Explore Antigonish County

Antigonish County is a rural community steeped in a unique heritage. Many of our ancestors came from the highlands of Scotland, and their culture and strong values still resonate through our every day life here in Antigonish County.

These, however, were not the first settlers to our county – the Acadian French had earlier begun to settle in the eastern part of the county when they were allowed to return to Nova Scotia after the Expulsion of the Acadians. Many of our residents celebrate their Acadian heritage in honor of their Acadian ancestors who settled here.

Later, the Irish Loyalists and the Black Loyalists were granted parcels of land to begin new settlements. However, prior to the arrival of all these settlers, the Mi’kmaq occupied this territory and had been living in this area for many centuries.

For more information on the history and genealogy of Antigonish County, please visit the ‘Local History Room’ at the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library site, or, the Antigonish Heritage Museum site.

We are sure that you will be delighted with the scenic beauty of our county and its coastline; with its beaches, parks, trails and nature sites; its historic homes, lighthouses and churches; its art and craft studios, campgrounds and golf courses; its communities, its people and their heritage; and the many adventures and outdoor activities, attractions, festivals and events, and recreational opportunities that our county has to offer.

If you are looking for tourism destinations that relate to the agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries sectors, please consult the ‘On the Land and In the Sea: A Resource Directory of Nova Scotia Agricultural, Aquacultural and Sportfishing Destinations and Activities’ site. (Please note: when selecting a scenic travelway, we are located along the Northumberland Shore on the Sunrise Trail.) For more information on Sportfishing in Nova Scotia and Recreational Fishing Area #2 (Antigonish, Guysborough and Pictou Counties), please click here. Recreational boaters who are looking for suitable locations for launching their boats can view the Boat Ramp Locations in Antigonish County here.

If you visit us in winter, be sure to bring along your cross-country skis or your snowshoes. If you visit us in the summer, don’t forget to pack a bathing suit and beach gear. Bring along your kayak, canoe, golf clubs or hiking equipment anytime you visit during the spring, summer or fall. And whatever the season, don’t forget your camera and binoculars.