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If you happen to solely have in the future to spare on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, make it depend with a go to to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. These two charming seaside cities are simply quarter-hour aside and may simply be explored collectively in a single day.
Between vibrant facades of heritage buildings, bustling waterfronts, historic structure, quirky sights, and native artisans and boutique retailers, this stretch of coast blends maritime heritage with fashionable creativity.
Having explored Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and the encompassing space on our Nova Scotia street journey, I can confidently say: this can be a day you’ll be speaking about lengthy after your journey ends.
You might go to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay as a part of an extended Lighthouse Shore street journey (in partnership with Tourism Nova Scotia), or on a day journey from Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital. Right here is how we suggest you spend a day in Lunenburg and Mahone Bay
Are Lunenburg and Mahone Bay value visiting?
Each Lunenburg and Mahone Bay are sufficiently small to discover in a soothing day, as they’re small in measurement and simply walkable, in addition to being inside a brief drive of one another. Regardless of being small, every provides its personal character.
- Lunenburg: A UNESCO World Heritage Web site, famed for its colourful waterfront, shipbuilding legacy, and the Bluenose II schooner (you’ll acknowledge it from the Canadian dime!).
- Mahone Bay: A smaller, artsy group, most well-known for its postcard-worthy row of three church buildings on the harbor and its abundance of boutique retailers and artisan studios.
24 hour Lunenburg and Mahone Bay itinerary
We suggest beginning the morning in Lunenburg—the sunshine shines on the harbor entrance buildings, illuminating their colors, so for photographers that is the very best time for the photographs.
The 10am strolling tour in Lunenburg is a incredible orientation, and provides you ideas for what to do in each cities after the tour. Finish the day in Mahone Bay, which requires much less time however provides loads of allure.
See beneath for extra planning tips about becoming them each into in the future. All of it relies on your accessible schedules and pursuits as to which city you do first … or if you wish to spend a complete day in a single, keep in a single day, and a morning within the different. We’ll offer you loads of choices later on this information for if you wish to keep longer and know what to do.
Cease 1: Mahone Bay Church buildings Viewpoint
Earlier than heading into Lunenburg, make a fast cease on the roadside viewpoint on Oakland Rd (pinned on our map beneath) trying throughout to Mahone Bay’s three iconic church buildings standing facet by facet.
Within the early morning, the solar lights them completely, making this one in every of Nova Scotia’s most photographed scenes.
What are the three church buildings?
The three church buildings symbolize the non secular range and concord of the realm’s early settlers. Over time, they’ve stood as group anchors, surviving storms and fires, and proceed to host energetic congregations. Collectively, they’ve change into a robust visible emblem of Mahone Bay’s id, representing religion, resilience, and unity.
- St. James’ Anglican Church (1867) – Well-known for its Gothic Revival spire, it’s typically probably the most recognizable silhouette in photographs.
- St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (1869) – A reminder of the city’s German heritage; Mahone Bay was based within the mid-1700s by German, Swiss, and Montbéliardian settlers.
- Trinity United Church (1861) – With its easy but elegant design, it represents the Protestant roots of the group.
Cease 2: Breakfast in Mahone Bay or Lunenberg
For breakfast, you’ll be able to both eat in Mahone Bay on the way in which right down to Lunenburg or begin your day with gas in Lunenburg like we did. I had famous the next choices in Mahone Bay for breakfast, although we didn’t eat there. These locations come extremely really helpful:
- Eli & Trix – For bagels, breakfast sandwiches, huevos rancheros and massive breakfast plates!
- The Hungry Traveler – residence cooked meals together with eggs Benedict, breakfast bowls, omelets, French toast and breakfast sandwiches.
There are a couple of breakfast spots and bakeries in Lunenburg – many didn’t open till later, so we went to:
- No. 9 Coffeehouse for espresso and pastries. They solely had one gluten free merchandise that was too candy for my morning meal, so I settled for cup of espresso. It’s standard and so can get cramped as seating areas, although cute, are small.
- The opposite choice we later found is one other cozy Laughing Whale Espresso Roasters with extra seating space. In addition they have pastries and scrumptious espresso. I might say that is the choose!
Cease 3: Stroll the Historic Lunenburg Waterfront
Lunenburg is a kind of locations that instantly captivates you. The colourful picket buildings lining the waterfront, the salty air, and the fixed hum of maritime exercise make it really feel like stepping again in time.
