Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country
Located on Digby Neck, The Gardener's Cottage sits in the tranquil village of Little River between Digby and Long/Briar Islands. Our home enjoys an elevated position with views of the ocean at St Mary's Bay to the South/East. This turn of the century home has been fully renovated and includes a large oak dining Kitchen, spacious Living area, contemporary Bathroom, generous Master Bedroom with bed, 2nd bedroom (twin beds) and an extensive Deck with stunning views over open country and St Mary's Bay. Imagine relaxing on your deck enjoying pre-dinner drinks and taking in the scenery - Truly Wonderful!! New for 2022 is unlimited, ultra-fast fibre internet allowing you to stay connected at all times. We're easy to get to; Halifax International Airport is only 168 miles away and the Bay Ferry terminal in Digby is less than a 30 minute drive. All towels and linens are provided and our Cottage is equipped with everything you need to make your holiday memorable and enjoyable.
Please note that The Cottage has two bedrooms upstairs. The master bedroom has a super comfy queen size bed, there are twin beds in the second bedroom. We have two, superb quality, air mattresses to accommodate additional guests if required. Whale Watching: Digby Neck is arguably the Whale Watching Capital of the World and guests to The Gardener's Cottage are spoilt for choice when it comes to Whale watching operators. The exciting Ocean Exploration Zodiac Whale Cruises, www.oceanexplorations.ca, describe themselves as 'Nova Scotia's most exciting and popular whale/sea bird cruises!' As repeat customers of Ocean Explorations we can vouch for their excellence, the Zodiac ride on it's own is a worthwhile experience! Tom Goodwin, the Tour Director, is a Marine Biologist and his knowledge and experience further will certainly enhance the enjoyment of your Whale Watching adventure There are, of course, other operators who depart from within a few miles of The Gardener's Cottage and,whilst the boat ride may not be as 'fast and furious, the sheer magnificence of these wonderful marine mammals is not diminished.
The Town of Digby: Digby is 20 miles or so from The Gardener's Cottage and is situated on the picturesque shores of The Annapolis Basin. The town, which has a population of 2,311, has a wonderfully quaint atmosphere, the residents are extremely friendly and welcoming and we’re sure you will enjoy visiting the restaurants, cafes and shops. The Harbour is home to a working fishing fleet and Digby is famous, rightly so, for the delicious scallops harvested from the clean and clear local waters. Visitors to The Gardener's Cottage should make it a priority to try some Digby Scallops in one of the many local restaurants - they are world famous for a reason! In 1997 Canadian Living Magazine asked readers to nominate their home towns as the 'Best In Canada'. After reviewing all nominations the magazine announced Digby as the most romantic place in Canada! We'll leave you to make up your own mind about that, but one thing's for sure, you'll enjoy a relaxing, energising break at The Gardener's Cottage.
Kejimkujik National Park: Kejimkujik National Park is the only inland park in Canada. Situated in the Maritimes this park is easily accessible to visitors of The Gardener's Cottage. Kejimkujik (or Keji for short!) features abundant lakes and rivers ideal for canoeing. The lush woodlands and rolling landscape are home to a variety of wildlife and visitors may enjoy historic canoe routes including portages as well as many beautiful hiking trails. Parks Canada say that Kejimkujik provides the best canoeing country in Nova Scotia. You don't have to be an experienced canoe handler to enjoy the quiet lakes and gently flowing rivers as guided canoe outings are given throughout the summer by park interpreters. This is also an ideal place for first time canoers or children to learn how to pilot these vessels. Cyclists may use their own bikes or rent one and then enjoy the 5 multi purpose trails in the park. For those that prefer the security of their own two feet, Keji offers a trail for everyone.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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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 indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Little River
Located in Little River, this cottage is in a rural area and on a lake. Boar's Head Lighthouse and Church Point Lighthouse are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Tiddville Nature Reserve and Lake Midway Provincial Park. Sailing and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and mountain biking nearby.
