Peggy’s Cove is one of the most popular attractions for tourists and locals alike in the Halifax region. Its classic red-and-white lighthouse marks the Eastern entrance of St. Margaret’s Bay. Built in 1915, the lighthouse is officially known as the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse and today is still operated by the Canadian Coast Guard.
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Peggy’s Cove is located about 40 km southwest of downtown Halifax, about an hour’s drive on Highway 333 or Highway 103. Although only a short distance from downtown Halifax, many people don’t think of Peggy’s Cove as a winter destination, but we're here to tell you that it's well worth a drive out to this iconic attraction to experience a Nova Scotia coastal winter wonderland!
» Directions: Downtown Halifax to Peggy's Cove
Visitors can explore the natural rocky landscape or catch breathtaking views of the scenery from the viewing deck that provides a safe and accessible way for everyone to experience this East Coast icon.
There are plenty of things to do on a visit the beautiful seaside community on a winter's day. Here are 5 great reasons to head out for a winter visit to Peggy’s Cove.
1. There are FAR fewer crowds
Like any popular attraction, you’re bound to run into crowds during the summer months - which is why Peggy’s Cove is great in the winter! You can still enjoy its beauty, but with very few people in attendance.
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2. Peggy's Cove is a photographer’s paradise
Peggy’s Cove and her lighthouse have become iconic Canadian images as one of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada - and maybe the world!
With fewer crowds, photographers are able to get serene shots from a snow-covered perspective, capturing a very different image than those traditionally taken during the high tourist season.
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3. There's nothing quite as Nova Scotian as warming up at Peggy's Cove with a cup of seafood chowder
The Sou'Wester Restaurant and Gift Shop opened in 1967 as a small five-table tearoom at the side of a house at its present location. Since then it has grown large enough to cater thousands of visitors and locals annually.
The restaurant and gift shop are open year-round, so stop in and warm up with a cup of seafood chowder or the soup of the day. If you’re looking for a sweeter treat, their apple crumble is my personal favourite!
4. Enjoy watching the waves roll in
Spending the day watching the waves and exploring around the rocks is always one of my favourite things to do at Peggy’s Cove.
Though it’s important for visitors to exercise extreme caution at all times, especially in the winter as the surging sea waves are never too far away and can be unpredictable. Remember to stay off the black rocks and ice patches – safety first!
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5. It’s lobster season!
Lobster season typically kicks off in the fall and continues until the end of spring, giving you the perfect reason to stop at Peggy's Cove Lobster on your winter visit to the Cove!
Open daily from May through September, this local favourite offers visitors all things lobster - from their world famous lobster roll to live lobsters you can take home for some of the freshest lobster you may ever have!
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