Nova Scotia Mom Explores

05/26/2025

We had the most incredible weekend at this beautiful A-frame cabin in Barss Corner! It was the perfect cozy retreat for three moms (myself, my sister, and a friend) celebrating a birthday and enjoying some much-needed relaxation.

Even though it rained the entire weekend and we didn’t get to enjoy the patio or canoe, the indoor space more than made up for it. The cabin was stunningly decorated—modern and cozy with gorgeous gold accents throughout. Every detail felt intentional and luxurious. The beds were so comfortable, the shower felt like a spa, and the kitchen appliances were next-level—truly fancier than anything we’ve ever used!

The amenities were above and beyond. The fully stocked coffee bar and popcorn bar were such a fun treat and offered so many delicious options—it really set this place apart. We also loved watching the mallard ducks on the lake right outside the window. The whole setting was peaceful and serene.

It’s worth noting that the cabin is wheelchair accessible, which is such a thoughtful touch. Kristy, the host, had excellent communication throughout and was incredibly friendly. She even offered us an early check-in, which we appreciated even though we couldn’t take advantage of it.

We spent the weekend doing our favourite things—eating great food, reading, and relaxing—and this cabin was absolutely perfect for it. We would 100% stay again and recommend it to anyone looking for a high-end, peaceful getaway!

https://www.airbnb.com/l/KncbJtWl

The Mallard on Church Lake

03/28/2025

What an absolute gem! This was my first solo getaway, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The Birch Tree Abode in Lunenburg is beautifully decorated, thoughtfully laid out, and equipped with everything you could possibly need. The sauna was such a luxurious bonus, perfect for unwinding. I especially loved that the Bay to Bay trail is just steps away—ideal for a peaceful walk or a bit of exploring. My only regret is booking just one night; I would have loved more time to fully soak in the charm of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. The location is unbeatable, and Kathryn was incredibly responsive and welcoming. If you’re a busy mom in need of a little reset, take this as your sign—you deserve it, and this is the perfect place!

02/28/2025

Since starting this account, I have enjoyed discovering new local businesses SO MUCH! I want to share the 6 local businesses that I am currently obsessed with and can’t wait to explore more in March! In no particular order:

Their nachos are what dreams are made of. I first tried them over a year ago and I swear I have thought of them daily ever since. AND I just found out they are half price during happy hour on Thursdays! I may be in trouble. 🙈

Hands down the best used book store I’ve ever been in. Oh and they have puzzles, which is another new fave hobby of mine. It is worth the half hour drive for me every time. 📚

I have not had a drop of alcohol for 6 months and am beyond excited that there are so many great options for fun mocktails now! Soberish even puts on mocktail workshops, which I’m hoping to do in March! 🍹
es.harrold is a local author and I just finished reading her first book, Project Body Love. What an eye opening experience that was! She also has a new book out about the transition to motherhood, plus she’s a doula, AND offers coaching! I want to be her when I grow up. 😜

Ummm this is genius! Talk about an instant dopamine fix. And they have different breeds all the time so you can go on their website to check out the upcoming classes and choose a class based on your favourite breed! 🐶

Okay plants are a brand new thing for me. I was never into them until recently but all of a sudden I want to own tons and learn all about them. I’m signed up for a build your own terrarium workshop in March and can’t WAIT to check out the shop! 🪴

Which of these businesses would you like to see me highlight more of on this page?? Comment below!

01/30/2025

When I first heard there was a new bookstore opening in the area, I was beyond excited. I finally got to visit over Christmas break and went back again recently so I could pick up some books AND take some pics to share with you guys!

Pages & Pieces is everything a local indie bookstore should be—warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully laid out. The book selection is just right: plenty of variety without feeling overwhelming, making it easy to find something great to read. The owner, Christine, is absolutely lovely to chat with, always ready to offer a great recommendation or just share a love of books. She even recommended her favourite author (KA Tucker) who is Canadian and apparently has a similar writing style to Colleen Hoover. I can’t wait to check her out!

Beyond books, they also carry puzzles and unique items from local artisans, adding to the charm of the shop. I especially love that they support local authors, giving the store a true community feel. Another great perk is their book trade-in program, which lets you bring in gently used books in exchange for store credit—such a fantastic way to keep your reading habit going while sharing books with others!

