The Legendary Milford House- Nova Scotia's Centurial Gem
front porch complete with rocking chairs
It can be said that the Legendary Milford House is the Centurial Gem of Nova Scotia. This distinguished resort is undoubtedly a step back in time to a gentler way of life.
dining room that seats 100
Comfortable lakeside cabins, traditional Nova Scotia meals, and acres of wooded playgrounds are unchanged features that have pressed forward to the present day.
a warm welcome
Located deep within the Acadian forest near historic Annapolis Royal, this popular destination has gained visitors’ affection since its origin. New and returning guests are drawn to the hospitable, natural setting.
The Milford House was established as a stopping point along a stagecoach route during the late 1800s. Demand for food and lodging inspired the Thomas family to open their doors to accommodate travelers, including mill workers and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Additions to the Victorian-style farmhouse enabled the Thomas family to accommodate the increasing demand for guests, thus contributing to the tourism industry of Nova Scotia.
Inevitably, time has stamped itself on this centurial gem, but the true essence of Milford House is untouchable, even by time.
the garden where flowers are picked for the table centerpieces
strolling through the woods in winter
Hiking trails weave through unspoiled wooded areas and along placid lakes. The untamed wilderness surrenders to a spectacular ecosystem, overflowing with a variety of low-lying plants and mosses.
Pompey Rock
Wildflowers thrive beneath hardwoods and softwoods, tucked beneath layers of a shady recluse.
Rustic cabins strategically built overlooking the lakes have retained structural character. Although deemed necessary, minimal upgrades have been in keeping with the natural elemental designs.
water is sometimes pumped from this brook to water the gardens
Although nearby activities entice some guests, many choose to simply immerse themselves in the authentic Milford House experience.
"The main doors off the large front verandah lead directly into an open and airy reception area. The main parlor is an inviting and popular meeting place before and after meals. A 1920s slate fireplace, which opens on either side, separates this formal parlor from a more casual living room off the well-stocked library..."
"A children’s playroom is located just off the reception area. This is a convenient place for youngsters to play while waiting for their meals to be served. A large chalkboard is popular for our budding young artists. Check out the games cupboard. We have a variety games, puzzles, cards, chess and checkers boards. A basketball, tennis racquets and balls, and other items may also be borrowed daily."
"Our extensive library has a wide selection of books on natural history, botany, local genealogical history and other reference books on many subjects. You will find the ever-popular who-done-it section and a great supply of books for young readers — including many classics."
"A conference room on the second floor is available for professional or business groups. Special Group Rates are available if you wish to book accommodations and then conduct your meetings in the conference room or main dining area." https://milfordhouse.ca/facilities/
the bee garden
Geier Lake in autumn
a cabin porch stocked with wood for the winter
Inside rustic cabins, a country-woven ambiance is reflected in plaid prints and inviting window dressings. Throw pillows, country-patched quilts, and furniture rescued from another era create a hospitable atmosphere. The screens doors are a nostalgic reminder of warm summer evenings of childhood.
Mouth-watering meals are served from the kitchen. Traditional Nova Scotia recipes have withstood time, menu favorites esteemed by new and returning guests: chowders and fishcakes, homemade beans and brown bread, berry crisps and brownies, pancakes and cinnamon rolls. Some ingredients are even picked from the vegetable garden and used in many tasty dishes.
string beans from Charlie's garden
fresh cinnamon buns are served on the Sunday morning buffet, prepared by Baker Julie Melanson
fruit and berry crisps are one of the most popular desserts
Maintenance Manager and Gardener, Charlie Richard proudly shows one of the largest zucchini grown in the garden in 2020. Charlie has spent 35 years employed at Milford House and wear many hats. He cuts 60 cords of wood to supply the cabins year round.
For an authentic Nova Scotia experience, visit the Legendary Milford House. Winterized cabins provide a perfect winter getaway. Sometimes they are surrounded by snow-laden branches of the magical forest. Sometimes, they are not. Either way, Milford House offers an unforgettable off-season retreat for everyone-the lone traveler, couples, family's and groups.
winter in the woods
a winterized cabin
Even in the absence of seasonal activity, the spirit of the Milford House remains firmly rooted.
a lakeside cabin in winter
Milford House Facts: The most frequented guest has been returning for over 70 years. Others have been returning for over 50 years.
Third-generation families return each year.
Milford House is surrounded by 600-acres of unspoiled forest.
Guests are welcomed with tea/coffee and homemade cookies upon arrival.
Milford House has burned to the ground twice.
Back in the day, female employees walked to work and picked wildflowers along the way. These were placed as centerpieces for the tables, a tradition which continues to this day. Many flowers are now picked from the gardens and wild areas.
In bygone days, guests bathed in the lakes.
In bygone days, some returning guests stored their clothes for winter in moth balls upstairs in the main lodge. In fact, to this day, some returning guests still leave belongings.
Milford House used to have an ice house and the ice was delivered to each cabin.
In the manner of Nova Scotia tradition, baked beans and brown bread are served on Saturday night.
Two employees have been at Milford House for well over thirty years.
There is internet. In places.
Decorative fabrics are still mended on a sewing machine upstairs at the main lodge.
Thanksgiving Dinner is the last seasonal meal served in the dining room.
Picnic lunches are available for that day-long hike or paddle- sandwiches made from homemade bread, homemade cookies, fruit and a drink.
Some guests can still remember the days before fridges...they also brought their water pitchers to the lodge for fresh drinking water.
Milford House has an annual photo contest.
There is an annual work weekend in May when guests can help out with opening chores.
Milford House has over thirty employees.
In October, guests participate in the annual pumpkin carving contest.
Milford House remained open during Hurricane Dorian. Guests were served meals in the dimly-lit dining room. Only one cabin out of 28 was seriously damaged during the storm.
Blodgett is the oldest cabin dating back to 1921.
In Geier cabin, there is a chair with the date 1923.
In the past, servers wore wool attire and in the 1980s, wore skirts with frills. Now servers wear black and white attire for evening service.
Resources: https://milfordhouse.ca/about/
Val Richard, General Manager
For reservations, information, or to schedule a conference, contact ruth@milfordhouse.ca. To submit a resume contact val@milfordhouse.ca.
Angela McMullen is a freelance writer who lives and writes in maritime Nova Scotia, where she is inspired by the rhythm of the Bay of Fundy tides, the pulse of long-standing forests, the expansive fields of the Annapolis Valley, the backdrop of North and South mountain ranges, and the distinction of the four seasons. www.forestwriting.com
Angela's most recent work is a slim book of poetry that captures the pure essence of nature and her unwavering resilience. Infused with undertones of Italian influence, this collection of poetry speaks for itself.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=angela+hutchinson+mcmullen+poplars+dancing+in+the+wind&ref=nb_sb_noss