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Explore the Historic Charm of Amherst & Nearby Coast

3 min Read

Explore the Historic Charm of Amherst & Nearby Coast

Amherst is the first town welcoming visitors entering Nova Scotia on a road trip. Explore the historic charm of Victoria Street, lined with captivating sandstone architecture and elegant Victorian homes. Wander through artisan shops, savour local cuisine at cozy eateries, and take a short drive to discover two very different coastlines, from the dramatic cliffs of the Bay of Fundy to the warm waters of the Northumberland Strait.

Explore Nearby Beaches and Diverse Coastlines

Amherst is a perfect home base to explore two very different coastlines. On one side, the world’s highest tides of the Bay of Fundy have shaped dramatic cliffs and rock formations. Home to two UNESCO sites, Joggins Fossil Cliffs and Cliffs of Fundy Global Geopark, this coastline is best experienced from the water with NovaShores Adventures and Local Guy Adventures or on a guided shoreline tour with Fundy Geological Museum, Fundy Treasure Tours and Tide Rollers & Mudlarkers.

On the Northumberland Shore side, visitors are invited to play at sandy, warm water beaches. Make your first stop at Amherst Shore Provincial Park and stroll through a woodland trail to distinctive red sandstone cliffs towering 12 meters (40 feet) above the Northumberland Strait.

Amherst Shore Provincial Park
Amherst Shore Provincial Park

Browse Artisan Shops

Discover the heart of creativity in Amherst at Maritime Mosaic, featuring the work of more than 120 Maritime artists and artisans in one retail location.

Nearby, step into the vibrant world of textile art at Deanne Fitzpatrick Rug Hooking Studio, where you can try rug hooking and pick up a kit, supplies, or original piece to take home.

Show your love for Nova Scotia with handmade tartan clothing and accessories from Maritime Tartan Company

Maritime Mosaic
Maritime Mosaic

Connect to Local History

Centuries-old architecture and historic landmarks tell the tale of Amherst’s storied past. Discover more at the Cumberland County Museum and Archives, where exhibits showcase the region’s diverse cultural heritage and manufacturing past, including ships and railways. Book a guided tour in advance with a knowledgeable museum interpreter and be sure to visit their beautiful gardens.

Cumberland County Museum and Archives
Cumberland County Museum and Archives

Stay in Cozy Accommodations

Choose from a variety of familiar hotels or stay in a Victorian home, like the 100-year-old, restored Brown’s Guest Home Bed & Breakfast, located downtown.

Wake up next to the ocean at nearby Amherst Shore County Inn, both open year-round and surrounded by ocean views and rolling countryside.

D's B & B by the Sea
D's B & B by the Sea

Savour Local Eats

Amherst offers an array of dining options sure to satisfy every palate. Relax in the cozy café setting at Art of Eating Deli while enjoying hearty soups, freshly-made sandwiches, and smoothies, or pick up a picnic lunch, baked goods, and latte to-go.

After a day of exploring, head to Duncan’s Pub for a refreshing craft beer and classic pub fare with a modern twist.

Art of Eating Deli
Art of Eating Deli

Learn from the locals

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