Lake Midway Provincial Park - 12 min drive - 16.5 km
Islands Museum and Tourist Bureau - 17 min drive - 10.9 km
Boar's Head Lighthouse - 18 min drive - 11.2 km
Balancing Rock Trail - 20 min drive - 15.2 km
Restaurants
‪Dairy Twirl - ‬61 min drive
‪Bating Shed - ‬3 min drive
‪La Vieille École - ‬61 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country?
As of 1 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country on 16 Sept 2026 start from £472, 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 Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Home from Home - Cosy Cottage in Whale Watching Country located?
Situated by the sea, this cottage is 2.1 mi (3.4 km) from Tiddville Nature Reserve and within 6 miles (10 km) of Sandy Cove Beach and Boar's Head Lighthouse. Islands Museum and Tourist Bureau and Lake Midway Provincial Park are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The host Diane is amazing and her apple pie was delicious. She went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed.The house was comfortable and clean but there needs to be a ALOT of weed eating done. The TV is to small for the space and has limited channels. Although it is a smart TV, Peter (the owner) has it password protected so no other apps can be downloaded. Netflix was available. Although the listing states it has a view, if the trees get any bigger there wont be. The location suited us because we were on our motorcycle touring the area and was close to the islands. Its a little bit of a drive to town for supplies and dinner out. BEWARE of the instructions where you turn into Tommy's Branch Rd. There is a tiny sign on a tree which is after the big road sign. We had a great stay but if we ever return we would choose somewhere closer to Digby.
This cottage had everything we needed to make our stay perfect! Loved the deck, the well-equipped kitchen, internet access, roomy comfort! Host was terrific and even made us a pie!
It's a great place to stay while exploring the Digby area as well as Long Island and Brier Island. The house itself was larger than expected, which is always a pleasant surprise.
We had a fantastic stay, especially the support from Diane where to find what was terrific, great tips friendly, simply incomparable. The owner had a good hand for good staff on site. We were completely satisfied with the cleanliness and everything, there is nothing to complain about! We would be happy to stay again, we can only recommend it!!!
A good place for a change of pace. Diane makes a great apple pie.
Chantelle T.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Yoshi T.
7 Jul 2018
We enjoyed our stay at the cottage
The place is clean and had everything we needed. Very quite and great view from the house. Diane brought as a welcome pie which was great! She was very helpful.
Yoshi T.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Thank you for your great review. We work hard to ensure that The Cottage is spotlessly clean and ready for our guests enjoyment. We've made a number of upgrades this year which will make any stat at The Cottage even better. We heard from a guest this week who had seen 7 whales in one trip...
The cottage was close to all popular attractions. We would definitely return as it was very affordable, and the house had everything we needed.
We also enjoyed the homemade pies upon our arrival.
The only thing we were missing was a fire pit.
Although everything necessary worked well enough the property needs some upkeep - bandaids and tape were used for repairs and the windows didnt operate as they should. We enjoyed exploring the area and the location was convenient,
We stayed four days as a base for whale watching at Brier Island. The property is clean, well kept and competitively priced. The exceptionally well equipped kitchen allows you to save a ton of money if you stop in Digby on your way in for groceries. Peter, the host, is easy to work with and Diane, the property manager, is beyond amazing and also bakes the best apple pie we have had in years.
Steve W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Thank you for your review. We work hard to ensure that our guests have a great time.
Good loaction close to Whale watching and hiking trails.
We had a nice time at the Gardner's Cottage. Diane the property manager stopped by to welcome us. She provided us with lots of information on local attrations and things to do. Kodos to her for keeping the Cottage well maintained. Thank you.
Everything was exactly as advertised. Peter was very responsive and helpful. The place was very clean and Diane, the property manager was so lovely. We got in late and she left a fresh apple pie waiting for us. She offered us a very warm welcome and recommended some wonderful local spots, which we loved. We definitely plan to return. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful property with us!
Jennifer M.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Matthew H.
9 Sept 2013
Clean, spacious and comfortable with good views
The location is excellent for several rough walks, which we located by looking at Google satellite images, for the outstanding fresh fish in the local harbour, the excellent whale watching trips and the proximity to Brier Island, which is fantastic for coastal walks and local history. Joshua Slocum grew up on Brier Island and you can still see the workshop and smell the smells that eventually drove him out to sea on his epic voyages.
