The Best Hidden Gem in Nova Scotia - Part 1
As a photographer and artist, I crave diversity, stimulation, and interactions for inspirations and growth. Our brains are wired to find beauty and meaning in art and nature, stimulating creativity and emotional well-being.
I’ve been very fortunate to build an extensive travel portfolio in my life so far. But sometimes, you don’t have to go far to get that far-away feeling.
This area has more to offer than just the biggest tides in the world.
Just an hour and a half from Moncton and about two hours from Halifax, the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark includes the towns of Parrsboro and Economy, as well as small communities like Five Islands and Advocate Harbour. Last year, my family and I stopped in Parrsboro for a quick bite and maybe an hour of exploration. It was just a taste. And it has been calling me to go back ever since. I knew there was more to this place than just high tides. So this summer, I decided to answer the call and explore it in more depth.
Using Parrsboro as my hub, I spent 3 beautiful days (still not enough) exploring some of what the area has to offer. My timing couldn’t have been better as it coincided with the PIPAF (Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival). Parrsboro has such a vibrant and inclusive arts community.
Artists from all over come to Parrsboro inspired by the diverse vistas and natural wonders.
As you make your way into town you are greeted by this flood of colours & creativity. When we drove through last summer, it really is what caught my eye in the first place. If you follow Main Street and keep to the right, it leads you directly to The Art Lab, an eclectic art gallery and studio where you can watch artists at work, browse the gallery, and add to your art collection.
They also offer workshops & residencies. It’s a must see for any art enthusiast.
Colours and creativity decorate the community.
Someday, when I grow up, I’ll have a studio space like this where I can play, make a mess and just create.
The Fundy Bay Antiques shop is always fun to visit, because you can never go wrong with antiques.
This picturesque home has changed hands quite a few times since its construction in 1890. Most recently, it was purchased by Lisa and Troy, who had never aspired to own an inn. When it came up for sale, Lisa just couldn’t bear to see it go to anyone else.
I can see why.
The moment you step onto the grounds of the Gillespie House Inn, everything seems to slow down. It’s like stepping back to a simpler time—You just want to be sipping lemonade or iced tea on the Victorian porch and watching the world go by. Maybe holding a fan in your hand…waiting for one of the Bridgeton lads to strole by…oh my…ok back to the blog. I’m not Lady Whilsdown.
I just want to sit and sip lemonade or iced tea all day.
The Inn has a beautiful groomed garden with a fire pit for evening get togethers.
The Gillespie House Inn is open from May 1st to October 30th and is the host to 7 bedrooms with each their own ensuite. I didn’t get the chance to see all the rooms since most of them were occupied. But you can view all the listings on there website here.
The decor is a lovely mix of antiques and modern, up-to-date style. It’s very bright and refreshing. I really appreciate the fresh flowers in the dining room every morning for breakfast. The Inn offers a nice selection of breakfast items and the chef is more than happy to make your eggs JUST the way you like them.
Despite my food allergies, I was able to enjoy the homemade granola since it contained seeds instead of nuts. The chef even made the vanilla yogurt taste vibrant by adding some shaved lemon rinds to it. I might have to adopt that trick at home. I'm sure if you let them know ahead of your stay, they can accommodate your dietary needs as well.
It also has a nice space for Yoga and meditation up over the garage.
I smell another retreat in the near future.
Fresh flowers every morning.
Breakfast menu
A mix of old and new
Where to Eat
There are a few places to eat in town and the Black Rock Bistro is just a short walk from the Inn. They too are under new ownership. The hours are still fluctuating until summer is in full swing so make sure to check out their facebook page as they don’t yet have a web site. I had the fish cakes and chow chow (As many east coasters I grew up on that stuff) and they were yummy. The “catch of the day” was Flounder so I also tried the Fish Taco’s. Oh and if you ask nicely, Ken just might play you a tune on the old keys.
The Black Rock Bistro is just a hop skip and Jump away from the Gillespie Inn.
