5 Reasons Why You Should Move to Truro, Nova Scotia

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With a population of less than 50,000, the town of Truro and its surrounding area may be easy to overlook when buying a home in Nova Scotia. But brimming with east coast charm and a surprising big city feel, this small town is still one of Nova Scotia’s best kept secrets! 

Here’s our top 5 reasons why you should move to Truro, Nova Scotia:

1. The Hub of Nova Scotia
One of the many great perks of living in Truro is its central location right in the heart of Nova Scotia making it easy to explore other parts of this beautiful province, and beyond. Located at the junction of the Canadian National Railway, running between Halifax and Montreal, and the Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway, Truro has a long history dating back to the 1800’s as a transportation and commercial hub.

Nowadays, it sits perfectly at the interchange of the four-lane freeways, Highway 102 and Highway 104, offering quick and fast access to most anywhere in the province. Only 60 minutes from the capital city of Halifax and 1hr 20 mins to the New Brunswick border, day trips and sightseeing have never been easier.

But don’t start your car just yet – Truro offers lots to do right here at home!
                  
2. The Highest Tides in the World
Perched on the inlet of the Bay of Fundy, one of the seven natural wonders of North America, Truro is home to the highest tidal range in the world. Twice a day, this unique phenomenon occurs when a tumbling wavefront from the ocean moves upstream into the Salmon River causing the tide to rise rapidly. This massive volume of water floods the narrow river banks compressing the waters to rise in a spectacular surge with speeds close to 15 km per hour and wakes that can reach over 16 meters high depending on the time or year.

Truro offers one of the most accessible places to sit and take in these renowned tides at the Fundy Discovery Centre. Looking for more adventure? Don’t just watch – try Tidal Bore Rafting and ride the tidal waves in a zodiac boat.

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3. The Live Music Capital of Nova Scotia
The Marigold Cultural Centre recently declared Truro as the Live Music Capital of Nova Scotia. For a town of this size that might sound tongue-in-cheek (and it is, a little), that title is backed by a surprisingly thriving local music scene and a strong commitment to supporting artists. 

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Truro has hosted the Nova Scotia Music Week more than any other community which has served as the key  gathering for the Nova Scotian music community, bringing together artists, industry professionals, and music enthusiasts since 1997.

With over 600 shows a year Truro has one of the highest live performances per capita in Nova Scotia. Live music is around every corner and can be enjoyed in many forms from rooftop performances at the Marigold Centre, Victoria Park’s Sunday in the Park Concert series, festivals such as the NS Stampede, and the many local restaurants and venues that offer a variety of live music performances every week.  

4. Victoria Park
Nestled smack dab in the centre of town, Victoria Park is truly one of Truro’s greatest assets. This 130-year-old park boasts 3,000 acres of natural, heavily forested space and offers an extensive trail system of over 75km for walking, hiking or mountain biking.

Along the trails you’ll find a winding river, old-growth Eastern Hemlock trees, cascading waterfalls, wishing wells, and stunning look offs perfect for meandering in nature. Those looking for a challenge can hike along the steep-sided gorge or climb the 175-steps to the top of Jacob’s Ladder.

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A popular family weekend destination, Victoria Park offers lots of green space for gatherings and recreation, a large playground, picnic area, swimming pool, splash pad, tennis courts, public bathrooms, and even an outdoor theatre.

5. Year-Round Recreation
And speaking of recreation, you’ll find lots of it around Truro no matter the season! The Railyard Mountain Bike Park located in Victoria Park contains over 40kms of bike trails for both beginners and more advanced riders. When the snow hits, fat biking is a popular pastime.

The Cobequid Trail system is a network of 18 kms worth of walking (and cycling) trail throughout Colchester.  The trail takes you along the former rail line, through the Acadian dykelands, past farmlands, and along the Salmon River, which leads to the Bay of Fundy. Along the way you’ll also find six large sections of the Berlin Wall!

                                Photo credit: Source

For those who like to hit the green, Truro is home to four golf courses with several more within a 30 mins drive.
For the colder months Ski Wentworth, the Maritime’s largest ski area, is only 30 mins away and offers 25 alpine trails, 10 km of cross-country trails and a variety of challenges for beginners and experts alike. You can rent snowshoes at Sugar Moon Farm for hiking and the Oval in the Civic Square is the perfect setting for ice skating.  

Finally, the Rath Eastlink Community Centre built in open to all members of the community and offers an aquatic centre with a 2.5 storey water slide, a fitness centre, wall climbing, ice pad, and walking track. Whether indoor or outdoor, rain or shine, Truro makes it easy to stay active and healthy for all levels of fitness.

Thinking About Making the Move? Contact our team, The Thomas Group, to learn more about life in Truro and how to find a home that fits your goals.