Digby Travel Guide

Discover the best activities, attractions, and local culture in Digby, a beautiful coastal town in Nova Scotia, Canada. This guide includes recommendations for accommodations, food and drink, transportation, safety, and more!


Introduction to Digby

Digby is a charming coastal town located in the southwestern region of Nova Scotia, Canada. It is known for its beautiful scenic views, fresh seafood, and diverse outdoor activities. Whether you are looking to hike the trails, explore the historic sites, or simply relax on the beach, Digby has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Digby

Here is a list of must-see attractions and activities in Digby:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Admiral Digby Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history and culture, with exhibits on everything from early Acadian settlers to shipbuilding and fishing industries.

  • Tobeatic Wilderness Area: This large protected wilderness area is a popular spot for camping, bird watching, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

  • St. Patrick’s Church: Built in 1827, this beautiful church is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Nova Scotia.

Natural Attractions of Digby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Digby Neck and Islands Scenic Drive: This scenic drive showcases some of the region’s most breathtaking views, from rugged coastlines to lush forests.

  • Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa: This luxurious resort offers beautiful views of the Bay of Fundy and a variety of activities, including golfing, hiking, and spa treatments.

  • Annapolis Basin Look Off: Located just outside of Digby, this lookout offers stunning views of the Annapolis Basin and the surrounding islands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Digby

Digby has numerous hiking and biking trails that offer beautiful views of the town and surrounding areas. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Balancing Rock Trail: This easy hiking trail leads to a large rock formation that appears to balance on its tip.

  • Cornwallis River Greenway Trail: This flat trail follows the banks of the Cornwallis River and is perfect for biking, jogging, or walking.

  • Digby Neck and Islands Scenic Drive: This scenic drive also has several stops along the way where visitors can explore the surrounding areas on foot.

Best Things to Do in Digby: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting activities and tours to enjoy in Digby, including:

  • Whale Watching Tours: Take a boat tour to see some of the world’s largest mammals, including humpback whales, minke whales, and fin whales.

  • Digby Scallop Fishing Tours: Learn about the scallop fishing industry and even take part in harvesting your own scallops.

  • Kayaking Tours: Explore the coastline of Digby by kayak and get up close to the wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Digby

For those looking to spend a week in Digby, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Digby and check into your accommodation. Spend the day exploring the town, visiting the local shops, and trying the fresh seafood.

Day 2: Take a whale watching tour and get up close to some of the largest mammals in the world.

Day 3: Explore the local hiking trails, such as the Balancing Rock Trail or the Cornwallis River Greenway Trail.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby Annapolis Royal, a charming historic town filled with museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 5: Visit the Tobeatic Wilderness Area and spend the day camping, hiking, and bird watching.

Day 6: Take a kayaking tour and explore the coastline around Digby.

Day 7: Relax on the beach or enjoy the amenities at your accommodation before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Digby

Digby is known for its fresh seafood and local produce. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Digby Scallops: Known for their sweetness and tenderness, these scallops are a must-try when in Digby.

  • Lobster: Another seafood favorite in Digby, lobster is usually served boiled or steamed and can be found at many of the local restaurants.

  • Blueberry Grunt: This traditional dessert is made with fresh blueberries and topped with a biscuit dough that is steamed in blueberry juice.

Local Beverages

  • Nova Scotia Wine: The region is known for its high-quality wines, including varieties such as L’Acadie Blanc and Marechal Foch.

  • Digby Rum: A local distillery produces high-quality rum made from Nova Scotia-grown molasses.

Where to Stay in Digby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Digby offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some suggestions:

  • Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa: This luxurious resort offers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and a variety of amenities, including a golf course, spa, and restaurants.

  • Bayside Inn: Located in the heart of Digby, this charming inn offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the town’s attractions.

  • Shoreline Suites: These beachfront suites offer beautiful views of the ocean and are within walking distance to the town’s restaurants and shops.

What to Buy in Digby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking to bring home some souvenirs from Digby, here are some suggestions:

  • Sea Glass Jewelry: Nova Scotia is known for its sea glass, and there are many local artisans who create beautiful jewelry using these colorful pieces.

  • Local Wine and Beer: There are many wineries and breweries in the area that produce high-quality beverages using local ingredients.

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Digby is home to many talented artisans who create beautiful pottery using traditional techniques.

Local Culture and Customs of Digby

Digby has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Acadian and Mi’kmaq cultures. Visitors to the area can experience this through local events, such as the annual Acadian Festival, as well as through the local cuisine and artisan crafts.

Best Time to Visit Digby

The best time to visit Digby is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with tourists and local events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Digby

When visiting Digby, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the fresh seafood: Digby is known for its seafood, so be sure to sample some of the local favorites.

  • Visit the museums and cultural attractions: Digby has a rich history, and there are many museums and attractions that offer a glimpse into the town’s past.

  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities: With its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife, Digby is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack warm clothes: Even in the summer months, the weather can be unpredictable in Nova Scotia, so it is always a good idea to bring layers.

  • Disturb the local wildlife: Digby is home to many unique wildlife species, so it is important to be respectful and avoid disturbing them.

  • Litter or damage the local environment: Digby’s natural beauty is one of its biggest assets, so be sure to take care of the environment and dispose of waste properly.

Safety and Health

When visiting Digby, it is important to be aware of safety and health considerations.

Safety in Digby

Digby is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should still take common-sense precautions, such as locking doors and windows at night and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Digby

Nova Scotia is known for its clean and safe drinking water, and there are many local healthcare facilities that provide quality care. However, visitors should still take precautions, such as bringing any necessary medications and being prepared for emergency situations.

Getting to Digby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Digby is located approximately 225 kilometers from Halifax, and there are several transportation options for getting there.

Airports Near Digby

  • Halifax Stanfield International Airport: This is the closest major airport to Digby, located approximately 200 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Digby

  • Maritime Bus: This bus company operates several routes throughout Nova Scotia, including stops in Digby.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: There are several car rental companies in Halifax that offer rental options for getting to Digby.

  • Private Transportation: Visitors can also arrange private transportation services, such as taxis or ride-sharing services, to get to Digby.

How to Get Around in Digby

Digby is a relatively small town and is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. There are also several taxi companies that offer transportation services for getting around town.

Where to Go Next from Digby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you are looking to explore more of Nova Scotia after visiting Digby, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Annapolis Royal: This historic town is located approximately 30 kilometers from Digby and is known for its museums, galleries, and historic sites.

  • Kejimkujik National Park: This national park is located approximately 90 kilometers from Digby and offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

  • Bay of Fundy: This natural wonder is located a short drive from Digby and is known for its high tidal range and unique coastal formations.

Conclusion

Digby is a beautiful and charming town that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and local charm. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore the historic museums, or embark on a whale watching adventure, Digby has something to offer for everyone.

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