Category Archives: Guysborough

Walking Trails for Seniors in Northeastern Nova Scotia

Walking is good for the body heart and soul.  It is not only for the exercise, but we are blessed in having a variety of nature experiences close at hand.  I find that learning about the plants adds to the interest and these change as the seasons pass. Enjoy the outdoors and fresh air as we are heading into autumn colours. These selected trails are for seniors and people looking for an easy trail to enjoy the outdoors. Locations are based in Antigonish or noted distance from Antigonish.

By Denise Davies

Some of these walks are excerpted from the Out and About Antigonish book where you can find maps and additional details. The book is available at The Curious Cat Tea and Books and Antigonish 5 to $.

Antigonish Landing  

Antigonish Landing

1.5KM trail. The entrance is on Adam St. near Granny’s Antiques or from the Landing Road near Tony’s Meats on Hwy 337.  This level gravel path along the Antigonish wetlands provides changing views of the water and farmlands of Williams Point on the far side.  Every season brings new wildflowers and blossoms, ducks and water birds, eagles and ospreys.  A mid-way raised viewing platform is wheelchair / stroller accessible.

Bethany Trails

Bethany St. Theresa's Garden

Just past St. Martha’s Regional Hospital turn left on the Bethany entrance on the left. The Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Martha stood on these grounds for almost 100 years. The grounds have several areas to walk and enjoy nature. Throughout the area the Arboretum includes 25 selected trees which are marked with the name of the species and a dedication to a person or event. More trees will be added over the years to come. 

Saint Theresa’s Garden with its pond, flower beds and beautiful water lilies and peaceful path are a delight in every season. The short Sacred Heart Forest Trail leads from St. Theresa’s Garden to the Sacred Heart Grove through old growth forest.  This is a lovely shady walk for hot summer days.

The new Bethany Centennial Garden includes a heritage walk with interpretive panels marking significant events in the St. Martha’s history.  A reflecting pond with the steeple of the Bethany Chapel is a peaceful spot for meditation by the flowing fountain. 

Columbus Field

Columbus Field on Main Street has a track for walking (or running!), quiet trails through the woods as well as tennis courts, a dog park and a playground.  It is next to Club 60.

The Keppoch

Take exit 30 off of Hwy 104 West and follow the signs to The Keppoch. This is a community run and managed, all season, recreation area with trails for walking, hiking, biking, mountain biking, snow sledding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.  Member and day use fees.

Beaver Mountain

Take exit 30 off of Hwy 104 West. Turn left, cross the overpass and turn right on Beaver Mountain Rd past the Riverside Speedway.  Note that there may be some road construction for the next year or so.  A 6Km series of trails with varying levels of difficulty wind through wooded areas.  The main trail is paved and wheelchair accessible.  Gorgeous view overlooking Antigonish County.

Jitney Trail, Pictou

The Jitney Trail in Pictou is a beautiful recreational trail (3 KM) with interpretive panels from Pictou’s waterfront starting near the Ship Hector, to Brown’s Point.

The trail meets up with the Pictou to Oxford section of the Short Line Railway Trail (127 KM). The trail is a former rail bed along the Northumberland Strait and passes

 Samson Trail, New Glasgow

The Samson Trail is a 4km trail along the river in New Glasgow. A perfect easy trail to enjoy a walk with beautiful views. Enjoy the lovely walking and biking paths along both sides of the river with over 6KM of riverside trails.

Black Duck Cove

The Black Duck Cove Provincial Park in Little Dover has a series of boardwalks and walking trails that lead around the nature area with a variety of vegetation and views of the Atlantic Ocean. The swimming beach has lovely soft sand and a protected beach. Benches and picnic tables make it easy to stop and relax whether you are a swimmer or not. The Canteen at the parking entrance has ice cream and meals with picnic tables and benches in the sun or shade. Locals as well as visitors frequent the place as it is one of the few places available for food in the area. (check if open)

Guysborough Trails

The Shoreline Walking Trail starts at the end of Guysborough Main Street and winds along Chedabucto Bay along a grassy track. Interpretive trail signs describe the history dating back to the 1600s when the area was buzzing with ship building and a large vibrant port. For a longer hike, the Trans Canada trail runs through Guysborough (45KM) on the bed of a railway abandoned in the 1930s. The Guysborough Trail was the first section of the Trans-Canada Trail to open in Nova Scotia. It offers a spectacular view from the McAlister Bridge and portions of the trail go along the scenic Chedabucto Bay and other portions along the Salmon River, across a suspension bridge and views of beautiful waterfalls.

