One of the best things about the Halifax region is the many distinct communities within an easy drive of downtown. The Halifax Region is actually made up of over 200 unique communities, each with their own unique character and charm.
From Hubbards to Ecum Secum, exploring beyond Halifax’s downtown core provides visitors with a taste of the true East Coast.
Take a leisurely drive to five off-the-beaten-path locations for an authentic Nova Scotian experience.
1 – Eastern Passage
Just across the harbour from the Halifax waterfront, Eastern Passage feels a world away.
Stop by Fisherman’s Cove to explore the colourful waterfront shops, grab an ice cream cone or stroll the wooden boardwalk. Taste fresh seafood at one of the quaint restaurants or buy your own fresh fish and lobster to cook up!
The adventurous can take a charter boat or rent kayaks from Kattuk Expeditions and head over to McNabs Island. There visitors can explore historical military forts established as part of Halifax’s Defence Complex. McNabs is a prime hiking destination with plenty of space for picnicking or relaxing at the beach.
2 – Hubbards
Located on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Hubbards is close to stunning Queensland where you can dip your toes in the ocean and soak up the sunshine surrounded by sand and sea.
Once you’re warmed up, fill your belly with a lobster supper and dance until you drop at the famous Shore Club. This Nova Scotia institution hosts live music and dances on Saturday nights, as well as additional concerts by local music legends!
3 – West Chezzetcook
Chezzetcook is one of many close-knit communities on the Eastern Shore. It is home to the educational Acadian House Museum (open July 1st to August 31st annually), which was built in 1850 and showcases many Acadian artifacts.
They also have a tearoom, gift shop and picnic area, making West Chezzetcook a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages.
4 – Lake Charlotte
A little further along the Eastern Shore is Lake Charlotte, home to Memory Lane Heritage Village.
This reproduction of a 1940s rural Nova Scotia village is complete with a general store, school house, church, workshop, gold prospecting complex, boat shop, garage and more. Families will enjoy the riddle-based Heritage Hunt (available at the front desk), playful kittens, curious lambs and cheerful chickens!
Memory Lane Heritage Village – photo by Linda Nasdalack
5 – Prospect Area
A day-trip to Prospect might include fishing in the bay, scuba diving the clear waters, exploring tiny fishing villages, visiting SS Atlantic Heritage Park and Interpretation Centre, bouldering granite rocks and kayaking hidden inlets with East Coast Outfitters or Great E.A.R.T.H. Expeditions.
With so many options, there’s definitely something for everyone in Prospect.
@acorn_art_photography
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