Annapolis Valley Archives - Keith Kucharski, RE/MAX REALTOR®

Feb 22 No Comments

Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,South Shore

Do you have maple trees on your property? Or considering buying a property that has mature sugar maple trees on it? While not as well known for its maple syrup and sugar shack tradition as Quebec, Nova Scotians as just as sweet on tapping maple trees.

As spring approaches, you can’t help but notice buckets hanging off the trunks of roadside maple trees.

Nova Scotia’s climate provides the perfect conditions for maple syrup production. The sap begins to flow as the days grow longer and the nights remain chilly. Typically, the maple syrup season in Nova Scotia runs from late February to early April, although the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. I like to wait until I’m consistently seeing daytime temperatures over above freezing before I tap our large maple tree.

While some larger hobby farms use modern tubing systems to gather the dripping sap, I just use metal taps and sap collection buckets I picked up from the Scotian Gold Country Store in Coldbrook.

Each day, I collect the sap and begin the process of boiling the sap down into syrup. I do this outside on a propane boiler, taking the sap inside to finish the last little bit under my watchful eye on the stove. Each year I typically end up with 3 to 4 litres of delicious, golden, maple syrup. We use it on pancakes, crepes, and other breakfast items, and I set aside a small amount to flavour whiskey with as well.

Even if you don’t have a maple tree on your property, by purchasing Nova Scotia maple syrup, whether from roadside stands, farmers’ markets, or specialty stores, you can directly contribute to the livelihoods of small-scale maple producers and help ensure the survival of this time-honoured craft.

Feb 07 No Comments

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore

As a REALTOR® who specializes in the South Shore and Annapolis Valley area, arguably two of the prettiest places in the province, I’m often asked which area is better for someone wanting to buy land and build a hobby farm. The answer – it depends!

The Valley and the South Shore are two distinct regions, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. While both areas boast fertile soil and temperate climates, their microclimates and geographic features create diverse gardening conditions that offer gardeners both opportunities and challenges.

The Annapolis Valley: A Garden Oasis
Nestled between two mountain ranges, the Annapolis Valley is often referred to as the “breadbasket of Nova Scotia” for its fertile farmland and abundant agricultural output. Its microclimate benefits from the warming effect of the Bay of Fundy, creating milder winters and extended growing seasons. These favorable conditions make the Annapolis Valley a haven for a wide range of crops and gardens.

Climate: The Annapolis Valley experiences a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm summers. The moderating influence of the bay helps protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations, allowing for early spring planting and a longer growing season.

Soil Quality: The valley’s soil is predominantly fertile and well-drained, offering ideal conditions for a variety of crops and gardens. Rich in nutrients and organic matter, the soil supports vigorous plant growth and yields abundant harvests.

Crop Diversity: From vineyards and orchards to vegetable gardens and flower farms, the Annapolis Valley boasts a diverse array of agricultural ventures. Fruit trees, such as apples, cherries, and peaches, thrive in the region’s temperate climate, while vineyards produce award-winning wines.

The South Shore: Coastal Gardening
Stretching along the Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia’s South Shore offers a contrasting gardening experience shaped by its maritime influences and rugged coastline. While characterized by cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons compared to the Annapolis Valley, the region’s coastal beauty and unique microclimates present their own rewards for gardening enthusiasts. The closer you are to the coast, the more likely you’ll experience cool, foggy days over the bright sunshine of the Valley.

Climate: The South Shore experiences a cooler maritime climate with brisk sea breezes and higher humidity levels. Winters tend to be colder than in the Annapolis Valley, with shorter frost-free periods and a narrower window for gardening activities. Coastal gardening comes with its own set of challenges, including salt spray, strong winds, and soil erosion. Windbreaks and protective barriers can help mitigate these effects, while careful plant selection and site preparation are essential for success.

Soil Quality: Coastal soils in the South Shore can vary widely, ranging from sandy to loamy compositions. While sandy soils offer good drainage, they may require additional amendments to improve fertility and water retention. Organic matter from coastal vegetation contributes to soil health and structure.

Comparing the Two Regions

There’s no doubt that there are far more small, medium, and large-scale agricultural operations in the Valley than there are on the South Shore. This can mean more competition if you’re selling your produce, but it can also mean less opportunity to network with other farmers and build community. The Valley has more garden centres (here’s my top five), but the South Shore has a few very nice garden centres too.

