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Outdoor Winter Adventures in Nova Scotia

Winter in Nova Scotia offers endless outdoor opportunities. For snow lovers, downhill skiing with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean or picturesque Bras d’Or Lake, and guided hiking tours in the Cape Breton Highlands provide exciting ways to experience the season. Thrill-seekers can take a helicopter on a one-of-a-kind trip to Sable Island National Park Reserve, home to wild horses and the world’s largest breeding colony of grey seals. And cyclists will breathe in the crisp air while fat biking on the Bay of Fundy’s ocean floor or along wooded trails connecting to their accommodations. Whether it’s a scenic hike or a journey by jeep or snowmobile, keep reading to find your next winter adventure.

A group of people fat biking at the Spencer's Island Lighthouse in the winter with snow on the ground.

Local Guy Adventures

Bike the Fundy coast in the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark! Glide along the ocean floor on fat bikes with an expert local guide, as you take in beautiful, winter Bay of Fundy coastal scenery. Pass by sculpted rock formations, Spencer’s Island Lighthouse, and views across the bay like Cape Split and Hall’s Harbour, then loop through a forest trail back to the starting point and watch the tide rise before your eyes.

Four yellow cabins are under a starry sky

Cape Smokey and Lantern Hill & Hollow

Embrace winter fun and spectacular Cape Breton Highland views with a Cape Smokey Adventure Getaway. Hit the slopes and spend the day skiing or snowboarding with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from Cape Smokey. After your day on the mountain, retreat to your oceanfront accommodation at Lantern Hill and Hollow, where you can unwind by the fire in a charming cottage or suite.

Picture Perfect Tours & Sable Island National Park Reserve

Visit Sable Island National Park Reserve for a thrilling winter adventure, unlike any other on Earth, with this Winter on Sable Island Tour. Arrive by helicopter with a small group and your expert photographer-guide from Picture Perfect Tours, as winter light casts a magical glow over the island’s stark beauty and rolling dunes. See more than 300,000 grey seals who arrive to battle, breed, and give birth on the island alongside the famed wild horses adorned in their thick, woolly winter coats.

The Lakes Resort & Ski Ben Eoin

Hit the slopes in style this winter with The Lakes Resort Ski & Stay package in Cape Breton. Spend the day on the slopes, overlooking the picturesque Bras d’Or Lake. Direct-to-lift access on the hill makes sure you’ll skip the line every time! After skiing, warm up with a cozy mug of hot chocolate at the onsite café or pub, before relaxing overnight in your onsite cottage or suite.

Two people on bikes take a rest along the water's edge overlooking the iconic Three Churches in Mahone Bay during an autumn day

Black Forest Cabins in Mahone Bay

Experience a getaway in nature with the conveniences of downtown Mahone Bay with a Stay & Cycle package from the new Black Forest Cabins. Pick up bikes from Sweet Ride Cycling and explore winding, coastal roads and the scenic, wooded paths of the Rum Runners Trail, connecting to your accommodations and surrounding communities of Lunenburg and Chester. After a day of pedalling, head to Saltbox Brewing for a refreshing flight of craft beer before walking up the street to your cabin, nestled among the trees.

 

A woman stands through the top of a red Jeep taking a photo of the vibrant fall colours on her phone.

Cape Breton Backcountry Adventures

Climb through picturesque mountains, savour beautiful hidden gems, and experience the Cabot Trail like never before on Cape Breton Backcountry Adventures’ Margaree Mountaineer Tour. During this guided, 3-hour jeep tour, you’ll be introduced to the region’s rich history, where your engaging guide will share stories on everything from wildlife to charming local tales. While on tour, enjoy a delicious take-away lunch from Dancing Goat Café, featuring local favourites, like Cape Breton Oatcakes.

A white geodesic dome is perched above a couple in a hot tub beneath a blue sky on an autumn day.

FlowEdge Riverside Getaway

Calling all photographers—this one’s for you! Capture lasting memories during this dome getaway and photographer led guided hike at FlowEdge Riverside Getaway. Explore the onsite trails along the picturesque Musquodoboit River, with a 300-year-old oak tree and black cherry forest. Back at your private dome, soak in riverside views from your wood-fired hot tub, relax in front of the fireplace, and fall asleep under twinkling stars.

Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures

Experience Cape Breton Island’s stunning landscapes on a two-night Trailside Nature Getaway. Nestled along the Cabot Trail, enjoy a cozy cottage stay at Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures, complete with a guided hike along onsite, professionally built trails. Families with young kids are also welcome to take part in a tailored experience.

 

Seek Wilderness Accommodations

Adventure in Truro’s beautiful Victoria Park with a Bike & Stay package at Seek Wilderness Accommodations. Explore more than 45 kms of groomed trails with fat bike rentals for two adults, delicious local snacks and beverages, and cozy accommodations in a yurt or container cabin for two-nights!

 

Inverary Resort

Escape to Inverary Resort this winter for an exhilarating snowmobile ride and a cozy two-night weekend stay on the Bras d’Or Lake. Unwind with The Super Sledders Getaway, complete with overnight accommodations, breakfast at the onsite Narrows Café and Bar, and access to the resort’s relaxing amenities, including indoor pool and hot tub. Bring your snowmobile and glide across pristine trails surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stunning winter landscapes.

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