Annapolis Valley

With its pretty rural landscapes and dramatic coastline, the Annapolis Valley is a popular option among hikers, cyclists, sea kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts; you can spot whales in the adjacent Bay of Fundy. Many tours of the Annapolis Valley focus on the culinary scene, offering the chance to taste local Canadian wines at Annapolis Valley wineries, chow down on fresh Bay of Fundy seafood, and sample delicious local products, from fresh produce to condiments.

• Annapolis Valley is a must for food and wine lovers.

• Rain is common in the Annapolis Valley, even in summer, so come prepared with waterproof gear.

• Some wineries in the region, such as Luckett Vineyards, and several attractions, such as the Grand Pré National Historic Site, are wheelchair accessible.

Annapolis Bay is situated north of Halifax in Nova Scotia. Fly into Halifax Airport and drive north, or take the ferry from Saint John, New Brunswick to Digby, Nova Scotia. Driving gives visitors the most flexibility, but with so many wineries in the region, you may be better off going as part of an organized tour so you can indulge in tastings.

May through October is the best time to visit Annapolis Valley, as temperatures are mild and pleasant. The valley is at its most picturesque in May, when the apple orchards blossom. The fall harvest, meanwhile, is a good time to pick fruit at local farms.

In addition to being a foodie hotspot, the Annapolis Valley also has several historic attractions that recall the area’s colonial past. The Grand Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remembers the expulsion of the Acadians (early French settlers) by the British; the Port Royal National Historic Site and the Fort Anne National Historic Site look back at early Acadian settlements in the region.