Boylston

Boylston Provincial Park has picnic tables and grassy area with lovely views of Chedabucto Bay. Walk down to the left of the entrance gate along a shady boardwalk to take you to a footbridge over to a small island. A swimming, beach walking looking for pebbles and a shady island path are fun for the whole family. The park is just a few KM before you reach Guysborough town.  

Celtic Shores Cape Breton

For hikers and bikers, the Celtic Shore Coastal Trail winds along the coast of Cape Breton from Port Hastings to Inverness. This 92KM all-purpose trail is relatively level and built on the bed of old railway tracks. It is well surfaced with many entry points along Hwy 19. Interpretive signs describe the history of the area and nearby communities, industries, and people, and how the trail was built. Spectacular views of the ocean, beaches, headlands, farmlands, meadows, and multi-colored wildflowers are around every corner. Well marked signs show amenities and distances. Along the Ceilidh Trail there are lots of opportunities to enjoy and learn more about the distinctive and popular Cape Breton music. The trail is great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.

See the Out and About Antigonish Book for details of directions, maps, descriptions, photos and plan your itinerary. Out and About Antigonish Book

Walking Trails for Seniors in Northeastern Nova Scotia

Walking Trails for Seniors in Northeastern Nova Scotia

Off the Beaten Track on the Eastern Shore

Off the Beaten Track on the Eastern Shore

In October I was excited to go with a group of travel writers to visit the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia.

SeaWind Landing Country Inn is certainly off the beaten track but well worth making this a destination.  The Inn is located in Charlos Cove on the Eastern Shore with ocean views and fresh air off the Atlantic. I had a cozy gable room on 2nd floor with an ocean view – a great spot to catch the spectacular sunrise next morning.  If you enjoy fine dining you are in for a gourmet experience.  Local seafood and produce are the star attractions.   The recipes are simply done to highlight the best flavor and presentation.  The dining room view of the ocean and the warm colors and ambiance makes this a treat for the senses. My breakfast favorite is the blueberry French toast.  There are several paths and trails leading down to the ocean and along the shore. Great for exploring.  The lounge area in the main building is comfortable for a group mix and mingle area with piano and drinks or to browse through the books and enjoy a drink from the well stocked bar.   There is also a small gift shop with local items.  The innkeepers, Dave and Anne Marie de Jongh are hospitable and knowledgeable of the area with suggestions on what to see and do based on your time and interests.

Our group went out on the fishing boat, “Get Kraken”, with Captain Damian  who expertly navigated us through the Sugar Islands, just off the coast – craggy rocky islands, wind swept trees, waves crashing over shoals and some sheltered sandy bays.  We sighted some playful seals.   The Berry Head Lighthouse and setting sun gave us some spectacular vistas while we enjoyed delicious snacks of Smoked Herring Fish Cakes and Digby Scallops prepared in the galley by Dave de Jongh, innkeeper of SeaWind Landing. A perfect way to enjoy in the tangy salt air along with a glass of wine.

For long sandy secluded beaches and interesting rock formations head to Tor Bay, a 15 minute drive from SeaWind Landing through Larry’s River.   If you are craving solitude and peace this is a great spot to take in the sea air.  Boardwalks, dunes, sea grasses and a variety of vegetation make for interesting nature exploration.

Jude Avery, a local historian gave us some insight to the history of the Acadian settlements along the Eastern Shore.  His recent book “The Forgotten Acadiens … a story of discovery” describes how the Acadiens came to settle in the Larry’s River area and how they have survived over the centuries.  The commemorative park “Parc de Nos Ancestres” in Larry’s River and Place Savalette National Historic Site, in Port Felix, commemorate this historic Acadien region.  Parc de Nos Ancestres has an anchor shaped set of stones painted with the history of the Acadiens in this region.

A visit to Guysborough community feels like a step back into the past.  The historical homes and churches show the prosperity of a past era when ship building and industry were an important part of this thriving town.   Now you can learn about this at the town museum which is set in the Old Court House.  The waterfront marina is usually busy in the summer but had suffered damage from the latest hurricane Dorian.  We enjoyed a delicious lunch at “Days Gone By” with lobster rolls, fish cakes and tempting fresh bakery deserts.

There is lots to see and do on the Eastern Shore – nature, hiking, history and culture – and don’t forget the food and drink!  On my next visit I would like to stay several days to be able to explore more of the area. 

Note: Destination Eastern and Northumberland Shores (DEANS) organized and sponsored this FAM Tour.  My lodging, activities, and food were compensated.

MORE INFORMATION

Exploring Guysborough on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore

 

The Road Less Travelled

Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore may seem a bit remote, but in reality, it’s just a couple of hours from Halifax, Antigonish or Cape Breton. And it’s worth the drive—the highway along the shore offers spectacular views as it meanders along past bays, coves, inlets, tidal marshes, pristine beaches and rugged coastline. Coastal islands dot the nearby waters, and all of it offers hikers, nature lovers, paddlers, history buffs and photographers much to enjoy.