There are plenty of homesteaders happily growing lovely gardens on the South Shore. Yonder Hills Farms is one of my favourites. Plus, land is often a little less expensive for similar properties, and the South Shore has truly spectacular sandy beaches not found in the Valley.

If you’d like to explore some of the communities in the Annapolis Valley, check out my YouTube channel, my Move to the Annapolis Valley website, or set up your custom search so you’ll receive email updates when properties are listed that meet your criteria.

Additional Resources for Hobby Farmers

THINKFARM provides introductory-level resources for starting a farm in Nova Scotia. This website has information on defining your farm vision, business planning, and regulations which apply to new farm businesses. It is a good starting point before accessing advisory services from the Department of Agriculture regional offices.

Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation is a provincial development agency with the mission to support growth, transformation, and economic development in Nova Scotia’s agriculture, seafood, and food and beverage sectors. We are Nova Scotia’s only technical development agency focused solely on our food sector and maximizing its value.

Guide for BEGINNING FARMERS in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Grow Southwest Nova Scotia

Dec 01 No Comments

Little Free Libraries in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

As a real estate agent, I spend a lot of time behind the wheel, driving to meet clients, show houses, and taking listing photos or videos. I’ve explored all over my two focus areas, the Annapolis Valley and the South Shore. One thing I see a lot of, in addition to roadside stands, are little free libraries. These tiny book havens, often found in unexpected places, are so delightful to find.

Here are some of my favourite little libraries in the Annapolis Valley’s little library network.

The Woodland Trails Little Free Library, 32 University Avenue, Wolfville
Located at Acadia University, this little library is dedicated to the memory of Reg Moore a lifelong learner, educator, and gardener. The first books in the library were from Reg’s personal collection of gardening books.

The Little Bird Library, 210 Old Post Rd, Grand Pre
This whimsical little library was installed as part of the 2013 Uncommon Art Common Art program in Kings County.

The Little Red Schoolhouse Library, 8 Reagh Avenue, Middleton
This schoolhouse library sits on a repurposed antique school desk in the yard of an elementary teacher and her family. A true commitment to lifelong learning!

Learning on the Lane, 43 Lawrencetown Lane, Lawrencetown
What began as a small shelving unit is now a 4’x6’ shed that houses a little library and a community pantry!

The Annapolis Valley’s little libraries foster a love for reading, encourage connections between neighbours, and contribute to the unique charm of our region.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, take the time to seek out these hidden gems, or any others on this Little Free Library World Map, and you’ll discover a world of literary treasures waiting to be explored!

Nov 28 No Comments

Very Valley Gift Ideas

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

Have you been visiting the many Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley this year? (If not, here’s a comprehensive list of the 2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets). Even if you can’t get to a market, you can still find some incredible handmade gifts that I think of as “Very Valley” gifts. Here are some of my favourites:

Give the gift of peaceful serenity with the gift of a New Scotland Candle Co candle, made in Kentville.
A custom illustration from Little Bluenose Illustrations would make a very personal gift, but artist Alice Lefebvre also offers whimsical prints of various Annapolis Valley scenes.
Take a drive to Hall’s Harbour to visit Spiral Studio and select from beautiful pottery in earthy tones.
As a woodworker myself, I appreciate the care and attention that goes into the cutting boards, charcuterie boards, and other wood crafts from Annapolis Valley Woodworks.
Annapolis Valley Luffa uses luffa, a naturally formed fibre, to make sustainable body sponges, dish scrubbers, and more.

Consumables make really excellent gifts! Here are my favourite food and drink products from the Valley.

Visit Sable Shortbread in Kentville for the most incredible melt-in-your-mouth shortbread.
Sissibo Coffee in Bear River offers ethically sourced beans and roast them with precision and care. North Mountain Coffee in Berwick offers high-quality coffee in small batches on restored antique roasters that are between 80 and 100 years old. All coffees are expertly developed with traditional European roasting techniques, and both are small, family-owned and run businesses beloved by locals.
The hot dilly cuke jelly is my favourite from Tangled Garden outside Wolfville, but they have plenty of other jams and jellies to choose from.
I’m partial to the Apple Pie Moonshine produced by Still Fired Distillery outside Annapolis Royal. Have you tried their moonshine, vodkas or gins yet?
If you’re near Lequille picking up moonshine, hit up the nearby Lequille Country Store for the best beef jerky in the province. (For real. People drive from Halifax just to get their jerky fix.)
The Annapolis Valley has a dozen wineries, and nearly as many craft breweries. Pick up something delicious to drink, or a cool t-shirt or ball cap for a cool brewery makes a great gift.

