Bear River

Bear River, Nova Scotia, uniquely straddles the Annapolis and Digby county lines. 

Originally inhabited by the Mi’kmaq as L’sitkuk, the village evolved through French exploration, United Empire Loyalist settlement, and a 19th-century boom as a timber and shipbuilding hub before transforming into today’s vibrant arts community. 

Bear River was just named in Top 10 Canadian Destinations by the Globe and Mail. 

Digby, Nova Scotia, offers essential retail and service options, including a mix of large chains and locally run shops. Educational needs are supported through the public school system and adult learning centers. 

Explore the Digby Area from the Air: https://youtu.be/4VHc-5R2R2U

Major Amenities in the Municipality of Digby include: 

Big Stores

• Department Stores: You can shop for home goods, automotive supplies, and daily essentials at Canadian Tire (112 Warwick St) and Walmart (492 Highway 303). 
• Groceries: Major supermarkets include Atlantic Superstore (490 Highway 303) and Sobeys (110 Warwick St). 
• Specialty & Retail: Local favorites for specialty items include The Fish Market on Birch Street for fresh seafood and Crooked Timber Books on Water Street for used books and gifts. 

Schools & Education

• Primary / Elementary: Digby Elementary School on Shreve Street serves students from Primary to Grade 6. 
• Secondary: Digby Regional High School on King Street handles students from Grades 7 to 12. 
• Post-Secondary: The NSCC Digby Learning Centre (a satellite of Yarmouth’s Burridge Campus, located at 87 Warwick St) provides smaller-campus learning programs, career counseling, and computer labs. 
• Adult Learning: The Digby Area Learning Association (DALA) on Highway 303 offers adult learners support for reading, writing, digital skills, and employment training.

For community activities and recreation, the Digby Area Recreation Commission operates facilities for swimming, hockey, and curling. Digby and Bear River are at the heart of Nova Scotia’s Top places to visit. Bear River and Digby are among the top tourist destinations in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia has received several high-profile international and global honors from major travel publications, most recently being named one of the 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025 by Travel + Leisure magazine.