Winter Getaways in Nova Scotia: The Best Cozy Escapes

Winter getaways in Nova Scotia are the perfect way to slow down and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat by the ocean, a cozy chalet tucked in the woods, or a ski-and-stay adventure, there’s plenty of places to escape the everyday. From luxury resorts with spas to off-the-grid cabins with woodstoves, this list covers some of the best winter getaways across the province to help you plan your next cold-weather escape.

Note: While we haven’t visited all of these winter getaways, we’ve experienced many of these places firsthand—whether in summer or winter—and the rest came so highly recommended, that I feel confident sharing them in this post. 

Of course, there’s more to consider when choosing which getaway is perfect for you—whether it’s location, amenities, or the type of experience you’re after. Let’s take a closer look at the best winter resorts, chalets, and unique stays across Nova Scotia to help you plan your perfect escape.

Best Resorts for Winter Getaways in Nova Scotia 

These winter resorts make it easy to relax and enjoy the best of the season.

White Point Beach Resort

📍Summerville, South Shore

What to expect: A classic Nova Scotia resort experience a range of accommodations, from cozy lakeside “glomes” to oceanfront treehouses, beach cottages, and guest rooms.
Winter highlights: Heated indoor pool, bonfires on the beach, and winter walks by the waves.
👉Book your stay at White Point Beach Resort

White Point Beach Resort is the perfect place for a classic Nova Scotia winter getaway. With oceanfront cottages just steps from the shore and cozy guest rooms in the main lodge, you can take a quiet morning (or afternoon) walk on the beach, then listen to the sound of the waves as you fall asleep at night. 

The crackling fireplaces in the main lodge create a warm, inviting atmosphere—perfect after a winter walk along the shoreline. And there’s plenty of activities to fill your days, from making s’mores to art shows and live music nights.

After a day of exploring, the indoor pool and hot tub are perfect for unwinding, especially if you’re visiting with kids. And when hunger strikes, Elliot’s Dining Room serves up fresh, locally inspired meals with ocean views—whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a relaxed dinner by the fire.

White Point is also one of the largest resorts in the province, so it never feels overcrowded, even when it’s busy. Whether you’re looking to cozy up inside or explore the beautiful South Shore, it’s an ideal winter getaway.

Inverary Resort

📍Baddeck, Cape Breton

What to expect: A charming lakeside resort with cozy cottages, guest rooms and spacious suites
Winter highlights: Ice skating, snowshoeing, and downhill skiing at nearby Cape Smokey
👉 Book your stay at Inverary Resort

Inverary Resort in Baddeck is a great home base for a Cape Breton winter escape. Choose from cozy cottages, accessible guest rooms, or one- and two-bedroom suites with plenty of space for families. After a day outside, head to The Narrows Bar to warm up by the large stone fireplace—it’s the perfect spot to warm up and relax.

For those looking to hit the slopes, Ski Cape Smokey is just an hour’s drive along the scenic Cabot Trail. With Atlantic Canada’s first gondola offering panoramic views of the coast, it’s more than just a ski hill—it’s a bucket-list-worthy winter experience.

And if you’re staying closer to Baddeck, there are some beautiful winter hiking trails nearby, including hikes to some of Cape Breton’s best waterfalls. Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park is a favourite—it’s a relatively easy trail, and the sight of the frozen falls is worth bundling up for. Or spend a relaxing afternoon at the resort, unwinding in the indoor pool and hot tub after exploring the town’s shops and nearby walking trails.

The Lakes Golf Club & Resort

📍Ben Eoin, Cape Breton

What to expect: A boutique lakeside resort just steps from the slopes.
Winter highlights: Direct-to-lift access to Ski Ben Eoin, stunning views of Bras d’Or Lake, and après-ski relaxation at the on-site pub.
👉 Book your stay at The Lakes Golf Club & Resort

The Lakes Resort at Ben Eoin is a top choice for a ski-and-stay getaway. The resort’s location at the base of Ski Ben Eoin means you can head straight from your room or cottage to the slopes. The slopes overlook the Bras d’Or Lake, so you’ll enjoy some of the most scenic ski views in the province.

After a day on the slopes, unwind with a drink at the resort’s cozy on-site pub or warm up in your private cottage. And since it’s only 30 minutes from downtown Sydney, you can easily plan a day trip to check out the city’s shops, restaurants, and museums—or simply enjoy the winter beauty right at the resort.

Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort

📍Cabot Trail, Cape Breton

Why it’s great: Eco-friendly domes and yurts with wood stoves, private hot tubs, and access to snowy hiking trails.
Winter activities: Snowshoeing, hot tubs under the stars, Cape Breton Highlands scenery.
👉 Book your stay at Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort

Located just 10 km north of Englishtown at the start of the Cabot Trail, Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort is another ideal spot for a Cape Breton winter escape. You can choose from lakeside chalets, which are perfect for the whole family or yurts that are outfitted with a wood stove and a dome skylight to watch the stars. If you’d rather stay indoors, the main lodge offers cozy guest rooms and a great room with a large stone hearth, which is the perfect spot to warm up, read, or play board games by the fire.