Matthew H.
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Another great review for The Gardener's Cottage! If you haven't yet enjoyed the beauty of Canada's East Coast, Nova Scotia is a great place to start. If you love fresh seafood, nature, friendly people and all of the comforts of home, why don't you check out The Gardener's Cottage for your next 'get-away-from-it-all' break. We'd love to have you as our special guests ...
Verified review
6/10 Okay
Jeff T.
11 Jul 2025
Liked: Location
Location was amazing. Perfect area to take day trips. A few things need updating....Windows without screens. We taped some in the best we could to get breeezes at night as no A/C.BBQ did not have a propane tank.Toilet tank would not refill with water. Property manager got it repaired the following evening.
Very nice quiet area. On the go every day to see the sights. Sister in law and granddaughter spent 5 days wit us. Fortunate to see plenty of whales xe. On our last day we lost power but we got by ok. Things like that happen. Diane was a good host and we were thankful for the pies. Very warm and fans would have really helped.
Merrill L.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Caroline W.
17 Aug 2011
Wonderful and Relaxing
Spent a week at this cottage in Little River on Digby Neck - the cottage is great - great living room and kitchen (eat-in) with everything you need to cook your own meals. Went down to the dock in Little River and got fresh Haddock to cook. The LR has great windows and a great outlook. A quick walk out back to a lane and trail to a hilltop outlook down to Little River (St. Mary's Bay view) and a trail leading to the Fundy Bay Beach (although don't go after a rain - the trail can also be a river!). Great little store with everything you need and easy travel to the ferries to Long Island and Brier Island for Whale Watching and more hiking. Had several rainy days in the cottage, reading and watching some TV.
Caroline W.
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Delighted to know you had a great time ... and don't forget you can also get fresh Lobster from the Dock during the season. Fresh Lobster a Nova Scotia speciality - what could be better?
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Peter S.
6 Jun 2019
Super Cottage
After an interesting and scenic drive down Digby Neck we arrived at this Cottage which stands on a small hill overlooking St Mary's Bay to the south. The Cottage was spotless when we arrived and a freshly baked pie was waiting for us!!
During our stay we found the Cottage very comfortable (especially the beds) and the Cottage was very well equipped with everything we needed even things we don't have at home and we found the locals very friendly and eager to help and answer our questions.
Diane who is the house keeper met us on arrival and was very knowledgeable and a mine of information about the local area.
The deck area at the back of The Cottage is new and we enjoyed sitting here watching the wildlife and the world go by - very relaxing. The Cottage is well placed for day trips out to see some of what this picturesque part of Canada is all about and we really enjoyed our stay.
Peter S.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Another great review for The Gardener's Cottage. Nova Scotia on the East Coast of Canada is arguably less well know than some other parts of Canada and is all the better for that. The peace and tranquillity of this place is wonderful and we are always blown away by the pristine nature of the countryside. Every turn in the road leads to another great view or another quaint harbour.
If you would like to book The Gardener's Cottage please get in touch and we'll dot he rest.
*The review below is a review we received from a guest*
Archival
10/10 Excellent
MICHELLE LAVIGNE L.
16 Aug 2016
July 2016
We had a wonderful stay at the Gardener's Cottage. Diane was there to greet us and answered any questions that we had. She also stopped by a few times during our stay to see how we were getting along. She gave us many suggestions on what to do and where to eat,
We did day tours to Digby, Annapolis Royal to the historical gardens, St. Mary's Bay and Yarmouth. We also took the ferries to Long Island and Brier Island, fabulous time. We spent the day at Sandy Cove beach which his 5 minutes from the house. The whale watching was the highlight, we used Petite Passage whale watching tours, say so many whales and got amazing pictures.
We ate at many restaurants, the seafood was delicious, the Digby scallops, the clams and the chowder were to die for. Again this was a great base for days trips, so much to see. Diane, thanks so much for your hospitality and the wonderful pies, cherry cheesecake and a coconut pie.
MICHELLE LAVIGNE L.
