Entire home

Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat

Family-friendly vacation home in First South with a fitness center

Photo gallery for Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat

Exterior
3 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Marina
Sun loungers, beach towels
Outdoor dining
Perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Hill Top Retreat offers an idyllic escape just minutes from UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg. Sit by the outdoor fire pit or under the pergola with a glass of wine and watch sailboats pass by, or explore nearby beaches like Masons Beach and Hirtles Beach.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8163 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Gym
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat

Please note* Make sure you select your preferred currency in the header for accurate pricing. Our maximum guest occupancy is currently 6.

Hill Top Retreat sits high on top a hill overlooking the majestic Atlantic ocean. Just minutes away from the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg.

Sit outside with a glass of wine under the pergola and watch the famous Bluenose II sail into port, or cozy up around the outdoor fire pit in the evening and roast marshmallows... or do some stargazing. If you feel adventurous you could walk or take one of the bicycles into town. Maybe grab one or 2 kayaks and go for a paddle.

Lunenburg is host to many festivals and street fairs, including the Nova Scotia Folk Art and Folk Harbour Festival. This property is only 4.3 kms to the town itself and the Lunenburg Golf Course. Lunenburg has many attractions, from the Bluenose II and the Atlantic Museum of Fisheries to several boat tours (deep sea fishing and whale watching) to the most interesting ghost walks. Stop at Trot in Time on the waterfront and take an old fashioned horse and carriage tour of the town. There is so much to see! Don't forget the fantastic restaurants and coffee shops to dine in or take out. Some of our top picks are The Salt Shaker, The Grand Banker, The Oyster Bar, The Knot Pub, Smoke Pitt, The Tap Room, No9, Annie J's, Dory Mates, Sushi by the Cove, Lightship Brewery and Sweet Treasures Confectionery.

HillTop is an hours drive away from Halifax. If you are attending a wedding at The Farm at South Cove, Hilltop is a close neighbour. We are roughly a 30 minute drive to Nordic Spa, 20 mins to the world famous Oak Island, 15 mins to the picturesque town of Mahone Bay, or minutes to the Ovens Sea Caves. Explore all of the nearby beaches, including Hirtles Beach in Kingsburg and hike the popular Gaff Point trail. Stop at The Rose Bay store on your way home for a meal, or some snacks and wine to take home. Take Indian Path road to the La Have Ferry. After you cross, stop at the Ploughman's lunch on your way to Rissors or Crescent beach. Stop at the LaHave Bakery for some snacks on your way back. Carters beach has beautiful white sand...incredibly cold water, but beautiful white sand.

Spend a couple hours at any of the great wineries or breweries around. Stay local and visit Gaspereau, Lunenburg or Petite Riviere Vineyards.

Make a day of it and travel to Luckett's, Grand Pre, Lightfoot, or Benjamin Bridge (pack a picnic for this one down by the river and watch the people tube along the river) vineyards in the Annapolis Valley (Wolfville area). The Look Off in Blomidon has a great view of the Fundy Shore where the highest tides are. If you would like to walk on the shore itself, the best spot is just before The Blomidon Camp Ground. The Valley also has excellent restaurants , like The Noodle Guy, Church Brewery and Lightfoot, Grand Pre and Luckett's wineries (worth a stop at Luckett's and get a photo taken at their famous phonebooth box). Don't have time to eat on the way back? Grab an icecream at Hennigers or stop at The Tangled Garden for some jams and preservatives.

Salt Box Brewery is just in the nearby town of Mahone Bay (known for their famous 3 churches..good shopping). After you have sampled a few, make your way over to The Barn for a great cup of coffee. Do some thrifting at Flipped or buy a souvenier at Northern Sun Gallery and Gifts, The Teazer or Oak and Fern (also not far from The Boulangerie).

If it is more relaxation you are looking for, why not book a day at the nearby Nordic Spa in Chester, or book a massage at the Spa@Ninety4 right in Lunenburg.

Spirit Spa in the north end of Halifax and The Interlude Spa downtown are also lovely. If you make a day trip to Halifax, walk the scenic waterfront, tour Pier 21, Citadel Hill or go for a ride on the famous Harbour Hooper. Peggy's Cove is also not far from the capital city. Salt and Ash, Water Polo, Bicycle Thief, Creme, The Merchantile Social, Pano Circa (Italian coffee shop) are all great stops. Locals like Luke's or The Italian Market for sandwiches or Expresso 46 for a good cappuccino.


Hill Top Retreat is a 1750 square foot post and beam farmhouse that was originally built in 1864 just outside of Yarmouth County in the southern part of Nova Scotia. In 2000 it was disassembled and moved to its present location, high on top a hill (thus the name), on 8.5 acres of land. There are 2 other houses that share the hill. This house was reconstructed on a poured concrete slab with in floor radiant heat. It has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 living areas. It boasts all the rustic charm of an older home, but with many modern amenities.

