I have told you many times the reasons why I love Nova Scotia so much and how one trip was enough to fell in love with this magical land. Nova Scotia is a place of breathtaking landscapes, beautiful people, and warm hospitality. One of the reasons that made my trip unforgettable were the unique places I stayed along the way, on my road trips around the maritime province. From historic inns and charming B&Bs to luxury hotels and even a converted train caboose, every accommodation had its own story to tell. Each night felt like stepping into a different world, whether it was indulging in five-star comfort, immersing myself in history, or experiencing the simple charm of a family-run bed and breakfast.
In this article, I’m sharing my favourite and most unique places to stay in Nova Scotia. Whether you’re looking for a royal experience, a cozy retreat, or an adventure straight out of the past, these places offer something special beyond just a place to sleep. If you’re planning a trip to Nova Scotia and want your accommodations to be as memorable as your travels, I hope my list and experience inspires you.
Unique Hotels And Places to Stay In Nova Scotia
Luxury and Indulgence at Muir Hotel in Halifax
If I had to choose the most perfect stay in Nova Scotia, it would undoubtedly be at Muir Hotel. From the moment I landed in Halifax, every detail of my experience was thoughtfully curated to provide an exceptional level of hospitality.
After a long international flight from London, the hotel had arranged my airport transfer, which was such a relief. Arriving at Muir, I was immediately struck by its architecture—built from sandstone, the hotel blends seamlessly with the surrounding historic buildings. Every design element was intentional, from the $7 million collection of local art to the illuminated walls resembling lighthouse beacons. Even the Rise Again monument outside, on the waterfront, reflects the resilient spirit of Nova Scotians.
My room was absolutely incredible. It was spacious and sleek, with a modern yet warm design featuring smooth, minimalist elements. All amenities were seamlessly hidden in discreet drawers, including a curated bar with a selection of fine local drinks. The bed was large and luxurious, the kind you never want to leave. The bathroom was a sanctuary in itself, with a wet room, separate toilet and sink areas, and a deep soaking tub complete with bath salts and a loofah. As a welcome gift, I found locally made chocolates by Tim Forbes, crafted to resemble the iconic rocks at Blue Rocks—a small yet thoughtful touch that set the tone for my stay.
Every breakfast at Muir was a highlight. On my first morning, I ordered blueberry pancakes, stacked high, drizzled with maple syrup, and topped with brown butter crumble. Even though I am not usually a fan of beans, I couldn’t resist trying the salt cod fish cakes the next day, served with two perfectly poached eggs on a bed of baked beans. It was divine. On my third morning, I opted for a breakfast butty, cooked to perfection and served with a rich, tangy red onion relish on the side.
Dinner at Drift, the hotel’s signature restaurant, was nothing short of perfection. It began with an amuse-bouche of bubble and squeak, paired with crispy pancetta, leeks, and aioli, a delicious start to the meal. For the main course, I chose the seafood hodgepodge, a delicately herbed, creamy broth infused with dill, parsley, and mint. The cod cheeks melted in my mouth, while the caramelized leeks on top added just the right balance of crunch and sweetness. The wine arrived in small carafes, poured graciously at the table. I couldn’t resist dessert, a warm wild blueberry buckle, light and not overly sweet, accompanied by blueberry compote and silky crème anglaise. The brown butter crumble from the morning pancakes made another appearance, adding an extra touch of indulgence to every bite.
After my flight, I took full advantage of Muir’s spa facilities. I swam in the pool, then unwound in the salt therapy room, a soothing experience available to all guests. Every moment at Muir felt like an invitation to slow down, relax, and enjoy the finest that Halifax had to offer. My stay was everything I could have hoped for and more.
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Glamping In A White Dome at Blue Bayou Resort in Cape Breton National Park
After a full day of exploring the eastern side of Cape Breton National Park, I arrived at Blue Bayou Resort just as the sun was setting.
At check-in, the friendly owner welcomed me warmly. We chatted a little bit, me asking him about his favourite places in the area, and him trying to convince me to buy firewood and marshmallows from his tiny shop. I liked his enthusiasm.
