Destination South Shore and Lunenburg

Since the 1600′s, the South Shore of Nova Scotia has been settled by Loyalists, Germans, Acadians, and Montbeliard French, among others. Their heritage, customs, cuisines, costumes, festivals, and dialects add to the South Shore’s uniqueness.Leisurely exploration of the South Shore offers a fascinating day-trip along one of the most scenic coastal drives in the province. New Visitor Information Centres in Tantallon and Hubbards offer a wealth of tourism materials and information to enhance your touring experience.

After a delightful breakfast at your accommodation site, follow the postcard-perfect Route 333 West to the intersection with Highway 3, and then head southwest towards Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At Hubbards take Route 329 around the lovely Aspotogan Peninsula. Enroute drop in to visit the Century House Pottery Gallery in Blandford, where you’ll find one of the finest displays of beautiful and imaginative pottery in the province.

                          

Further along the shore, the picturesque village of Chester is said to be the sailing capital of Nova Scotia, with its famous Chester Race Week held annually in August. The village of Chester deserves some time. Hug the shoreline as you drive or walk through and enjoy lovely views over the Front and Back Harbour. Chester Theatre productions provide fine entertainment throughout the season. Rejoining Highway 3 you will shortly reach Oak Island, site of one of the world’s greatest buried-treasure mysteries.  Entering the lovely town of Mahone Bay, you will see why the three harbour-side churches create one of the most photographed scenes in the region. Mahone Bay is definitely a walk-about town, full of craft shops, art galleries, and antique shops. It is also the home of Suttles and Seawinds – originally an NS cottage industry that is now world-famous for its distinctive merchandise, with specialty shops in Canada and the U.S.

From Mahone Bay follow scenic Route 324 to Lunenburg, but just before entering Lunenburg, turn left to visit Blue Rocks, a working fishing village, and one of the most picturesque in the province. It’s just ten minutes away from the Lunenburg turn-off, and well worth the little detour.
              
After leaving Blue Rocks you will return to the town of Lunenburg. Old Town Lunenburg is the finest example of British colonial settlement in North America, and the reason it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunenburg is the home harbour of the world-renowned fishing schooner Bluenose and also the home of the Nova Scotia Fisheries Museum – a must to visit! Lunenburg is a great walk-about town with much to capture your interest. 

Some suggested eating stops: In Mahone Bay, the Innlet Café has very good food and a harbour-view setting. In Chester Basin, the Sea Chanty is noted for its seafood. In Lunenburg, a local favourite for lunch is Magnolia’s Grill – a small café with an interesting menu. For dinner, consider the Lion Inn – lamb-lovers will find their rack of lamb is excellent. (At Lunenburg you are about one hour and a quarter’s drive from Havenside Bed and Breakfast.)

                            

 

 

 

 If time permits, you may wish to leave Lunenburg by Route 332 for Riverport, and drive along the beautiful LaHave River to reach Hwy 103.

http://www.peggyscovearea.com/daytrips/index.cfm?id=50

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