And there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors here. Snowshoe through the surrounding trails, relax in the barrel sauna, or book a private hot tub for a soak under the stars. If you’re travelling with kids, the family package includes snowshoe rentals and a s’mores kit for roasting marshmallows at your own outdoor fire.

Oceanstone Seaside Resort

📍Indian Harbour, South Shore

What to expect: A peaceful oceanside escape with charming cottages and villas.
Winter highlights: Winter hikes around Peggy’s Cove, wood-burning stoves, and a rugged coastline.
👉 Book your stay at Oceanstone Seaside Resort

Oceanstone Seaside Resort is the perfect spot for a cozy winter getaway near Halifax. The cottages vary in size and amenities—some have wood-burning fireplaces (ours did not), but all have full kitchens and dining areas, which made it easy for us to cook our own dinner. If you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, Rhubarb Restaurant is right on-site and known for its delicious seasonal dishes.

One of the highlights of a stay at Oceanstone is their Nordic spa. It may be small, but it’s peaceful and beautifully designed—perfect for warming up and unwinding after a day of exploring the coast. And with Peggy’s Cove just a short drive away, you can easily pair your spa day with a visit to Nova Scotia’s most famous lighthouse, made even more magical in the quiet of winter.

Amherst Shore Country Inn 

📍Lorneville, Northumberland Shore

What to expect: A charming country inn near the Northumberland Strait, known for its amazing dinners.
Winter highlights: Snowshoeing trails right across the street and a dining room with a large wood-burning fireplace.
👉Book your stay at Amherst Country Inn here

Amherst Shore Country Inn is an ideal spot for a peaceful winter escape. The detached chalets offer extra privacy and are perfect for couples, complete with a kitchenette, a propane fireplace, and a double jacuzzi tub—great for warming up after a snowy walk. If you’d prefer a more traditional stay, there are also cozy guest rooms and suites inside the inn.

For outdoor lovers, there are snowshoeing trails right across the street, so you can make the most of a quiet winter day exploring the Northumberland Shore.

After a day outside, head to the dining room, where a massive wood-burning fireplace sets the scene for a relaxing, home-cooked meal. But the best part? It’s incredibly affordable—at the time I’m writing this, they have a January special, where you can stay two nights in a chalet for just $250!

Cozy Chalets and Cabins for a Winter Escape

These cabins and chalets are all about seclusion and cozy vibes, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins

📍Cabot Trail, Cape Breton

What to expect: Off-grid, cozy cabins along the Cabot Trail, each with a wood stove.
Winter highlights: Unplugged relaxation, snow-covered mountain views, and outdoor adventures.
👉 Book your stay at Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins

Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins offer a true Cape Breton winter escape, with a prime location right on the Cabot Trail. Whether you’re into downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, this spot has it all. Groomed snowmobile trails run right across the street, and guests can borrow snowshoes for free to explore the snowy landscapes.

There are two family-style cabins, each with a full kitchen, bathroom (complete with a bathtub), and a wood stove—with firewood and kindling provided to keep things extra cozy. For a rustic experience, there’s also a glamping cabin with ocean views and an outhouse for a more off-grid stay.

If you’re planning to hit the slopes, Ski Cape Smokey is just a 20-minute drive away, making Wreck Cove a perfect base for winter adventures on Cape Breton’s stunning coast.

Unique Winter Stays in Nova Scotia

For something a little different, these accommodations offer unique designs and off-the-grid vibes.

Nalu Retreat

📍Porters Lake, Eastern Shore

What to expect: A luxurious, adults-only glamping experience in four-season domes with private decks and hot tubs.
Winter highlights: Propane fireplaces, hot tubs, and cold-water therapy showers, right on your own private deck. 
👉 Book your stay at Nalu Retreat

Nalu Retreat offers an unforgettable winter escape just 30 minutes from Halifax. Each dome is designed for comfort and tranquillity, with panoramic windows, spa-inspired bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. The private deck takes the experience to another level with a hot tub, a propane fireplace, and a cold-water therapy shower for your very own Nordic spa experience.

Though the larger onsite Nordic spa is still in progress, Nalu’s personalized setup makes it easy to unwind without ever leaving your dome—and if you really want to treat yourself, massages are also available to complete your relaxation. For those looking to add some outdoor adventure, the nearby Crowbar Lake Hiking Trails—one of our favourite hikes near Halifax—is a great spot for a more technical and challenging yet beautiful winter hike. 