The following cease on this itinerary is a strolling tour, however we suggest going for a stroll round to admire the intense colors, vessels within the dock, and consider of Lunenburg coming alive within the morning. 10am is when the crowds arrive – so earlier than then, you’ll be able to wander the historic waterfront to soak within the ambiance and take photographs.
Once we visited, the Bluenose II was docked, and we acquired to observe the crew making ready her for a sail. Constructed in the summertime months of 1963 as a reproduction of the unique undefeated racing schooner, she stays a proud image of Nova Scotia’s shipbuilding heritage. If you happen to’re fortunate, you’ll be able to even e book a two-hour harbor cruise (verify the crusing schedule on-line).
Cease 4: Take the Lunenburg Strolling Tour
We at all times suggest beginning with a strolling tour in a historic city because it tells the tales behind the streets and helps you determine what else to discover. The 90-minute Important Lunenburg tour with Lunenburg Strolling Excursions leaves each morning at 10am and is an informative and satisfying technique to get to know the realm.
Our information, Colin, a former instructor, stored us laughing with witty commentary whereas weaving in fascinating native historical past. We discovered in regards to the Mi’kmaq individuals who initially inhabited the land, the German and Swiss immigrants who based the city in 1753, and the rum-running previous that gave Lunenburg a lot of its colourful character.
The tour winds previous grand picket church buildings, historic mansions, and ends on the Fishermen’s Memorial overlooking the harbor. It was the spotlight of our go to.
The tour additionally runs at 2:30pm if you wish to discover Lunenburg within the afternoon fairly than the morning. You possibly can learn our full evaluation of the Lunenburg Strolling tour.
Cease 5: Lunch with a view
Lunenburg has no scarcity of native eating places. We grabbed a fast chew at South Shore Fish Shack on the outside deck overlooking the harbor. it was an important spot to eat at with pretty views.
Craig actually loved his fish and chips (Canada is aware of easy methods to make high quality meals) and I liked my poutine. Let’s face it, you haven’t been to Canada should you haven’t eaten it not less than as soon as. I’m grateful that with their restricted gluten free choices, poutine was one in every of them.
Different nice suggestions embrace:
Cease 6: Ironworks Distillery
Housed in a former marine blacksmith’s store that when cast ironworks for the shipbuilding commerce, Ironworks Distillery blends Lunenburg’s historical past with fashionable craftsmanship.
This boutique micro-distillery is understood for creating small-batch spirits from native substances—vodka comprised of Annapolis Valley apples, fruit liqueurs sourced from close by farms, and rum distilled straight from Crosby’s molasses. One in all their most original creations is the Pear-eau-de-vie, bottled with an entire pear grown inside.
We sampled a couple of of their award-winners: the wealthy Bluenose Rum, with notes of darkish caramel and spice; the sleek Coronary heart Iron single malt whisky; and a surprisingly refreshing blackberry gin.
Guests can cease in for complimentary tastings, choose up a bottle to take residence, or, if time permits, be a part of a guided tour of the distillery to study extra in regards to the course of. It’s a small however fascinating cease—and a should for anybody who loves craft spirits with a narrative.
Different: Lightship Brewery
One in all our favourite stops was Lightship Brewery, with its sweeping views again throughout the harbor. The outside patio is spacious, and the ambiance is relaxed. They brew all kinds of craft brews, together with scrumptious peach seltzer, which is not any simple factor to do.
In addition they have Barnhouse Espresso on web site and Boathouse Bites with scrumptious trying woodfire pizza, handhelds, poutine and a number of other gluten free choices. In hindsight, this is able to have been the proper lunch spot to absorb the views.
Lightship typically has dwell music so verify the schedule. Sadly, we ran out of time – another excuse to remain the evening right here (see planning ideas beneath).
Non-obligatory Aspect Journey: Blue Rocks
In case you have time, a six-minute drive away is Blue Rocks, typically referred to as “Lunenburg’s reply to Peggy’s Cove.” It’s a working fishing village with hanging slate rocks and probably the most photographed shacks in Nova Scotia. Kayaking excursions listed below are an effective way to see the shoreline.
Cease 7: Drive to Mahone Bay
After absorbing Lunenburg, head quarter-hour down the street to Mahone Bay. With fewer than 1,000 residents, it’s a small city with massive allure, and its arts scene shines by way of in each gallery and store.
