Discover the wonders of Antigonish and its surrounding areas with the Out and About Antigonish book! This guidebook showcases over 50 must-visit destinations, from quaint towns to breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you want to hike through the stunning Cape George Trail, take a stroll through historic downtown Antigonish, or explore the charming communities of Guysborough and Pictou, this book has got you covered. With detailed maps, insider tips, and stunning photography, Out and About Antigonish is the perfect companion for exploring the best of this picturesque region. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable adventure – grab your copy today!
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 theOut 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
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
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
The 2nd Edition of Out and About Antigonish has arrived and is available at the Curious Cat Tea and Books and Antigonish 5-$ on Main Street, Antigonish.
It’s been a few years since I spent some time and Halifax. It’s an interesting city historically and being surrounded by water and with garden areas and parks has places to walk and explore on a low budget. In the past several years the amazing growth in the downtown area is still very much in evidence but people areas are also part of the new planning and there is much to enjoy.
Point Pleasant Park
This 190 acre park on the end of the Halifax peninsula has over 39 km of walking trails through a variety of trees, shrubs ferns and wild flowers. You can explore some historical sites including the Prince of Wales Tower and the Martello Tower. There are lots of dog walkers and some off leash areas. in 2003 Hurricane Juan felled many of the older trees which are now covered in with new growth.
There are 2 parking areas and the park is readily accessible by bus. Bring water, snacks, layers and good walking shoes. Orient yourself from the maps at the main entrances.
The Halifax Public Gardens on Spring Garden Road were established in 1836 and are the oldest Victorian Gardens in North America. Impeccably kept and flowering plants and gardens in all seasons. This park was my first attempt at photography at age 10 with my brownie camera and months later when I got the film developed the photos came back with al the statue heads cut off. Only years later when I looked at the negatives I saw that the heads were there! So my disappointment had turned me off of photography at that point. I love wandering the various paths and it seems to take you back a century in time.
The main entrance of the park is on the corner of the trendy Spring Garden Rd shopping area which unfortunately at this time (July 2021) is all dug up for improvements. The shops and restaurants are still accessible to pedestrian traffic.
The Halifax Boardwalk is an exciting 3Km walk along the waterfront from the Halifax Seaport and market passing shops, views of sailboats and ships in the harbour, art installations, museums, trendy restaurants and seaside shacks, fun for the kids, buskers and entertainers, and ever changing views of Georges Island, the bridges and Dartmouth on the far side. A mix of the old and new from the historic properties to the large high rise buildings reflect the changing nature of Halifax. You can easily spend several hours or the day exploring the boardwalk.
For an inexpensive harbour view of Halifax take the ferry from Halifax to Alderney Landing in downtown Dartmouth or the Woodside Ferry. You will get great views of the Halifax sky line and the bridges. The Water Street Terminal is on the boardwalk next to Murphys Cable Wharf. The fare is $2.75 (cash only) and a transfer ticket takes you on to the bus as well.
Peace by Chocolate opened this beautiful new store on the Boardwalk near the ferry landing and Murphys Cable Wharf. There is an extensive selection of their signature chocolate bars. This is a great place to find gifts for any occasion – birthdays, welcome to Canada, and Peace in many languages. Enjoy a pistachio ice cream and sit outside on the patio area to watch the world go by.
I have a fondness for this place as it began in Antigonish (my home town) and the compelling story of resilience of the Syrian family that arrived here and started the business. The book “Peace by Chocolate“ is available in the shop is a gripping read.
I suspect that recent blog posts have not been sending out automatically to subscribers. So here is an update. Hope you are looking forward to exploring Nova Scotia this summer
Explore Antigonish and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful gift for newcomers, staff, family and friends. Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more.
The Antigonish Highland Games 2021 is being celebrated with Highland Heritage Week this year presented by the Antigonish Highland Society. It is wonderful to hear the pipes again and to have virtual dances and music throughout the week.