Arriving in Guysborough, NS, a town that was settled in 1629, feels like stepping into the past; many of the lovely multi-coloured wooden houses date from the 1800s.

The town’s famed Rare Bird Pub and Eatery is in the bright pink building that itself dates from 1866, when it was a general store. Its recently-restored woodwork and original tin plate ceilings, in addition to the onsite brewery and deck overlooking the marina, make it a great spot to unwind.

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Photos by Denise Davies

You’ll find the Skipping Stone Café and Store right above the marina, in the historic Jost Building on the Guysborough waterfront. The café sells freshly roasted organic, fair trade coffee from Full Steam Coffee Co. The café’s courtyard overlooks the harbour and you can rent sea kayaks, canoes and bicycles for exploring the land and the sea.

DesBarres Manor Inn is an elegant and comfortable Victorian inn built as a home in 1837 for Justice W.F. DesBarres. The outdoor gazebo deck has a spectacular view of the valley and is a popular wedding venue. Upstairs, the bedrooms are spacious, luxurious and welcoming. An antique writing desk in the master bedroom offers a view of the back lawn and the valley below (with the modern convenience of a Wi-Fi connection) is a writer’s delight.

Dinner at DesBarres is a memorable experience. For dinner we enjoyed a five-course meal which had a creative flair; each beautifully presented dish offers unique flavour combinations and local ingredients. My meal featured his light Poutine appetizer; Seared Scallops; Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Truffles, Foie Gras and Walnuts; succulent Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Mushrooms; and was topped off with bite-sized Banana Bread Pudding with three kinds of homemade ice cream.

For a short hike, the grassy Shoreline Trail starts at the end of Guysborough’s Main Street and winds along Chedabucto Bay. Trail signs describe the history dating back to the 1600s when the area was buzzing with ship building and a large, vibrant port. For a longer hike, the Trans Canada Trail runs through Guysborough.

On the edge of town, the Osprey Shores Golf Resort offers brilliant greens and gorgeous water views. Comfortable accommodations, a swimming pool and a bonfire area make it an ideal family holiday setting.

Keep in mind that, because the Eastern Shore is off the beaten path, some of the back roads in this region are not in pristine condition; caution is recommended if you’re driving an RV. But that’s in keeping with the flavour of the region, anyway. It’s best enjoyed if you slow down and enjoy the scenery.

How to get there

MAP

Click for Google Maps

Guysborough Nova Scotia Map directions

Guysborough Nova Scotia Map directions

From Antigonish or Cape Breton, take exit 37 off Highway 104 at Monastery; travel south from Highway 4 onto Highway 16, through Boylston to Guysborough.

From Halifax, travel east and follow Marine Drive. Watch for signs indicating the status of the Country Harbour Ferry connecting Port Bickerton with Isaac’s Harbour North across Country Harbour.  If it is open, take Highway 211 just past Sherbrooke; if it is not operating, continue on Highway 7, turn right at Melrose Country Harbour Road and again onto Guysborough Country Harbour Road at Cross Roads Country Harbour; follow the signs to Guysborough.

Map Guysborough with points of interest

Map Guysborough with points of interest

More Information

Country Harbour

 

Click Here to Download Country Harbour article and more information


 

Country Harbour River

When you hear the name Country Harbour in Nova Scotia you might think you are on the coast with fishing boats and the ocean waves.  However in driving from Monastry on highway 316 you see a sign for Country Harbour and then pass signs for Country Harbour Cross Roads, Country Harbour Mines, Middle Country Harbour, Country Harbour Ferry and still are miles from the ocean.

Country Harbour is a 10 mile long deep inlet from the sea on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia.  It is not only beautiful but has an interesting past.

SeaWind Landing comfortable accomdations great dining

A great place to stay and use as an exploration point is the Seawind Landing Country Inn in Charlos Cove.  The 20 acre grounds has interesting paths through the forest or along the shore are great for an evening or early morning stroll.  The food is superb, prepared with loving care from local ingredients by the innkeeper.  There is a choice of comfortable rooms near the shore with the sound of the waves – or rooms with a view to the east or west from your 2nd floor porch.

The Seawind Landing Country Inn is a 30 minute drive from Drum Head at the mouth of Isaacs Harbour and  Country Harbour.  Stop along the way at the lovely Tor Bay Provincial Park and enjoy the boardwalk through the trees and over marshes and mosses.   Seabirds nest on offshore islands – great for birdwatchers.  Continue along Hwy 316 to Isaacs Harbour and take the turn off to the Country Harbour Ferry.  This 12 car cable operated ferry takes you across Country Harbour to continue down along the coast through Port Bickerton towards Halifax on Hwy 211. Even if you decide not to take the ferry it is fun to watch it make the crossing.  Signs are posted at the turnoff informing if the ferry is operating or not.

