What to do when visiting the Peggy's Cove Area in Nova Scotia

The Best Places To Eat In The Bay

anne1942 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:03:14 +0000

The Sou’ Wester Restaurant and Gift Shop, located near the famous Peggy’s Cove lighthouse offers a fabulous menu and a two level gift shop. The menu has a wide variety of foods to choose from to keep the entire family satisfied, such as fresh seafood, salads and succulent meats. Be sure to try Sou’ Westers’ flawless creamy sea chowder or homemade gingerbread. 178 Peggy’s Point Road, Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia B3Z 3S2Phone: 902-823-2561 Fax: 902-823-2349 Email: souwester@hfx.eastlink.ca Website: www.peggys-cove.com
	Dee Dee’s Ice Cream is a delightful family operated business specializing in homemade ice cream. Dee Dee’s ice cream is very healthy, made of real fruits and organic extracts and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Find Dee Dee’s Ice Cream in the middle of the famous Peggy’s Cove fishing Village, open 11am to 6pm daily.Tel: (902) 221-6614 E-mail: deedees@ns.sympatico.ca http://deedees.ca/
Tea and Treasures is a cozy, family-run restaurant located in Indian Harbour, on picturesque St. Margarets Bay. Overnight guests can be accommodated in our two-bedroom, fully equipped guest suite. Located near the Swiss Air Memorial, only 45 minutes from the City of Halifax and five minutes from the famous Peggy‘s Cove lighthouse (or 30 minutes walk). Come to stay and drop in for a homecooked dinner, a taste of our gourmet seafood chowder, daily homemade soup or one of our delightful homebaked treats! If you’d rather, simply browse through our giftshop, featuring local handcrafts and fine art 8369 Peggy’s Cove Road Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia Canada B3Z 3R2 Phone/Fax: (902) 823-1908 http://www.tea-treasures.com/ E mail: lcrooks@hfx.eastlink.c a
	Located in Indian Harbour, stop by Ryer and Ryer Lobster Ltd located at 8494 Peggy’s Cove Road. Here one may purchase fresh lobster to take home, or have an employee prepare your chosen lobster on the spot. Ryer and Ryer also offer Dial-A-Lobster, enableling you to have lobster delivered to your locale, at your convenience. 494 Peggy’s Cove Road, Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia B3Z 3P9 Phone: 902-823-1070 Fax: 902-823-2219 Email: ryerretail@eastlink.ca
Travel to the Rhubarb Grill and Café at 8650 Peggy’s Cove Road, Indian Harbour for phenomenal food and great service. At the Rhubarb- they believe that it is better to offer fewer dishes made at very highest quality as opposed to a large menu with mediocre food. With hand selected top quality ingredients, offering plenty of flavor Chef Paul’s kitchen transforms even the simplest dish on the menu into a savory meal to remember.8650 Peggy’s Cove Road, Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia B3Z 3P4 Tollfree: 1-866-823-2160 Phone: 902-823-2160 Fax: 902-823-1282 Email: chefpaulmac@eastlink.ca Website: www.oceanstone.ns.ca
Stop by “From My Nova Scotia Heart” crafts and gift shop for a wide variety of panini’s, soups, ice creams, baked goods and free coffee. From My Nova Scotia Heart features memorabilia from local artists, craftspeople, painters, photographers and writers, open 9am to 6pm 7 days a week, be sure to drop in and bring home a piece of Nova Scotia! 12278 Peggy’s Cove Road Glen Haven Nova Scotia B3Z 2R6 original@eastlink.ca Michelle Mitchelmore Phone 823-1919 Fax 821-3350	The Finer Diner overlooks the lovely Boutliers Cove and serves appetizing home style meals. Enjoy your meal with a South Shore breeze on the covered patio or dine indoors next to lifelike artwork by S. Irwin. Open 8 am to 8 pm, Wednesday to Sunday, stop by The Finer Diner and savor one of the special lobster clubhouse sandwhiches or have a “Three Deck Masterpiece” served with bacon, lettuce, tomato and juicy lobster. 9976 Peggys Cove Road, Hacketts Cove
Shining Waters Marine provides special dinners to compliment their spectacular boat tours. Every Wednesday lobster suppers will be served with a salad bar, rolls, mussels and a 1.5 lb Lobster (steak or chicken may be substituted for lobster upon request) all for just $34.95. In addition to the lobster suppers, there is a different theme dinner offered every Thursday, and brunch every Sunday.Reservations may be made at 902-826-3625. For more information on Shining Waters Marine’s services visit their website at http://www.shiningwaters.ca/Index.html
	For something more casual, Lefty’s Restaurant in Upper Tantallon. Lefty’s is located in the Sobeys Shopping Centre at exit 5 off highway 103, making it the perfect stop along the way to the South Shore. Open 11am to midnight every night of the week, travel to Lefty’s for great prices and fast friendly service. Sobey’s Shopping Centre, Upper Tantallon, Nova Scotia http://leftys.ca/
The Bike and Bean is a new business as of spring 2008, serving as a cafe and bike shop. The shop provides repairs, rentals, sales and accessories. Once a train station, the Bike and Bean sits alongside a bike trail following the currently unused rail line. Only 160 kilometers from Halifax, stop by the Bike and Bean at 5401 St. Margaret’s Bay Road for a quick snack and all your cycling needs. B3Z 2H3
	Oliver Southwood’s Restaurant at Larinda’s Landing is conveniently located on the scenic St. Margaret’s Bay Lighthouse Route, only 30 kilometers from downtown Halifax. Oliver Southwood’s is a casual gallery style restaurant providing some of the highest quality food Nova Scotia has to offer. Whether it is exquisite seafood, flavorful meats or homemade soups and desserts, Oliver Southwood’s has it all! 7532 St. Margaret’s Bay, Boutilier’s Point, Nova Scotia http://www.larindaslanding.com/index.html
The Dauphinee Inn on the gorgeous Hubbards Cove is just 35 minutes from Halifax, Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove. This spectacular Inn is known not only for its great accommodations, but for its award winning dinning as well. The Dauphinee Inn’s menu offers the freshest local seafood, such as creamy chowder, delicious haddock, salmon, hot juicy lobsters, scallops and shrimp. The menu also includes steak, chicken, and a variety of pastas. Now presenting the famous Hot Rock dining, customers can saute their own meals on a slab of granite rock right at the table. 167 Shore Club Road, Hubbards www.dauphineeinn.com
	The Shore Club, originally opened in 1936 has a rich history of packed dancing halls and lobster dinners that have continued to draw a crowd to this day. Since its beginning, the shore club has added to its menu and events, offering an all you can eat salad bar, unlimited fresh mussels steamed in wine and garlic butter, homemade rolls and of course the delectable lobster dinners that have been a part of the Hubbards village culture for so many years. The Shore Club also provides a wide variety of aged wines as well as local and imported beers. For customers not interested in seafood, chicken, steak and vegetarian meals round out the menu. Lobster Suppers are available every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. 250 Shore Club Road, Hubbards www.lobstersupper.com

