmouth Sportsplex. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Purcells Cove, NS

What's nearby

  • Sir Sandford Fleming Park - 3 min drive - 3.2 km
  • York Redoubt National Historic Site - 3 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Long Lake Provincial Park - 5 min drive - 5.4 km
  • Chocolate Lake Beach - 6 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Dalhousie University - 7 min drive - 3.9 km

Getting around

  • Halifax Station - 18 min drive
  • Halifax, NS (YHZ-Stanfield Intl.) - 36 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Uncommon Grounds - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea?

As of 20 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea on 30 May 2026 start from £162, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Amazing Unique Church for rent - St. Cecilia by the Sea located?

Situated by the ocean, this holiday home is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Sir Sandford Fleming Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk and Long Lake Provincial Park. Chocolate Lake Beach and Halifax Shopping Centre are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 150 out of 151 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 151 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 151 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

cathy z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So different so beautiful. Well located. Do nit hesitate to book here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This unique and beautiful place deserves all the 5-star plaudits it receives from the lucky guests that have stayed here. I can only echo all those reviews. The tasteful curation of each element in the renovation. The East coast warmth of Lara in meeting me to detail the history. The peaceful and scenic location yet only 10-15min from downtown. The cleanliness and comfort throughout. It was a perfect send off for my last Christmas in Halifax!!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best VRBO ever! This was the most unique place we’ve ever stayed and it was also incredibly clean and comfortable! Lara was so sweet and very accommodating! We LOVED our stay here ands wish we’d planned to spend more time. We drove the south shore and out to Digby as well! Highly recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martha C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
St. Cecilia property was amazing! It was spacious, clean, comfortable and beautifully appointed!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to bask in all the glorious touches charm and embrace this place and the folks who built and run it- seriously stay here if you can!!!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allyson B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location is gorgeous and the atmosphere unique! Kitchen, bathrooms and bedrooms are super comfortable, well equipped and made us feel right at home.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terri C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place. Loved it so much. Beautiful. Nice sitting area overlooking a small marina.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claire M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

What a treasure we loved our stay in St Cecilia. Brett and Lara were great hosts and the property was clean comfortable and well equipped
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lara and Brett have created a very special sanctuary. The little church has everything you need and loads of stories. We’ll be talking about our stay for years to come.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terry L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quite unique, wonderful hosts whose communication was perfect. Well stocked place, clean and comfy with a great view.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is beyond superlatives! Even the photos don’t do it justice. Brett & Lara have taken extreme measures to make sure every eventuality/need is met and surpassed! Their recommendations for cafes, restaurants, and activities were spot-on! The care they have taken in making their guests comfortable is amazing! We want to come back and stay longer!
Several beautiful stained glass windows
Ceiling painted a la the Sistine Chapel
Spacious double-sink bathroom
An outdoor deck, perfect for morning coffee, overlooking the water including a lobster shack & boat
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jean W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay in a Church

Unique place (chapel) with beautiful views and great location. Hosts were very accommodating and gracious.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

rosemarie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
St Cecelia was an absolute pleasure to stay at. The house was completely stocked with all essentials a person would need to live comfortably for a week. Lara and Brett were wonderful. They helped with any information and were very accommodating to your needs. I would definitely recommend this interesting home/church for anyone to stay at.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanna N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A MAGICAL PLACE

Brett and Lara, Thank you for creating this wonderful sanctuary and sharing it with strangers and making us feel like friends.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ryan E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

Great Stay
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! You can’t miss this one! I have been to 17 states staying at VRBOs and this is my favorite by far! The church was just gorgeous and Brett came over and explained the history and reconstruction of the church and that was fascinating! The kitchen was stocked with everything we needed. The beds were so comfortable and our stay was just lovely. Best location to explore Nova Scotia! We even had our own harbor and cool seating to view it. These were also the best hosts I have ever had. Don’t miss the unique experience of staying at this church with the beautiful furnishings and stained glass!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view down the short hill of the property is amazing. The house was really clean except for a few crumbs in the refrigerator and drawers. It’s in a nice area. We saw people walking every day. One of the best parts was the amazing communication from the owners. They never made us feel silly for asking questions. (Like when we couldn’t turn the volume up on the tv) The history of the church and the area is pretty neat.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best ever!!!

St Cecilia was magical!! The location was wonderful. We so enjoyed meeting Brett and Lara. It would be our first choice in the future!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

East coast beauty

The church was amazing. Such a unique experience. Everything you need is supplied, I would recommend to anyone. Brett is a very knowledgeable and cool guy. We will definitely stay there again
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Not your average rental! St. Cecilia exceeded expectations in all areas. Incredible property with amazing story. Typically meeting the owners has not been a priority but definitely reach out to Brett and Lara for the history of the church, its renovation and the story behind many of the pieces adorning the property. Beds were super comfortable and St. Cecilia was well equipped. Location was perfect for our event at the Yacht Club, Peggys cove 40 minute drive and downtown Halifax 20 minutes. Sat on the deck at night for a nightcap and watched the deer while listening to the local seals. Definitely rebook when in the Halifax area again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allison P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ethereal

This was definitely the highlight of our trip out East. The church house is amazing- rich, yet so comfortable. Brett and Lara were excellent hosts. We loved hearing about the history of the church house and some of the highlights of Brett’s interests. Truly a unique stay. I would highly recommend this
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming and Eclectic Home

We loved the church and the location as it was close to everything. We would definitely stay again and highly recommend it. The owners were friendly and quickly answered any questions we had. The weather hindered our ability to enjoy the outside space but the property was well manicured and inviting. We appreciated the multi charging stations for all our electronics.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

St Cecilia

We loved staying here!! It was clean. It was so unique. We slept in the choir loft and Karen slept in the organ loft. Brett and Lara are great hosts!! In fact, we will be back there in 2 days.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mindi S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Vacation Rental!

Brett and Lara's place is incredible! They've spared no expense making sure the place is A+++.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melanie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place

We had such an amazing stay. This place has some great history. Brett and Lara are awesome hosts. You definitely won’t go wrong by choosing to stay here.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

About the host

Hosted by Brett & Lara Ryan

Host profile image
We are Brett & Lara Ryan. Brett is an award winning singer/songwriter and Lara is a sustainability consultant. Brett is a Halifax native and Lara is from PEI. We love to travel ourselves and enjoy properties that offer all the comforts of home. We've been in the property business for over 20 years and have owned a number of properties in Halifax and around Purcells Cove but none as unique as St. Cecilia by the Sea.

Why they chose this property

We bought this old church in 2005 and Brett set to restoring it. While working on it he was insipred to write songs in a way that he hadn't for a few years. St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, must have been speaking to him! Not only did he write songs for a great project titled St. Cecilia Soul, he was also inspired to turn the church into a recording studio. The unique space hosted many other recording artists in it's time as a studio as well as was the location for film productions and sound design for many TV series.

Alas, our business days in the music industry are coming to an end and recording studios aren't what they used to be. Now, we are thrilled to share this inspirational space with travelers looking to enjoy beautiful Halifax.

Languages:

English

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