My white dome, this unique hotel in Nova Scotia, was perfectly positioned right on the edge of the lake, offering an unobstructed view of the still water and the surrounding wilderness. The setup was incredibly convenient, with my own private parking spot, a picnic area, and a firepit just outside. I didn’t have to think much, and I returned to the check-in desk to buy the firewood, asking the owner to help me start the fire. The weather was getting colder as the darkness arrived, and I knew it was going to rain later on. If I wasn’t able to kayak on the lake, at least I could enjoy the fire – and roast the marshmallows I bought at the supermarket in Baddeck.
I liked how the world around me fell silent—just me, the crackling fire, and the occasional ripple in the lake. I toasted marshmallows, and let the warmth of the fire sink into my skin. When the first raindrops started to fall, I got that gentle reminder that it was time to retreat inside.
The dome’s interior was warm and comfortable, with a portable heater making the space feel extra cosy. The bed was enormous—soft, inviting, the kind you sink into and don’t want to leave. The rain continued through the night, tapping rhythmically against the dome, creating a natural white noise that lulled me into a very restful sleep.
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Stepping into the 19th Century at the Train Station Inn in Tatamagouche
Staying in a train carriage-turned-hotel is the kind of unique experience that makes a trip unforgettable, and it is without a doubt one of the most unique places to stay in Nova Scotia. And when I first heard about the Train Station Inn in Tatamagouche I knew I just had to book it. This historic railway station has been transformed into an inn, offering vintage train cabooses and boxcars as cosy accommodations, all while preserving the charm and nostalgia of their railway past.
I checked in just before sunset, stepping into the train station building, which also doubles as a gift shop filled with quirky curiosities. I couldn’t resist browsing, and by the next day, I had walked out with a metal lobster-shaped coat hook, a perfect little memento from my stay.
My caboose—the first one after the locomotive—felt like stepping back in time. As soon as I opened the door, I was greeted by a bunk bed in the entrance hall, a feature I knew I’d have to take full advantage of. The next morning, I climbed up to the top bunk to watch the sunrise from the top train window, a truly one-of-a-kind way to start the day.
The main sleeping area had a big, comfortable bed, positioned right in the middle of the room and decorated with little railway-inspired touches. The pillowcases featured a moose head and the Canadian Rail logo, while the books on the shelf were all about trains, adding to the authenticity of the space. Black-and-white photos of old locomotives hung on the walls, making it feel like I was in a tiny railway museum—except with a much comfier bed.
At the back of the carriage there was a full bathroom with a proper bathtub.
That evening, I indulged in a late-night snack of pickle crisps in bed, paired with a glass of wine—because sometimes, the simplest moments are the best ones. That night there was a storm, with strong winds and heavy rain but, by morning, the sun took over the sky again.
For breakfast, I headed to the café inside the old train station, where I found myself surrounded by a group of friendly local ladies. They welcomed me into their conversation as if I had always been part of their morning routine, chatting about life in Tatamagouche over freshly brewed coffee and a delicious freshly baked pastry.
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Historical Lodging in Grand Pre at The Evangeline Inn
When I booked a room at Evangeline Inn, I had no idea I was about to step into a piece of Canadian history. I simply booked the most affordable option—a standard double room—but when I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to find that my stay was actually inside the historic Borden House.
Built in 1858, Borden House was the childhood home of Sir Robert Borden, Canada’s eighth Prime Minister. The house still holds onto pieces of its past—an elegant Edwardian wardrobe with hand-carved handles, antique furniture, and even elementary school notebooks belonging to the Borden children, carefully preserved in the library. With just five individual rooms, a cozy sitting room, and a covered veranda lined with lounge chairs, the house felt more like a grand private residence than a hotel.
My room was on the ground floor, with direct access to the terrace. While it had all the modern amenities—central heating, a TV, and an electronic keypad lock—the décor felt more like the 18th century. The massive carved wooden furniture, the high ceilings, and the fireplace topped with an elegant mirror gave the space a regal, almost castle-like atmosphere. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, making the room feel bright and airy.
Unlike a typical hotel, there were no coffee or tea facilities in the room—due to the home’s historical status—but a fully stocked tea room in the kitchen area had everything I needed.
