Nova Scotia is a dream destination with many pretty places. Mahone Bay is indeed a charming hamlet on the south coast of Nova Scotia. A triad of towering cathedrals and charming Victorian residences line Mahone Bay’s rugged coastline, creating a postcard scene. A modest but exceptional way of life can be found there, from the past to unique boutiques, artists and gourmet delights along the lively and picturesque streets. Mahone Bay’s tranquil seas are filled with hundreds of islets and a wide variety of birds and other aquatic life, making it a fantastic place to view wildlife. Let’s see what visitors can do in Mahone Bay now that it’s the perfect place for a relaxing weekend.
Discover Mahone Bay
Mahone Bay Museum
Despite its modest size, the museum housed in the historic Begin House in the heart of town does a decent job of illuminating the historical context of the area during colonization and settler expansion in the mid-17th century, as well as the subsequent reputation of the city in terms of shipbuilding. The three notable cathedrals, the neighborhood during World War I and the mysterious Oak Isle are covered. Particularly intriguing is the map which shows the routes taken by more than 500 ships built in Mahone Bay. In addition to the Begin house, there are exhibits of early kitchen utensils, vintage toys, and more. The museum is a great place to learn about a new culture while traveling.
Tin of Amos
In a sprawling studio in Mahone Bay, Amos Pewter creates handmade pewter accessories, home decor, trinkets and tableware. Visitors can watch craftsmen in action as they construct beautiful handmade objects from melting pewter. Tourists can take a guided tour or stop at the interpretive workshop to observe the skilled craftsmen. Tourists can watch how wares are meticulously cast by carefully pouring hot, free-flowing molten pewter from the melting kettle and trapping it in a rotating mould. Each item is meticulously finished by hand after being extracted from the molds, a procedure that guarantees superior craftsmanship. After completing the tour, visitors can participate in the hands-on activity and create and customize their personalized tin sand dollar.
St. James’s Anglican Church
Among the three churches known as Mahone Bay’s Three Churches is St. James’s Anglican Church. The church is colored in a stunning combination of yellow ochre, red and brown and is built in Victorian Gothic Revival architecture with an impressive altar. It is recognized as a historic landmark, for its connection to the work of architect William Critchlow Harris, for its function as a place of worship, and as the center of neighborhood activity for so long.
St. John’s Lutheran Church
St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church appears to be a white-colored wood-frame building with sparse black trim that was built in a simple Gothic Revival architectural style. The church regularly participates in community service and religious activities, and it works with other parishes in the area on ecumenical programs and initiatives such as the food bank. It has a robust music department and serves as one of the venues for the “Music at the Three Churches” summer event.
Eat in Mahone Bay
Mateus Bistro
The Mateus Bistro is the best place for an elegant yet welcoming drink and meal. Seasonal cuisines are made possible with locally grown produce, fresh seafood and charcoal-smoked steaks. In the summer, on the sail-covered terrace, you can enjoy a refreshing craft beer paired with small plates, while in the winter, you can warm up with a hearty stew with Eastern European influences.
Rebecca’s Restaurant
The ocean can be seen beautifully from Rebecca’s restaurant, and her extensive menu includes plenty of choices. Substantial attention is given to vegan and vegetarian meals in addition to pleasing the taste buds of their sea and land lovers. The wide selection of locally produced beverages and artisan baked goods offered by Rebecca will have guests coming back for more.
Grand Banker Bar & Grill
A truly Nova Scotian feel is guaranteed by the fresh regional menu, extensive list of regional wines and craft beers on tap, which includes the on-site Shipwright Brewery and coastal views. House specialties are traditional dishes with a modern twist, such as Blue Rock Fish pastries, Adam & Knickle shellfish, Banker Size Lobster Roll, the famous lobster burger, seafood gumbo and fish broth Acadian Cajun, made with the best seafood from sea and land.
Accommodation in Mahone Bay
Fisherman’s Daughter’s B&B
Televisions are available in guestrooms at this bed and breakfast hotel. Free internet access is available and a buffet breakfast is served. The vintage-themed rooms at Fisherman’s Daughter have a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. A fridge stocked with breakfast items and a coffee machine are available for visitors to eat in their accommodation.
River Ridge Lodge
River Ridge Lodge provides accommodation, free bikes, a common lobby, a lawn and a patio. The b & b has free internet access and parking. Each apartment has a television, a refrigerator and an adjoining bathroom with a bathtub. Breakfast is available on site as a buffet or à la carte.
Fairmont House Bed and Breakfast
The Fairmont House B&B offers accommodations with ocean views and free internet access. Each room has a CD player and a TV. There is an en-suite bathroom in each accommodation. The accommodation also offers entertainment choices like a playground, a shared lounge and a patio.
One of Canada’s prettiest towns, Mahone Bay is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet retreat from city life, even if it’s not very big. So get ready for your Nova Scotia vacation.