Nov 02 No Comments

2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

It’s time!

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by visiting Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley. These markets offer a unique opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts while supporting local artisans and businesses. From tiny events in small schools to large, multi-day events, you’ll find handmade decorations, delectable treats, and incredible artisan craftsmanship at these shows.

Christmas In The Country
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1582 Black Rock Road, Waterville

Christmas on the Sissiboo Craft Market
Saturday, November 4, 2023
4079 Evangeline Trail Weymouth NS, Weymouth

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, November 4, 2023
9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Berwick School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 4, 2023
220 Veterans Drive, Berwick

Kingston Lions Hall
November 4 and 5, 2023, 10-4
1482 Veterans Ln, Kingston

The Mom Market
Sunday, November 5, 2023
Berwick & District Volunteer Fire Department
296 Commercial St, Berwick

Annapolis Royal Winter Farmers Market
Every Saturday from November 13 to December 18, 2023
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 170 St. Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas at the Vineyard
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Beaver Creek Vineyard, 496 Carleton Road, Lawrencetown

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Louis Millet Community Complex, 9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Crafty Craft Fair
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Lunn’s Mill, 515 Carleton Rd, Lawrencetown Village

Clarence Country Market Christmas Market
Sunday, November 12, 2023
3337 Clarence Road, Clarence

Holiday Express Market
Friday, November 17, 2023
325 Main Street, Kentville

Acadia Christmas Craft Expo
November 17, 18, 19, 2023
550 Main Street, Wolfville

Kentville Lions Holiday Market
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Kentville Lions Club, 78 River St, Kentville

14 Wing Greenwood Craft & Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Greenwood Community Centre, Build 110, Church Street, Greenwood

Bridgetown Legion Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Bridgetown Legion, 20 Jeffery Street, Bridgetown

Somerset School Christmas Craft Fair
November 18 and 19, 2023
Somerset & District Elementary School, 4339 Brooklyn Street, Berwick

Dandelion Lane Holiday Photos & Crafts Market
Sunday, November 19, 2023
4035 Hwy 201, Bridgetown

Brickton Community Hall Holiday Craft Fair
Sunday, November 19, 2023, 12-3
12062 Nova Scotia Trunk 1, Lawrencetown

Kingston Legion Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 9-4
1472 Veterans Ln, Kingston

Girl Guides Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 25, 2023
South Berwick Community Hall, 4518 Highway 1, South Berwick

Berwick Lions Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
250 Veterans Drive, Berwick

North Mountain Market 2023 Holiday Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
3201 Long Point Road, Berwick

Landmark East School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Kentville Fire Hall

Lawrencetown Breakfast with Santa & Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023
Lawrencetown Consolidated School, 7 Middle Road, Lawrencetown

Avon Community Farmers’ Market Holiday Market
Sunday, November 26, 2023
West Hants Sports Complex, Windsor

Macdonald Museum Christmas Craft Market
December 1 and December 2, 2023
21 School St, Middleton

Cambridge Community Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9:30am to 2pm
5961 Highway 1, Cambridge

Greenwich Fire Hall Christmas Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, December 2, 9am-3pm
9798 Highway #1, Wolfville

Annapolis Valley Farmers and Traders Holiday Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 2pm
Community Hub, Annapolis Royal

Olde Fashioned Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Legion, 66 Victoria Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 5 Saint Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Festival Craft and Gift Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Consolidated School, 4689 NS-12, New Ross

Christmas Country Craft Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Legion Hall, 64 Forties Road, New Ross

Inglisville Christmas Craft Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
1407 Inglisville Road, Lawrencetown

Ross Farm Museum Craft & Gift Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
New Ross Farm, 4568 Highway 12, New Ross

West Brooklyn Community Hall Christmas Artisan Show & Sale
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 11am – 4pm
410 West Brooklyn Mountain Road, Wolfville

Berwick Station Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023, 9am to 1pm
104 Front Street, Berwick

Bridgetown Regional Community School Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 3pm
25 Cromwell Court, Bridgetown

Deep Brook Waldec Lions Club
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 2pm to 4pm
Deep Brook Lions Hall
948 Highway 1, Deep Brook

