Antigonish

Learn More About Antigonish

Perhaps best known for hosting the oldest continuously running Highland Games held outside of Scotland and home to St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish is often referred to as “the Highland Heart of Nova Scotia” due to its rich Scottish culture.

Enjoy a relaxing day at a warm water beach, an exciting mountain biking adventure at Keppoch Mountain or a leisurely and scenic drive winding along the shore. Visit a lighthouse, hike coastal trails, and dine in one of their popular restaurants with menus filled with local fare from the area’s rich fishing and farming community before returning to your charming B&B, inn, hotel or cottage for the night.

Top Things to Do in Antigonish

Beaches

Antigonish has several beaches in close proximity to the town, including three provincial park beaches.
Pomquet Beach Provincial Park is wheelchair-accessible with a Mobi-Mat® pathway and a Mobi-Chair® floating wheelchair available for use.
The beach at Arisaig Provincial Park features sedimentary rock rich in fossils.

Steinhart Distillery & Cottages

Enjoy tours and tastings learning about the Steinhart family tradition of distilling
Located along the Northumberland Shore overlooking Arisaig Wharf
Two cottages with private hot tubs located on site

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Keppoch Mountain

A former alpine ski hill that has been revamped as a four-season outdoor activities facility with 40 km of non-motorized, multi-use wilderness trail system
Enjoy cycling and hiking during the spring, summer, and fall, and snowshoeing in the winter months
Clubhouse onsite that offers washrooms, a warm seating area, canteen, outside decks, and picnic area

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Festivals & Events

Antigonish is home to a plethora of festivals and community events that take part throughout the year.
The Antigonish Jazz Festival hosts musical events throughout the town each November.
For over 150 years, the Antigonish Highland Games has featured a week of cultural, athletic, and musical experiences throughout the town