The Trellis Café on Main Street, Hubbards serves home cooked and baked meals, organic Fair Trade coffees, fine wines, cocktails as well as local and imported beers. Wireless internet is provided along with ample seating for 50 persons indoors and an additional 25 on the patio outdoors. 22 Main Street, Hubbards, Nova Scotia Tel: (902) 857-1188 http://www.trelliscafe.com/

Destination South Shore and Lunenburg

anne1942 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:15:14 +0000

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

The Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area

anne1942 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:07:13 +0000

Welcome to the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area site. For a short video of this unique wonder, please click on the video icon at the end of this page.

Here is a brief look at the history of this unique and unusual area….

There are few who have not heard of the famous Peggy’s Cove Light. Ironically, on their way to see it, most pass by one of the most beautiful, one of the most mystical, most entrancing geological wonders in Canada, the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area.

While Awesome is a word that is sometimes overworked, even that word does not aptly describe the experience one has when one is alone in the presence of these magnificent ancient boulders, scattered, as if by some giant hand, across the thousand acres of the

Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area.

For we soon sense that these old stones have something to tell us. Something about the earth. Something, perhaps, about ourselves. For there are those who think, you see, that stones have spirits. Maybe they do, maybe not. But the feeling of unexplainable awe you get in their presence is unmistakable ….

Their story begins a long time ago … about 10 thousand years, in fact, when a great ice field covered this part of Canada.

It was a huge icefield, stretching for thousands of miles, and it plowed across the land like a giant bulldozer, scraping away everything in its path, picking up boulders that weighed thousands of tons and peeling away all traces of life in its path.

And so for thousands of years, there were here no birds, no plants, no sounds, save for the cracking and grinding of ice, the howling winds and the lonely bark of the occasional sea animal that wandered close to the crashing breakers of our frozen, rocky shore.

And then, strangely, slowly, the great glacier began to melt, and as it did, it left huge boulders, scattered randomly across the land, some weighing many tons … many held up in strange ways by the small stones upon which they landed.

And then … with time … the miraculous began to happen as Mother Nature scattered her seeds – and tiny, primitive plants began to take hold in the cracks and crevices of the old rocks.

First, it was the crusty lichens and their relatives, the tough precursors of life to come, stitching little paths and patterns onto the barren rock ….

And then, the first traces of living green appeared, as various mosses and other small plants took hold wherever they could find a crack in the rocks or a scant supply of necessary nutrients.

At length, and with time, various little ecosystems sprung up: unique and beautiful little natural gardens here and there whose purpose was and is to delight, to play their part in the unfolding drama of life, changing with the seasons and bringing meaning and continuity into the lives of those who pass their way …

And today … today those rocks are still there, alluring, inviting, just as they have been for all those thousands of years, standing sentinel over the rocky coast and the little, private beauty spots that dot the magical land around the little village of

Peggy’s Cove.

Stunning in their majesty, mysterious in their origins, the Old Stone Sentinels of Peggy’s Cove will, with their comforting presence and quiet majesty, bid you stay awhile, and draw sustenance from the constsncy of their ancient, mystical presence.

You are welcome to come, relax, and reconnect to the wonder of the natural world.

The Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area is always open! Always waiting!

Just as it has for millions of years….

This wonderful site on the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area has been developed by Mr. Ron McInnis of Oceanstone Inn and Cottages of Indian Harbour. We have included this information with his permission.

http://www.peggyscovearea.com/daytrips/index.cfm?id=49

DESTINATION PEGGYS COVE COASTAL REGION

anne1942 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:57:09 +0000

The entire St. Margaret’s Bay area is a beautiful destination in itself. Route 333 takes you through a timeless and beautiful landscape to Peggy’s Cove, a world-renowned mecca for visitors. Short side-trips into Terence Bay and Prospect reveal picturesque working fishing villages and grand ocean vistas. The villages of Shad Bay, East Dover, and West Dover are a photographer’s delight. This stark rock-strewn landscape marks the entrance into Peggy’s Cove, the most famous fishing village in the world. Invest some time in leisurely exploration of this picturesque coastline.

Perhaps the single most photographed tourist destination in Nova Scotia; photographers rank it as a 10 out of 10 for photographic opportunities. In addition to the spectacular scenery, visitors may enjoy whale-watching and deep-sea fishing charters, leaving from the cove itself.