The property itself is quite large, offering plenty of space to walk around and soak in the surroundings. In addition to the historic house, there’s a motel on-site, a pool, and even a small sauna. After days of non-stop road-tripping around Nova Scotia, I treated myself to a relaxing swim. I had the entire pool to myself, making it feel like a private spa retreat.
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Find Your Inner Sailor at the Selkie’s Rest in Baddeck
Ever since I stepped into Nova Scotia for the first time, I realised how important lighthouses are for this land. And whilst on my trips here I am yet to make it to stay in a real lighthouse, I chose the second best when I visited Cape Breton. There’s something undeniably magical about staying in a lighthouse, and at Selkie’s Rest in Baddeck, I got to experience just that. This charming B&B is made up of three colourful lighthouse-style buildings—one green, one blue, and one yellow—each standing proudly overlooking the small town.
I arrived in the afternoon, letting myself in with the entry codes sent to my email. The moment I stepped inside, I was struck by how seamlessly the nautical theme had been woven into the space. Everything—from the soft blues and whites of the décor to the delicate maritime touches—felt like a gentle nod to the seafaring heritage of Nova Scotia.
Each lighthouse is cleverly designed with a garage on the ground floor, while the living space is upstairs, offering some of the best views in Baddeck. My unit, the green lighthouse, had a panoramic, wraparound window that stretched across the bedroom and kitchen, giving me a breathtaking 180-degree view of the town. The high ceilings made the space feel airy and open, while the cozy bed with its hand-painted, themed headboard added a personal touch.
The host had left a bottle of rosé and a selection of chocolate-coated fruits as a welcome gift—a thoughtful gesture that made the stay feel even more special. As I settled in, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped into my own private lantern room, perched high above the water, watching the world go by.
Even the bathroom had a charming touch, with a stained-glass window that filtered the light into soft, colourful reflections. Every detail made it clear to me that this wasn’t just a place to stay, but an experience. I understood then why you can only book the lighthouses for a minimum of two nights.
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Be a Volunteer Inmate At the Louisbourg Fortress
If there’s one thing I regret about my trip to Nova Scotia, it’s not being able to spend the night inside the Louisbourg Fortress. I had been excited about the idea of sleeping in a historic 18th-century stronghold, imagining what it must have been like for soldiers, prisoners, and guards who lived here centuries ago. But by the time I checked, all the accommodations were fully booked—the prison and the guardhouse were closed for the season, and Lartigue House had no availability for my dates. Next time, I’ll make sure to book well in advance!
Even though I didn’t get to stay overnight, I still explored the fortress and got a glimpse of what the experience would have been like. The prison stay is the most immersive, letting guests “volunteer” as inmates by sleeping inside the fortress jail on a wooden platform with complimentary sleeping mats—a setup far more comfortable than what real prisoners endured 300 years ago. Unlike those unfortunate souls, however, guests are free to roam the fortress grounds, adding an adventurous twist to the stay.
For those who want a slightly more prestigious overnight role, there’s the guardhouse. Here, you can spend the night as a soldier on duty, sleeping in the same room where officers once kept watch over the fortress. It’s a rustic yet memorable experience, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the French military.
If sleeping in a prison cell or a guard post isn’t quite your style, Lartigue House offers a more comfortable, period-style stay. Located on the edge of the fortified town, this cozy home features two queen-sized beds in separate sleeping areas, making it more of a “glamping” experience than a rough night in a fortress.
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A Cosy Stay At Cheticamp’s Cabot Trail Sea & Golf Chalets
Cheticamp is one of the most popular stops on the Cabot Trail, and because of that, finding accommodation here can be tricky—especially if you don’t book in advance. By the time I started looking, options were already limited, but that led me to a completely new experience: staying in a golf chalet.
I had never stayed in a golf chalet before, so I was excited when I saw that Cabot Trail Sea & Golf Chalets had availability. My chalet was perfectly positioned on the front line of the property, offering beautiful views over Cheticamp and the sea. I could even catch a glimpse of the lighthouse in the distance. Another bonus? The chalets were within walking distance to town, which was ideal for me, as I don’t drive at night due to low light vision. Being able to stroll to dinner without worrying about getting back was a huge plus.
