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Whalesback Cottage, on the ocean with access to Peggys Cove Preservation Area

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Interior
Property grounds
Interior
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Exterior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4111 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Pet-friendly

Explore the area

View in a map
Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia
  • Saint Margarets Bay
  • Peggy's Point Lighthouse
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Indian Harbour Lighthouse
    ‪6 min drive‬

Room options

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Interior

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About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Whalesback Cottage, on the ocean with access to Peggys Cove Preservation Area

This two bedroom house with 1.5 bathrooms is the closest house to Peggy's Cove, adjacent to the Peggy's Cove Preservation Area. Panoramic views from the living room look west over St. Margaret's Bay's stunning sunsets. All that separates this house from Peggy's Cove is the beautiful Peggy's Cove Preservation Area, a nature lovers paradise. From this house you can walk along the rugged but beautiful coastline to Peggy's Cove. A few minutes walk in the other direction you can purchase fresh lobster from Ryer's Lobster Pound, shop at Whalesback General Store or dine at Cafe l'Acadie and Rhubarb Restaurant. The ultimate in privacy and views, a fantastic location for a retreat or wedding.
During your stay at this holiday home, you're just a quick walk from West Dover Provincial Park. Free WiFi and a kitchen are available in the holiday home.
  • Air-conditioned home with kitchen, 2 bathrooms and fireplace
  • Free WiFi
  • Amenities include a car charging station
  • Steps from West Dover Provincial Park and 12 minutes on foot from Swissair Flight 111 Memorial
Whalesback Cottage, on the ocean with access to Peggys Cove Preservation Area offers its guests barbecue grills and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

Property manager

Thomas Maguire

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 23 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the city centre
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near the marina
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Composting
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Electric car charging station
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Local artist showcase
  • Recycling
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 1,200 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 20

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

No smoking. Please treat the house like your own home.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lb per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.
Property Registration Number STR2526A1381

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Whalesback Cottage Ocean Access Peggys Cove Preservation Area

Whalesback Cottage, on the ocean with access to Peggys Cove Preservation Area Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 107 out of 121 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 121 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 121 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 121 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 121 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Marcia V.

Liked: Cleanliness
This cottage is straight out of a movie. Situated in a quaint fishing village on a private property overlooking the rocky coast, it was exactly what I imagined it would be. It is pretty typical to be a little let down once you arrive at a vacation rental because the pictures usually make it look more impressive than it actually is. That was not our experience with the Whalesback cottage. The pictures included in the VRBO listing are an accurate representation of this property.The cottage was clean, cozy, and had everything we needed. We loved sitting in the room with the panoramic views while our daughters ran around on the grass outside in their beer feet. There were fresh melt-in-your-mouth biscuits left for us on the table when we arrived and they were such a treat. We loved walking on the rocks along the water as the sun was setting and took approximately 200 photos. The cottage is only about an hour from Halifax so we spent an afternoon wondering the waterfront and eating ice cream. We also did a trip to Lunenburg for some shopping and to see the Bluenose, which made for a lovely day.We will never forgot this incredible property!Thank you Tom for being such a wonderful host!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfection

Idyllic, serene, gracious hosts. Just so lovely and about an hour from Halifax. A very short drive to Peggy’s Cove, which is perfect because staying in Peggy’s Cove might be annoying with the number of people constantly traipsing through.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

matthew g.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nothing fancy..but youre not here for that. The look, feel and views are as represented in photos. If weather allows, open the bedroom window at night and fall asleep to waves breaking on granite waterfront. Find the right trails to hike the rocks and grottos down on pollys cove where there is an actual bit of sand to enter cold water if you dare. The rock strewn fir/juniper preservation area is a view i wont forget. Halifax for Citadel tour and lunch at The Black sheep was an easy 10:30-3 excursion..we were back by 4pm). Rhubarb restrnt was good.Shaws is a deep fried joint...ok if youre not looking for more.Lunenberg was a bit of a tourist trap.Difficult to park (in late July) and not too many surprises gallery to gallery.Road contruction in Mahone bay kept us from stopping to get a closer look.The owners to do list is easy to consider...but its his not yours so dont sweat the maintenance required and just enjoy the panoramic views.Dont expect to see whales or frankly much wildlife of any kind....its a place to hike, read and chill.Narrow shoulders and winding roads discourage walking and biking though possible.Owner host was attentive and available but we didnt require a visit.We were very happy with our visit to Indian Harbor.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lloyd F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig M.