Route 333 meanders past the famous Peggy’s Cove through a series of sheltered villages along the eastern shore of St. Margaret’s Bay. The picturesque fishing villages of Terence Bay and Prospect are treasures not to be overlooked.The SS Atlantic Heritage Interpretation Park in Terence Bay is a memorial to the worst single vessel marine disaster to occur off the Canadian coast prior to the sinking of the Titanic. In 1873 the luxury steamship S.S. Atlantic ran aground off the shores of Mar’s Head, Lower Prospect resulting in a loss of 562 lives. The site includes a seaside walking trail, a monument to the victims and an interpretation centre.

This winding route is one of the most scenic drives in Nova Scotia. The terrain slowly changes from the rugged barren granite of the headlands to pastoral woods that roll gently down to the waters of St. Margaret’s Bay.

Indeed the whole region is a delight, especially for those visitors who take the time to smell the roses! The scenic Lighthouse Route, which embraces the entire St. Margaret’s Bay, continues around the stunning Aspotogan Peninsula with its breath-taking island views and ocean vistas, and unique and special communities like Hubbards, Bayswater, and Blandford.

For visitors interested in a lobster feast, restaurants in this region offer delicious seafood dinners, after all, we are the provincial centre of lobster dining at it’s best. Also located within our region is several fine lobster pounds where cooked lobsters may be purchased for a picnic supper; lobsters may also be purchased and packed at the pound for shipment.

For golfers, five excellent golf courses are located within an easy and scenic drive from the Peggy’s Cove Coastal region; the newest one at Glen Arbour is rated one of the top courses in Canada, and the photograph below shows the Club House at the Granite Springs Golf Course.

http://www.peggyscovearea.com/daytrips/index.cfm?id=48

Shop The Bay

anne1942 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:49:42 +0000

Begin your day at Nova Scotia’s famed Peggy’s Cove. This historic fishing village, built on stone, is filled with gift shops containing one of a kind South Shore crafts and artwork. The sound of the sea will lure toward the lighthouse where you will experience a panoramic oceanside view like no other.

Be sure to stop by the Beales’ Bailiwick Company for original fashions, arts and crafts from all across Canada. Sit outside for a great view of the Peggy’s Cove fishing village and enjoy a freshly brewed organic coffee or dessert at Beales’ Bailiwicks Espresso On Deck.
124 Peggy’s Point Road,
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotiawww.beales.ns.ca

The Sou’ Wester Restaurant and Gift Shop, located near the famous Peggy’s Cove lighthouse offers a fabulous menu and a two level gift shop. There is a widespread variety of souvenirs in every price range, such as ceramics, crystal, bone china, pewter and brassware household and kitchen items, tartan kilts and clothing .Here you will also find a large assortment of art and crafts, as well as local music and literature. 178 Peggy’s Point Road,
Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
B3Z 3S2
Phone: 902-823-2561
Email: souwester@hfx.eastlink.ca
Website: www.peggys-cove.com

Located a short distance from Peggy’s Cove is the friendly Tea & Treasures gift shop in Indian Harbour.This quaint wheel chair accessible restaurant and gift shop specializes in delicious home style cooking and local art and handcrafts. 8369 Peggy’s Cove Road,
Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia
B3Z 3R2
Phone: 902-823-1908
Email: lcrooks@hfx.eastlink.ca
Website: www.tea-treasures.com

After you leave Peggy’s Cove be sure to stop in Glen Margaret at Ivan Fraser’s “Peggy of the Cove”.
The origin of the name “Peggy’s Cove” begins with the tale of a young woman who washed up on the granite shore of the cove. On a stormy night in October, a schooner struck ground at Halibut’s Rock. Many lives were lost except for the lone survivor; Margaret. As word spread of the miracle survivor Margaret, she acquired the name “Peggy of the Cove”, eventually over the years the entire fishing village took on the name Peggy’s Cove.

Ivan Fraser, author of “Peggy of the Cove” has created a museum and shop where you can buy various Peggy memorabilia such as clothing, music, artwork, dolls and several Peggy’s of the Cove Novels.

Ivan Fraser
10236 Peggy’s Cove Road
Glen Margaret, Nova Scotia
B3Z 3J1
1-888-524-2252
902-823-2883
ivanfraser@peggycove.net
www.peggycove.net

Jim Darley displays his fabulous artwork at the Cove Gallery located in Seabright. Jim originally began carving wood in 1971 while living in Seabright , his sculptures feature wood and smooth beach stones. The astonishing pieces all share the organic theme of enclosure, holding and embracing nature’s elements.

20 Irwin Hubley Road
Seabright, Nova Scotia

http://www.covegallery.ca/cove.html

Continue your adventure with a visit to the first and only Economusee in the Peggy’s Cove area; The Bay Hammock Company, located at 11452 Peggy’s Cove Road in Seabright. Watch extremely talented local artisans weave hammocks live in the open work shop. All hammocks are hand-made and made of only the finest rope. They make 3 different types of rope directly in the work shop; nylon, olefin, and a rope they call EarthFriendly – the fibre is made from recycled plastic bottles. All rope is treated for mildew and UV protection & custom sizes are available at request for no extra charge. Hammocks can be shipped anywhere in North America for the travelers convenience.

