Exceptional incentive experiences in Nova Scotia
Named one of Condé Nast Traveler's top 2021 destinations, Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America and provides the perfect backdrop for rewarding top performers.
Provincial capital Halifax is cultured and compact, merging the easy-going with the go-getting. Land and sea connect in this dynamic destination, and when your group has had their fill of marine activities, exploring Peggy’s Cove, sampling craft beer and gourmet cuisine, they can retire to Nova Scotia’s Northumberland Strait for a seaside retreat at Fox Harb’r Resort – one of the most exclusive destinations in eastern Canada.
We share some of the most memorable experiences for incentive planners considering a twin-centre trip to Halifax and Fox Harb’r…
Credit: Anton Fercher
Halifax
Fundy Tides & Fireside Adventure
For an unforgettable team-building excursion, try tackling the world’s highest tides. Delivered by the Tidal Bore Rafting Resort, this experience takes you on a thrilling Zodiac ride on tidal bore waves. The tidal phenomenon sees the incoming tide push up the Shubenacadie River against the current, bringing with it 160 billion tonnes of ocean water and reversing the flow of river. The surge of water creates rapids that are a heart-pounding roller-coaster ride.
Credit: Nova Scotia / Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
On your trip back to the rafting resort, your team will get to take part in another one-of-a-kind experience as you go mud sliding down the steep slopes of the riverbed. After freshening up, indulge in an authentic lobster boil before bonfire fun with live music, Nova Scotia rum, and an overnight stay in a charming cottage at the Shubenacadie Tidal Bore Rafting Resort.
Picturesque picnic in Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is undulating rock that spills dramatically into an unforgiving ocean, with one of Canada’s most photographed lighthouses overlooking it all. Though the landscape is dramatic and rugged — it’s one of the most picturesque picnic places on the planet.
Your team can enjoy a feast of lobster and sampling of local spirits, just a few metres from the sea, as they bask in the warmth of a crackling fire. With crashing waves acting as the evening’s music, and the province’s most iconic lighthouse watching over, you’ll be indulging in the truest “Nova Scotian” flavours of all.
A tidal table on the ocean floor
Experience the ultimate culinary adventure at the site of the world’s highest tides – an outdoor dining room created by Mother Nature and erased again each night. The full-day adventure takes place at beautiful Burntcoat Head Park, where your group will start by learning about the wild edibles of Nova Scotia with a local forager, before a seafood feast atop the red rock cliffs, a delicious appetiser of what’s to come.
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia
This is followed by a guided tour of the ocean floor, where your group will take a seat at a dining table with a view of the incoming tide for the main event – a delicious three-course meal. Looking up at the high tide marks on the surrounding cliffs and island, your top performers will be awed knowing that the area will be covered in 50 feet of water in less than six hours.
After dinner, you’ll head over to a campfire on the tidal flats to enjoy tea, coffee, and a beautiful view of the incoming tide.
Mi’kmaq Medicine Walk at Membertou
Experience the unique Indigenous culture in the region with a trip to Membertou, a Mi’kmaq community located on Unama’ki – Cape Breton Island. The Mi’kmaq are a First Nations people of the Northeastern Woodlands, indigenous to Canada’s Atlantic Provinces including Nova Scotia.
Immerse yourself in the sights and smells of the forest on a guided tour of Membertou’s medicine trail. Throughout the tour, your group will learn the medicinal practices used by Mi’kmaq ancestors and hear legends and stories shared by a local expert while walking through a beautifully wooded trail. The experience then continues with a workshop where you’ll make your own dreamcatcher to remember your visit and the breaking of traditional (luskinikn) bread.
Fox Harb’r Resort
Atlantic Canada’s down-home hospitality blends with exceptional upscale experiences in a spectacular oceanside setting at Fox Harb’r Resort, located a scenic 90-minute drive from Halifax.
An inspiring, relaxing and rewarding escape for groups that like to aim high, the resort boasts all-suite accommodations, delicious dining, amazing activities, and world-class golf, all in a stunning setting. Here, exceptional is everyday.
Challenge one of the world’s top courses
Follow in the footsteps of the likes of Tiger Woods and Bill Clinton with a round on the famed fairways of Fox Harb’r.
Designed by renowned course architect and Golf Hall of Fame member, Graham Cooke, Fox Harb’r’s oceanside championship course achieves a seamless combination of natural beauty and challenging layout.
The outward nine lures you away from the sea through sheltered forests, expansive wetlands and deep rock-lined lakes. Winding amidst tall spruce and sculptured terrain, each hole commands its own unique setting and signature. The back nine, along the spectacular rugged seacoast of the Northumberland Strait, is a pure delight to play.
Credit: Nova Scotia / Photographer: James Ingram
Saddle up for an exhilarating trail ride
Mount up and enjoy a horse ride along beaches, forests and pastures on a Fox Harb’r guided trail – suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Even if you have never ridden before, these gentle and well-trained horses will help you and your team to feel comfortable and relaxed.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and great outdoors from a completely different perspective, and marvel at the view of the ocean made even better on horseback.
Venture out on the open water
There are plenty of options to get out and enjoy the ocean. Take your group paddling along resort’s shoreline in sea kayaks, or on pedal or paddle boards.
Fox Harbour Bay is a calm, protected tidal bay and at the right times of day, you can kayak within 100 feet of shore without entering deep water. Spot birds, seals and perhaps even porpoises while you paddle.
Groups looking for a more relaxed experience can explore Nova Scotia’s famously beautiful coastline on a private luxury cruise for up to 12 guests aboard a 62-foot Ferretti yacht. This exclusive floating retreat comes fully crewed. All day trip options include water, soft drinks and a snack, with full additional catering options available.
Credit: Nova Scotia / Photographer: James Ingram
Want to whisk your incentive group away for an unforgettable experience in Nova Scotia? Get more inspiration here or contact Jennifer Attersall to see how Destination Canada Business Events can help create the perfect reward for your group.
This content is sponsored by Destination Canada Business Events.