Approaching Lunenburg you will be struck immediately by the colorful buildings from the hills down to the waterfront. The Lunenburg Academy is the massive, wooden Victorian building atop Gallows Hill painted in red, black and white, visible when approaching Lunenburg and colloquially referred to as the "Castle on the Hill." Built between 1893-1895, it ceased to operate as a school in 2012 and is now owned by the town. Under plans for preservation and restoration, it houses the local public library, a music school and performance space, and offices.

Lunenberg was designed and built by the British as what essentially is a master-planned city. The entire town is a UNSECO World Heritage Site. Old town Lunenburg is characterized by its colourful houses, businesses and churches that date back to the late 1700s and are still in use today. Lunenburg is a vibrant town with an impressive mix of modern industries combined with a rich heritage evident in its streetscapes and architecture. Lunenburg's history of shipbuilding and fishing is obvious throughout. Lunenburg is one of Nova Scotia's most popular tourist destinations, and also an eclectic place to live that combines the truly historic with a modern economy driven by a new generation of residents.

The entire town is walkable and includes large grocery stores, the Lunenburg Farmers Market (open year round on the south shore), several banks and a Post Office, along with excellent shops. For restaurants we recommend the Knot Pub (4 Dufferin St., 902-634-3334) and Salt Shaker Deli & Inn (124 Montague St., 902-640-3434). The Ironworks Distillery located in a blacksmith shop at 2 Kempt St. (902-640-2424) has a wonderful tasting tour, after which you can pick up some Bluenose Rum, named for the iconic ship built in Lunenburg and adorning the Canadian dime coin. (With any luck the full-size replica Bluenose II will be in port.) Take an adventurous hike to the Battery Point Lighthouse or any of the quiet local beaches. The local cabs will make the trip to the Halifax airport if needed.