11452 Peggy’s Cove Road,
Seabright, Nova Scotia
B3Z 2Z2

Tollfree: 1-888-820-3045
Phone: 902-820-3045
Fax: 902-820-3038
Email: bayhammocks@eastlink.ca
Website: www.bayhammocks.com


Next one could treat your eye to a visit at Albert’s Wharf Gallery in French Village, a short drive from Seabright along the Peggy’s Cove Road. All watercolour paintings are done by the talented Neil Depew, with a unique Maritime style. The Gallery was originally an old fishing shack where Albert Burchell sold fish to the public.The cozy small shack has a gorgeous view of the St. Margaret’s Bay and a vintage stone fireplace. 10369 Peggy’s Cove rd. Glen Margaret, Nova Scotia B3Z 3H1 http://www.neildepew.com/index.php

	”From My Nova Scotia Heart ” exhibits and offers for sale the works of the very best of local talented craftspeople, artists, painters, photographers, writers and manufactures. The shop has a cozy and inviting atmosphere and offers free coffee for visitors while they browse. From My Nova Scotia Heart ships worldwide, perfect for visitors with little luggage space to spare. Located at 12278 Peggy’s Cove Road &now open 7 days a week from 9:00AM – 6:00PM, stop by and bring home a treasure from Nova Scotia.12278 Peggy’s Cove Road Glen Haven, Nova Scotia B3Z 2R6 original@eastlink.ca Phone 823-1919

Continue along the Peggy’s Cove Road to Tantallon .There you will find The Teddy Bear Quilt Shop, situated at 72 Whynacht’s Point Road. This shop offers over 100 large bed size quilts, and baby quilts. Most are quilted by hand, although some are machine quilted. This is a great stop for anyone interested in purchasing a quilt or for one who is interested in the historic process of crafting a quilt.
	Teddy Bear Quilts also have smaller bed quilts, aprons, bags, purses, casserole carriers, candles, wall hangings, cross stitch, sofa quilts, baby quilts and many other gift items. All quilts are handmade by very talented Nova Scotians who have years of experience and expertise in quilting. 72 Whynacht’s Point Road, Tantallon, Nova Scotia B3Z 2K9Phone: 902-826-7960 Fax: 902-826-9525 Email: tbetts@hfx.eastlink.ca Website: users.hfx.eastlink.ca/~teddybearbnb
Looking for an original rug? Visit Heirloom Rugs while in Tantallon, located at 12577 Peggy’s Cove Rd. Heirloom Rugs now uses “factory to you” fabrics of a cotton/polyester blend which are machine washable and dryer safe. It is sold on spools from 2″ – 4″ wide and up to 250 yards in length.12577 Peggy’s Cove Rd, Tantallon, Nova Scotia B3Z 2M6Phone: (902)826-1793
For an authentic taste of Nova Scotia, a visit to Acadian Maple Products is a must. They produce sugar, candy, wild blueberry, cranberry, honey maple BBQ sauce, maple coffee and their specialty, Acadian maple syrup. Originally Acadian Maple Products made all goods sold in their shop but more recently they have expanded to buy locally made maple syrups from manufactures’ all across Nova Scotia. 13578 Peggy’s Cove Road, Upper Tantallonwww.acadianmaple.com	At the light turn right from Peggy’s Cove Road onto The St Margaret’s Bay Road and travel along to Lola’s Landing on Main Street, in the village of Hubbards. Lola’s Landing offers a wide variety of merchandise such as jewelry, purses, clothing, accessories, garden accents, giftware, local art, Nova Scotia made soy candles, organic soap, beauty supplies, fair trade products and Canadian kitchen items, just to name a few. Main Street, Hubbards, (902)858-5652,
Here on a weekend? Be sure to make it to the Hubbards Farmers Market open each Saturday from 8 a.m. – 12 noon, and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Located in the heart of Hubbards Village, #57 Hwy. 3 Hubbards, Nova Scotia (902) 229-1717 http://www.hubbardsfarmersmarket.com/

As you can see, the shopping in St. Margaret’s Bay is both unique and diverse. There is a treasure for everyone to take home and remember their Nova Scotia visit.

St. Margaret’s Bay Mountain Biking

anne1942 — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:32:53 +0000

Nova Scotia has one of the worlds most unique and diverse landscapes. With 4500 miles of Atlantic coast, there are plenty of sites to been seen and explored. The Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route is an exceptionally scenic road which often follows the ocean, spanning from Halifax to Yarmouth. St. Margaret’s Bay is the perfect coastal get-away, full of perfect white sand beaches, old fashioned fishing villages, secluded inns, antique shops, ocean views and fabulous mountain biking.

The Bike & Bean is a bike and café shop located at 5401 St. Margaret’s Bay Road in Tantallon, Nova Scotia. Their menu includes gourmet coffee, organic teas, muffins, homemade soups, sweet and delicious paninis. Originally a train station, the Bike and Bean has been in operation since the spring of 2008. It is located alongside a bike trail that follows the path of a now defunct rail line called the Rails to Trails. Information and a map of the Rails to Trails route may be seen at http://www.halifax.ca/recreation/documents/SMBRailsToTrails.pdf. From the Bike and Bean you can choose to either travel southwest towards Hubbards or east towards Halifax on the Rails to Rails route. The Bike and Bean is also a well stocked bike store which sells bikes and bike paraphernalia, provides repairs, as well as bicycle, tandem bicycle and trailer rentals.

The Aspotogan Peninsula has a picturesque coastline with several short hills. Highway 329 hugs the water along the entire peninsula, passing through the quaint fishing villages of Northwest Cove and Aspotogan. An old whaling warehouse is visible on the cove of New Harbour, just a short detour off Highway 329, and on a clear day the famous Peggy’s Cove lighthouse is visible from Bayswater beach on the opposite corner of the St. Margaret’s Bay. The western side of the Aspotogan Peninsula provides magnificent views of the Tancook Islands and ends at the East River beach.

The Following website highlights trails all over North America, with maps, information and detailed descriptions of trails: http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=13740

Randy Gray’s booklet “Mountain Bike Trails for Halifax and Vicinity” details trails in the Greater Halifax area. His booklet is available at most Halifax bike stores.