Liked: Cleanliness
One of the world’s special locations. A perfect place for walks in the fog with your dog. Hosts very nice people.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donald H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Whalesback Cottage is a WOW!

Wow! Whalesback Cottage was the Nova Scotia oceanside escape that we were looking for. Our own private space – no traffic … no crowds … and the only sounds were the waves hitting the rocks. We spent countless pleasant hours watching the tides change the view … scanned the ocean with binoculars looking for the whales folks see occasionally. A few excited moments at dusk when we caught sight of several whales waaaaay out – okay, turned out be distant shoals but what fun! Enjoyed long walks … to Peggy’s Cove … and exploring Polly’s Cove. Exchanging smiles and waves with the locals made us feel right at home. And visiting with hosts Tom & Donna … after spending time with these cheerful folks we didn’t want our time in this one-of-a-kind special place to end!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Darrylin S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent location

Perfect location and weather provided great opportunity to explore nearby area and relax. House is situated right on coast, providing solitude, rock climbing, beautiful sunsets and night skies without leaving “home”. Hosts were friendly and helpful. Peace and quiet was order of the day.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dineen Z.

Liked: Cleanliness

Rustic Isolation Must

Wonderful cottage for isolated getaway. Spent hours gazing at the shoreline. Will need to return to see a sunrise and sunset or two since our weather did not allow. Unfortunately Hurricane Lee sent us packing earlier than expected but got to see great waves crashing on rocks. Location is ideal for day trips. Tom is a great resource for history, local events, and questions!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen M. R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Majestic

Our recent stay was beyond our expectations. The cottage is well appointed, beautiful, and well cared for in every way. The surrounding area is serene, beautiful, and completely relaxing. Slept every night to the wonderful sounds of waves crashing along the rocks. A very special vacation, indeed. Thank you Tom !
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Outstanding property!!

Whalesback cottage (house) has everything to make the stay totally delightful! From the graciousness of Tom and Donna to the well equipped kitchen and incredible views, this place has it all! I highly recommend Whalesback!!
Stayed 12 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Whaleback cottage is a dream

Peace and tranquillity, right on the ocean with the waves hitting the rocks, the outstanding view, all the amenities you need to cook with, a house that is almost 200 years old that has so much charm. If you need anything at all Tom is there for you, thank you Tom
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Couldn’t be better!1

The Whalesback is a fantastic place to stay! Everything I needed was right at hand and Tom and Donna are great hosts! I highly recommend at least a weeks stay! You won’t want to leave!
Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Gorgeous and Peaceful

What a perfect litter house at Peggy's Cove. Literally feels like you have your own private Peggy's Cove. So nice to sit out and enjoy the view in one of the many seating options. The room inside with the three windows is spectacular especially when it is too windy. The hosts were so nice and available anytime you had a question. Definitely was a Maritime welcome. My son and I loved our week here and were sad to leave!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

6/10 Okay

Nancy M.

