The Best Hotels to Book for Stargazing in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia in Canada is one of the world’s best destinations for witnessing the stars in all their splendor, with North America’s darkest skies and brightest stars. These are the most magical Nova Scotia hotels for stargazing, all bookable on Culture Trip.
Nova Scotia in Canada boasts some of North America’s most spectacular night skies. The Acadian Skies and Mi’kmaq Lands region in the southwest of the province is one of only four places in the world to have been awarded a Starlight Reserve and Destination designation by the International Starlight Foundation. From quaint inns in historic small towns to romantic wellness retreats, these are some of the best places to stay if you want to experience the beauty of Nova Scotia’s night skies.

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Hotel
Set on the shores of Yarmouth on the Evangeline Trail, this inn is ideal for couples in search of romantic small-town charm in one of the province’s best stargazing destinations. The interior is designed to take guests on a journey through history, with each of the seven suites themed to represent a different era. The 1900 Grand Victoria Queen Room features a rich burgundy palette and period furnishings, while the 1940s Mommy Dearest Queen Room evokes the glamour of 1940s Hollywood. Or, take a trip to the 60s in the 1960 Vandyke Queen Room, which boasts brick walls and earthy tones inspired by Danish Modernism and the set of The Dick Vandyke Show.
Farmhouse Inn Bed and Breakfast
Bed and Breakfast

This charming 1860s farmhouse in the historic town of Canning is perfectly located to explore the Bay of Fundy and the Annapolis Valley. One of the highlights here is the home-cooked, three-course Nova Scotian breakfast, which is served in the dining room surrounded by pressed tin ceilings and an original wide pine floor. Start with yogurt parfait with homemade granola and freshly cooked scones, followed by hot dishes such as the Nova Scotia Apple Delight, or fluffy eggs with local apples sprinkled with sugar and served with local maple syrup and blueberry sauce. Planning a longer stay? Book The Loft, an apartment with a private entrance and deck, as well as a kitchen and access to the shared fire pit and barbecue.
Auberge Thon Jaune
Hotel

Conveniently located close to the Wedgeport Starlight viewing platform and the Wedgeport Nature Trail, Auberge Thon Jaune is a picturesque white weatherboard home in the seaside town of Wedgeport, overlooking Chebeck Bay. There are two bedrooms – a queen suite and a king suite – which can be rented individually, or guests can choose to rent the entire home, which boasts a private sauna and spa. Alongside stargazing, Wedgeport is known as the Tuna Capital of the World, and there are plenty of opportunities for sports fishing and exploring the surrounding Tusket Islands.
Trout Point Lodge
Eco Hotel, Hotel, Lodge, Luxury

There’s no better way to experience Nova Scotia’s dark skies than immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty at Trout Point Lodge. Billed as Nova Scotia’s premier luxury wilderness resort and hotel, the lodge is nestled into a secluded location in the UNESCO Southwest Nova Scotia Biosphere Reserve in the Tobeatic wilderness (40 minutes from Yarmouth). Every room, lodge and cottage boasts river views, and activities range from guided stargazing and cooking classes to a relaxing outdoor barrel sauna and wood-fired hot tub. Another highlight is the daily-changing gourmet four-course dinner, featuring dishes like New London mussels with white wine foam.
Mersey River Chalets & Nature Reserve
Cabin
Planning a family holiday to Nova Scotia? Mersey River Chalets & Nature Reserve offers a wide range of accommodation types to suit groups of all sizes, from a spacious log house overlooking Harry Lake that sleeps up to 11 guests, to a mix of small and large chalets. More adventurous guests will love the tipi village, a collection of three tipis and two wall tents that are furnished with comfy beds and have access to a shared kitchen or barbecue. The family-friendly destination is also set up with plenty of activities for kids, including kayaking, a playground, lawn games, and snowshoe trails.
Lighthouse Lane Cottages
Cottages

This collection of chic cottages is perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean at St Margaret’s Bay, just a three-minute drive to the renowned Peggy’s Cove lighthouse. Each pretty weatherboard cottage is furnished with a maritime theme – think starfish wall decorations, reclaimed oars, and cabin-style lighting – and most boast fully equipped kitchens and cozy fireplaces. Fancy exploring the waters? The cottages are just steps away from the pristine Clifty Cove, a sheltered inlet where you can set off on a kayaking adventure to explore the surrounding islands.
The Prince George Hotel Halifax
Hotel

The Halliburton
Boutique Hotel, Hotel

The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites
Hotel, Boutique Hotel

Built in 1928, The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites has been welcoming visitors to downtown Halifax for more than 90 years – and the elegant interiors pay tribute to the glamour of a bygone era with sparkling crystal chandeliers, intricate woodwork, plush carpets, and a grand piano. For the best views of the night sky, you’ll need to head away from the city lights. Make a day of it with a road trip along the Eastern Shore. Stop in at Lawrencetown Beach, stroll the boardwalk along Salt Marsh Trail, and then head to Martinique Beach to take in the skies. If you happen to be visiting in August, you might even be treated to the spectacle of the Perseids, a meteor shower that blazes across the sky.
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