Shad Bay Trail

Shad Bay Trail is a short 10km (6mile), located Southwest of Halifax, toward Peggy’s Cove. Ignore the first branch to the right and carefully travel through an area of exposed rocks and roots. It is an out and back style trail on a rocky road with small hills. Shad Bay is your typical mountain biking trail with mud, roots and rocks, but it can be managed by most riders. The forested trail ends at Holmar Marsh Lake, perfect for a quick swim or some relaxing fishing.

This trail is perfect for beginners, with hills that are long enough to be a challenge for the average rider, but not overly exhausting. Crossing the bog to the left at the beginning of the trail, you will notice wood strategically laid to allow you to cross the swamp area. At the end of your second climb you will have reached an elevation of 70m (230 feet), the trail will become smooth with less rocks and a less densely forested landscape. From here you will begin your decent to Holmar Marsh Lake. This path is gradual but has several small boulders and areas of exposed rock.

Riding seasons are the driest during July and August, but Shad Bay is open from June to October. On the outbound trip a rider will gain 100 m (328 feet) in elevation, the total elevation will be 240 m(787 feet).

Directions: To find the trail from Halifax, take the St. Margaret’s Bay Road exit from the Armdale Rotary. You will travel past Teddy’s Motor Inn and a Green Gables convenience store. Be sure to follow signs for Peggy’s Cove and take the first exit bearing left on Highway 333, continue until you reach Shad Bay. Shortly before Shad Bay, you will see signs for the Osprey Archery Club on the right side of the road. There is a parking lot located farther down the road at the entrance of the trail.

http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=BGC022-083

The Wrandees Trail

The Wrandees is an advanced 10km (6mile) trail of many interconnecting loops. Even short steep climbs are challenging on this trail. The Wrandees is well known in Halifax for its extreme single track terrain. The trail has not been cut, but worn in by use over the years, trademark parts of the trail are the infamous boulder drop-off, Tracy’s ACL Corner, and a section of the trail named “Warranty Claim”. At some trail junctions you may find arrows indicating which trails travel deeper into the forest (“in loop”), and which trails provide an exit (“out loop”). Although there are approximately 10km (6miles) of trails, this is very difficult terrain and will take over three hours to ride all terrain.

The deeper into the trail you travel, the more difficult the terrain will be, therefore you can begin with the outer, less difficult trails and work your way deeper as you feel comfortable. The trails also cover a reasonably small portion of land between St. Margaret’s Bay Road and Long Lake, so it is almost impossible to get lost. The Trail will be in great shape from June to September, it is a challenging and dangerous trail with lots of drop-offs and jagged rocks.

To find a map of the Wrandees Trail, look at the government topographic map for Halifax, areas 11 D/12, or Randy Gray’s Mountain Bike Trails for Halifax and Vicinity Booklet, which is available at most bike shops in Halifax.

Directions: Wrandees is located off Highway 3 (St. Margaret’s Bay Road), from the Armdale Rotary follow signs for Highway 3, or Bay road. You will drive past Teddy’s Motor Inn and a Green Gables convenience store, continue straight through a residential area, across Northwest Arm Drive, and through a set of traffic lights. Just beyond a “Welcome to Halifax” sign with a Citadel clock on it, turn into a small gravel lot on the left side of the road, just before the turnoff for Peggy’s Cove, which is Route 333. The gravel lot will be located across from a small sign for Exhibition Park. From the parking area, ride down a short slope and cross a shallow stream coming out of a culvert that goes beneath St. Margaret’s Bay Road.

This trail will connect you to a double-track trail heading South, away from the main road. You will ride only a few meters along the double-track before turning left onto a single track trail heading into the woods. A short distance into the trail you will come across a small sign saying “Welcome to a biking and hiking trail built by cyclists for everyone”. Continue past this sign to a fork in the trail, there will be another sign here indicating it is a provincial park, keep to the main trail as it bends to the left. Bear right across the rock, and down the face of a boulder to reach a four-way intersection of trails. Turn right to being the lower loop of this section, referred to as “The Rose Garden”. This trail is well marked and you will be able to follow a series a signs to easily navigate farther or closer to The St. Margaret’s Bay Road. On the way out you will come to a T junction with the St. Margaret’s Bay Road, turn left to return to the trail head and parking area.

http://www.trails.com/trailguide.aspx?trailid=BGC022-084

http://www.bikerag.com/mountain%20bike%20trail%20reviews.htm

Lakes Loop Trail

Lakes Loop is a 25km (15-mile) intermediate trail beginning on Anderson Road Trail that connects with the French Village and other trails in the Halifax area. Lakes Loop is a very long trail that passes through a variety of terrain such as wooded forest and lake areas, clear-cuts, and strip malls. Frequent climbing and technical terrain make this a challenging ride that is best suited for intermediate riders with a good fitness level. Riding on Lakes loop is not recommended until early July through to October.

Directions: From Halifax, take Bayers Road to Highway 102. Travel North on highway 102 to exit 3B, signed for Route 213 West, or Hammons Plains Road. Follow the exit ramp around to the right, and cross beneath the highway. Continuing on Hammonds Plains Road, you pass through several residential areas. Just before a pizza restaurant, bear right onto the Upper Hammons Plains Road. You will pass the Emmanuel Baptist Church of Upper Hammons Plains and the town community centre on the right. A Short distance farther, turn left onto Anderson Road. As you descend, you will pass the community cemetery on the left. A short distance farther the pavement ends. Park in the gravel area at the end of the pavement.

The trail has many small protruding boulders, which deteriorate to sections of loose rock. A short distance from the beginning of the trail you will descend to an eroded section of road before it flattens and curves to the right. You will be able to see Cooper lake will to the left, but it will become more visible as you approach the first fork. Turn left at the fork, on a grassy trail that travels parallel to the lake. You will come to a small plank bridge over a stream and then climb a rocky slope.