Empire Loyalist Trail

This part of the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia was the closest part of North America for the early ships from Europe. The long protected harbour was a welcome relief from the open sea.  The discovery of gold in the area was another draw to the area. From the 1600s the area was alive with ship building, forestry, small farming, fishing and gold mining.

Country Harbour was also settled by Loyalists from the King’s Carolina Rangers and the South Carolina Royalists who left Florida in October 1783, landed in Halifax and then the settlers went on to Country Harbour.  The United Empire Loyalist 2.2 KM trail has interpretive signs giving the history of the settlers.

Salsman Park Golden Sunrise

Salsman Provincial Park is located on a small peninsula on the east side of Country Harbour near Middle Country Harbour.  From June to September the park offers campers a quiet setting to relax and enjoy the area.  The camp ground is situated on an island connected by a short causeway giving lovely views of the water and hills.  On an early November morning the sunrise over Country Harbour was memorable with its golden glow and reflections in the calm water.

The nearby Loonsong Cottage Retreat offers workshops and retreats for women on a variety of topics.  Check their website for calendar of events.

Country Harbour River offers fishing and exploring.  The rural farms and cottages enjoy spectacular views in fall with the changing leaf colors.

Watch a short video

For more information:

 Click Here to Download Country Harbour article and more information

 

Basket Making Workshop at Loonsong Cottage

 

After settling in to the comfortable Loonsong Cottage with coffee and snacks we got an introduction to baskets and the materials from Sian Turner.  All of us were beginners so Sian showed us each step then worked with us.  We were making the same style basket – but each could make selections of type of the widths to use, accent colours and web handles.  As a result each basket was unique.

It was a fun day with lots of chat and laughter and a delicious lunch.  Four of us stayed overnight and enjoyed an evening of wonderful food and talk.

The cottage is situated in the lovely Country Harbour and there are walks through the fern and mossy forest, along the brook, or down to the nearby Salsman Provincial Park.  A spectacular sunrise over perfectly calm water made for a great photo opportunity.

The drive from Antigonish is just 1 hour and through beautiful countryside with the tamarak providing the golden accent colour at this time of year.

Look for more workshops in the spring – sign up at www.loongsongcottageretreat.com This is a beautiful location for a retreat or workshop.  This year featured Aromatherapy, Yoga, Be You Fully, and a Discovery Circle.  Spring workshops are in the planning stage.

The food and hospitality are wonderful and accommodations are very comfortable and homey. Kathi is a masseuse so there is an opportunity for a massage as part of the weekend if you book it.

Baird’s Tradesmen Museum

 

On Highway 7 crossing Nova Scotia from Antigonish to the Eastern Shore we decided to stop and have a look at Baird’s Tradesmen Museum.

Wheel Wright Tools

Wheel Wright Tools

What a happy finding.  This place is loaded with history and is a great place for anyone with an interest in craft, industry and how things are made.  The walls and display cases are well organized with tools from the past for trades that we may not even have now – but were mainstays in the turn of the century.  Anyone who works in wood will enjoy seeing how the tools they use today have evolved.  You have to wonder about the minds and ingenuity of the people who designed these implements.

The tools and trades are organized into categories: cobbler, cooper, farrier, blacksmith, woodturner, carpenter/joiner, leatherworker, wheelwright, typesetter, saw filer/fitter, weaving and spinning; also the tools used in farming, fishing, logging, coal mining, automotive, retail and ice industries over the past 150 years.

Kitchen implements

Kitchen implements

Our guide was Sally Baird who was a wonderful tour guide and explained the use of the different tools.  The museum started as a personal collection of Danny Baird who worked with tools himself and started collecting.  The collection grew so large they decided to open to the public.

The place is very large and has an upstairs area with a huge spinning wheel, a floor loom, a couple of printing presses.   The presses and type include the newspaper advertising from the early 1900s and will be valuable to researchers.

Outside there are wood tools and a fire engine.  Danny Baird continues to make wooden barrels and you can see the workings as well as the finished products.   You can easily spend an hour or two learning from these antique tools and machinery from vintage trades.

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More information

12455 Hwy 7, Aspen, NS
Guysborough County

Danny & Sally Baird
Phone: 902-833-2219

The museum is open daily from July 1 – Oct 1.  10AM to 5PM. Or by appointment.  Small admission fee.

Baird’s Trade Museum – Nova Scotia.com including a map on how to get there.