Things to Do in Halifax in May

leaves the city for the gentle, rolling hills of Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley. You'll pass budding vineyards and orchards waking up, then taste crisp aromatic whites and complex reds straight from the cellar. A relaxed multi-course lunch follows, smoked salmon rillette or roast with foraged herbs paired with local vintages.

examines the layers that built the port: Mi'kmaq heritage, British garrison founding, the catastrophic Halifax Explosion. You'll touch the black granite Titanic memorial, feel the original stone of St. Paul's Church, and watch the garrison flag whip atop Citadel Hill.

slips past Georges Island into the wider harbour. The classic yacht heels, water slaps the hull, sky streaks orange and purple while you sample Nova Scotian cheeses and local wines. Tangy blue meets chilled smooth white.

hugs a rugged coast of coves and fishing villages. You'll walk wave-polished stones on a secluded beach, smell pine and salt at a granite-capped lighthouse, and see bright wooden boats in a sheltered harbour. Peggy's Cove often supplies the foghorn's deep groan.

let you set the pace. Focus on sparkling, bold reds, or organic cider while your guide steers backroads and arranges barrel tastings at small estates. You'll taste straight from the barrel, feel clay-rich soil crumble between your fingers.

is hands-on. Help raise sails, take the helm, or relax as the skyline shrinks. Feel cool spray, hear rigging creak, watch cormorants dive while the yacht circles McNabs Island, its lonely beaches and crumbling fortifications wrapped in new spring growth.