Come Explore the Bluenose Coast

Begin Your Exploration

Picture yourself standing atop ancient granite outcroppings. The roar of the ocean fills the air as powerful surf thrashes against the rocks below. You look to your right and see the iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse; a symbol that has welcomed sailors and seafarers for more than 140 years now welcomes you to the Bluenose Coast. You close your eyes and inhale the salty sea air, when you open them the world around you has changed. The massive granite outcroppings and thrashing ocean have transformed into a calm, sparkling bay. Facing you from across the bay stand three majestic churches, a picture of which would be recognized around the world. These churches do not stand silently, the sound of music pervades the air; a summertime concert is underway.

However, the sound of music is not the only thing in the air, you take a deep breath and the smell of freshly cooked seafood chowder reaches your nose. The flavours of scallops, mussels, lobster and haddock from the morning catch combine in the pot of a talented chef to produce a taste that is unlike anything you’ve ever had before. After a good meal of seafood chowder, you sit back and have a peaceful nap. You awaken to the sounds of horses hooves on the ground and the chiming of cowbells. It’s as if you’ve been transported back in time to the year 1817, the year that Captain William Ross first settled in New Ross. You find yourself sitting on a horse drawn carriage watching as the farmers at Ross Farm Museum use oxen to plough the fields to plant their crops. You realize what life was like for our forefathers when you find yourself making horse shoes in the blacksmith shop, witnessing a barrel being created in the cooper shop, and even milking a cow. This is simply a taste of what the Bluenose Coast has to offer.
 

What is the Bluenose Coast?

Embracing both coast and country, the Bluenose Coast offers an eclectic array of activities and experiences. Learn how to kayak, fine-tune your golfing skills, delight in some of the best sailing in the world or go scuba diving. Enjoy a selection of boat tours, relax on one of the many beaches, or hike amidst some of the most beautiful trail scenery to be found.

The activities offered along the Bluenose Coast are enhanced by the incredible tastes and the intoxicating aromas of the fine cuisine and locally produced wines. Taste some of the best seafood to be found anywhere in the world; savour a steaming bowl of seafood chowder, chow down on the best fish & chips you’ve ever had, or discover maritime cuisine at its finest when you indulge in a lobster supper.

Visit one of the two wineries or the distillery found on the Bluenose Coast. See how the wines and alcohols are produced, have a sip, and take some back home. Experience our rich culture as you take in our festivals and events; shop for gifts during the Father Christmas Festival or treat your ears to one of many musical events in churches, theatres, and by the sea. Take part in our heritage when you visit one of the many museums or economusees that are found along the Bluenose Coast. Learn what life was like for the early settlers of Nova Scotia or watch the artisans at work.

With many quality accommodations to be found in every community, the Bluenose Coast is not just a place to take part in daytime activities, it is a place to stay and enjoy. Start your Bluenose Coast experience by heading to the Lighthouse Route. This scenic highway system that connects all parts of the Bluenose Coast can be reached in less than an hour after leaving the Stanfield International Airport. So what are you waiting for? Explore what the Bluenose Coast has to offer!

The BluenoseII Experience

Do you have a passion for the age of wood, wind and sail? Are you inspired by the majesty and grace of schooners from the age of sail? Then come to Lunenburg this year and experience the restoration of Bluenose II in a rare and intimate way.

She is known as Canada's sailing ambassador and, this year, Bluenose II is being restored along Lunenburg's historic waterfront. During this experience, you will become intimately acquainted with the history of Bluenose II and her predecessor at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic before travelling, by boat, across Lunenburg Harbour to the site of the restoration.

There, you will come ashore, be greeted by a Bluenose II shipwright, outfitted with protective gear and taken on an intimate and personal tour inside the yard where the famous schooner is being restored. During this amazing, in-depth tour inside the construction area, you'll have the opportunity to touch the hull of Bluenose II, all while learning about the intricacies of restoring Bluenose II from a shipwright with a lifetime of boat-building experience.

CLICK HERE for the promotional brochure

CLICK HERE for the video