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Discover Acadian History, Culture and Food in Pubnico, Nova Scotia

Vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and fresh Nova Scotia seafood await in the charming coastal village of Pubnico. From immersive experiences at two Acadian museums to a deep sea fishing tour, get ready to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a history buff, a seafood lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Pubnico has something for you!

Immerse Yourself in Acadian Culture

Step back in time at the Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse in Lower West Pubnico. This picturesque 17-acre site overlooks the scenic Pubnico Harbour and features a variety of historic buildings, original wooden homes and lighthouse, all waiting to be explored.

Stroll the grounds, interact with costumed staff, and learn about historic farming and fishing traditions from interpretive panels throughout the site. Enjoy a house-made fricot or seafood chowder at the café, while taking in the water views and the village’s rich Acadian heritage. Before leaving, make sure to stop by the gift shop for locally made souvenirs.

Two boys feed hay to a cow.

Feast on Fresh Seafood

The freshest seafood is always found at the wharf, which is exactly where you’ll find Dennis Point Café. Dine wharf side at this Acadian family-owned restaurant and enjoy an array of seafood options sourced straight from the nearby North Atlantic Waters. Choose from locally sourced haddock, lobster, clams, and scallops, complete with house-made desserts.

An overhead view of a table of food including seafood chowder, seafood pasta, a lobster roll and other fried seafood.

Catch Memories Deep Sea Fishing

Step aboard a deep sea fishing experience with Tusket Island Tours. Departing from Dennis Point Wharf, home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in Atlantic Canada, your fishing adventure takes you near the picturesque Tusket Islands, while heading to the fishing grounds – home to cod, haddock, mackerel and flounder.

A fisherman tour guide on a boat helps one of the tour guests as they caught three fish.

Rest & Recharge at the Red Cap

When its time to lay your head to rest, experience Acadian hospitality at the Red Cap Restaurant & Motel. Featuring a harbour view, this year-round accommodation is located only a 10-minute walk from the Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos and a five-minute drive from Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse. The onsite restaurant has been a favourite place for locals and visitors to dine since 1946, offering traditional Rappie Pie and haddock with creamed lobster, pan-seared scallops, and many more Acadian dishes and local favourites.

Two women sit in red chairs in front of a red motel door of a cedar shake building.

Discover Acadian Heritage

Discover the oldest Acadian region still inhabited by descendants of the founders at the Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos et Centre de recherche. Hear local stories and insights from museum staff and costumed interpreters, take part in hands-on activities, such as knot tying, learn the history of the area via the interpretive panels, and explore your family’s history in Les Archives Pere Clarence d’Entremont Research Centre.

A museum interpreter points to a display about Acadian culture as two museum guests look on.

Toast to a Spirited Vacation

Savour local cocktails at Boatskeg Distilling Company in Lower West Pubnico. This restored boatbuilding shop turned craft distillery and cocktail bar commemorates the history of boatbuilding (and bootlegging) in the area – the history of boats and kegs is what inspired the name! Enjoy signature creations, classic cocktails, mocktails, and local beers, along with bites from nearby Wild Roots Restaurant inside the cozy distillery or outside on the patio, with the beautiful Pubnico coastline as your backdrop. Cheers!

Three friends do a cheers with their glasses of cocktails in a distillery.

Hike the Pubnico Point Trail

Travel to the tip of the Pubnico peninsula to enjoy a peaceful walk along the scenic coastline on the Pubnico Point Trail. This 4.8km trail features two loops and a mix of gravel surface and boardwalk with several new interpretive panels sharing information on the area and environment. Enjoy sweeping ocean views, look offs, beautiful wildflowers, and 17 impressive windmills.

Two women walk along a waterside trail, one is pointing to a tree.

Learn From the Locals

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