Stayed 18 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Another excellent review for The Gardener's Cottage. There's lots to see and do in the area and The Gardener's Cottage makes an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Nova Scotia scenery, wildlife and historical sites. Whale Watching is a must and these amazing marine mammals never fail to inspire. If you'd like to book The Gardener's Cottage, follow the link on the website and we'll do the rest!
Verified review
8/10 Good
Allan and Flo V.
5 Aug 2018
Well maintained house on the Digby neck
A lovely, comfortable house with everything you could want for a peaceful, restful stay on the Digby Neck. We explored many roads on the neck as well as Long and Brier Island going to the farthest tip of Brier Island (Whipple Point). Took Peter's recommendation and used Ocean Explorations on Long Island and saw 7 humpback whales (one was a playful comical baby just goofing around and annoying its mother), Atlantic White Sided Dolphins, seals, puffins and a deer on the shore as we returned to the harbour. The zodiac ride in a "medium blow" as Captain Tom called it was quite a ride! The TV had died but Diane and Peter leaped into action and a replacement was put in place very quickly. Attended the Dibgy LobsterBash and saw the winner of the largest lobster contest .... 19lb3oz!!
Good memories ... loved it.
Allan and Flo V.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Hi Allan and Flo
Thank you for sharing your amazing experience, we are delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful time, certainly your whale watching trip sounds fabulous - what a treat!
Apologies for the television, we're glad that the replacement came quickly and that it didn't spoil your stay at the cottage in any way.
The LobsterBash sounds superb - I can't imagine what a 19lb 3 oz lobster would look like - last time we were at the cottage we saw a 14lb one and that was pretty impressive (and pretty delicious!)
We can't guarantee the whales will always be in abundance when you visit the Gardener's Cottage but we can promise you a warm welcome...and a delcious pie!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Janet H.
18 Jul 2017
Tranquility with homemade pie
This is a lovely cottage in a great location to allow for access to Digby, Long Island, Brier Island, Annapolis Royal, the Acadian Shore, Yarmouth and other points on the Southern Shore of Nova Scotia and the Annapolis Valley. Fresh seafood abounds nearby, easy access to highways, hiking, balance rock formation, Lake Medway park, whale watching and all within a tranquil surrounding. Then, there is fabulous Diane - what a gem. She makes you feel right at home and greets everyone with an enormous awesome pie - the apple and blueberry are favorites. But she makes many others and offers great advice about local attractions. The Little River Trading Co is a well kept store with everything from meat to small hardward. A real general merchandise store. Sandy Cove beach is not to be missed and everyone is so friendly and helpful. The cottage offers great views with nice breezes. Diane is the hub that truly makes this a great place to stay. The kitchen is well stocked and the table beckons for coffee and "pie". What a great spot for a short visit or for a long retreat.
Janet H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2023
Another great review for The Gardener's Cottage and those pies sure are a BIG hit with our guests. This review says it all - great food, ease of access to all local attractions, welcoming and friendly nature of locals, great views, - all summarised as a 'Great Place To Stay'.
We work hard to make sure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. If you'd like to book The Gardener's Cottage contact us and we'll do the rest...
About the host
Hosted by Peter Slack
Peter and Vicki currently live in England and have enjoyed many visits to Canada over the years. The East Coast of Canada is not an obvious choice to some ... yet once you've seen the special beauty of this magical place, we're sure you'll see for yourselves why we love this area.
Why they chose this property
The Gardener's Cottage is a true gem. Sitting on an elevated plot, sea views over St Mary's Bay to the front, open countryside around - in summary great views from the deck all around. Close enough to local amenities yet far enough away for peace and quite to aid the all important relaxation and recharge of the batteries! The Gardener's Cottage is a traditional cottage with all of the contemporary amenities that we take for granted these days. Renovated thoroughly and tastefully you'll enjoy this traditional yet modern get away from it all holiday home. New for 2022 unlimited ultra-fast fibre internet, allowing you to stay connected during your stay.
What makes this property unique
Whale watching can be accessed less than 2 miles from The Gardener's Cottage. Briar Island, a bird watchers paradise, is close by and, with walks and trails easily accessible from The Cottage, you'll fall in love with this paradise as much as we have. The locals are friendly and helpful and a quick chat will soon get them sharing their secrets!