7 Things to Do on Day Trip to Bear River & Digby

1. Enjoy Wine at Bear River Vineyards

Spend an afternoon at Bear River Vineyards, where you can tour the vineyards and learn about wine production in this unique tidal river environment. The vineyard’s terraced slopes are home to grape varieties such as L’Acadie Blanc and Marechal Foch, which thrive in the region’s microclimate. According to tradition, the first European grape cultivars were planted here in 1611 by Louis Hébert. Sample some of their award-winning wines while enjoying the picturesque setting of the Bear River valley.

2. Take in the Bear River Artworks Gallery

Visit the Bear River Artworks Gallery to enjoy a vibrant display of local art. This community-run gallery features paintings, sculptures, and crafts by over 20 regional artists, reflecting the diverse artistic talent of the area. It’s an excellent spot to pick up unique souvenirs, including handcrafted jewelry and pottery. The gallery also offers art workshops and special exhibitions throughout the year, fostering a dynamic creative environment.

3. Visit the Admiral Digby Museum

Discover the history of Digby at the Admiral Digby Museum, housed in a mid-19th-century Georgian home. The museum’s exhibits cover various aspects of the town’s history, including its founding by United Empire Loyalists in 1783 and its development as a major scallop fishing hub. Artifacts on display include antique furniture, period clothing, and maritime tools. The museum also features a genealogical research center for those interested in tracing their ancestry.

4. Hike out to Point Prim Lighthouse

Visit Point Prim Lighthouse, one of Nova Scotia’s oldest surviving lighthouses, located near Digby. The first lighthouse here was built in 1804 and stands on a headland offering panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and the Digby Gut, a deep, narrow channel critical for navigation. The lighthouse is open to the public during the summer months, and visitors can climb to the top for a spectacular view. Interpretive panels around the site provide information about the lighthouse’s history and the marine traffic it has guided for over two centuries.

5. Tour the Maud Lewis Replica House

Stop by the replica of Maud Lewis’s house in Digby, a tribute to the famous Canadian folk artist known for her colourful, whimsical paintings. The tiny house is meticulously decorated to reflect Lewis’s distinctive style, with every surface covered in bright floral and animal motifs. Learn about Maud Lewis’s life and artistic journey, including how she overcame significant physical challenges to create her joyful art.