As winter silently graces the Annapolis Valley, it adds wonder and enchantment to our already spectacular landscape; and even more activities to your must-do list! With so much to offer in the winter months, but with a quieter pace and cozier feel, it just might become your favourite time to take a getaway! Here are seven reasons you’ll want to escape to the Annapolis Valley this winter.
1. Ski Martock
Known for their immaculately groomed trails, Ski Martock is 600 feet high with 7 trails and terrain suitable for all skill levels. All trails are lit for night skiing, and no matter the weather, you can count on a consistent blanket of snow, courtesy of the snowmaking system. You’ll find a terrain park, riglet park, quad chairlift, T-bar lift, and magic carpet. Lessons and rentals available. Purchase lift tickets and rentals here.
2. Indulge in a spa day
Smell the mesmerizing salt air while soaking in the pools at Saltair Nordic Spa & Wellness. Spanning 14 acres with stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, this spa is designed to boost your wellness with the restorative powers of sauna, steam, warm pools, cold plunges, and relaxation. Choose from an extensive menu of experiences and classes.
3. Winter walks and showshoeing
Annapolis Valley’s hiking trails transform into snowshoe trails once the snow flies! Get a winter workout here:
🥾 Black Rock Trail System: A series of forest and shoreline trails in Eastern Annapolis Valley.
🥾 Blomidon Hiking Trails: A 13.5 km system of interconnected trails providing scenic lookouts.
🥾 Castle Frederick Farms Trails: A network of trails situated in forest and farmland.
🥾 Harvest Moon Rail Trail: This 110 km trail crosses the Annapolis Valley along an old route of the Dominion Atlantic Railway.
🥾 Miner’s Marsh: A fantastic spot for birdwatching as the trails loop around 2 wetland ponds.
🥾 The Gorge: Part of a 64.5-acre woodland; a fun space for snowshoeing and exploring the snow-dripping trees.
🥾 Wolfville Watershed Nature Preserve: With spectacular views of the Gaspereau Valley, the Minas Basin and Cape Blomidon, the 605 acre Nature Preserve is home to many exceptional natural features and a great place for snowshoeing.
🥾 Crystal Falls: This out and back trail located to the South of Greenwood is good in any season. The trail could be done by hiking, snowshoes or x-skis as it is quite wide and does not have too many hills. The reward is a beautiful frozen waterfall at the end!
🥾 Baxters Harbour Falls: The falls look like an ice palace at Baxter’s Harbour in the wintertime. They can be viewed just a short hike down the beach – just be sure to time your visit during low tide!
4. Wine tasting
The Annapolis Valley is renowned for having optimal growing conditions for several premium grape varietals. Visiting wineries isn’t just a warm-weather activity, as many are open year-round. Whether you prefer an aromatic white or a velvety rich red, you’ll find them here this winter:
🍷 Planters Ridge Winery | 1441 Church Street, Port Williams
🍷 Beausoleil Farmstead Winery & Cidery | 1469 Church Street, Port Williams
🍷 1365 Church Street Vineyard & Winery | 1365 Church Street, Port Williams
🍷 Bent Ridge Winery | 4499 Highway 14, Windsor
🍷 Benjamin Bridge | 1966 White Rock Road, Gaspereau
🍷 Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards | 11143 Evangeline Trail, Wolfville
🍷 Luckett Vineyards | 1293 Grand Pré Rd, Gaspereau
🍷 Grand Pre Winery | 11611 1 Hwy, Grand Pre
Consider a wine tour with Wine & Beer Tours of Nova Scotia, who will arrange pickup and drop off at the address of your choice. All you have to do is relax and enjoy!
5. Wolfville Farmers’ Market
Step in from the cold and warm up to fabulous finds in this year-round Saturday market! This beloved market has been running since 1992 and features live music, a vibrant sense of community, and over 70 vendors offering an incredible variety of products. See the current list of vendors here.
6. Geodesic dome winter stays
Connect with nature and enjoy the stunning forest views and starry night skies from the warmth and comfort of a beautifully appointed Geodesic Dome. Both of these accommodations offer the added delight of private outdoor spaces complete with hot tubs – so inviting on a winter’s day! Choose from one of two spacious riverside domes at As the River Bends Retreat in Hantsport, set along the peaceful Halfway River. The Sissiboo River Retreat in New Edinburgh features three stunning domes, set amongst the low-hills forest with dazzling views of the Sissiboo River.
7. Eagle watching
While feeding the eagles is not allowed during Eaglefest anymore, there are still huge numbers of eagles that gather around Sheffield Mills during the wintertime. In fact, Sheffield Mills is famous for having the most eagles in one place in all of eastern North America. Time your visit during the Sheffield Mills pancake breakfast!
We hope we’ve inspired you to take a winter getaway to the Annapolis Valley! Learn more about what’s waiting to be explored in our region by reading our other blog posts here!