Exploring Beyond the Lighthouse: A Guide to Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia

Nestled on the rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, Peggy's Cove is a small fishing village that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and quaint maritime charm. While the Peggy's Point Lighthouse is a must-see, the area around Peggy's Cove offers a plethora of activities and sights that promise an enriching experience. Here’s your guide to exploring the best of Peggy's Cove, beyond its iconic lighthouse.

William E. deGarthe Memorial Monument - a “lasting monument to Nova Scotian fishermen”

Explore the Village of Peggy's Cove
Start with a stroll through the village itself. With its colourful houses, fishing shacks, and artisan shops including Amos Pewter and Hags on the Hill, the village is a living postcard of Atlantic Canada. Take time to chat with local artists and shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs.

Visit the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial
Pay your respects at the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial, a poignant site dedicated to the passengers and crew who lost their lives in the 1998 tragedy. The memorial offers a place for reflection amidst the natural beauty of the coastline.

Hike the Peggy's Cove Preservation Area
For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding preservation area offers rugged trails with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The terrain here is a testament to the power of nature, with its weather-beaten rocks and wild waves.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood
No visit to Peggy's Cove is complete without indulging in fresh, local seafood. Dine at one of the village’s cozy restaurants - such as the Sou'Wester Gift & Restaurant - or cafes, where you can savour dishes like lobster, scallops, and fish chowder, all while enjoying the scenic harbour views.

Take in Live Music at The Schoolhouse
Looking for an intimate, interactive, and uniquely Nova Scotian cultural experience? You will want to visit The Schoolhouse for a traditional cèilidh. Hear traditional Cape Breton fiddle music as it was meant to be heard... and pick up a few dance steps and Gaelic words along the way! Three, half-hour performances are held on select days.

Capture the Scenery Through Photography
Peggy's Cove is a photographer's dream. From the rugged landscapes and ocean vistas to the charming village scenes, there are endless opportunities to capture the essence of Nova Scotia's maritime beauty.

Peggy's Cove remains a very active fishing village

Visit the deGarthe Gallery
Explore the work of William E. deGarthe, a local artist who immortalized the spirit of Peggy's Cove and its fishermen through his art. The gallery showcases his paintings and the impressive granite sculpture located in his backyard.

The deGarthe Gallery

Relax and Unwind
Finally, take time to simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere of Peggy's Cove. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the ocean or enjoying a leisurely picnic on the rocks, the natural beauty and tranquil environment are perfect for unwinding.

If you're fortunate to be visiting Peggy's Cove on a day like this, be sure to have your camera ready to go!


Peggy's Cove offers more than just its famous lighthouse; it’s a place where nature, art, and history converge. By exploring the village and its surroundings, visitors can experience the true essence of this unique Nova Scotian treasure. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover all the wonders of Peggy's Cove.

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