Perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Hill Top Retreat offers an idyllic escape just minutes from UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg. Sit by the outdoor fire pit or under the pergola with a glass of wine and watch sailboats pass by, or explore nearby beaches like Masons Beach and Hirtles Beach.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8163 sq m
Popular amenities
Ocean view
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat
Please note* Make sure you select your preferred currency in the header for accurate pricing.
Hill Top Retreat sits high on top a hill overlooking the majestic Atlantic ocean. Just minutes away from the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg.
Sit outside with a glass of wine under the pergola and watch the famous Bluenose II sail into port, or cozy up around the outdoor fire pit in the evening and roast marshmallows... or do some stargazing. If you feel adventurous you could walk or take one of the bicycles into town. Perhaps grab one or 2 kayaks along the shore and go for a paddle.
Lunenburg is host to many festivals and street fairs, including the Nova Scotia Folk Art and Folk Harbour Festival. This property is only 4.3 kms to the town itself and the Lunenburg Golf Course. Lunenburg has many attractions, from the Bluenose II and the Atlantic Museum of Fisheries to several boat tours (deep sea fishing and whale watching) to the most interesting ghost walks. Stop at Trot in Time on the waterfront and take an old fashioned horse and carriage tour of the town. There is so much to see! Don't forget the fantastic restaurants and coffee shops to dine in or take out. Some of our top picks are The Salt Shaker, The Grand Banker, The Oyster Bar, The Knot Pub, Smoke Pitt, The Tap Room, No9, Annie J's, Dory Mates, Sushi by the Cove, Hodgepodge,Lightship Brewery and Sweet Treasures Confectionery.
HillTop is an hours drive away from Halifax. If you are attending a wedding at The Farm at South Cove, Hilltop is a close neighbor (note* there are no shortcuts to the venue...it is only accessible from our driveway). We are roughly a 30 minute drive to Nordic Spa, 20 mins to the world famous Oak Island, 15 mins to the picturesque town of Mahone Bay, or minutes to the Ovens Sea Caves. Explore all of the nearby beaches, including Hirtles Beach in Kingsburg and hike the popular Gaff Point trail. Stop at The Rose Bay store on your way home for a meal, or some snacks and wine to take home. Take Indian Path road to the La Have Ferry. After you cross, stop at the Ploughman's lunch on your way to Rissors or Crescent beach. Stop at the LaHave Bakery for some snacks as you travel back to Hilltop. Carters beach has beautiful white sand...incredibly cold water, but beautiful white sand.
Spend a couple hours at any of the great wineries or breweries around. Stay local and visit Gaspereau, Lunenburg or Petite Riviere Vineyards.
Make a day of it and travel to Luckett's, Grand Pre, Lightfoot, or Benjamin Bridge (pack a picnic for this one down by the river and watch the people tube along the river) vineyards in the Annapolis Valley (Wolfville area). The Look Off in Blomidon has a great view of the Fundy Shore where the highest tides are. If you would like to walk on the shore itself, the best spot is just before The Blomidon Camp Ground. The Valley also has excellent restaurants , like The Noodle Guy, Church Brewery and Lightfoot, Grand Pre and Luckett's wineries (worth a stop at Luckett's and get a photo taken at their famous phonebooth box). Don't have time to eat on the way back? Grab an icecream at Hennigers or stop at The Tangled Garden for some jams and preservatives.
Salt Box Brewery is just in the nearby town of Mahone Bay (known for their famous 3 churches..good shopping). After you have sampled a few, make your way over to The Barn for a great cup of coffee and a smore cookie. Do some thrifting at Flipped or buy a souvenier at Northern Sun Gallery and Gifts, The Teazer or Oak and Fern (also not far from The Boulangerie).
If it is more relaxation you are looking for, why not book a day at the nearby Nordic Spa in Chester, or book a massage at the Spa@Ninety4 right in Lunenburg.