The chalet itself was spacious and well-equipped, making it a fantastic option for families or small groups. It had a comfortable living room, a fully stocked kitchen, and two bedrooms that could easily accommodate four people. The bathroom was clean and quite large, adding to the overall comfort of the stay.
Outside, the porch was a great spot to relax, with deck chairs overlooking the scenery. The property also had a large barbecue, a picnic table, and private parking, making it feel more like a home away from home rather than just a place to sleep.
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Homely Hospitality at Argyle By The Sea Bed & Breakfast, in Yarmouth
When I booked Argyle By The Sea Bed & Breakfast, I didn’t realize I was actually booking a stay in someone’s home—a cosy little farmhouse in what felt like the middle of nowhere. But as soon as I arrived, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This was, without a doubt, the most welcoming B&B I had ever stayed in.
The B&B is small, with just three guest rooms, making the experience feel intimate and personal. I pulled up just before sunset, following a long gravel driveway that led me to a charming house overlooking the water. The only confirmation that I was in the right place was a modest sign on the road, pointing towards the house.
I knocked on the door, and the man of the house, George, welcomed me in with a warm smile. His wife, Beatrice, was away on business in Halifax, but he assured me I’d meet her in the morning. He led me upstairs and, to my surprise, offered me a choice of two rooms. Naturally, I picked the one with the best view—overlooking the water.
The room itself was as homely as it gets, decorated in an old-fashioned yet comforting style. A large bed with purple sheets, two buttery yellow armchairs, walls adorned with plenty of photos, and a teddy bear sitting on the dresser made it feel so warm and comfortable.
Before heading to bed, George asked me the most serious question of my stay—”Do you like bacon?” His tone made me feel like even if I didn’t like it, (thankfully I do love it), saying “no” simply wasn’t an option. He clearly took great pride in his breakfast specialty, and when morning came, I finally understood why.
That evening, I grabbed the bottle of wine I had picked up at Grand Pré Vineyard and settled onto the porch to watch the sunset. The sky transformed into a stunning display of oranges and pinks, mirrored in the still waters of the bay. It was peaceful, quiet—just me, my wine, and nature putting on a show.
The next morning, I finally met Beatrice, who greeted me with freshly baked bread and eggs from the chickens in the back. Breakfast was a casual affair, with the question of “What would you like to eat?” being more of an open invitation than a menu. Of course, George’s famous bacon was on the table, and it lived up to the hype.
I lingered over breakfast for nearly an hour, chatting with Beatrice and the other two guests. She shared insider tips about the area, including where to find the best Rappie Pie, one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic Acadian dishes.
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A Royal Escape at the Westin Nova Scotian in Halifax
The Westin Nova Scotian was my first introduction to Halifax, and looking back, I couldn’t have picked a more fitting place to stay. This iconic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1930, earning a reputation as one of Halifax’s finest. It was once the place to be, with its grand ballroom, tea room surrounded by a rose garden, and sophisticated rooms. Among its most famous guests? Queen Elizabeth II, who stayed here twice, and Prince Charles and Princess Diana, who attended a state dinner here in 1983.
I arrived early in the day, planning to drop off my bags and explore Halifax, but to my surprise, my room was already ready. Not only that, but after an unexpected parking situation—where I had to reverse out of the porte-cochère to help a van with bicycles manoeuvre out—the valet, in a moment of classic East Coast hospitality, apologized and offered me complimentary valet service.
My room was spacious and classic decorated, with one detail standing out immediately: the massive wardrobe. Later, I found out that these oversized wardrobes were intentionally designed in 1930 to accommodate guests who travelled with trunks full of clothes for extended stays. It’s these little details and glimpses into the past that make this hotel feel so special.
The bed was absolutely divine, with crisp white sheets, a perfectly firm yet plush mattress, and an overall air of understated luxury. A signature lavender balm was placed on the nightstand—a small but thoughtful detail that made my night’s sleep even better.
Upon entering the room, I was greeted with a can of Nova 7 wine by Benjamin Bridge, a bar of blueberry Peace by Chocolate, and a handwritten welcome note.