Farther along the trail, you will come to a Y intersection with an ATV track to the left and an old road to the right, take the right branch following the old road. A short distance down the trail you will come to another Y intersection, turn left this time to continue along the old road; the trail is indistinct and will come to an abrupt end. After bearing left, you will descend a rocky gully to cross a culvert at the bottom of a slope before climbing a short hill. At the top of this trail you will follow a descent and cross an old log bridge over a small brook.

The trail levels out for a short distance and curves to the right through an open sandy area, beyond this you will be faced with a moderate climb into a more forested area. Next, you will arrive at “Gadget Hill”, a short but very steep hill with large protruding boulders. A short distance away you will arrive at a T junction, turn left to descend to the end of the Anderson Road trail. At the bottom of this gravel hill you will approach a gated fence which you must squeeze past through a narrow opening. You will come to a four-way intersection with a paved road, continue straight and ride through a paved lot behind a large Sobey’s building. Make your way toward the transmission lines behind the shopping area, there will be an extremely steep hill leading to a trail beneath the lines.

When you reach the top of the hill, bear left. You will descend a short hill and cross a large puddle before climbing an embankment to Highway 103. Disregard the short paved stretch through the shopping development. You are now traveling on the portion of the trail that follows the French Village Trail. Descend the embankment under the transmission line, and follow the trail as it climbs a short hill where a large boulder sits. Continuing under the transmission lines you will ride through a series of descents and climbs. Turn left when you come to a grassy area and ride through a rock garden to reach a T junction, turn right onto a gravel road. Continue along the gravel road over two railway bridges, this will bring you to another T junction, where you will again turn right on a gravel road.

You will pass Mill Lake, a small dam, and a gatehouse on the right. Bear right on over a small bridge and continue to another intersection with Highway 103. Cross the road with extreme caution and reconnect with the Bowater logging road on the other side, travel until you come to a sign for “The Old Annapolis Road Hiking Trail”.

Beyond this sign you will pass through an orange gate, continue along the main logging road, ignoring any offshoots. You will pass Little Indian Lake on the left, then cross beneath a transmission line and passing a dirt trail on the right, you will come to a fork in the road. To the left, the Old Annapolis Road Hiking Trail begins beyond a metal gate; keep right. You will cross a small bridge over a white pipe, still on the main logging road, you will pass many side trails on the left and right.

The portion of the ride follows a long, rolling stretch of road. After the first hill you will descend to a scenic point overlooking Sandy Lake. Continue straight, gradually to the crest of another small hill and passing a logging road on the right. Eventually you will ride past a very large, recently dynamited gravel pit on the right. A short distance beyond this you will need to turn right on an ATV track on the right-hand side. This trail should be fairly distinct and will lead you back to the Upper Hammonds Plains Road.

After traveling along the ATV trail you will travel over logs laid by the ATV community, and pass by Wright’s Lake on the right side. Continue along the ATV track which will curve sharply to the left, passing by what appears to be an old apple orchard. They trail nears Clay Lake on the left and then crosses beneath a power line. The trail will widen and closely follow Wrights Lake which will be to your right. Re-entering the woods there will be a bog on the left, then a rocky climb and a final puddle to pass through. The trail continues to a bridge over the Pockwock River and you will pass a double-track trail with a “No Trespassing” sign on the left. The final climb will bring you to a T junction with Upper Hammonds Plains Road, turn right on the paved road. To return to the parking area, turn right onto Anderson Road.

http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=BGC022-082

Nova Scotia proudly presents Free Wheeling Adventures, offering Bicycle tours, sea-kayak paddling trips, and multi-sport adventures. Free Wheeling Adventures is located in Hubbards, Nova Scotia and provides guided or self guided tours. Many of the tours and multi-sport tours are accommodating for persons of all ability levels, thanks to great tour guides, small group sizes and motor vehicle support. All tours are followed by vans containing spare equipment, delectable foods, first aid equipment and trained guides to ensure a pleasant day for all participants.

Free Wheeling Adventures also organizes spectacular sea-kayaking rentals and lessons on the scenic St. Margaret’s Bay. For reservations call Free Wheeling Adventures at 902-857-3600, or visit their website at www.freewheeling.ca

http://www.peggyscovearea.com/daytrips/index.cfm?id=90

The Ten St. Margaret’s Bay Beaches

anne1942 — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:01:48 +0000

The gorgeous South Shore of Nova Scotia is blessed to have a large number of pristine white sand beaches scattered amongst its Atlantic Ocean coastline. Ten of the most perfect Atlantic beaches are located all within a short drive from each other, ranging between East River on the Aspotogan Peninsula, and Tantallon (exit 5, highway 3).

After taking exit 5 from highway 103 in Tantallon, the first of the ten beaches you will come across while traveling Southwest on Highway 3 is Black Point Beach. This beach may not be ideal for the traveler looking to lay back and enjoy the sun due to the rocks scattered along the shore. However, Black Point has a spectacular coast with an abundance of marine life, providing incredible snorkeling and scuba diving.

The next beach along the Lighthouse route is the pretty Cleveland Beach, a very popular beach for swimmers. There is plenty of parking, picnic areas and walkways for the whole family to enjoy. Cleveland is most notably known as the location for the 2001 Kevin Spacey film, The Shipping News. The scene showed a house being blown across a lagoon during a violent Nova Scotia winter storm.

The Puddle is the smallest of the ten beaches, only spanning 100 feet in length. The name originates from the small lake named the puddle, which is connected to the beach by a tiny river. Warm waters, small surf and plenty of picnic tables make The Puddle a very family friendly beach.