Program
Clan Thompson Pipe Band entertained us on a wet and windy day at the Antigonish Legion. Such a pleasure to see and hear the pipes again in Antigonish.
Click to watch the Highland Dancing at Chisholm Park with MacLeod School of Highland Dance
A lovely drive from Antigonish is along HWY 337. Pass rolling farmland with so many shades of green and tantalizing views of the ocean as you pass Mahoney’ Beach. As you approach Ballantyne’s Cove there is a lookout on your right.
The Fish ‘N Ships kiosk opened for the summer and the feast of fish and chips was delicious. A great selection of ice cream also available. We took our plates over to the pebble beach behind the Tuna Interpretive Centre. Such a beautiful peaceful spot. Just one other person on the beach.
Great place for a beach walk looking for colorful pebbles, or a paddle or a swim. I recommend beach shoes for the pebbles.
Explore Antigonish and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful gift for newcomers, staff, family and friends. Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more.
Out and About Antigonish — Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more. By Denise Davies
Reviews
Out and About Antigonish showcases the beauty of Northern Nova Scotia. It shares our story with visitors through many incredible pictures. I would encourage visitors and residents alike to pick up this book and challenge themselves to visit our communities and enjoy all of the authentic experiences we have to offer.
Cindy MacKinnon, Managing Director Destination Eastern and Northumberland Shores
“Denise Davies has created a masterful reference tool for both locals and tourists alike with her Out and About Antigonish guidebook. With excellent directions and descriptions for myriad day trips within a two-hour jaunt from Antigonish, the traveler’s most difficult decision will be which adventure to pursue first. Chock-full of beautiful photographs and succinct descriptions of each waypoint, Out and About Antigonish will help the traveler decide which spots to visit, and ensure no hidden gems are overlooked. History buffs and photographers will find this tool especially helpful. I highly recommend this superior book!”
Dave Belt Owner, Seafoam Lavender Company & Gardens Seafoam, Nova Scotia
Out and About Antigonish is a superb and long-awaited guide to Antigonish and its surrounding counties. While it will particularly attract the growing number of tourists to northeastern Nova Scotia, there is much here for locals to learn about and enjoy. As a “come-from-away” (a mere fourteen years ago), I have made a point of exploring the many highlights of my new home. Yet I found in Denise Davies’s new book a feast of fresh information and excursions to look forward to.
None of this is surprising, because as readers we are in the hands of a highly experienced travel writer and a superb photographer. I counted over 150 photos, almost all in full colour and of the highest quality. Denise has also included an abundance of maps to supplement her descriptions. This makes it extremely easy for the newcomer to follow the wonderful array of trips and trails on offer. She has also kept her descriptions succinct, though never overly so, and there are links to a wealth of websites that allow for further exploration. This is especially appropriate given the depth of northern Nova Scotia’s cultural, political and economic history.
Denise achieves an admirable balance in tackling Antigonish and its environment’s rich tapestry of nature and culture, rural and maritime life. The arts and culture, museums and markets, prominent institutions including St Francis Xavier University and Coady Institute, the many beaches and other recreational spots are, each one of them, more than adequately covered, and I could find not one omission.
Denise Davies is to be congratulated on producing such a beautiful and informative work.
John Graham-Pole, Publisher. HARP the People’s Press
Out and About Antigonish – Book SOLD OUT
Explore Antigonish and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful gift for newcomers, staff, family and friends. Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more.
NOTE – for accommodations and food it is best to check in advance about hours and opening.
Charlos Cove on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia is just 1 hr 40 minutes from Antigonish but it feels like a world away. Its a great place for a few days of peaceful relaxing and short explorations. Even the driving reminds me of my first trip there and “The Road Less Travelled”. Definitely not a lot of traffic.
Boylston Provincial Park
Enroute we stopped at Boylston Provincial Park, Day Use 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 foot bridge over to a small island. A swimming, beach walking looking for pebbles and a shady island path are all great for the whole family. The park is just a few KM before you reach Guysborough town.
