The Birthplace of Wine in Nova Scotia
Historic Vineyards: The Birthplace of Wine in Nova Scotia
In 1611—just five years after the founding of The Order of Good Cheer—Louis Hebert, an apothecary at The Habitation in Port Royal, planted a hillside vineyard along Bear River.
This pioneering act helped lay the groundwork for one of the oldest new-world wine-growing regions, anchoring Nova Scotia’s reputation for quality wine making that continues to this day.
What Is The Order of Good Cheer?
Established in 1606 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, The Order of Good Cheer was created to help boost morale among the early settlers in Port Royal during harsh winters.
Dear Canada,
It’s your friends in Digby, Nova Scotia!
More and more, travel is becoming about intention; choosing places that feel meaningful, welcoming, and
truly Canadian. About discovering destinations that surprise you, slow you down, and remind you how much
beauty exists within our own borders.
Digby should be at the top of your list.
Here, the land and sea do the storytelling. The Bay of Fundy’s tides shape our coastline. Whales return each
season. Fishing boats still head out with the morning light. Artists, winemakers, guides, and small business
owners create experiences that are rooted, personal, and full of heart. When you visit Digby, your time and
your dollars support real communities and the people who live here year-round.
Experience days that are as full—or as quiet—as you like. Savour fresh scallops landed in our own bay, hike
along coastal trails, or head out for a bit of sea kayaking. Walk in the footsteps of past generations through
our historic villages, explore galleries inspired by Maud Lewis, or play a round of golf with sweeping ocean
views. Visit local wineries and taste our history in a glass, then seek out lighthouses that feel as though they
belong to another era.
It’s a place where adventure doesn’t compete for attention, and hospitality is genuine—never packaged.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to go next, come to Digby. Not as an alternative — but as a
destination in its own right. A place that offers depth, character, and experiences you won’t find just
anywhere.
Play in your own backyard. Come explore a corner of Canada that feels both refreshing and familiar.
We’ll be here, ready to welcome you.
With warmth and pride,
Digby Area Tourism Association
Nestled into the gentle hills of Bear River in Digby County, @brv_thebear offers a relaxed and welcoming place to slow down and savour the season. Rolling vineyards, peaceful valley views, and a tasting room that feels warm and unpretentious make it an easy stop to build into a summer day.
Their handcrafted Nova Scotia wines reflect the land and the coastal climate that shape them—perfect for sipping as you take in the scenery and enjoy the easygoing rhythm of the valley. It’s a place to pause, breathe, and enjoy the moment, whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay.
Add Bear River Winery to your Digby itinerary alongside seaside adventures, fresh seafood, and all the charm the region has to offer. Summer here is meant to be explored—one beautiful stop at a time.
🍇✨ Start planning your Digby getaway and discover what makes this corner of Nova Scotia so special.
Discover the magic of Digby and the surrounding area! 🌊✨
From the thrill of whale watching in the Bay of Fundy to tasting the freshest scallops straight from the sea, Digby is a destination full of experiences for every kind of traveler. Explore Brier Island’s wild beauty, wander the charming streets of Bear River, and enjoy local wineries and artisans that bring the region to life.
Take in the iconic lighthouses, marvel at the Balancing Rock, and don’t miss the colorful world of Maud Lewis, whose art continues to inspire. Every corner of the Digby Area is packed with adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Your next getaway awaits—come explore, taste, and experience all that Digby has to offer! 🌟
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Visiting Bear River is like stepping back in time.
There are no traffic lights, big box stores, or formal government here.
Known as the Tidal Village On Stilts because at low tide the water drops 26 feet, revealing the giant stilts that hold the town up.
Bear River is also known as the Switzerland of Nova Scotia because of its steep tree covered hills and winding waterway.
Bear River is home to a coffee roaster, two wineries, several art galleries, The Cherry Carnival and some fantastic spots to grab a bite to eat on the water.
It`s also one of the best and more accessible spots to see the dramatic effects of the Bay of Fundy tides.
Members took turns organizing feasts featuring local game, seafood, and produce, offering not just nourishment but also entertainment and camaraderie.
This made The Order of Good Cheer one of the earliest social clubs in North America to celebrate the pleasures of good food and drink, and it laid the foundation for the region’s enduring legacy of culinary and communal gatherings.
A Contemporary Taste of History
Today, the Bear River area is home to two award-winning wineries that carry on this tradition of celebrating local bounty. Visitors can learn about Nova Scotia’s 400-year-long food and drink heritage, stroll through rolling vineyards, and enjoy innovative wine making practices—including the province’s only gravity-fed winery. Raise a glass to the long lineage of feast and friendship that began with The Order of Good Cheer, and discover how this spirit of celebration continues to shape Nova Scotia’s vibrant wine scene.
