Indulge in a Fall Foodie Getaway to Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is a destination where food and drink are deeply connected to place. From vineyard dinners in the Annapolis Valley to hands-on distilli...
Summer may be over but there is still plenty to do in Nova Scotia. From wine tasting to leaf peeping, comfortable sweater weather creates the perfect conditions for exploring your way around Nova Scotia. Here are a few ideas to get you started on planning your fall adventures in Nova Scotia!
Visit our Wineries
Did you know Nova Scotia has its own appellation wine called Tidal Bay? This crisp white pairs perfectly with fresh Nova Scotia seafood and can be found on restaurant menus across the province.
But why not head straight to the source? Visit one of more than 20 Nova Scotian wineries, 14 of which produce their own Tidal Bay, to sample the latest vintage. Fall is the prime time to enjoy a glass on a patio overlooking a lush vineyard, primed for harvest with colourful, leafy trees as a backdrop.
Go Glamping
If there is just too much of a chill in the air for camping, try out a glamping dome instead. These well-appointed domes – many which operate year-round – make for the perfect and comfortable glamping experience. The large open windows at the front of the domes make for ideal viewing of the colourful fall foliage. Many are nestled amongst the trees and offer superb leaf peeping, right from the comfort of a cozy chair next to a fire or even from an on-deck hot tub.
Experience a Gondola Ride
Head to Cape Smokey to take a ride on Eastern Canada’s only gondola. Ride up to the top of the mountain, admiring scenic water views framed by fall colours in the distance along the way.
Once at the top, breathe in the fresh air and take a few minutes to relax on a bench and take in the views, or grab a bite or beverage from the snack shack at the top of the hill, before beginning your hike back down the mountain.
Go Hiking
Nova Scotia serves up stellar hiking year-round, but the October weather combined with fall colours is the perfect reason to explore Nova Scotia’s outdoors.
While fall colours can be seen on virtually any hiking trails through the woods, check out the trails in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Victoria Park, Shubie Park, Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site and Keppoch Mountain, or visit the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail for stellar fall colours.
Visit Farmers’ Markets
Nova Scotia’s fertile agricultural lands always yield a colourful and delicious harvest come fall. Pumpkins, apples, squash, tomatoes, and flowers are seemingly overflowing from market tables across the province.
Head to a Farmers’ Market for the freshest produce, handmade goods, and other locally crafted wares and treats. Pick up a bottle of Nova Scotia wine, craft beer or spirits to be enjoyed later on a crisp fall evening.
Scenic Drives and Exploring Communities
As you travel from one fall adventure to the next, opt to take the scenic route for even more fall splendour. It’s true that fall colours can be seen along nearly any roadway, but there is something quite special about getting off the highway and driving the scenic route during the fall. Along the way, make time to visit Nova Scotia’s quaint communities, warming up with a cup of locally-roasted coffee, a freshly baked treat, or a hearty bowl of chowder.
Stay overnight at a cozy inn or cottage, meander in and out of shops and boutiques and even enjoy dinner on a patio.
Go Leaf Peeping
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore Nova Scotia. From the world-famous Cabot Trail to quiet rural roads in the Annapolis Valley and the coastal route along the South Shore, vibrant reds, oranges, and golds transform the landscape into a spectacular display. Take a scenic drive, head out for a hike, or simply enjoy the view from a coastal lookout. Whether you’re chasing peak colours or planning a leisurely road trip, autumn is the perfect season to experience Nova Scotia’s natural beauty.
Attend a Fall Festival or Event
Autumn brings a packed calendar of festivals, live music, cultural celebrations, harvest events, and community gatherings across the province; there’s always something happening. Fall events offer a great way to connect with local culture, discover regional traditions, and make the most of a Nova Scotia getaway. Check out the Nova Scotia fall events calendar here.
Try a New Restaurant or Café
Cooler temperatures make fall the perfect excuse to slow down and savour Nova Scotia’s culinary scene. Settle into a cozy café with a locally roasted coffee, sample seasonal menus featuring fresh seafood and harvest ingredients, or discover an exciting new restaurant. From waterfront dining to hidden gems in charming small towns, great food is always part of the adventure.
Explore a Museum or Historic Site
When you’re ready to take a break from the outdoors, spend an afternoon exploring one of Nova Scotia’s museums, galleries, or historic sites. Learn about the Nova Scotia’s Mi’kmaw, Acadian, African Nova Scotian, and Gaelic heritage, discover stories from the past, or browse thought-provoking art exhibits. Fall is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the history and culture that make Nova Scotia unique.
Enjoy Apple Picking, Pumpkin Patches, and Corn Mazes
Nothing says fall quite like a visit to a local farm or u-pick. Wander through apple orchards in the Annapolis Valley, pick out the perfect pumpkin, or challenge family and friends to a corn maze adventure. Some farms also offer wagon rides, farm markets, baked treats, and other seasonal activities, making it easy to spend an entire day taking in the sights, flavours, and traditions of Nova Scotia autumn.
Book a Fall Travel Package
Looking for an easy way to plan your next getaway? Book a fall travel package. From coastal escapes and culinary adventures to outdoor experiences and luxury retreats, there are packages to match every travel style.
Learn From the Locals
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