Cease 8: BernArt Maze
If you happen to love quirky, artistic sights, the BernArt Maze is an absolute should. Half outside artwork gallery, half labyrinth, it winds for practically a kilometre by way of vibrant mosaics, sculptures, and murals crafted by artists from world wide. For us, it was a kind of surprising gems that makes you cease and marvel at human creativeness.
Each flip revealed one thing new: towering sculptures you stroll beneath, a shark’s jaws bursting from a wall, a cave painted with handprints harking back to Aboriginal rock artwork, inspiring quotes tucked into corners, shimmering mosaic maps, playful trolls, and kooky hanging items that swayed within the breeze.
We discovered ourselves criss-crossing with one other couple, calling out discoveries to 1 one other so we wouldn’t miss something. The expertise felt like half treasure hunt, half artwork stroll, and half joyful reminder of creativity’s energy to shock.
And don’t rush off when you’ve “solved” the maze—there’s simply as a lot to get pleasure from within the outside gallery past the paths, the place extra sculptures and mosaics are ready to be explored. Opening hours are 10am – 4pm, so plan fastidiously.
Cease 9: Faerie Backyard Trails
We stumbled upon the Faerie Backyard Trails proper by the place we parked—and had been immediately enchanted. Set amongst Mahone Bay’s pure trails and inexperienced areas, the faerie installations are made with care and creativity, utilizing sustainable and repurposed supplies wherever doable.
Tiny, handcrafted fairy homes, whimsical shows, and hidden notes inside a small forest make this a magical cease, particularly for households with youngsters (although I’ll admit, we adults liked it too!).
Rumor has it should you go away a observe for the faeries they generally write again. Higher e book your return journey to Mahone Bay so you’ll be able to learn their reply!
Cease 10: Discover the retailers, galleries, and artisan studios
Mahone Bay is ideal for wandering out and in of retailers. A couple of highlights:
- Cosmic Hippie Boutique – A colourful, personality-filled boutique the place I discovered a number of distinctive clothes items, colourful wraps, muslins, and little treasures. I may have purchased a number of garments from right here.
- Amos Pewter – Don’t miss this. You possibly can watch artisans casting molten pewter into molds, then ending it by hand. We watched a girl making Jewish stars. She took the time to clarify to us step-by-step the way it was made. It fascinated me – or as my youngsters would say – it was very satisfying to observe. A lot in order that I purchased a pewter butterfly decoration for our Christmas tree, a practice I like as every bit brings again journey reminiscences as my daughters, and I hold them.
- Native galleries – Pottery, textiles, woodworking, and extra replicate the city’s creative coronary heart. Assist native expertise and discover one-of-a-kind presents for your self or family members.
Cease 11: Espresso or tea break
If you happen to’re flagging, cease at:
- The Barn Espresso & Social Home – Situated in a restored barn, it serves distinctive ethically sourced espresso, pastries, and native merchandise. Chill out into a snug chair as you refuel for the remainder of the day.
- The Tea Brewery (Spill the tea) – Free-leaf artisan tea lovers will recognize the Tea Brewery. Their mission is to hyperlink extremely expert tea artisans, superior high quality substances and delicate, small-batch processing to ship a sensual feast of taste, aroma and visible delight.
Cease 12: Dinner (Non-obligatory should you keep late)
We needed to transfer on to Wolfville for the evening, however should you can linger, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg each supply nice dinner choices:
- Rebecca’s Restaurant (Mahone Bay) – Waterfront eating with rave critiques for seafood and home-cooked native dishes.
- Mug & Anchor Pub (Mahone Bay) – Basic English-style pub with a patio overlooking the harbor.
- Saltbox Brewing Firm (Mahone Bay) – A vigorous taproom with craft beers, cider, and an important beer backyard (however not by the water).
Ideas for planning your day
- Timing: Begin in Lunenburg for the morning strolling tour (10am) and finest lighting for photographs. Head to Mahone Bay after lunch. I felt spending half a day in Mahone Bay was a lot. I may have spent longer in Lunenburg – an entire day could be relaxed and satisfying.
- Driving Distance: The 2 cities are simply quarter-hour aside, about an hour from Halifax.
