Wolfville

Drive the south shore, soaking in rocky coastline views. Explore how the unique terroir of this oldest North American grape-growing region influences distinctive wines. Taste the rocky Drumlin Hills' impact, surrounded by serene lavender gardens. This idyllic area is within five miles of three of the province's most beautiful beaches.

Start your journey at the Grand Pré National Historic Site, then sample wines and enjoy lunch at the historical Domaine de Grand Pré, Nova Scotia's first commercial winery, home to Le Caveau restaurant. Continue to Mercator for single-vineyard tastings, and conclude with wood-fired pizza at Lightfoot and Wolfville, known for excellent bubbles and award-winning Pinot Noir. These three Wolfville-area wineries are easily accessible by bike.

Next, hike Cape Split for stunning Bay of Fundy views. Afterward, reward yourself with a glass at Blomidon Estates Winery to taste the seaside influence. Visit Planters Ridge for great wines and events like yoga or movie nights, and to explore rare varieties. Finish the day by exploring Acadia University or the Tangled Garden.

Enjoy the South Mountain and Bay of Fundy views en route to Bear River Valley. Learn how granite soil and gravity-fed winemaking influence local wine flavor, noting that vineyards here date back to 1611. After a riverside lunch at Myrtle & Rosie’s Café, visit Bear River Vineyards. Taste their nationally awarded Pinot Gris and see their four-and-a-half-story 1883 bank barn, masterfully renovated for gravity-fed winemaking and featuring available guest rooms.

Start your Gaspereau Valley wine tour at Gaspereau Vineyards by parking and picking up a bike. Cycle 6 minutes to Benjamin Bridge, renowned for sparkling wine, and visit their newly renovated tasting room with valley views. Next, cycle up the hill to Luckett Vineyards for lunch, learning about their buried wine line, and call home from the authentic London phone booth. For insight into organic viticulture, visit L'Acadie Vineyards. Conclude your day back at Gaspereau Vineyards for a glass and snack on their vine-side patio, enjoying their dry Muscat.

Explore Cape Breton's inland sea via the Bras D’Or Lakes scenic drive, watching for Marble Mountain Estates near Marble Mountain. Enjoy a glass and enhance your Gaelic. Though Cape Breton has only one winery, you can visit breweries like Breton Brew Co. and Big Spruce Brewing Company, and Glenora, a whisky distillery reflecting the area's strong Scottish influence.