After a full day exploring Halifax, I returned to my room, poured myself a glass of wine, and sank into one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in. As I tucked in, I found myself wishing I had more time to fully indulge in the hotel’s restaurants and facilities. One thing’s for sure—next time I visit Halifax, the Westin Nova Scotian will be at the top of my list again.
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Just Me and the Sea at The Breeze Motel
The other night, I was talking with a friend about my stay at The Breeze Motel, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how this simple choice in accommodation led to one of the most unforgettable nights of my life. It wasn’t just the comfortable stay or the secluded location—it was the magic of witnessing the northern lights dance above the Bay of Fundy.
I originally booked The Breeze Motel out of convenience. Most of the hotels and B&Bs in Wolfville were fully booked, and I always prefer a place with on-site parking, something that was lacking in the few remaining options in town. Located right on Evangeline Beach, overlooking the Minas Basin, this small motel is tucked away from everything, making it feel wonderfully secluded—especially at night.
I arrived in the late afternoon after picking up some fresh, local produce from a farm shop near Wolfville for a picnic dinner. The motel itself is small, with only about ten rooms, and operates without a reception desk. My entry code was sent straight to my phone, making check-in seamless. My king room was spacious, bright, and modern, with everything I needed for a comfortable night in—a mini fridge, a smart TV, and a coffee maker for the morning. The property also had a firepit, hammocks, and picnic tables overlooking the bay, though the chilly wind that evening kept me inside.
After dinner, I stepped out to watch the sunset over the bay, then retreated to my room, curling up in bed with a book. I thought the night was winding down—until I noticed something unusual through the window. At first, it was just a faint green glow in the sky. Then it became clearer, shifting, moving. Could it be?
Throwing a coat over my pyjamas, I grabbed a hat and rushed outside. The wind was howling, the temperatures had dropped, but none of that mattered. As I rounded the corner of the motel, I stood frozen in awe. The sky above the Bay of Fundy was alive. It wasn’t just green—it was pink, red, orange, with curtains of light falling straight above me. And the most surreal part? I was the only one there. The other guests must have been out at dinner, leaving me with this once-in-a-lifetime show, all to myself.
Had I chosen a hotel in the centre of Wolfville, I never would have seen this. Booking this quiet, off-the-beaten-path motel turned into one of the most incredible travel experiences of my life. Sometimes, the best moments happen when you least expect them.
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What a great list of places to stay in Nova Scotia! It has come at the perfect time – we are planning a trip here for next year. My favorite is Selkie’s Rest in Baddeck. I love the design with the garage below and the living space above with the cute windows that give panoramic views. Those images of the stack of pancakes at the Muir Hotel and the one at The Sea Bed & Breakfast, in Yarmouth look totally inviting! You are so lucky to see the awesome Aurora colors at the Bay of Fundy. Bookmarking your post. 🙂
As someone who loves glamping, my first choice is definitely White Dome at Blue Bayou Resort. Good to know the glamping tent has this transparent section with a view of the lake! Getting the fire wood and roasting some marshmallows was definitely a good idea! I’d definitely want to stay in the Train station Inn as well. The concept is quite unique. Watching the sunrise from the top of the bunk bed through a renovated train compartment??? Say no more. I’m staying there on my next trip…
I think you scored the best accommodations when traveling around Nova Scotia. Selkie’s Rest, shaped like a lighthouse, is so cute. I would stay there in a heartbeat. I also like The Argyle B&B. It looks cozy and homey, and that eggs & bacon breakfast looks delicious. How lucky to see the northern lights from The Breeze Motel. I’m sure you won’t ever forget that experience.
Wow, so many hidden gems! Really unique places! I can’t choose where to stay, I like them all! But maybe the Train Station Inn is N1 for me!
All of these places in Nova Scotia look like incredible spots to stay, for a short or longer-term duration! I’ve been to Nova Scotia once, several years back, and would love to go again. Obviously, I would stay at one of these awesome hotels!
Terrific post about Nova Scotia and so thorough. I can’t wait to visit sometime soon.
You stayed in some pretty unique places! They all look amazing – what a great selection of places to stay in Nova Scotia. I think I would like to try the Glamping one.. I haven’t done it yet.