Merry Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 3pm
Coldbrook Lions Hall, 1416 South Bishop Road, Coldbrook

Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 1pm
Scot’s Bay Community Hall, 5796 Highway 358, Canning

Harbourville Christmas Market
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Harbourville United Church, 3201 Long Point Road, Harbourville

Holiday Lights Night Market
Thursday, December 14, 2023, 5:30pm to 8:30pm
300 Commercial Street, Berwick

Craft Sale
Sunday, December 19, 2023
Lawrencetown Fire Hall, Lawrencetown

The Annapolis Valley is a treasure trove of holiday cheer and unique, handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered. As you explore the charming Christmas craft markets listed above, you’ll not only find special presents for your friends and family but also support local artisans and businesses. Embrace the holiday spirit and make this festive season memorable by visiting these delightful markets in the Annapolis Valley. Happy shopping, and Merry Christmas!

Sep 27 No Comments

Apple Season in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

As the leaves begin to don their vibrant autumn colors, there’s a magical transformation that takes place in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. Apple season in the Annapolis Valley kicks off in early September with the Bridgetown Ciderfest, the apple orchards come alive this month, filling the air with the sweet scent of ripe fruit and beckoning visitors to experience the joys of apple season. The trees have turned from branches loaded with blossoms and wooden crates waiting…

…to heavily laden trees with the most delicious varieties of apples.

The Annapolis Valley, often referred to as the “Valley,” is a picturesque region nestled between two mountain ranges, the North Mountain and the South Mountain. Located in the western part of Nova Scotia, this fertile valley is a haven for agriculture, and apple orchards play a pivotal role in its agricultural heritage.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley typically spans from late summer to early autumn, making it a perfect time to visit. One of the most captivating aspects of this season is the incredible variety of apples you’ll find here. From the crisp and sweet Honeycrisp to the tart and tangy Cortland, there’s an apple to suit every palate. The Annapolis Valley boasts numerous apple orchards and farms, each offering its unique charm and apple-related experiences. My two favourites are Noggins Corner Farm Market, a beloved destination. Noggins Corner offers not only a vast array of apple varieties but also a corn maze, petting zoo, and other family-friendly activities.

I also love Dempsey Corner Orchards, outside Berwick. Known for their heirloom apple varieties, Dempsey Corner Orchards offers an authentic orchard experience. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at their on-site café.

Closer to my home, Spurr Brothers Farm is an incredible farm market and hard cidery where you can enjoy a cider on tap or by bottle, listen to live music, and take photos in their pumpkin or sunflower patches.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley Spurr Brothers — Spurr Brothers – Middleton

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley is a time of abundant beauty, delicious flavors, and cherished traditions. If you’re thinking of moving to the Annapolis Valley and growing your own apple trees, be sure to reach out, I’d be happy to help you find the perfect property.

Aug 10 No Comments

Annapolis Valley Corn

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, fertile farmlands, and bountiful harvests–especially Annapolis Valley corn on the cob. This classic mid-summer treat is one of the many crops that thrive in this agricultural paradise.

The Valley’s moderate climate, influenced by its proximity to the Bay of Fundy, creates an ideal environment for corn cultivation. Warm summers, ample rainfall, and well-drained soils provide the necessary ingredients for both early and late varieties of corn to flourish. Driving through the Valley you’ll see fields of brilliant green corn stalks waving in the breeze, and even small patches in people’s yards.

When Annapolis Valley corn is in season, it’s impossible to miss. You’ll see it piled up at roadside stands and farmers’ markets, and in local grocery stores with “local corn” signs. People absolutely have their favourite farms they buy from–in our house, we go out of our way to pick up corn from Newcombe’s Sweet Corn. They pick their corn every morning, so you know when you stop by their stand you’re getting the freshest cobs in the Valley.

I grew up in Alberta before moving to Nova Scotia in 2017, and like many Albertans, I loved the corn out Taber, the Corn Capital of Canada. Taber is famous for its corn due to the large amounts of sunshine the area receives. They even hold an annual “Cornfest” in the last week of August! I was so happy to discover that Valley corn is just as sweet and delicious as Taber corn.

While I’m a big fan of a classic corn boil (just 2-3 minutes in the pot, don’t overcook it!), BBQ’d corn (try it slathered with butter and hot honey) or even eating it raw, I do have three recipes I use when I’ve bought a big sack of corn.