Whynacht’s Beach is similar in appearance to the other two beaches located in Queensland, each possessing fine white sand and fresh water lagoons. Whynachts is unique in its own way however. During the winter months, Whynacht’s Beach loses all its sand which is swept away by the crashing waves, but every spring the sand returns to the shore restoring it back to its original state. Whynacht’s Beach and Virginia Beach are the only two beaches in North America where the waves come directly, straight-on to the shore.

Queensland Beach is possibly one of the most popular beaches in all of Nova Scotia, with a stunning 500 meter shoreline (200 meters supervised). Queensland offers generally safe swimming with no rip tides or currents, but often has large “dumping” waves near the shore due to the steep slope of the beach. The area of the beach that is lifeguard supervised is marked off by two red and yellow flags on shore, and two red buoys in the ocean. Queensland is located at GPS – 44°38’07″N, 64°01’34″, and only 2.19 km from Hubbards.

Hubbards Beach is breathtakingly beautiful white sand beach, hidden away on the Hubbards Cove. Water temperatures have traditionally been higher at Hubbards due to its location, nestled deep in the cove of St. Margaret’s Bay. The beach is privately owned and maintained, ensuring a clean kept beach with changing rooms, washroom facilities and ample parking. During the summer months a large raft is anchored in the middle of the beach for swimmers to enjoy. For a small fee you may enjoy this picture perfect private beach located off highway 3, at the end of the Shore Club Road: GPS – 44°38’34″N, 64°03’06″W.

Fox Point can be found on the St. Margaret’s Bay Side of the Aspotogan Peninsula. This beach is well known for its great swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling due to its steep shore line. To get there, simply take exit 6 on Highway 103, turn left onto Highway 3, Left to Hubbards, and then turn right at the Hubbards Visitor Information Centre at 10 Pte. Richard Green Lane. Be sure to stop into the Hubbards VIC if you have any questions. GPS: 44.5982290”N, -64.0619660”W.

Mill Cove is the next stop along the Aspotogan Peninsula and this gorgeous, clean beach will not disappoint. Due to its location, Mill Cove is one of the sunniest areas on the Aspotogan. It is a small sand and pebbled beach, found just off the highway 339.

Bayswater Beach is a lovely public beach located on the crest of the Aspotogan Peninsula on the west side of Highway 329. Generally water temperatures are lower because of Bayswater’s location far out on the Atlantic Ocean. There is a Swiss Air Memorial directly behind Bayswater Beach, this memorial is one of two dedicated to those who lost their lives in the tragic airplane crash on September 2, 1998 on Swiss Air Flight 111. Bayswater is located at 44°29’58″N, 64°04’30″W.

East River is the last stop of the ten St. Margaret’s Bay beaches, it is a sand beach with lots of parking and picnic tables. East River beach is located at 44°35’11″N, 64°09’59″W, exactly 7.4 km from the village of Chester.

As you can see each of these breathtaking beaches is unique in its own way, all within an easy drive from one another. There is a different type of beach for everyone, and all under an hour away from the city. Be sure to make the South Shore your number one destination!

http://www.tenbeaches.com/beaches.cfm

South Shore Bouldering

anne1942 — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:14:51 +0000

Nova Scotia has an extremely unique landscape with a vast variety of terrain, all within a short drive. The land has been scraped and molded by the migration of massive glaciers thousands of years ago, tearing away large rocks and virtually all vegetation and topsoil. Left behind were enormous boulders, called glacier erratics and granite shores.

WARNING: Please explore and climb with extreme caution. Injury and death have resulted from bouldering.

The world famous Peggy’s Cove offers some of the best bouldering in Nova Scotia. Boulders, some weighing tones are scattered all along the coast as if they were conveniently placed on top of one another. Approximately 750, 000 people visit Peggy’s Cove each year, however there are miles to explore and solitary climbing is not hard to come by. Of the thousands that visit, few venture to the geological paradise of the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area. Everywhere you travel there will be areas to climb, please chose your climbing difficulty according to your physical abilities.

Dover Island is home to the annual “Boulderfest” held every June, visit http://www.climbnovascotia.ca/about.html for more information on the Boulderfest. East and West Dover are separated by the McGrath Cove, and accessible from Highway 333 – The Lighthouse Route. There is a wide range of terrain from beginner to expert, depending on where you travel. Here is a great blog showcasing some of the terrain offered in Dover : http://boulderingnovascotia.blogspot.com/search/label/dover%20island

Terrance Bay is home to more advanced bouldering, mostly V4 and above, however intermediate terrain is also available in the area. Terrance Bay is located off Highway 333, between Peggy’s Cove and Halifax. Terrance Bay is home to the SS. Atlantic tragedy and has one of the most spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean in all of Nova Scotia, making this site certainly worth the drive.

or a list of detailed directions and descriptions of specific boulders refer to the following website: http://members.tripod.com/novascotiaclimb/crag_info.html

The following are links that may be of interest:

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=EZp_3FMeHXo - Dover bouldering

http://cruxphoto.wordpress.com/2007/06/08/nova-scotia-trip-report/

http://boulderingnovascotia.blogspot.com/search/label/dover%20island

http://www.oceanstone.ns.ca/preservationarea/

Spend A Day On Peggy’s Cove

anne1942 — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 14:21:10 +0000

Peggy’s Cove Village (population 76), is home to the well known Peggy’s Cove Light. The quaint fishing village has miles to explore its charming character, tiny coves and galleries. Many lives have been lost in Nova Scotia to the vast unforgiving Atlantic Ocean. Please venture with caution when traveling along the slick ocean side rock.

On your way to the Cove, you will notice the thousand acre Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area Glaciers shaped the land thousands of years ago, ancient boulders, some weighing many tons, are scattered along the coast.For those who love and respect the earth, and who wish to experience the connection between themselves and the Oneness of all Things, a quiet visit to this area is a must.

