Annapolis Royal is a quaint seaside town steeped in heritage and tradition that holds a unique spot in Nova Scotian and Canadian history. Long before the arrival of the Europeans, this area held special meaning for the Mi’kmaq, the aboriginal people who were the sole occupants of Canada’s Maritime Provinces for thousands of years.
Today, this welcoming waterfront community embraces thousands of years of Mi’kmaq heritage and its over 400 years of French, Scottish, and British history. It's home to Canada's oldest National Historic Site, Fort Anne, where you can see the Royal Charter from which Nova Scotia gets its name and flag. Some of the oldest wooden buildings in Canada are found here, and there are over 135 registered heritage properties in Annapolis Royal, plus a charming streetscape that has been designated a National Historic District. Modern day Annapolis Royal remains idyllically situated between mountain and sea, offering a stunning waterfront shopping area, with a selection of restaurants, world class accommodations, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and plenty of outdoor activities.