Spirit Spa in the north end of Halifax and The Interlude Spa downtown are also lovely. If you make a day trip to Halifax, walk the scenic waterfront, tour Pier 21, Citadel Hill or go for a ride on the famous Harbour Hooper. Peggy's Cove is also not far from the capital city. Salt and Ash, Water Polo, Bicycle Thief, Creme, The Merchantile Social, Pano Circa (Italian coffee shop) are all delicious spots to grab a bite or two! Locals like Luke's or The Italian Market for sandwiches or Expresso 46 for a good cappuccino.
Hill Top Retreat is a 1750 square foot post and beam farmhouse that was originally built in 1864 just outside of Yarmouth County in the southern part of Nova Scotia. In 2000 it was disassembled and moved to its present location, high on top a hill (thus the name), on 8.5 acres of land. There are 2 other houses that share the hill. This house was reconstructed on a poured concrete slab with in floor radiant heat. It has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 living areas. It boasts all the rustic charm of an older home, but with many modern amenities.
This property has deeded access to the ocean ...great for launching kayaks or small boats. This home also makes an excellent winters retreat with a large toboggan hill only a two minute walk away. Make sure to stop at The Boulangerie La Vendeenne bakery just off exit 11 on your way before you check in. They have the best sourdough bread and petite dejeuners. Four Points Antique market is right across the street.
We are committed to making your stay a safe and enjoyable one. New in the spring of 2025 is a second heat pump (air conditioner) in the upstairs bedroom. The first one is on the main floor in the dining area.
*We do recommend guests take their shoes off at the door. Please feel free to bring indoor shoes however.
Our maximum guest occupancy if currently 8. This includes children 2 and up. Guest 7 and 8 are an extra $40 per person, per night.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Ski
Close to skiing
Snowboarding nearby
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Car recommended
Onsite parking options include a garage
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchenette
Lobster/crab pot
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Water dispenser
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Bathtub
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area
Wood stove
Entertainment
Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Stereo
Video library
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
No lift
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Phone
Location highlights
In a rural location
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Near the sea
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Bicycles
Foosball table
Golf
Gym
Kayak
Tennis
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Sailing nearby
Sledding nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
Do not exceed maximum occupancy (children count as guests).
No pets.
No smoking.
No parties or events.
Any broken house rules will lead to an automatic charge of the damage deposit. The reservation will be immediately cancelled; guests asked to leave.
There are 2 security cameras on site. One on the front door and the second on the side door.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number STR2526A7285
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property
About the area
Located in First South, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Halifax and Southwestern Railway Museum and Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Bluenose Golf Club and Bluenose II. Travelling with kids? Consider For The Birds Nature Shop, or check out an event or a game at Kinsmen Field. Enjoy the area's slopes with snowboarding and skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging. Visit our First South travel guide
Is Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat located?
This family-friendly First South holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Halifax and Southwestern Railway Museum, Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and Bluenose II. Bluenose Golf Club and St John's Anglican Church are also within 3 miles (5 km).
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Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Lovely home providing a great base from which to explore the southern region of Nova Scotia. The rental had everything we needed: very comfortable beds, extremely well equipped kitchen and beautiful hilltop setting with view.
Everything you will possibly need for a comfortable stay and hosting event. Fully appointed kitchen and rooms plus lots of extra charm. Clean. Comfy. Beautiful, thoughtful, and stylish. Absolutely recommend.
Cindy C.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Anne M.
8 Oct 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Clean home, family friendly, nice added touches like coffee pods and bottled water. A couple of other homes in closer proximity than we thought. Overall a lovely facility, would stay again.
Everything was exactly like the listing. We had everything we needed to have a perfect 4 days at the cottage. The location was perfect for our outing adventures. However, just sitting on the long bench behind the couch with with a glass of wine enjoying the wonderful view was PERFECT.
