Located along Nova Scotia's Bay of Fundy, the Annapolis Valley “the Valley” is a destination renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich agricultural history, and a 400-plus year of award-winning wine making. The Valley is a popular spot for folks seeking a peaceful getaway from their busy lifestyles and families looking for something fun and unique to do together. The Valley offers something for everyone!
Wineries in the Annapolis Valley
The Annapolis Valley is home to some of Nova Scotia’s finest wineries. Nova Scotia has a long history of grape growing; the earliest vineyards date back as far as the 17th century when French settler Louis Hébert planted the first vineyard in Bear River, Nova Scotia, in 1611. The governor of Acadia, Isaac de Razilly, documented the grape growing industry in a note that stated, “Bordeaux vines have been planted that are doing very well.”
Here’s a quick guide to some must-visit spots:
Benjamin Bridge
Known for its traditional method sparkling wines, Benjamin Bridge is a pioneer of Nova Scotia's cool-climate viticulture. Their award-winning wines reflect the unique terroir of the Valley.
Beausoleli Farmstead
Artisanal cider & wine blends made from traditional apple varieties and cool climate grapes. Enjoy breathtaking views, peaceful walks through the vines, and a personal connection with the winemaking process.
1365 Church Street Vineyard & Winery
This working Nova Scotia vineyard and homestead has beautiful gardens with bicycles throughout the property. We have 14.8 acres of vines and are a predominantly a white grape vineyard with a block of Petit Pearl.
Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards
A family-owned winery that blends biodynamic farming with innovative winemaking. Their tasting room offers a stunning view of the Minas Basin, and their wines range from elegant reds to crisp whites and sparkling options.
Luckett Vineyards
Perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Valley, Luckett Vineyards offers a range of refreshing white wines and robust reds. A British phone box in the vineyard makes for a fun photo-op!
Avondale Sky Winery
Escape to a serene haven nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush vineyards of Avondale Sky Winery. Their charming farmhouse, lovingly restored to blend rustic elegance with modern comforts, offers a unique retreat for wine enthusiasts and tranquility seekers alike.
Mercator Vineyards
Mercator Vineyards is distinctive for its authentic heritage, and welcoming in its relaxed and simple focus on old world style wines.
Bear River Vineyards
Bear River Vineyards are planted on the steeply sloped valley walls above Bear River, a tidal estuary that flows into the Annapolis Basin. Mostly south facing, they overlook the stunning vistas of the valley in a sun drenched amphitheatre.
Jost
Make a visit to Jost Vineyards the cornerstone of an extraordinary stay in Nova Scotia’s Northumberland Shore. Located just off the Sunrise Trail and only minutes from the ocean, their vineyards encompasses more than 100 acres including buildings and headlands.
Domaine de Grand Pré
This is Nova Scotia’s oldest farm winery, producing a range of wines from local grape varieties. Their hospitality and on-site restaurant, Le Caveau, make for an unforgettable visit.
Planters Ridge
Planters Ridge's intention is to preserve the rich farming heritage of the property through the cultivation of grapevines. They take great pride in how they care for the land and the vines, in turn, they produce uncompromising wines with a true sense of place.
Lost Bell Wines
Lost Bell’s vineyard is situated on a gently sloping hill overlooking the Avon River Valley. It is one of the warmest vineyard sites in Nova Scotia, which assists in the ripening of the 12 grape varieties grown on the estate.
Gaspereau Vineyards
Located in the heart of Gaspereau Valley, this boutique winery focuses on small-batch, artisanal wines. Try their Rieslings, which have garnered accolades both locally and internationally.
Blomidon Estate Winery
Blomidon Estate produces wines that reflect the unique maritime climate of the region. Known for their sparkling wines and aromatic whites, this winery is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Wine Tours in the Annapolis Valley
One of the best ways to explore the Annapolis Valley's wine country is through a guided wine tour. Ambassatours’ Wine Enthusiast Tour is perfect for those looking to sample the best wines the Valley has to offer. This guided tour will take you to a selection of wineries where you can taste, learn about winemaking, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
More Reasons to Visit the Annapolis Valley
Beyond wine, the Annapolis Valley offers plenty of other attractions to round out your visit:
Blomidon Provincial Park
Offering stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic tides, this park is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
Halls Harbour
A charming fishing village where you can enjoy fresh seafood, watch the incredible tidal shifts, and explore the rugged coastline.
Farm Markets
The Valley is the agricultural heart of Nova Scotia. Visit local farm markets for fresh produce, homemade preserves, and artisan goods. Don’t miss the Wolfville Farmers’ Market, which operates year-round.
Apple Orchards and U-Picks
If you visit in the fall, the Valley’s apple orchards are a must. U-pick experiences are available at several locations, and the crisp autumn air paired with delicious local apples is unbeatable.
How to Get to the Annapolis Valley
The Annapolis Valley is easily accessible from Halifax and other parts of Nova Scotia.
Here are some travel options:
Travel by car
From Halifax, it’s just a 1.5-hour scenic drive on Highway 101, passing through picturesque countryside and charming towns.
Travel by bus
Travel by motor coach with Maritime Bus from several locations in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI. Visit maritimebus.com
Join Ambassatours’ Wine Enthusiast Tour
If you prefer a guided experience, the Wine Enthusiast Tour offered by Ambassatours provides transportation to and from the Valley. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy wine tastings while learning about the region from expert guides. Visit valleywinetours.ca
The Annapolis Valley is a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exceptional wine. Whether you're exploring the wineries, hiking the trails, or indulging in local produce, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this gem of Nova Scotia on your next trip!