Whether you’re looking for your next great read, a thoughtful gift, or just a cozy place to browse, Pages & Pieces is a must-visit.

And while you’re in the Elmsdale area, I highly recommend having lunch at Bitars, checking out Sweet Spot Chocolate Shop for dessert, and if you have the kids with you there is also the somewhat newly re-opened East Hants Aquatic Centre with their awesome pool, as well as Beyond Indoor Play!

01/30/2025

Oooo here’s a fun contest!! One thing about me: I will never pass by a contest that involves a free stay somewhere!

Enter now!!

https://www.airbnb.com/l/dvcRAPuh

01/24/2025

I’ve been creating a list of places I want to check out and share with you guys but now I’m looking for suggestions from YOU! Whether it’s somewhere to stay, eat, or play, I want to hear it all! I’ve been blown away with all the cute little places I’m hearing about lately. We really do live in such a great province.

I do have a few reviews in the works currently:
- Pages and Pieces
- Wonderworld
- Lazy Loon Lake Cottage

Unfortunately I was sidetracked this week when my NS Mom Explores instagram account was hacked and I can’t seem to recover it. I’m so disappointed by that as I had already made some great connections on there. I continue to try to get that resolved but for now, please keep following along here for upcoming reviews!

01/15/2025

I was BLOWN away by the hospitality at the Harmony Grand. I was just looking for a quiet place to get away to after Christmas with my husband and 2 boys and this was everything I could have hoped for and way more. So let this be your sign to book a little staycation for a couple days between Christmas and New Year’s next year. You will not regret it!

On the day of check-in, Peter messaged me to check our arrival time, which maybe it was because it was off season, but we were able to check in as early as 12:30! We told him we’d be arriving at 1:00 and he said they’d have a fire going for us when we arrived, along with a fresh baked pie. 🥧😲 Excusez moi? Come to find out, the hosts live in the other cabin on the property and Hendrix is an actual chef! 👨‍🍳

The place is a gorgeous log cabin with a wrap around covered porch and beautiful views of the lake. They have string lights outside and the whole place was decorated for Christmas when we were there. The whole vibe was exactly what I was hoping for. ☺️ It felt very private/secluded but was actually not that far from civilization (less than 20 mins to Greenfield and about 40 mins to Bridgewater). We were lucky with the weather and got to enjoy a bonfire on our first night while gazing at all the stars. We went for several walks through the snow and the kids loved exploring all around the property. There is even a private sauna on site which the kids thought was so cool!

As if that wasn’t enough, we even got breakfast delivered to our door each morning! Pancakes, bacon, breakfast sandwiches and hash browns. 🤤 Not only that, they also had a brand new hot wheels car and playdoh for the kids each morning. 🤯 Although the breakfast service is temporarily suspended until Spring, they have something SUPER exciting in the works for 2025! Starting late summer, they plan to have their guest dining room launched and ready to accept guests year round for breakfast. With the launch of the new dining room will also come a kitchen happy hour with live music, as well as a second cabin on site for renting.

You can find the link in the comments below if you’re interested in booking, and be sure to let them know I sent you!

01/15/2025

Oh hey! I figure I should start this page off with an introduction. I’m Kristy and I live in Halifax, NS, with my husband and our 2 boys (ages 8 and 5). Although I have a certificate in travel & tourism, I ended up finding my career in the insurance industry. That being said, I still find myself drawn to all things tourism, especially when it comes to exploring locally (ie. the Maritimes). I am obsessed with staycations and LOVE a good air bnb/cottage, whether it’s for a girl’s trip, couples getaway, family trip or solo vacay! I’ve also made it my goal in 2025 to reduce over consumerism, support local and spend more money on experiences, rather than more clutter. I LOVE reading, walking trails, restaurants, beaches, lego, podcasts, exercising, nordic spas and trying new things. I also decided this past summer to become a non-drinker and have had lots of fun trying different mocktails and non alcoholic drinks.

What you’ll find on this page: Reviews of local places to stay, things to do with the kids (or without), places to explore, restaurants, shops, etc. These will all come from my own personal experiences. What you won’t find on this page: adventure travel, wine tours/breweries, camping (I’m more of a glamper).. and that’s about it! I’m happy to have you along on this new journey and look forward to connecting with you all!