Authentic Maritime Getaways @ The Best Boutique Hotels in Nova Scotia

Photo courtesy Inn on the Lake

Contributor Caleb Dearsley has travelled Canada extensively, including spending time in the beautiful Maritime provinces where he pulled together this list of the best boutique hotels in Nova Scotia

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Beautiful Nova Scotia is fast becoming one of the best places to visit in Canada for those seeking an authentic luxury travel experience. Not only does this friendly Maritime province offer a unique blend of stunning scenery and a rich and diverse cultural fabric, it also boasts an ever-expanding portfolio of luxury accommodation options.

Nova Scotia’s boutique hotels, in particular, offer a diverse range of unique features and experiences that allow travelers to fully immerse themselves in the charm and beauty of this captivating province. Often family-run with only a handful of accommodations, these smaller hotels and inns also tend to offer a much more intimate experience than their larger counterparts.

From lakeside serenity at the charming Inn on the Lake to modern minimalism at Micro Boutique Living Wolfville, there’s an accommodations experience that’s bound to suit your tastes and preferences among our list of the best boutique hotels in Nova Scotia.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Nova Scotia

Inn on the Lake, Fall River

Located in Fall River just a short distance from downtown Halifax, Inn on the Lake is a charming retreat that offers an opportunity to relax and unwind by the water. The hotel is nestled on the shores of Lake Thomas and boasts a variety of rooms and suites with private balconies or patios overlooking the lake.

Interested in water sports? Then you’ll love hanging out by the lake where you can enjoy various water-based activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, or simply relaxing on the private beach. The hotel also offers an intimate dining experience at its on-site restaurant, Encore, which specializes in locally sourced cuisine.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Inn on the Lake

Tattingstone Inn, Wolfville

Situated in the picturesque town of Wolfville, Tattingstone Inn is an elegant Georgian-style property built in 1874. This 4-star boutique hotel has done a great job of preserving the historical charm of the building, all while offering a high degree of modern comfort.

This is very apparent in the guest accommodations. The hotel’s rooms feature meticulously restored original woodwork and antique furnishings, as well as contemporary amenities such as whirlpool tubs, luxurious bedding, and high-speed Wi-Fi. You’ll also enjoy exploring the inn’s garden, a delightful retreat where you can stroll among the well-maintained flower beds or relax in the gazebo.

Tattingstone Inn also makes a great base from which to explore the area. One of the best things to do is to join a fun Nova Scotia wine tour with Wild Grape Tours, a local business that does the driving for you so you can sample the produce of local wineries.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations for one of the best boutique hotels in Nova Scotia, visit Tattingstone Inn

Trout Point Lodge, East Kemptville  

Situated in the heart of the Tobeatic Wilderness Area, Trout Point Lodge offers a fun wilderness escape amidst some of the most picturesque scenery in the province. One of our favorite luxury resorts in Nova Scotia, this 4-star wilderness lodge offers a wide array of activities for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

Popular adventures here include guided forest walks and canoe outings, as well as stargazing at the on-site observatory. The hotel’s culinary offerings are another highlight, as the chefs use locally sourced ingredients to craft exquisite dishes that reflect the flavors of the region.

 Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Trout Point Lodge

 Castle Rock Country Inn, Ingonish Beach

Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Bras d’Or Lake, Castle Rock Country Inn offers some of the most pleasing water views in Nova Scotia.

This beautiful setting is also where you’ll find the inn’s excellent Restaurant Avalon, one of the region’s most popular hotel eateries and the perfect way to cap off a day spent exploring the nearby Cape Breton Highlands National Parkand the charming town of Baddeck.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Castle Rock Country Inn

DesBarres Manor Inn, Guysborough

Located in the historic town of Guysborough, DesBarres Manor Inn is another of the best boutique hotels in Nova Scotia you’ll want to consider staying at. This charming 4-star inn is set in a lovingly restored 1837 manor house boasting a rich history, with many original elements still very much in evidence, including original artwork and antiques.

In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the inn offers exquisite dining experiences at its on-site restaurant. In addition to using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, you can also enjoy craft beers and spirits from the inn’s Seacoast Distillery & Brewery. There’s also a very pleasant and beautifully maintained garden to enjoy.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit DesBarres Manor Inn

Fox Point Inn, Parrsboro

Situated on a private beach along the scenic South Shore, Fox Point Inn offers up the perfect Nova Scotia seaside escape. In addition to its stunning oceanfront location, you’ll appreciated having access to fun activities like beachcombing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, or simply lounging in the sun.

This pet-friendly inn’s cozy and comfortable suites are designed with maritime-inspired décor, reflecting the natural beauty of the surroundings. Your stay includes a scrumptious gourmet in a plush dining room overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Fox Point Inn

The Halliburton, Halifax

Located in the heart of downtown Halifax, The Halliburton is a stylish boutique hotel housed in three beautifully restored heritage townhouses. One of the most charming of Halifax’s luxury hotels, this 4-star property oozes historic charm and makes for the perfect urban retreat for those wanting to explore the city.

The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Stories, is well-known for its creative menu, which always features one or two (or more!) fresh seafood dishes. You’ll also enjoy the hotel’s peaceful courtyard garden, something of a hidden oasis in this bustling city.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit The Halliburton   

Hearthstone Inn Boutique Hotel, Dartmouth

Fresh from a recent extensive make-over, the Hearthstone Inn Boutique Hotel offers a modest dose of luxury in Dartmouth. Situated in the vibrant north end of Halifax, this contemporary hotel celebrates the rich artistic culture of the province.

Each of the hotel’s clean, comfortable rooms feature crips linens and pleasing décor, with some offering king-size four-poster beds. A delicious full breakfast is also available in the on-site restaurant.

 Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Hearthstone Inn Boutique Hotel Halifax

The Maple Inn, Parrsboro

Located in the charming town of Parrsboro, The Maple Inn is a beautifully restored Victorian-era property with plenty to commend it. Highlights include a selection of uniquely decorated rooms and suites replete with antique furnishings, sumptuous, and in some cases classy four-poster beds.

Another plus here are the excellent breakfasts you’ll eb treated to in the property’s classy dining room, prepared fresh daily with locally sourced ingredients. There’s also a cozy parlour that’s perfect for a glass of wine or a cup of tea.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit The Maple Inn

Micro Boutique Living, Wolfville

Situated in the heart of the picturesque town of Wolfville, Micro Boutique Living offers a unique, modern take on the traditional boutique hotel experience. While accommodations are relatively compact, these stylish, well-designed spaces successfully create an intimate, cozy ambience without sacrificing quality.

Although relatively small, your suite comes with sleek furnishings, fully equipped kitchenettes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow in plenty of natural light. You’ll also find yourself perfectly located to explore nearby wineries, shops, and restaurants in Wolfville.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Micro Boutique Living Wolfville

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Caleb Dearsley is an experienced travel writer  and regular contributor to Riley International Media, a leading sour of news, reviews, and info about authentic luxury experiences across the globe.