- Staying In a single day: We stayed at Oak Island Resort & Convention Centre (half-hour away), however in hindsight, we might have most well-liked staying in Lunenburg to maximise time on the town. Oak Island was a fairly resort on the lake, was stress-free, with good meals and a bar with dwell music.
- Occasions & Festivals: Mahone Bay hosts distinctive festivals all year long, so verify the schedule—you may catch one thing particular.
Getting there
Lunenburg and Mahone Bay are situated on Nova Scotia’s scenic South Shore, about an hour’s drive southwest of Halifax alongside Freeway 103. The drive itself is a part of the expertise, winding previous coastal inlets, small fishing villages, and forested backroads.
Many guests select to hire a automotive for flexibility, however you can even discover day excursions from Halifax that mix each cities with stops at Peggy’s Cove or Chester.
Parking in each Lunenburg and Mahone Bay is simple, with tons close to the waterfronts and alongside facet streets, making it simple to hop out and discover on foot. We sometimes at all times hire a automotive from Discovercars.com the place we have a tendency to search out the very best charges and availability.
Map of Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Day journey
Here’s a map with all areas talked about on this submit pinned!
To make use of the map beneath, Click on the highest proper button to open it in a full web page. From there, click on the highest left drop right down to make a duplicate of the map. Then you’ll be able to modify it as wanted to your private use. Or click on the star subsequent to the map, so as to add it to your Google Maps account. You’ll then discover it beneath Your Locations on the menu tab in google maps.
Greatest time to go to
The most effective time to go to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay is between Might and October, when the cities are vigorous, eating places and sights are totally open, and the climate is heat sufficient to get pleasure from strolling excursions and waterfront patios.
- Summer time (July–August): Peak season, with heat days, bustling harbors, and a festive vitality. Anticipate extra crowds but in addition longer sunlight hours—excellent for day journeys.
- Fall (September–October): A favourite time for a lot of vacationers. The autumn colours alongside the South Shore are spectacular, and Mahone Bay hosts its well-known Scarecrow Competition, which brings a whole lot of quirky scarecrow shows to city.
- Spring (Might–June): Quieter, with blooming gardens and fewer vacationers. Some smaller retailers and sights could open later within the season.
- Winter: Whereas many companies shut or shorten hours, you’ll discover peaceable streets, cozy cafés, and the occasional dusting of snow that makes the colourful buildings pop.
Everytime you go, verify native occasions calendars—each cities host festivals, dwell music, and artwork reveals that may add an additional layer of allure to your go to.
The place to remain in Lunenburg or Mahone Bay
Whilst you can simply go to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay on a day journey from Halifax, we discovered it’s value staying in a single day to absorb the ambiance as soon as the day-trippers go away.
We stayed about half-hour away on the Oak Island Resort & Convention Centre, which was peaceable and fairly, however in hindsight, we might have most well-liked to remain in Lunenburg itself to get pleasure from extra of the city’s allure within the night. The resort has all of the facilities you want with onsite eating, swimming pool, and sensational sunsets!
Lunenburg
- Smuggler’s Cove Inn – A boutique lodge within the coronary heart of Outdated City with harbour views and straightforward strolling entry to retailers and eating places.
- Rum Runner Inn – Brilliant, fashionable rooms proper on the waterfront. Nice if you wish to get up to vibrant harbour views.
- Salt Shaker Deli Inn – Above one in every of Lunenburg’s hottest eating places; cozy, informal, and completely situated.
Mahone Bay
Close by
- Oak Island Resort & Convention Centre – A bigger resort with on-site eating, marina, and spa amenities. Good for many who need extra facilities and don’t thoughts a brief drive. Comes with beautiful water views!
👉 My tip: Keep in Lunenburg should you can. The night glow over the colourful waterfront, plus the possibility to dine and linger in its historic streets, makes the city much more magical as soon as the tour buses are gone.
Ultimate ideas
A day trip in Lunenburg and Mahone Bay is likely one of the finest experiences you’ll be able to absorb Nova Scotia. Lunenburg’s wealthy historical past and colourful streets mix seamlessly with Mahone Bay’s artistic spirit and artisanal aptitude.
Collectively, they provide the proper mixture of tradition, meals, purchasing, and surroundings. It’s simple, it’s memorable, and it’s a day you’ll suggest to each traveler who asks what to do in Nova Scotia.