View from Boylston Park
Footbridge to the island
Island hiking path
Guysborough Town
The ambiance of the town with its old homes and churches is from the late 1800s. The Old Court House Museum is a good stop to learn about the history of the area and to get any info you need for your trip. Only the visitor info is available during COVID times. There is a self-guided walking tour of Guysborough. Download the map. Stop for a meal at the Days Gone BY Bakery for a bowl of chowder, sandwiches and delicious baked goods. Browse antiques and local art. Head down to the marina and the Guysborough waterfront.
Charlos Cove
SeaWind Landing Country Inn is situated in Charlos Cove about 30 min from Guysborough town via Lundy. The inn’s proprietors Dave and Anne Marie are hospitable and welcoming and knowledgeable of the area. Our room was in the main part of the Inn, with a view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sugar Islands just offshore. The water was so calm there was little sounds of the waves. Great place to watch the sunrise and sit out on our little patio or the chairs on the well-kept lawn. Of course everything was spotless and all social distancing and masks in place.
Sunrise SeaWind Landing
Relax and unwind
SeaWind Landing
Sunset over Charlos Cove
You sometimes see seals, sea otters and blue herons on the rocks
The food is always memorable with breakfasts of eggs benedict, scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, and my favorite the blueberry stuffed French toast. Of course with lots of hot coffee. The evening meal favorites were mussels in Pernod sauce, lobster croquettes, halibut, scallops all in delicious recipes. Best desert was the crème brule with Baileys Irish Crème.
We were lucky to get the special stay of 2 nights get the 3rd night free. This gave lots of time for an enjoyable staycation and take small day trips in the area.
Larrys River
Charlos Cove is adjacent to Larrys River. This is a hub of Acadian culture on the Eastern Shore. I enjoyed reading “The Forgotten Acadians … a story of discovery” by Jude Avery while exploring the area. In other years this area would be buzzing with activities for the Acadien Festival on August 15 but all was quiet this year. No matter when you visit take time to stop at the Acadien Interpretive Site with paintings and interpretive signs illustrating the history of the area – Larry’s Rover Parc de nos Ancestres across from the St. Pierre church. Also wander down to the footbridge crossing Larry’s River for a view of the river.
Larry’s River Parc de nos Ancestres
Footbridge Larry’s River
Eglise St. Pierre, Larry’s River
Tor Bay Provincial Park
Boardwalks lead through various types of vegetation to several sweeping sandy beaches with rocky outcrops. Picnic tables and interpretive panels give insight into the creation and history of the area.
Tor Bay
Tor Bay
Tor Bay
Tor Bay
Tor Bay
Black Duck Cove
Just 30 min north of Charlos Cove, towards Canso is Black Duck Cove Provincial Park. The Canteen at the Parking entrance has ice cream and meals with picnic tables and benches in the sun or shade. It looked like the locals as well as visitors frequent the place as it is one of the few places available for food in the area. A series of boardwalks and walking trails lead around the area. The swimming beach has lovely soft sand and a protected beach. Benches and picnic tables make it easy to stop and relax weather you are a swimmer or not.
Black Duck Cove map of walking trails
Boardwalk Black Duck Cove
Relaxing on a beach bench at the Swimming Beach
In October 2019 I was on a trip in Guysborough with travel writers sponsored by DEANS. Darcy and Alex of thank HarbourTone Productions created this video which captured the spirit of our adventures.
I live in Antigonish and find that it is the best of 2 worlds. We have all the amenities for comfortable living and yet the advantages of a small town set in a delightful rural setting. I love to show visitors around or give them ideas of what to do and what not to miss. In these days of the Atlantic Bubble and Nova Scotia residents exploring the province for 2020 holidays what would be better than spending a few days in Antigonish where there is something for everyone.
Its best to check with establishments for hours and openings. Remember to wear your mask and keep physical distancing.
