No Comments

Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Maple Syrup Tapping

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.

No Comments

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

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

 

No Comments

Christmas Cookie Boxes and a Sugar Cookie Recipe

Christmas Cookie Box

Each year, my wife Sarah spends many hours in the kitchen baking for her annual Christmas cookie boxes. She includes old favourites as well as a new recipe or two each year. Are you looking for new ideas for your holiday baking? Here are links for all the cookies and squares she included in this year’s Christmas cookie boxes., plus her Cut Out Sugar Cookie recipe too.

3 Ingredient Fudge

Soft & Chewy Ginger Cookies

Toffee Triangles

Confetti Squares

French Macarons

Copycat Starbucks Oat Fudge Bars

Date Squares

Whipped Shortbread

Cut Out Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
2 cups white sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (add 1/4 tsp instead if using salted butter)

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight).

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on parchment paper on cookie sheets. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in preheated oven until edges are just barely touched by brown. Cool completely before icing.

For gorgeous royal icing, follow this royal icing method from SemiSweet Designs.

 

No Comments

Take a Polar Bear Dip in Nova Scotia

Have you ever done a Polar Bear Dip?

Taking a dunk in a chilly lake or ocean in the winter is a rite of passage if you’ve moved to Nova Scotia, especially if you’ve moved from somewhere land-locked.

When we bought our rural Nova Scotia acreage in 2010, the former owner spent a great deal of time telling us stories about our place. Because it was formerly a campground, the property had an old restaurant, a derelict mini-putt course, and a history of having been famous for its annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge. A few years ago, the former owner dug out some of his photos to share with us, here’s one of the gems.

There are believed to be numerous health benefits to cold water swimming. For us, we cut a hole in the ice and go for a jump each January 1 (or some years just run right in if the lake hasn’t frozen over) because it’s a fun way to celebrate the new year, and it pays homage to the history of our home.

Polar Bear Dips in Nova Scotia

Want to participate in a community Polar Bear Dip? Here are a few Nova Scotia Polar Bear Dips we’ve heard are a lot of fun.

No Comments

Little Free Libraries in the Annapolis Valley

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!

No Comments

Very Valley Gift Ideas

Very Valley Christmas Gift Ideas

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:

  1. Give the gift of peaceful serenity with the gift of a New Scotland Candle Co candle, made in Kentville.
  2. 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.
  3. Take a drive to Hall’s Harbour to visit Spiral Studio and select from beautiful pottery in earthy tones.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

  1. Visit Sable Shortbread in Kentville for the most incredible melt-in-your-mouth shortbread.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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?
  5. 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.)
  6. 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.
No Comments

2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

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!

No Comments

How to Make Friends in Nova Scotia

Making friends in a new community can be difficult. And while Nova Scotians are notoriously friendly, that doesn’t always translate into locals inviting you to “be friends.”

Here are some tips to help you make friends in Nova Scotia (spoiler alert, it’s going to take a lot of effort!).

  • When you meet new people, be open and approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and take the initiative to start conversations with people you meet.
  • Friendships are built through time spent together. Exchange contact information with people you think you might want to spend more time with.
  • Invite them to attend other events with you, invite them to events you’re hosting (parties, dinners, backyard fires), or make plans to meet up for a hike, a beer, etc.
  • Don’t be afraid to hear no a few times before giving up, sometimes people need a few invites before they finally accept something.

Where to meet people

Attend Community Events: Nova Scotia hosts various community events, festivals, and gatherings, like fundraising suppers. Participating in these activities is a great way to meet people who share your interests.

Join Clubs or Groups: Look for local clubs, sports teams, hobby groups, or community organizations that align with your interests. These provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

Volunteer: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet people while contributing to the community. There are many non-profit organizations in Nova Scotia that welcome volunteers.

Attend Classes or Workshops: Enroll in classes, workshops, or courses, whether for hobbies, fitness, or personal development. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Do you live in the Valley? Check out my other website, Move to the Annapolis Valley, for information on what’s happening in various Valley communities. 

Use Social Media: Join local Nova Scotia-based social media groups or platforms to connect with people in your area. You can find events and activities to attend.

Attend Local Meetups: Look for meetup groups or online platforms like Meetup.com to find gatherings of people who share your interests.

Get Involved in Local Sports: Nova Scotia has a strong sports culture, and participating in local sports leagues or events can help you bond with others.

Building meaningful friendships takes time, so be patient. It took us two years of living in Nova Scotia and meeting new people before we built up a solid friend group. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

No Comments

Apple Season in the Annapolis Valley

Apple trees ready for picking

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…

Birchleigh Farms - Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

Birchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in BlossomBirchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in Blossom…to heavily laden trees with the most delicious varieties of apples.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

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.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley
Dempsey’s Corner Orchard – Berwick

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.

No Comments

Nova Scotia’s Regional Differences

Atlantic coast

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.

© 2024 Keith Kucharski, RE/MAX REALTOR®. All rights reserved.