Unbelievable location with beautiful home and view. We enjoyed sitting on the deck and walking around the huge yard.The host was so helpful and quick to respond whenever we had questions. The home is only a few short minutes drive to Lunenburg historic town where there is a Tim Hortons, grocery store and lots of restaurants. 10/10! We loved our time here!!
We loved our stay at the Hilltop retreat. The architecture and design caught our attention, and the views out from the hilltop kept us enraptured. Proximity to Lunenburg amenities is great, and we enjoyed the farmer’s market nearby. Really a relaxing and lovely stay.
Michael M.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Leanne
7 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Stunning property. Owner was extremely organized and shared all relevant information. Very clean. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Unique timber frame home was very clean and private, located atop a hill with views of the water below. Located a few minutes from downtown Lunenberg and close to other area attrctions. We enjoyed our short stay in the area.
A week at the Hilltop Retreat was great…a month would have been better. This quaint little cottage provided a cozy but plentiful space for our family of four. We enjoyed the large, open yard, with plenty of room for outdoor activities, and the beautiful ocean view while sitting and drinking coffee every morning. We made great use of the golf clubs, kayaks and bicycles. The cottage provided a great base for us while we explored the south shore. We hope to visit again very soon!
Property was exactly as described. Lots to do inside and out these host have truly thought of everything a family could want to do. The house is well decorated and extremely comfortable, all the beds were very good, everyone had a great nights sleep. 5 star rating in our books hope to visit again soon.
Loved the layout of the home and hilltop views. Cozy accommodations, and well stocked for our gourmet cooks. Plenty of outdoor areas to catch a nap or read or take in the views.
We were really wowed when we walked through the door of this very special home. In addition, it was very clean, organized, and well provisioned. Our stay was very quiet and restful. Chrissy was very responsive with any communication.
The house was perfect for our family trip (2 adults, teen, and tween). The location was an easy drive to several places we wanted to visit, and an overall beautiful setting. The house was very well-appointed with everything we needed including things we didn't know we needed! We absolutely enjoyed our stay and would stay again.
Hosts had great communication for check-in and left a whole host of information about the house and area to make our trip very enjoyable.
We stayed as a family of 5 adults. It was extremely clean, open concept and comfortable. It was a 5 min drive to Lunenburg and close to beautiful beaches. It had everything we needed and the owners were very accessible if we needed to ask them anything. We would recommend this rental.
The House was more than expected. Every possible item to assist in a comfortable stay was provided.
A unique location with wonderful sunrises.
Quiet and exceptionally clean , lots to do for families or couples looking to get away.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay ,only wishing that we had more time.
The Hilltop Retreat is certainly unique. The building has a lot of character and a lot of hidden treasures to find inside. Bedrooms are very comfortable and the kitchen is well stocked. The games room was a hidden surprise but very much appreciated. Will definately recommend to anyone who is anning to exore Lunenburg and or surrounding areas.
Our family get together was an event made even more special by this great property. It was clean, spacious, very nice indoor and outdoor living areas and exceptionally well equipped. You do need a vehicle as it is a bit remote and up a hill, but very peaceful with stunning views.
Thank you Marcel and Chrissy
This was our second family Christmas at Hilltop, and we were even more thrilled with our stay!
The attention to detail our hosts put into this property makes it a true home away from home.... They think of every possible thing you might need and some you didnt even know you could use.
This is truly a gem, and I highly recommend this location!
This is a quiet, unique property up a quarter mile dirt road, best accessed in daylight. The furniture is comfortable and the kitchen is fully functional. We enjoyed our stay, but found the second floor hot, as the air conditioning unit onky seemed to serve the first floor.
What a charming farmhouse overlooking the sea! It’s so cozy and welcoming. Feels like a small farmhouse museum with so much to see in the decorating. It was immaculate! As far as hosts Chrissy and Marcel are our all time favorite. They went above and beyond. Lunenburg is quaint with the friendliest of residents. It was a trip we want to repeat.