Lunenburg, Nova Scotia named one of the world's 20 most beautiful towns
The historic fishing town's colourful wooden architecture and maritime heritage caught the eye of Condé Nast Traveler. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, has been named one of the 20 most beautiful towns in the world by British travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler, cementing the coastal town's place among global destinations.
Established in 1753, Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognised as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. The town was awarded UNESCO status in 1995 for retaining its original rectangular grid layout and wooden architecture, with many houses dating back to the 18th century.
The picturesque fishing town sits alongside other renowned destinations on the Condé Nast list, including the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador, the Taj Mahal in India, the Grand Canyon in the U.S., and the Acropolis in Greece.
"We can't imagine a lovelier spot to dive into maritime history and fill up on lobster rolls," the publication touted.
Visitors to Lunenburg can step aboard the iconic schooner Bluenose II or explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about the region's storied maritime heritage. The recognition underscores Nova Scotia's appeal as a destination for travellers seeking authentic coastal character and preserved colonial architecture.
By the numbers
When was Lunenburg established?
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia was established in 1753.
When did Lunenburg receive UNESCO World Heritage status?
Lunenburg received UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995, recognized as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America.
