Prepare your taste buds for a visit to Digby, the town renowned for its world-famous scallops. Located on the Annapolis Basin near the mouth of the Bay of Fundy, this vibrant fishing community is home to the largest inshore scallop fleet in the world. The cold, nutrient-rich waters of the bay produce scallops that are exceptionally large, sweet, and succulent, making them a culinary treasure sought after by chefs globally. You simply cannot leave Digby without trying this local delicacy, which is celebrated every summer during the lively Digby Scallop Days festival.

A Culinary Quest for Scallops

In Digby, scallops are not just food; they are a way of life. You can find them on the menu of nearly every restaurant, prepared in a multitude of delicious ways. The classic preparation is pan-seared to golden-brown perfection, but you can also find them bacon-wrapped, deep-fried, in chowders, or in creamy pasta dishes. Strolling along the bustling waterfront, you can watch the fishing boats of the scallop fleet unload their precious catch. Many restaurants offer "sea-to-table" dining with fantastic views of the harbour and the iconic fishing vessels. For a true local experience, buy some fresh scallops directly from a fish market and cook them yourself if you have the facilities.

Gateway to Whales and Wild Islands

Beyond its culinary fame, Digby serves as the gateway to the Digby Neck and Islands, a stunningly beautiful and rugged peninsula that juts out into the Bay of Fundy. This area offers some of the best and most reliable whale watching in Nova Scotia. Tour operators based in the area take visitors out to see magnificent humpback, fin, and minke whales, as well as dolphins and seabirds. The journey involves taking a short ferry to Long Island and then another to Brier Island, the final stop on the peninsula. These islands are also a paradise for birdwatchers, as they are a key stopover point for migratory birds. The landscape is wild and windswept, with dramatic basalt cliffs and hiking trails that offer incredible ocean views.

Exploring the Town and Its Surroundings

The town of Digby itself has a relaxed, welcoming charm. Walk through the Admiral's Walk and visit the Admiral Digby Museum, housed in a historic home, to learn about the town’s Loyalist history. Enjoy the fresh sea air at the Point Prim Lighthouse, which offers a beautiful view of the Digby Gut, the narrow channel that connects the Annapolis Basin to the Bay of Fundy. For a unique natural sight, visit the Balancing Rock on Long Island, a large column of basalt that seems to defy gravity as it balances precariously on the edge of a cliff. With its delicious seafood, scenic location, and proximity to amazing natural adventures, Digby is a quintessential Nova Scotian fishing town and a highlight of any trip to the province.