Peggy’s Cove still functions as a working community in which fishing at sea in sturdy Cape Island boats still is a major source of income. The Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse has been guiding these small boats back to the safety of the harbour for many years. Peggy’s Cove is a photographer’s paradise , and offers some of the worlds most spectacular views of the ocean.

William DeGarthe displays his masterful seascape creations in Peggy’s Coves’ DeGarthe Museum. William’s natural ability to capture the essence of Nova Scotia Ocean on canvas and rock is a rare talent and everyone is certain to enjoy this museum. Be sure to stop by Jo Beal’s Gallery for an astonishing collection of artwork by local artists as well.

For those interested in traveling the Atlantic, Deep Sea Fishing boats are available for hire. you may also rent a sailboat or motorboat and explore at your own will. The ocean in its many moods is breathtaking, and these boats can take you to places where you will see the ocean at its purest bounty. Oceanstone Inn will provide specific suggestions if you wish.

In the centre of this picture is Murray’s Wharf, where you can settle into the rhythms of the Cove and enjoy fresh caught lobster.

Whale watching tours depart from Peffy’s Cove every day. Travellers may see puffins (rare birds that nest on the East coast of Nova Scotia), sea turtles, sunfish, sharks, dolphins and a host of marine life. Oceanstone Inn can prearrange trips, but it is advised that you do not book in advance to ensure favorable viewing conditions and convenient scheduling

On your way home to Oceanstone from Peggy’s Cove and the Preservation Area, drive slowly or stop in Indian Harbour, the quaint fishing village on the ocean has remained virtually the same for over a century. The little fish stores and wharves still stand on spindly legs that somehow, against all odds, have weathered a century of destructive Atlantic storms. The local people are friendly and are always pleased to answer questions. The centre of the little village is within easy walking distance of our place.

Fresh lobster dinners are avaliable at the Wharfside in Indian Harbour, as well as at Oceanstone Inn and Cottages, the perfect seafood dinner to finish off your day on Peggy’s Cove.

Information from Oceanstone Inn & cottages. http://www.oceanstone.ns.ca/index.html

Spend A Day on the Bay!

anne1942 — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:26:27 +0000

For a great day on the water start your visit at Shining Waters Marina on Peggy’s Cove Road (highway #333) http://www.shiningwaters,ca/

in Tantallon. #1 on the map above.

Paddling and Porpoises – The Shut In Island Adventure with Sea Sun Kayak Adventures:

Join us for a pleasant 3 hour paddle to explore the largest and least visited island in Saint Margaret’s Bay. Paddling North through the active fishing villages of Indian Harbour(#3) and Modesty Cove(#2), your destination, Shut In Island, looms before you, mist shrouded and mysterious,

Local lore tells of pirates, ghosts and buried treasure hidden in one of its many caves. Believe what you will of the old tales, one thing is certain; there is a treasure on the island. But this treasure won’t be found buried deep in one of the many caves or hidden in a dark hollow. It can be found at the top of the island where, on a clear day, a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire St Margaret’s Bay and Peggy’s Cve area awaits the committed treasure hunter. This is the Ultimate desination of your Shut In Island adventure and Oceanstone Inn’s EcoConcierge (#4), Eben Fry, will be pleased to guide you there.

There is more to this trip than the awe insiring view, Eben will also share information about the native flora and fauna which flourish along Shut In’s shores and pristine waters. Porpoises, whales, osprey, bald eagles, deer, mink and sunfish are often spotted on this trip, so be sure to keep a close watch! Your shut In Island adventure includes:

Kayaks and all necessary equipment
Basic instruction in kayaking and safety briefing
Guide
Bottled water and nutritious snacks

Dates: See web site for dates
Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 plus tax per person. There is minimum of two people and a maximum of four people on this trip. Trip available Monday-Friday in July-October.

For more tours and booking information visit Sun Sea Kayak Adventures at: http://www.paddlenovascotia.com/

If you prefer to let someone else do all the work here are a couple of options from Four Winds Charters who also sail out of Shining Waters Marina:

Scenic Water Tours:

$25.00 per adult, $20.00 per child (6 to 12 yr.) under six free.

A two-hour cruise of the coves. Nestled between Peggy’s Cove and the Aspotogan Peninsula, St. Margaret’s Bay provides pristine natural beauty just 30 minutes from Halifax. Enjoy cruising among the scenic coves, estate properties, private islands and beautiful beaches. View the natural habitat of eagles and herons while watching for dolphins, seals, and sea birds. Every trip provides stunning ocean views in a relaxed informative atmosphere.

Nature Cruise / Whale Watching

$ 35.00 per adult, $20.00 per child

A three-hour cruise along the scenic shoreline near Peggy’s Cove(#5). Clean ocean breezes and magnificent sea life is the perfect combination for a great day out on the ocean. View working wharves, fishing traps of local fishermen, and rugged island geography. It is in these area’s guest will have the greater possibility of seeing white-sided dolphins, porpoise and seals as well as minke, finback and pilot whales. Other marine mammals that have been seen include Humpback whales and Leatherback Turtles. We guarantee ample amounts of fresh sea air along with beautiful scenery.

For more tours and info visit their web site at: http://www.fourwindscharters.com/location_smb.php

After your boat tour head over to White Sails Bakery at 12930 Peggy’s Cove Road and pick up a sandwich made with their great homemade breads, a few sweet and beverages then head southwest around the bay to Bay Outlook Park in Boutilier’s Point. Here you can enjoy a picnic on the government wharf or at the picnic tables. If it is high tide, bring your fishing rod and fish for mackerel from the wharf. After lunch walk up to the grassy area of the park and follow the path down to the water. Here you will find a small and often deserted little beach where you can swim and enjoy the sun for the rest of the afternoon.

http://www.peggyscovearea.com/daytrips/index.cfm?id=82