Sweet Mahone Bay — MARITIMES MAVEN

Pretty as a Postcard

The three historic churches in Mahone Bay are the most photographed in all of Canada and why wouldn't they be? They are framed by tall evergreens and sit back behind a serene bay. Much of the town seems picture perfect awaiting to be photographed as well, so be sure to have your camera battery fully charged. This town is a photographer's dream. It is as pretty as a postcard.

One of the 10 Prettiest Towns in Canada

Hugging the bay, this picturesque small town is a shining jewel with its beautiful 19th century architecture, charming bed and breakfasts, authentic Nova Scotia crafts and artisan gift shops, beautiful boutiques, quaint antique shops, and interesting art galleries. Mahone Bay has even earned the title of ‘One of the 10 Prettiest Towns in Canada.’

Something for Everyone

There is something for everyone here. Mahone Bay boasts a great array of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Start at one end of town and work your way through remembering to head up both arms of Main Street and along Edgewater Street. Follow what catches your eye and pop in and out as many as you can. The Northern Sun Gallery & Gifts shop is my favourite gift shop in town. It is a delightful place to find exquisite jewelry, art, giftware, and clothing. For some reason, I missed capturing a photo of it, but do yourself a favour and head there first.

Amos Pewter

Once an 1888 former boat building shop, Amos Pewter is now one of the most highly visited craft shops in Nova Scotia. It carries nature and seaside inspired pewter home decor, jewelry, giftware, and keepsake ornaments. Visitors can partake in the daily tours and hands-on experience to finish a signature Amos Pewter sand dollar.

Eat, Drink & Be Amazed

To whet your appetite, there are countless adorable cafes and lovely restaurants lining the streets of Mahone Bay. Walk along and pick any one of them. The offerings are plentiful and happy customers marvel in the culinary delights within each. Eat, drink and be amazed! Mahone Bay delivers great food & drink. Everyone you meet will give you a different recommendation so know that you cannot go wrong in this town.

Saltbox Brewing Company

Walk into the Saltbox Brewing Company, and you will soon discover this is where all the locals hang out. My friend Lucie and I pulled up a stool and enjoyed a good ole kitchen party, as neighbourhood friends jammed and gathered to enjoy traditional maritime music. We enjoyed a wonderful walkthrough of the brewery’s craft beers & ciders while we tipped back a cold ‘Crustacean Elation.’ We were pleasantly surprised that this ‘lobster beer’ is not at all fishy. This pale ale is just a slight salty with a touch of butter, and has an overall nice finish. We also tried the tart and sweet pink Haskap Cider. Then the local brewmaster, who just happened to be part of the kitchen party, put down his guitar and joined us for a chat. John’s passion for brewing developed quite naturally and he along with his whole staff are great ambassadors of Saltbox, living by their motto: ‘Think social, and drink local’ as when they are not working, you will still find them hanging out at Saltbox enjoying a brew or two.

Mug & Anchor Pub

The Mug & Anchor, a traditional style pub, and is a favourite of my husband's and a must stop when he is with me. I should add it is a favourite of many here, including the cast and crew of History Television’s hit show Curse of Oak Island. Stop for a cold one, as there are many local and imported beers on tap. Enjoy a full pub styled menu inside, or on the deck which overlooks the bay. And remember to keep your ears open, as just maybe... you'll be privy to eavesdrop on some deep hidden Oak Island pirate treasure talk too.

Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival

Everything scarecrow and pumpkins as far as one can see fill the town at the annual autumn Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival & Antique Fair. Life-size scarecrows adorn the whole town in the silliest and most imaginative way. Endless family fun activities and even a magical lit up pumpkin path at night awaits. Add to it the largest antique fair in the Maritimes. This is one not to miss. Learn more through the link at the end of this article.

Come Fall in Love with Mahone Bay

Mahone Bay is referred to as “A Treasure Since 1754.” To learn more about this town's shipbuilding and logging past - a must stop for the history buff is the Mahone Bay Museum. Plan a trip to find out for yourself why Mahone Bay keeps getting everyone’s vote for the prettiest town in Canada. One local man I spoke to said he fell head over heels in love with Mahone Bay after visiting. After that, he returned to vacation often. Then he just decided to move here. He believes it is the best town in Canada to retire to. So I dare you - come fall in love with Mahone Bay.

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