The Top 4 Nordic Spas to incorporate into your next Cycling Tour of Nova Scotia!
1. Sensea Nordic Spa – Chester, Nova Scotia ~65 km, With Rail Trail Access
Almost located directly off the Rum Runner’s Trail, riders can plan an ambitious 1 day trip (there and back) or split the trip into two legs staying in Chester or the surrounding area for the night (or maybe two!). Sensea offers a full circuit Nordic Spa experience and is the first in Nova Scotia. Equipped with numerous saunas both wet and dry, hammams, outdoor hot and cold baths, waterfalls, and more. This is an ideal stop for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
2. Oceanstone Resort & Spa – Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia ~45 km
Offering another full circuit Nordic spa experience on Nova Scotia’s South Shore is Oceanstone Resort & Nordic Spa. Ocean Stone, a favourite amongst locals, is conveniently located 4 km from Peggy’s Cove. A popular road cycling route, the Peggy’s Cove loop is 100 km round trip. Complete the loop in one day or plan a night’s stay at Oceanstone to unwind.
3. Salt Air Nordic Spa & Wellness – Baxter’s Harbour, Nova Scotia 33 km from Wolfville
For individuals planning cycling intineraries in and around Wolfille, Salt Air Nordic Spa & Wellness, located in Baxter’s Harbour, is another great option to incorporate a Nordic Spa experience into your trip after or during a long day of cycling. Approximately 33 km from Wolfville, albeit steep terrain, this is a great option for those looking to focus their Nova Scotia cycling intinerary on health & wellness after exploring Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley and Gaspeareau Valley Wine Region.
If one of the province’s destination Nordic Spa’s is out of reach, Nature Folk, conveniently located on the Dartmouth Waterfront makes for a perfect and easily accessible trip. Guests can either cycle over the MacDonald Bridge or walk along the Halifax Boardwalk and grab the Dartmouth Ferry. Nature Folk is quite literally just steps outside of the Dartmouth Ferry Terminal.
Halifax, Nova Scotia is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty (especially shorelines and trees!). One of the best ways to immerse yourself in its charm is by exploring it from the ground – on a bike. It’s a way to connect more intimately with the city’s heartbeat, and I Heart Bikes, situated at the picturesque Halifax Waterfront, facilitates just that, offering a unique lens through which to view this historic city.
the Bike Culture in Halifax
Biking in Halifax is more than a mere recreational activity; it’s a journey into the city’s soul. The experience of pedalling through winding streets, along the vibrant waterfront, and through lush parks opens up a dialogue with the city that few other experiences can. It’s about the joy of discovery, the freedom of the open road, and the thrill of uncovering hidden gems at your own pace.
The Story of I Heart Bikes: More Than Just Rentals
At its core, I Heart Bikes is a testament to the love for Halifax and a desire to share its beauty with the world. Located at the heart of the city’s bustling waterfront, this establishment has become a beacon for adventurers and explorers alike. What sets I Heart Bikes apart is not just the convenience of their location or the quality of their bikes, but their commitment to enhancing the experience of each visitor.
The Revival of Guided Bike Tours in 2024
By reintroducing guided bike tours in 2024, we hope that you’ll have a new way to explore and make a connection with our wonderful city. These tours are less about sightseeing and more about storytelling, weaving narratives that bring the city’s history, culture, and landscape to life. Led by locals who share anecdotes and insights, these journeys invite participants to see Halifax through the eyes of those who know it best.
What Makes a Guided Tour Special?
Participating in a guided bike tour is akin to being part of a moving conversation. It’s an opportunity to engage with Halifax’s stories, to ask questions, and to share in the wonder with fellow travellers. It’s not just about visiting landmarks; it’s about understanding how they contribute to Halifax’s identity.
Choosing to explore Halifax by bike with I Heart Bikes is to embark on an adventure that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Our range of bikes caters to all, ensuring that whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or someone who hasn’t ridden in years, there’s a bike for you. The real charm, however, lies in the personalized touch—the staff’s eagerness to map out routes that reveal Halifax’s true character, from its historic forts and museums to its quiet, cobblestoned streets and bustling marketplaces.
