There’s something magical about spending a night in a place where you don’t have to do the laundry and the shampoo and soap are miniature. One of the best, but also most frustrating, vacation experiences is trying to find just the right place to lay our heads.
We get it, vacations can be expensive. Between eating out, activities, and flights we can’t be dropping $500/night on a dream hotel on the regular. Sure, we all want that amazing 5 star hotel with turn down service and a bathtub filled with rose petals but just because you’re vacationing on a budget doesn’t mean that you need to book a hovel.
The good news is that there are plenty of cool places in Nova Scotia from an RV cottage to rustic camping bunks to comfy, cozy small town inns where your dollar can stretch a bit further without sacrificing the cool factor. The even better news is that we did the digging for you to unearth over a dozen awesome accommodation options.
In short, these are places that you’d book whether or not you were on a budget.
Jordan River Retreat
Where: Jordan Falls
Price: from $45/night
Why it’s cool: The highlight of this super affordable option is the private entrance that overlooks the Jordan River. Make your morning coffee in the provided French press and sip it out on the patio while the river washes your stress away.
Fedi’s Maritime Cove
Where: Truro
Price: from $62/night
Why it’s cool: If their bright teal colour scheme and red lobster and anchor accents don’t make you smile, I’m not sure what will. This studio room also includes a kitchenette and a private entrance.
Chester Teardrop Trailer
Where: Halifax
Price: from $67/night
Why it’s cool: While space is at a premium in this teardrop trailer, the cool factor is on bust. Imagine pulling this beauty behind your rental car while you explore Nova Scotia. It has a fully functional kitchen with a range, sink and refrigerator and the full size dinette converts to a queen size bed.
Brigantine Inn
Where: Lunenburg
Price: from $75/night
Why it’s cool: We’re suckers for a teal paint job around here. The location is fantastic just a short walk from all the shops and attractions in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town Lunenburg.
Caribbean Style Backyard Bunkee
Where: Lunenburg
Price: from $75/night
Why it’s cool: This cute little bunkhouse is located close to the heart of Lunenburg. With its cheerful decor and access to a bbq, screened in gazebo, and private pool, you won’t even miss your annual trip down South.
Cabot Trail Off Grid Wilderness Cabin
Where: Dingwall
Price: from $80/night
Why it’s cool: The perfect place to be socially distant and have yourself a little digital detox. This tiny cabin is wrapped in spruce and pine boards giving the area a sweet smell of fresh sawed lumber.
Red Robin Camping Bunk
Where: Baddeck
Price: from $83/night
Why it’s cool: You’ll feel like you’re sleeping in a treehouse. The green forest surround & breathtaking views of St. Ann’s Bay & mountains beyond makes this picture postcard setting an easy place to relax & unwind.
The Water’s Edge
Where: Louisdale
Price: from $84/night
Why it’s cool: For when you want to go camping but don’t like sleeping on the ground or the work of setting up a campsite. This RV cottage is the best of both worlds. End your nights with a riverside bonfire and wake up with the ducks.
Hearthstone Inn
Where: Sydney
Price: from $88/night
Why it’s cool: All the amenities of a top-end hotel, but a fraction of the price. Whether you want an indoor pool or to get your sweat on at the gym, free hot breakfast, and rooms with a classic/modern design, you’ve got it here.
Willow Bend Motel
Where: Truro
Price: from $89/night
Why it’s cool: Looking for a boutique hotel vibe on a motel chain budget? The rooms here are punching above their weight when it comes to tasteful, timeless design. Bonus: there’s a free breakfast and a seasonal outdoor pool.
Iona Heights Inn
Where: Iona
Price: from $90/night
Why it’s cool: The rooms here feel like they could be the neat and tidy dorm room of an Instagram influencer. Muted, soft tones, and classic, clean lines in the decor are all topped off with fluffy duvets and a view of the lake.
Smugglers Cove Inn
Where: Lunenburg
Price: from $99/night
Why it’s cool: Relax after a day of exploring Lunenburg in your cozy, homey room. Open your window and let in Nova Scotia’s fresh air. Enjoy historic surroundings with modern amenities.
