Best attractions and places to see around Chester District Municipality offer a rich blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. This region encompasses various communities, each contributing to its unique character. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from seaside villages to tree-lined roads passing lakes and fields. The area is recognized for its commitment to preserving heritage and enhancing natural open spaces for outdoor recreation.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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This lighthouse is worth a visit! There are clean restrooms and lovely souvenirs for sale. It's a real highlight, so it can get very busy. Also, take a stroll past the boats, nets, lobster nets, and wooden sheds. It's really fun!
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The first settlers came in 1754 from the nearby town of Lunenburg, which had been founded a year earlier. They mainly included immigrants from Germany, Switzerland and Montbéliard. Descendants of the first families still live in the city today, with names like Hyson, Zwicker, Keddy, Eisenhauer/Eisner, Weinacht/Whynot, Ernst and Veinot. In the old Bayview Cemetery there are gravestones from the 18th century with German inscriptions. Mahone Bay received city rights in 1919.
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The first lighthouse at Peggys Cove was built in 1868 and was a wooden house with a beacon on the roof. At sundown, the keeper lit a kerosene oil lamp magnified by a catoptric reflector (a silver-plated mirror) creating the red beacon light marking the eastern entrance to St. Margarets Bay. That lighthouse was replaced by the current structure, an octagonal lighthouse which was built in 1914. It is made of reinforced concrete but retains the eight-sided shape of earlier generations of wooden light towers. It stands almost 15 metres (49 ft) high. The old wooden lighthouse became the keeper's dwelling and remained near to the current lighthouse until it was damaged by Hurricane Edna in 1954 and was removed. The lighthouse was automated in 1958. Since then, the red light was changed to white light, then to a green light in the late 1970s. Finally to conform to world standards the light was changed to red in 2007.
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William E. deGarthe carved this “lasting monument to Nova Scotian fishermen” on a 30-metre (100-feet) long granite outcropping situated behind his house in Peggy’s Cove. The sculpture depicts 32 fishermen, their wives and children, St. Elmo with wings spread, and the legendary Peggy of Peggy’s Cove.
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You may miss the turnoff to Corkum's Island from Hwy 332 unless you spot the sign in one of these photos, then turn onto the opposite road.
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Peggy’s Point Lighthouse or Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is one of Nova Scotia’s most well-known lighthouses and may be the most photographed in Canada. Located in the quaint fishing village of Peggy’s Cove along the South Shore, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse was built in 1915. https://www.novascotia.com/see-do/attractions/peggys-cove-village-and-lighthouse/1468
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One of the best lighthouses along the NS Coastline - therefore completely overrun. You need Photoshop to eliminate the human dots…😩😊
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The building you see, Sweet Ride is a great little bike shop. The owners, Alan and Rose are very personable. Alan is an excellent mechanic. And it's also called sweet, not only because it provides what you need to get your bike back on the road; it sells candy, the real stuff with real sugar, not substitute sweeteners.
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The region is rich in history. You can visit the Lordly Estate Municipal Museum, built around 1806, which showcases the area's unique heritage. The Chester Train Station, managed by the Chester Municipal Heritage Society, offers historical displays including an "Explore Oak Island Display." Additionally, the Municipality boasts 44 registered Municipal Heritage Properties, including houses, barns, churches, and schools, reflecting various architectural styles and past life in the area. Don't miss Mahone Bay Town Center, known for its tranquil boat-building history and early settler heritage.
Yes, Chester District Municipality offers several family-friendly spots. Peggy's Point Lighthouse and the nearby Fishermen's Monument by William E. deGarthe, Peggy's Cove are popular choices. Mahone Bay Town Center, with its colorful houses and sweet shops, is also great for families. Lordly Park provides free daily use, featuring a children's playground and hosting weekly "Picnic in the Park" events during the summer.
The Municipality is dedicated to preserving its natural open spaces. Key 'gem' properties include Gold River, offering scenic riverfront views and hiking, and Castle Rock, known for its granite peak and more challenging hikes. The area is also rich in numerous beaches, trails, and lakes for exploration, providing diverse seaside and inland scenery.
For hiking enthusiasts, the region offers various trails. The Castle Rock Trail is a notable option for a more challenging experience. You can also explore loops around Peggy's Point Lighthouse and Peggy's Cove, or the Back Harbour loop from Chester. For more detailed routes and options, refer to the Hiking around Chester District Municipality guide.
Absolutely! Chester District Municipality is great for cycling. You can find routes like the River Basin loop from Chester, or the Second Peninsula – View of Mahone Bay loop. For road cycling, consider the Northwest Cove Fishing Village – Bayswater Beach loop. Discover more options in the Cycling around Chester District Municipality guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Chester District Municipality guide.
Mahone Bay Town Center is a charming settlement renowned for its tranquil boat-building history and the iconic view of its three churches. It features colorful houses, unique shops, and a rich history stemming from early settlers from Germany, Switzerland, and Montbéliard. The Three Churches of Mahone Bay are particularly picturesque from across the bay.
The Municipality of Chester offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. The summer months are particularly vibrant with events like "Picnic in the Park" at Lordly Park and a thriving arts scene. However, the natural beauty and historical sites can be enjoyed in different seasons, depending on your preferred activities like hiking or exploring coastal areas.
You can visit Peggy's Point Lighthouse, one of Nova Scotia’s most well-known lighthouses and possibly the most photographed in Canada. This octagonal structure, built in 1915, is located in the quaint fishing village of Peggy’s Cove.
Chester District Municipality is known as "The Riviera of the East" due to its vibrant arts scene. The area actively supports a thriving arts ecosystem with local artisans, musicians, actors, singers, and dancers contributing to festivals and galleries. This focus on creative expression enhances cultural tourism and public spaces.
The Fishermen's Monument by William E. deGarthe, Peggy's Cove is a powerful tribute carved on a 30-meter long granite outcropping. It depicts 32 fishermen, their wives and children, and the legendary Peggy of Peggy’s Cove, serving as a lasting monument to Nova Scotian fishermen.
Yes, you can. Mahone Bay Town Center is known for its sweet shops and local charm. Additionally, the Chester Train Station houses the Station 20 co-op store, offering local goods. For a unique culinary experience, you might seek out places like Corkum's Island Mussel Farm & Fish Shop.


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