The beauty of the Annapolis Valley on a nice day still astounds me. I have to say it’s not the same Valley I grew up in. On June 14 I spent the day there as part of the second annual Design Walk with a dozen of my fellow members of the Nova Scotia Interior Decorators Association.
We began our day in Hantsport at Gaspereau River Chairs. The unique design of their chairs, adapted from the standard Adirondack chair, is so much more practical. The chairs are modern and comfortable and you can actually get in and out of them easily. Finished with a special grade of marine paint, they last for eons. Owner Perry Park also designs other furniture pieces with wood and metal.
We then took a lovely drive through Port Williams to James Harlow Antiques in Canning. This is a place you would never find on your own. He has a series of buildings that house a massive collection of antiques. Everything from vintage motor bikes to radios to furniture. I have to confess to being the only one who bought something from him. I know, the minimalist in the group bringing something home. Sometimes you just can’t help yourself.
Next we journeyed to Hampton House in New Minas. With 22,000 square feet of retail space, their showroom is pretty impressive. Keep in mind that just because you don’t see what you want on the floor, doesn’t mean they can’t get it for you. Like most furniture retailers, they go on buying trips twice a year so the selection is constantly updated.
Then we were off to Wolfville for a lovely lunch at Charts Café. Our next stop was Harvest Gallery on Main Street in Wolfville. They have a diverse collection of art and crafts from many of the Maritime’s most-talented artists and artisans. If you are on the hunt for something unique, this just might be the place to find it.
Just down the street is Larch Wood. Hailing from Margaree, Cape Breton, they manufacture end-grain wood products with a huge selection of cutting boards available in the store. You can also order custom countertops or stools made from larch wood. In addition, they carry the renowned Japanese Haiku knives. A great place to find a unique gift. After all, who doesn’t need a cutting board?
Our next stop involved another beautiful drive along Gaspereau River Road where we found Gaspereau Valley Fibres. Their wood planked showroom, a former garage, is a wonderful building in which to explore their collection of silk and wool yarns, felting fibres and supplies. We were delighted to experience a weaving demonstration and to have a chance to check out their flock of Cotswold sheep.
You can’t take a trip to the Annapolis Valley without visiting at least one of the many wineries and what better way to finish a great day than with a glass of wine in Grand Pre.
I was so inspired by our Valley experience that I have already booked a couple of nights in Wolfville so I can explore more of what this beautiful area has to offer. You can take the girl out of the Valley but you can’t take the Valley out of the girl.
RELATED:
