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

Holiday home in Halifax with kitchen and patio

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

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

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 41500 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
  • Place, Dalhousie University
  • Place, Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
  • Place, St. Mary's University
  • Airport, Halifax, NS (YHZ-Stanfield Intl.)

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

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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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 STR2425A7722

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. Museum of Natural History and Rebecca Cohn Auditorium are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Halifax Citadel and Mont Blanc Anchor Site. 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

  • Dalhousie University - 8 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk - 11 min drive - 9.7 km
  • Halifax Citadel - 11 min drive - 9.7 km
  • Scotiabank Centre - 12 min drive - 10.0 km
  • St. Mary's University - 13 min drive - 9.6 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
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Uncommon Grounds - ‬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.

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. Mont Blanc Anchor Site and Chocolate Lake Beach 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. 147 out of 148 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 148 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 148 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 148 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 148 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Leslie R.

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

Beautiful, unique location

Lovely accommodations and base for our trip to the Halifax area. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Margaret S.

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

The most special home away from home, possible.

We enjoyed everything about this magical place. The owners are very particular about St. Cecelia which makes us be on our best behavior. We loved it and didn't want to leave forever! Thank you Lara & Brett. Margy & Jim
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Relaxing Stay for WFH

My friends and I had a wonderful stay. Lara was super responsive and came over to greet us and provide recommendations. The place was super clean and well stocked. It’s best to stay here with a rented car.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

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

Just like home - only better

Loved our stay and had more than we needed. Such a comfortable, lively place! We will let it go haha but kept referring to it as “our church” 😊 Thank you to our hosts for a lovely visit.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer P.

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

You will not be disappointed!

We loved our few days at unique St. Cecilia's by the Sea. The old church is beautifully renovated, the outdoor spaces are fabulous, and the property is close to Halifax and to nearby scenic coves and beaches.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jolene R., Walla Walla, WA

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

Awesome place

This home was even better and cooler than the pictures. Location is great. Just a few minutes from Halifax without dealing with downtown driving and parking. Hosts Brett and Lara are wonderful and so helpful. If we return the area this is the only place I would stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charles L.

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

Amazing place

Stunningly restored chapel which surprises you at every turn. This was truly a beautiful place, indoors and outdoors Brett and Lara are fantastic and friendly hosts, full of local knowledge. Allegedly Brett is going to write a book about it 😀 We cannot recommend The Church highly enough
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul P.

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

Amazing space

We really enjoyed our stay at St Cecilia. Brett and Lara are wonderful hosts and you can see the amount of care and thought put into the design of the space. This was also evident in the landscaping around the space as well. Hosts are warm and engaging and appear to love sharing this special place with travelers
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy S.

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

Welcoming

From the first steps in we were under a spell! A wonderful property and the story of how it began just as wonderful. Lara and Brett were great hosts! Highly recommend their lovely little renovated church 😊
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nora D.

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

Unusual in a great way

This is an imaginatively restored church with all kinds of artistic detail throughout. It is also very comfortable inside with a nice space outside for relaxing if the weather is good. It also has one of the best equipped kitchens we have seen in a vacation rental. Engaging owners as well. All in all, a very worthy place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
FANTISTIC!!! This is a beautiful property the interior is like staying in a castle in the UK with the rich wood paneling on the walls, the oriental rugs on the floors, all the statues, and paintings on display and antique furniture throughout the "church." Outside there were two areas where you could sit and relax one porch on the back of the house with a gas grill and a glass top table to enjoy a meal outside and the second is a lovely deck with Adirondack chairs and a fabulous view of the cove complete with fishing boats and docks. When my wife and I return to Halifax to finish exploring the area we will absolutely try to stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mariann T.

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

Truly Memorable Accommodations!

We loved staying at Brett and Lara’s place. The decor, craftsmanship and attention to detail of this property cannot be beat! Our hosts anticipated our every need. Coming back to a clean and comfortable place was so welcome. We enjoyed talking with Brett and finding out about the history of the church, the paintings and the artifacts. We’d happily stay there again when we return to Halifax.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lloyd L.

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

Heaven

This was by far the most unique place we’ve stayed. It was awesome! It had everything you needed. It was so clean with a huge kitchen. It’s perfectly located. The host are so friendly. We would definitely recommend it. Loved it!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

john paul f.

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

Captivating Environment

The uniqueness of the property creates an environment that captivates your imagination.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Leslie-Anne M.

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

Just Book It!

I was so excited as soon as I booked. We walked up with smiles and upon walking inside our jaws dropped. The photos online are true and in real life absolutely amazing. I would 110% stay at St. Cecilia's by the Sea again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carl H.

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

Awesome, beautiful refurbished church

My wife, mother in law and I were blown away by the beauty and detail of the church. Artifacts everywhere and beautiful stained glass and murals. Minutes from the airport and central to attractions. Car recommended. Owners were very accommodating since our flight was delayed. When we arrived, even though we didn’t arrive until 1115 PM, we spent over an hour just gawking at the beauty around us. Highly recommend for a get away. Great view of cove also.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gordon T.

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

Amazing Church

The hosts invited us to check in early. Nice start. Brett gave us a quick tour and history of the church. It is breathtaking. The stained glass windows are perfectly beautiful. Michelangelo had nothing on the art student who painted the ceiling. The church was immaculate, well furnished, and the beds were comfortable. We had to check out early due to hurricane Fiona, and we were given a refund for our last night's stay. This was exceedingly kind. We can't recommend this home more highly.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

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

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

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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