Sidanna Retreat

📍Various Locations

What to expect: Luxury, oceanfront cottages and houses with private hot tubs, stunning views, and direct beach access.
Winter highlights: Hot tubs at every location, saunas at some retreats, and heated pools for an extra touch of indulgence.
👉 Book your stay at Sidanna Retreat

Sidanna Retreat offers some of the most luxurious winter getaways in Nova Scotia, with multiple properties spread across the province. Many are located along the South Shore and Cape Breton, with additional retreats on the Northumberland Shore and Eastern Shore. Each property is designed to maximize comfort and showcase incredible ocean views. Whether you’re soaking in your private hot tub or enjoying a quiet morning with a coffee by the water, these cottages are perfect for a peaceful and pampered retreat.

Though they aren’t the most budget-friendly option, the luxury amenities—like saunas, heated pools, and waterfront decks—make it worth the splurge. Whether you’re staying along the Northumberland Shore, Cape Breton, or the South Shore, Sidanna Retreat delivers a luxurious seaside experience that’s perfect for a memorable winter getaway

Seek Wilderness Accommodations 

📍Truro

What to expect: Unique container cabins or cozy yurts
Winter highlights: Private hot tubs, crackling woodstoves and near Victoria Park’s trails and frozen waterfalls. 
👉 Book your stay at Seek Wilderness Accommodations

Seek Wilderness Accommodations offers a unique winter stay that combines modern comfort with a sense of adventure. The container cabins are sleek and well-equipped, each with a private hot tub for warming up after a day outdoors. For a more rustic experience, the yurts come with woodstoves that make for an extra cozy night in.

One of the best parts of staying here is how close you are to Victoria Park, which is known for its 75 km of trails and beautiful winter scenery. A walk to see the frozen waterfalls is a must—especially after a fresh snowfall. Seek Wilderness is the perfect balance, whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a nature-filled winter getaway. 

Top Hotels for a Nova Scotia Winter Escape

If you’d rather enjoy a winter getaway with the convenience of staying close to the city or near amenities, these hotels are great options for a cozy weekend escape in Halifax, Truro, or Yarmouth.

Tru by Hilton

📍Yarmouth

What to expect: A modern hotel with clean rooms and an indoor pool with a waterslide
Winter highlights: Stay-and-dine packages and day trips to Mavillette Beach
👉 Book your stay at Tru by Hilton here

If you’re looking for a comfortable hotel stay, Tru by Hilton in Yarmouth is a great choice – especially if you take advantage of their sty-and-dine deals. You can book a simple overnight stay or pair your room with dinner at a nearby pub for an easy and relaxing night away.

The hotel’s modern rooms are bright and functional, and the indoor pool and waterslide make it especially appealing for families. In the morning, complimentary breakfast is a convenient way to fuel up before exploring the area.

Take a stroll along Yarmouth’s waterfront or check out the local shops and cafes downtown. For a scenic winter walk, head to Cape Forchu Lighthouse—one of the most unique lighthouses in Nova Scotia, known for its interesting applecore—shaped design and stunning coastal views.

Inn on Prince Hotel & Conference Centre (Truro)

📍Truro

What to expect: A centrally located hotel with an on-site restaurant and an indoor pool.
Winter highlights: Walking distance to Victoria Park for winter hikes, close to downtown shops and cafes.
👉 Book your stay at the Inn on Prince

If you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable winter stay in Truro, Inn on Prince is a great option. Located in the heart of town, it’s just minutes from Victoria Park, where you can hike to see frozen waterfalls or enjoy snowshoeing through wooded trails. The hotel’s location also puts you close to downtown restaurants, local shops, and cafes—perfect for warming up with a hot drink after a day outdoors.

In February, you’ll be right near the action of the Truro Long John Festival, which celebrates winter with fun events like pancake breakfasts, live music, and snowshoe races. Back at the hotel, you can relax by the indoor pool or grab dinner at the on-site restaurant before settling in for the night.

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

📍Downtown Halifax

What to expect: Centrally located on the Halifax waterfront with spacious rooms and easy access to downtown attractions.
Winter highlights: Large indoor pool with skylights, steps from the ferry terminal, and plenty of nearby winter activities.
👉 Book your stay at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel is a great choice for a winter getaway in the city. Located right on the waterfront, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring downtown Halifax on foot. Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, checking out local shops, or heading to one of the many nearby restaurants, everything is close at hand—including the ferry terminal for a quick trip across the harbour to Dartmouth.

After a day of exploring, the large indoor pool is a great place to unwind—or splash around—under its bright skylights. And if you’re looking for things to do, Halifax has plenty of winter activities to enjoy, from skating at the Emera Oval (with rentals available) to visiting the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia or the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. For sports fans, the hotel is also close to Scotiabank Centre, where you can catch a Mooseheads hockey game or Thunderbirds lacrosse game.