Located in Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral lands of the Mi'kmaq, the area's history dates back thousands of years. Port-Royal, founded by the French in 1605, was the country's first permanent European settlement. Site of colonial capitals of France, Scotland and Great Britain, the area was renamed Annapolis Royal by the British in 1710 and served as Nova Scotia's first capital until the founding of Halifax in 1749.
The EXPLORER Official Visitors Guide has showcased "What to See and Do" in the Cradle of Our Nation since 1995. It includes Maps, a Business Directory and information about Attractions, Tours, Restaurants, Lodging, Shopping, Festivals and Events.
The 2026 Early Edition of the Explorer is now available online. If you would like to promote your business and partner with us to showcase our special area, please contact us soon. Space is limited. One price for the year includes all of our programs and campaigns. Here is the 2026 Explorer Partner Info.
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Fundy Rose Ferry in Digby - 35 minutes; Cat Ferry in Yarmouth - 90 minutes; Halifax Stanfield International Airport - 120 minutes