The Arts
Antigonish is known as a hub of the arts. Strolling along Main Street check out the Red Sky Gallery https://www.facebook.com/redskyantigonish/ for wonderful ambiance and a wonderful selection of Nova Scotia art – paintings, sculpture, jewelry. Stop in to the Antigonish People’s Place Library http://www.parl.ns.ca/locations/antigonish.php for their monthly changing art exhibits and find out what is going on in town while you are here. This is a hub of community events and activities for all ages. Local artists are often featured at the Tall and Small Café. Visit the Down to Earth Gallery for indigenous and a wide variety of artists.
The Antigonish Farmers Market is buzzing with arts and crafts, locally made produce, food and entertainment all in the new Farmers Market building on the Arena grounds on Saturdays. The new building opened on the August 1 weekend and it was a delight to see the airy and bright space filled with vendors and their wares. What a wonderful community space. www.antigonishfarmersmarket.ca
Antigonish Farmers Market
Rosemary Curry at the Red Sky Gallery
People’s Place Library
Unfortunately most of our summer events are cancelled but there are occasional smaller happenings that you may find.
Outdoors and Recreation
Set in rolling hills Antigonish creates a variety of outdoor activities in town and close by. For kids the splash pad at Columbus Field is popular and the new Skate Board Park is a wonderful new addition. For runners the track at Columbus Field and at St.FX, walking and biking on the Antigonish Landing Trail www.outandaboutns.com/2018/01/31/antigonish-landing /that starts near the Museum.
The Keppoch Mountain www.thekeppoch.ca has over 20Km of maintained trails for all abilities including an accessible gravel nature trail for mountain biking, hiking and children’s’ climbing and play area. Relax in the clubhouse and meet some local outdoor enthusiasts. Bike rentals are available at Highland Bike Shop on Main St but check ahead for availability.
There are several beaches within a 30 min drive. Walk run and swim on the long crescent sandy Pomquet Beach with lifeguards, boardwalks with interpretive nature boards. Look for pebbles and driftwood on Mahoneys Beach often frequented by kayakers.
You can even camp right in town at the end of Main St at Whiddens Campground and have your smores around the campfire.
Pomquet Beach Interpretive Trail
Pomquet Beach
View of Ballantynes Cove from Lookout
Ballantyne’s Cove
Cape George Lighthouse, Antigonish County
Short drives
Take a lovely drive along the Hwy 337 past St. Martha’s Hospital and on past Mahoneys Beach, Jimtown, Cribbons, Ballantyne’s Cove to the Cape George Lighthouse. You will see signs for hiking trails along the route and spectacular views of the Northumberland Shore www.outandaboutns.com/2018/05/23/cape-george-lighthouse
There are several beaches within a 30 min drive. Walk run and swim on the long crescent sandy Pomquet Beach with lifeguards, boardwalks with interpretive nature boards. Look for pebbles and driftwood on Mahoneys Beach often frequented by kayakers. Enjoy a Pomquet day trip www.outandaboutns.com/2015/08/30/pomquet-day-trip
There are many drives from Antigonish – Arisaig, Eastern Shore, Museum of Industry and more for another posting.
Arisaig Harbour
Arisaig Beach
The Mill – Sherbrook Village
Fisherman casting his line
SeaWind Landing Charlos Cove
Shopmobile. Industrial arts bus that went to schools.
Stroll the Main
Enjoy the fine selection of restaurants along Main Street. All have take out, some outdoor patios and indoor with physical distancing in place. There is a new large patio at the Maritime Inn called Mi Patio.
Explore the shopping on Main with trendy boutiques The Plum Tree, Posh Peppermint. Find Nova Scotia souvenirs at Happenstance. Head down to Granny’s Antiques for some lovely antiques, local preserves and sit in the shade. Antigonish Small Town Big Heart www.outandaboutns.com/2016/03/25/antigonish-small-town-big-heart
Stroll the Main, Antigonish
Welcome to Antigonish
Antigonish Small Town Big Heart
Town Hall
Hope you enjoy your staycation in Antigonish and surrounding areas. I would enjoy seeing your favourite spots in the comment section below.