Great Views and Poor interior Maintenance

The property’s location cannot be diminished over time. The views of the ocean are spectacular. But, when weather forces you inside for several days, you realize how little effort has been put forth to maintain the cottage. The bedrooms and sole full bath were esp. poor. Plastic taped windows and no screens. Cracked ceilings. Untaped drywall. No toilet paper holders.Sliding doors in the primary bedroom with no screens. No ceiling fans. Mismatched furniture and lamps. Pealing paint and rust on the exterior rear of the house. And a kitchen with 1980s appliances. The view was great. But, if you like upscale beds and baths - not here !
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

James P., St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Even Beautiful In the Rain and Fog

Spent 6 nights. Rain and fog every day. But that is part of the joy.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul C., Atlanta

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Location

Beautiful, well appointed cottage in a stunning location. We had more rain than we wanted, but it was comfortable to relax indoors. When we did venture out, it was an easy walk to the beautiful rocky coast, and a bit more adventurous scramble along the rocks all the way to Peggy's Cove.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peter C., Port Moody, BC

Liked: Cleanliness

Magical place

We loved our time in this magical place listening to the waves crashing, walking along the rocks by the Atlantic, barbecuing oysters from the local lobster seller, hiking the many oceanside trails. The views from the bay windows provided orange sunsets, white tailed deer and other assorted wildlife. Tom and Donna are wonderfully kind and generous hosts. Highly recommended.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sean W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Calm after the storm

My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful, but shorter stay than planned due to Fiona. The location is perfect, and the house is very clean, and so charming. We will definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael and Susan C., Springfield, NH USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Whaleback

The cottage is on a stunning piece of property. The inside is quaint and beautifully decorated. We have no complaints other than hurricane Fiona shortened our stay!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heather P.

Liked: Cleanliness

I started early, took my dog, And visited the sea

I started early, took my dog, And visited the sea The mermaids in the basement Came out to look at me (Emily Dickinson) Imagine spending time living in a rustic fishing village away from the tourists? With deer, monarch butterflies, turtles, hover bees, bald eagles all visiting. So many gorgeous places to hike close by; little beaches to swim at, quaint restaurants to visit. Home has all the comforts; large variety of cooking tools and pot for fresh lobster that can be purchased within walking distance. So many places to sit out with a drink or coffee in hand and just enjoy the most beautiful views of the sea crashing in. The hosts are lovely and unobtrusive. Thank you for sharing your blessing with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jay E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Truly Amazing

Nova Scotia is a magical place and this cottage is in the perfect location. Tom and Donna were wonderful hosts and provided many tips and places to go. The cottage was lovely and clean and had all we needed for the perfect get away. We are missing our morning coffee and evening wine on the two chairs overlooking the ocean...we are already talking about going back.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joel C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fifth Visit

This incredible place has been a regular escape for us. We enjoy the cottage and the amazing coastal views and star filled night sky. The sunset is beautiful every night. It is always a relaxing stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth B., Hendersonville, NC USA

Liked: Cleanliness

An amazing stay.

You couldn't ask for more considerate owners. Tom and his wife are delightful people. Everything you can think of is provided and if there is anything you need, they are quick to provide even down to wood for the fireplace. This was an unforgettable stay on many levels. You will be mesmerized by the view. Tom even went to the trouble of installing a 220V outlet to charge from, saving a considerable amount of time. If you bring an EV, BE SURE TO CHARGE BETWEEN 11PM AND 7AM. RATES AT THOSE TIMES ARE LESS THAN HALF OF DAYTIME. We will be back thanks again for a wonderful stay.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sarah M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent Location

We thoroughly enjoyed staying here and would come again! The view is magnificent!
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

michael b.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exceeded expectations!

We had an amazing stay at this beautiful cottage July 2022. I writing this, the first review I written, because this house, location, setting and host exceeded every expectation that we had. The beautiful pictures we looked on this listing did not capture how amazing this place is! We kept saying to each other "wow!" throughout our stay. The owners seem to have thought of everything. I love cooking so I always bring a bunch of cooking equipment with me. I didn't need it. The first night was chilly and foggy and we found the firepit stocked with some kindling and firewood. I forgot to bring binoculars. the house had a beautiful set laid out. The shower was great, the Wi-Fi was terrific. There was coffee for our first morning. I could go on and on. Well done!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022