Here are my top three favourite corn recipes:

corn fritters

corn butter farro

corn chowder with chile, lime and cotija

Jun 15 No Comments

Visit Hall’s Harbour, Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley

Hall’s Harbour is a coastal gem! Nestled on the Bay of Fundy over the North Mountain in the Annapolis Valley, this tiny village offers a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty and rich maritime heritage.

One of the biggest draws of Hall’s Harbour is how dramatically the world’s highest tides are viewed from the wharf. During the incredible tidal shifts, millions of gallons of water flow in and out of the bay each day. Take a stroll along the waterfront during low tide and marvel at the vast expanse of the ocean floor, dotted with colorful seaweed, tidal pools, and unique rock formations.

I encourage visitors wanting to see Hall’s Harbour to schedule a visit one of two ways:

Check the tide chart, and plan to visit just after low tide, to see how the tide has gone out, and wander the ocean floor. Walk the waterfront, have a leisurely meal at the Lobster Pound, shop at the souvenir shops, visit the museum (if it’s open), then check out how much the tide has risen in the few hours you’ve been in the community. It’s roughly six hours from low to high tide, which is quite a lot of time to kill in this tiny community.
If you want to see both peak low and high tides, check the tide chart, and plan a visit during one of the tide peaks. Enjoy seeing Hall’s Harbour, then head back over the mountain to visit nearby Kentville (17 minutes away) or Wolfville (30 minutes away), then return to Hall’s Harbour to see the opposite tide.

Low Tide - Hall's Harbour — Low Tide, Hall’s Harbour

The Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound is a seasonal, sit-down restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, offering fresh-caught lobster, scallops, clams, and the famous Digby scallops. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or cider, creating a perfect harmony of flavours.

Lobster Pound - Hall's Harbour — Lobster Pound, Hall’s Harbour

The charming eco-trail is comprised of two segments. One is located off Cove Road, and this segment is about 400m one way. It leads from the forest into an open field and towards Highway 359. The other segment begins at the wharf and ascends the slope by the stream. This roughly 600m loop has elevation gain and benches to rest. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including bald eagles and ospreys, as they soar above the coastline.

Eco Trail, Hall's Harbour — Eco Trail, Hall’s Harbour

Learn about Hall’s Harbour’s rich maritime heritage at the local museum, open during the summer months only. Discover captivating stories of brave fishermen and explore artifacts that tell tales of a bygone era.

Finally, while the Lobster Pound has a souvenir store, it mainly sells items imported from around the world with a maritime theme. Parker’s General Store offers beautiful, handcrafted items inspired by the sea and created by local artisans.

Parkers General Store, Hall's Harbour — Parker’s General Store, Hall’s Harbour

I encourage you to stop by Spiral Studio, a lovely pottery shop featuring beautiful items at all price points.

Spiral Studio, Hall's Harbour — Spiral Studio, Hall’s Harbour

Enjoy your visit!

May 25 No Comments

Nova Scotia’s Regional Differences

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Buying in Nova Scotia,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore

Nova Scotia may be Canada’s second smallest province but a lot of people misunderstand how diverse Nova Scotia’s regional differences really are. The famous ‘East Coast Lifestyle’ is not a uniform culture from one side of our little province to the other. Here are a few of the most notable regional differences in some popular areas I serve.

Halifax

I can’t count how many clients have asked me, “What city should I move to?” My answer is always the same–there’s only one! Halifax is Nova Scotia’s only city. There are plenty of towns and communities, but Halifax is the only city. It’s home to a beautiful and bustling waterfront, excellent restaurants and nightlife, and many head offices and government offices. If you want the excitement of a city with lots happening every night of the week, Halifax should be your destination.

Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley is known for its fertile farmland, scenic landscapes, and long growing season, so it’s very popular with farmers and gardeners. The Valley tends to have an interesting mix of wealth (mainly around Wolfville and Annapolis Royal), university youth (Wolfville again), and more average areas.

Each community really has its own feel. To help people understand the differences, my wife and I have developed MovetotheAnnapolisValley.ca, a website devoted to helping potential residents learn what it’s like living in the various communities in the Valley.

