Canada Guide
The Maritime Provinces
McNab's Island
Website: www.mcnabsisland.ca
McNab's Island, 5km long and 2km wide, contains the remnants of five different fortifications, the earliest dating from the middle of the eighteenth century and the last being Fort McNab (free), which was built in 1890. The island, most of which is parkland, is laced with hiking trails and dotted with picnic spots, making it a relaxing retreat from the city, though here again "Hurricane Juan" ripped up many of the island's trees in 2003. During the summer, there is a passenger ferry over to the island from Fisherman's Cove on the east (Dartmouth) side of the harbour with McNab's Island Ferry (902/465-4563; return fare $10), but without your own transport Fisherman's Cove is a pain to get to: either ask the operator for a lift or check at the tourist office to see if there are any island tours beginning downtown.