Kentville: Gem of the Annapolis Valley

Travel in Nova Scotia is all about finding the treasure; those places that are just so idyllic and special that you can’t help but quickly fall in love with them. One such place is nestled right in the heart of the stunning Annapolis Valley; welcome to Kentville. This charming town brings together the best of all worlds in such a way that every visitor leaves with the best memories.

Breathtaking Surroundings

With the Annapolis Valley stretching east to west across a great swathe of Nova Scotia, you’ll find beautiful Kentville sitting right in the centre. It’s the perfect place from which to head out and explore the natural beauty of the valley, as well as the Minas Basin and the Bay of Fundy.

Surrounding the area are stunning walks in which you can enjoy the scenery as a family, and they’re even great for dogs if you’re bringing the family pet along. Start with the Kings County Rail Trail, or go a little further to explore the Kentville Ravine. If it’s ocean scenes you prefer, then head north to witness the incredible tides flowing in the Bay of Fundy. You can see everything from the Cape Split Trail, just 30 minutes drive to the north of Kentville.

The Cape Split trail offers about 13km (8 miles) of unparalleled coastal beauty. It’s not just a place to see the famous tidal rips that produce the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy, but also a place you can picnic, hike, take in the local flavors and just bask in all of nature’s glory.

Always Lots to Do

When your feet are tired from exploring the natural beauty of the valley, come back into town to enjoy a few local highlights of a more restful nature. 

Annapolis Valley Hot Air Ballooning 

East Coast Balloon Adventures, May-November

If you’re keen to get a lot of views of the natural beauty and surrounds of Kentville and the Annapolis Valley, then you need only head over to New Minas and pay a visit to East Coast Balloon Adventures. 

Operating in the warmer months between May and November, you can get a balloon flight starting about 30 minutes before sunrise or about 2.5 hours before sunset. Pick your scene, watch for wildlife or just take in the awe-inspiring views. Each flight is about 45 minutes to 1 hour in total.

Kentville Farmers’ Market 

Every Wednesday 10am to 1pm

A relatively recent addition to the local community, the farmers’ market started back in 2007 and has been offering up the finest locally grown produce that you’ll find just about anywhere in the entire province. From hand-picked fruits and vegetables to home-baked goods, local meat, eggs and dairy produce, as well as plant, flower, local wines, artisanal goods and much more.

Visit during the summer with the kids to enjoy free children’s art activities, and a chance to connect with and see the work of local non-profit groups. From May to Mid-October the market is outdoors in Centre Square on Webster Street. In the colder months it’s in the Recreation Centre on Main Street.

Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

May 26-31, 2021, Various Locations

This unique festival of apple blossom dates all the way back to 1933 and is a key part in celebrating the long-standing agricultural heritage of the Annapolis Valley. With multiple events happening up and down the valley, Kentville is the ideal place to be, right in the centre of all the happenings.

The best news of all is that most of the events are absolutely free, and some of the biggest signature events take place right here in Kentville. These include the Grand Street Parade, Children’s Parage and the Blossom Fireworks Show. You can start your time in Kentville and then explore further afield to see more of what this beautiful week of floral splendour has to offer.

Eat, Drink and be Merry

Kentville is well known for its many cafes and bistros. People may come for the scenery and the apple blossoms, but they stay for the great atmosphere and friendly service! For cafes, you can try T.A.N, Half Acre or Bryanna’s, all of which are highly rated by patrons both local and visitor alike.

When you want to eat, drink and spend a nice evening in town, there are pubs and restaurants offering Canadian and European fare, all made with the fresh local agricultural produce that makes this area famous far and wide. Many locations also offer outdoor seating in the warmer months.

Plan Your Stay

Kentville and the surrounding area is hugely popular in the summer months, so you’ll want to book your accommodation early. The town and other nearby towns have bed & breakfasts, inns and guesthouses where you can stay the night in comfort before embarking on your next day’s adventure.

Kentville is waiting to welcome you on your next Nova Scotia holiday.