South Shore

Nova Scotia’s South Shore is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and stunning beaches. While there are some small agricultural operations and plenty of Christmas tree farms, the soil and weather conditions aren’t as conducive to growing, which might be important to you if you’re dreaming of a large garden.

The South Shore has a strong history of seafaring and fishing heritage, and you’ll find those influences in the people who reside there. There can be some resistance to newcomers on the South Shore, though many people are trying to improve the welcoming nature of the community. If easy access to spectacular public beaches is important to you, you can’t go wrong on the South Shore.

The French Shore

The French Shore is deeply rooted in Acadian history and culture. Acadians are the descendants of French colonists who settled in the region in the 17th century. The French Shore is dotted with picturesque fishing villages that exude a quaint and authentic maritime charm but might feel very remote and cut off from civilization if you’re used to more populated areas.

Though Nova Scotia’s French-speaking population is dispersed throughout the province and 10% of Nova Scotians speak French, most of them live in a concentrated area. Acadians make up the majority of the population in the municipalities of Clare and Argyle on the French shore.

While you can certainly get by living on the French Shore without speaking French fluently, it’s difficult. Most of the people you’ll meet will prefer to converse in French, while chatting at the grocery store, attending a community supper, in your workplace, etc. If this isn’t a fit for your family, you may feel quite isolated by the language barrier.

Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore is culturally most similar to the South Shore, with some notable differences. There are fewer wealthy enclaves of retirees and less tourism. Without towns like Chester, Lunenburg, or Mahone Bay to draw in tourists or wealthy retirees from the city or other provinces, there are fewer amenities such as restaurants, theatres, and shops. There are a large number of bedroom communities, where residents commute into the city to work, play, and shop, and head home to sleep and relax. There are some beautiful walking trails and beaches on the Eastern Shore.

Are you interested in looking at properties in one of these areas? Give me a call at (902) 349-1022 and let’s chat.

May 14 No Comments

Top 5 Annapolis Valley Garden Centres

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

Top 5 Garden Centres in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia is known for its fertile farmland, scenic landscapes, and long growing season. For gardening enthusiasts, the area is a veritable paradise (and my favourite garden centre is literally in the community of Paradise).

There are plenty of garden centres to choose from, but I wanted to share my top 5 Annapolis Valley garden centres, each with its unique charm.

Neily’s Greenhouse and Gardens is a quaint greenhouse and market garden located on the old #1 highway halfway between Lawrencetown and Bridgetown in Paradise. They sell a full range of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, planters, trees, shrubs, fruit trees, berry bushes, and in-season fruits and vegetables. 10139 Hwy #1, Paradise.

Blomidon Nurseries is one of the most popular garden centres in the Annapolis Valley. Located in Wolfville, the nursery has been around for over 50 years and offers a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals. They also have a selection of garden supplies, such as soil, mulch, and fertilizers. Blomidon is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always happy to help you find the perfect plants for your garden. 10060 Hwy 1, Wolfville.

Summerland Nursery is a family-owned and operated garden centre in Wilmot. The nursery specializes in perennials and shrubs and has a beautiful display garden where you can see the plants in their full glory. 14608 1, Nova Scotia Trunk 10, Wilmot.

Glad Gardens is a unique garden centre located in Waterville. The nursery specializes in hostas, daylilies, and other shade-loving plants. Glad Gardens has over 300 varieties of hostas, making it one of the largest collections in Atlantic Canada. The garden centre also offers a variety of other plants, including annuals, perennials, and shrubs. 5108 Hwy 1, Waterville.

The Briar Patch is a charming garden centre in New Minas that specializes in roses. The nursery has over 200 varieties of roses, including antique and hard-to-find varieties. The Briar Patch also offers a selection of other plants, such as perennials, annuals, and shrubs. They also have a knowledgeable staff that can help you with all your gardening needs. 4568 Hwy 1 , Berwick, NS.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, the Annapolis Valley has everything you need to create the garden of your dreams. And be sure to stop in at a Farmers Market or a Frenchy’s while you’re tooling around the Valley!

Posts

Category: <span>Annapolis Valley</span>

Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Little Free Libraries in the Annapolis Valley

Very Valley Gift Ideas

2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

Apple Season in the Annapolis Valley

Annapolis Valley Corn

Visit Hall’s Harbour, Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s Regional Differences

Halifax

Annapolis Valley

South Shore

The French Shore

Eastern Shore

Top 5 Annapolis Valley Garden Centres