The Annapolis Valley is an area of western Nova Scotia. It has a long history, having been fought over by French and English forces for centuries. The Annapolis Valley is also known for it's fertile soil, which helps produce a world renowned apple industry. It is also minutes away from the beautiful and famous, Bay Of Fundy, world renowned for it's famous high tides, the highest in the world.
While the majority of the economy of the Annapolis Valley is based on agriculture, it also is home to a growing tourism sector. The rich history of the area, as well as beautiful scenery and tranquil townships, combine to make this area of Nova Scotia an ideal vacation destination.
The following are just a small sample of the many towns of the valley and their unique attractions. As you'll see, there is something for just about anyone.
Annapolis Royal - The former capitol of Nova Scotia(replaced by Halifax in 1749). Annapolis Royal is at the center of Acadia and home of Fort Anne. Fort Anne has the distinction as Canada's first historic site. It was fought over by French and British forces for centuries, changing hands many times in the process. Today it serves as a richly preserved memorial of days gone by. Annapolis Royal also boasts a wide array of historic properties and small museums. It is the site of the first and only hydro electric tidal power station. There is also the home of the Historic Gardens, which boasts a wide range of exotic and local plant life. Annapolis Royal is also minutes away from Upper Clements Theme Park, which is a family entertainment park run during the summer months. Annapolis Royal also boasts a growing arts community, with many yearly festivals and events attracting artists and performers from around the world to this picturesque village.
Digby - World renowned for it's fleet of scallop vessels, Digby is home of the annual Digby Scallop Days, which is a yearly celebration of this famous fleet and it's catch. Digby is home to The Pines Resort, which boasts a first class golf course experience. Digby also boasts a ferry link with the city of Saint John, New Brunswick. Which allows easy access to and from markets in north eastern US.
Greenwood - Home to the valley's only armed forces base. CFB Greenwood is the Nova Scotia home of the Royal Canadian Air Force. It is the hub of all sea search and rescue missions in the region. Greenwood boasts a strong economy, with excellent shopping opportunities at Greenwood Mall.
Berwick - The apple capitol of the valley. Berwick is the central locale of the ever important apple industry. Berwick is also only minutes away from the Michelin tire plant in Waterville, a major employer in the area. Which makes Berwick one of the more financially stable areas of the valley.
Kentville - The largest town in the valley. Kentville is home to the annual Apple Blossom Festival which is held each May. The festival has become a major event, drawing visitors from around the world, as well as world class musical acts who perform each year in a large outdoor concert at nearby Acadia University in Wolfville. Kentville is also home to Kingstec, a local extension of Nova Scotia Community College, making it, along with Wolfville, a regional hub for education. Kentville is only minutes away from New Minas, which is boasts a bustling commercial area, including some of the best shopping areas in NS.
As you can see, there is something for just about everyone in this area of Nova Scotia. If you have never visited, you most definitely should. It has to be seen to be believed. And once you visit, you may never want to leave. Many have even chosen to relocate, having fallen in love with it's charm and beauty. This is only a touch of what the area has to offer. Do a little research and perhaps you'll find your own little corner of paradise.