This property has deeded access to the ocean ...great for launching kayaks or small boats. This home also makes an excellent winters retreat with a large toboggan hill only a two minute walk away. Make sure to stop at The Boulangerie La Vendeenne bakery just off exit 11 on your way before you check in. They have the best sourdough bread and petite dejeuners. Four Points Antique market is right across the street.

We are committed to making your stay a safe and enjoyable one. New in the spring of 2025 is a second heat pump (air conditioner) in the upstairs bedroom. The first one is on the main floor in the dining area.

*We do recommend guests take their shoes off at the door. Please feel free to bring indoor shoes however.

*Just a reminder that exceeding the number of total occupants is considered breaking house rules and will lead to immediate cancellation and forfeit of damage deposit.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchenette
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Bicycles
  • Foosball table
  • Golf
  • Gym
  • Kayak
  • Tennis
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bicycles
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,750 square feet
  • Water dispenser
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

Do not exceed maximum occupancy (children count as guests). No pets. No smoking. No parties or events.
Any broken house rules will lead to an automatic charge of the damage deposit. The reservation will be immediately cancelled; guests asked to leave.
There are 2 security cameras on site. One on the front door and the second on the side door.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number STR2526A7285

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat House Lunenburg
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat House
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat Lunenburg
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retr
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat Lunenburg
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat Private vacation home
Unique Oceanview Hilltop Retreat Private vacation home Lunenburg

About the neighborhood

Map
NS, Lunenburg

What's nearby

  • Bluenose II - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • St John's Anglican Church - 9 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Lunenburg Opera House - 9 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Lunenburg Visitor Information Centre - 10 min drive - 4.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Barn - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Lightship Brewing Company - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Mug & Anchor Pub - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪The Knot Pub - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat located?

This family-friendly First South vacation home is located by the sea, within 2 mi (3 km) of Halifax and Southwestern Railway Museum and Pearl Theatre. Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and Bluenose II are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Unique Ocean View Hilltop Retreat Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 165 out of 178 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 178 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 178 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 178 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 178 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Cameron T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best VRBO in Lunenburg

Great hosts and amazing location
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ash L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

Great house with tonnes of character, the hosts answered all questions we had and had good communication!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Property

We had a wonderful stay in Lunenburg at this outstanding property. It is spotless and the most well-equipped rental home I have ever seen. There is nothing missing. The views are enchanting and it is the definition of tranquility. Lunenburg is only about two miles away. We used this house as our base for exploring the South Shore and it served perfectly for that purpose. There are too many superlatives to list about this home. Simply put, it far exceeds a five-star rating.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hilltop retreat with views

Unique timber frame home was very clean and private, located atop a hill with views of the water below. Located a few minutes from downtown Lunenberg and close to other area attrctions. We enjoyed our short stay in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurel C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint home

Everything was really quaint and comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hill top Retreat

We had such a great time. Everything we could possibly need. So enjoyed the history of the home. Would recommend for sure.......
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jo-Ellen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Amazing House

We absolutely loved the house and our stay in Lunenberg. The house was exactly as described yet better. Every possible accouterment was considered and provided. The house was incredibly clean, comfortable, and beautiful. The beds and linens were amazing and it is beautifully decorated. We wanted for nothing the entire week. The views are amazing and the property (including the surprise chipping area) was fabulous and offered a very relaxing environment. We will definitely be back should we find ourselves in the area again. Highly recommend this property! In addition, we really enjoyed exploring Lunenberg and the nearby areas. Lunenberg is under 10 minutes from the house and so easily accessible. We especially enjoyed our dinner at Lincoln Street Food - delicious, creative food in a sophisticated atmosphere. Highly recommend. The house is also close to great golf at Chester Golf Club and a short drive to Halifax! Really perfect location.Definitely consider this place for your vacation!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded our expectations

A cozy, clean, comfortable, quiet cottage located within minutes of downtown Lunenburg. Magnificent sunrises complete with deer and birds. The property sits on 8 1/2 acres. Chrissy and Marcel have thought of everything that you would need during your stay (including an on-site generator). The property also has brochures of the “tourist” things to do along with Chrissy’s favs of local eats and shops. The house also has indoor and outdoor games including fire pit, kayaks, bicycles, etc if you choose to stay put. Chrissy and Marcel both possess excellent communication skills in writing and verbally. I spoke with them on the phone before the trip and in writing (via the app) before, during, and after our trip. They responded to my questions within minutes. The home provided a perfect place to reunite with family and the location provided us one of our most memorable (like top 3) vacations that we have ever experienced. If you want to chill or be a busy tourist like us then we highly recommend the Hilltop Retreat.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Choice

Anyone who has used online services to book rentals knows the difference between what is described in the listing and what the rental actually is can be both stark and disappointing. So when I said I would like to vacation in one place for two weeks, a beautiful quiet spot where I could read, work on a writing project, and do day trips, my spouse blanched when I said I wanted to reserve the Hilltop House site unseen, area unseen. It was in our second highly enjoyable week that we fully realized our good fortune. If we had spent four days in the area visiting various listings to figure out what to rent drawing a circle with a twenty mile radius, we would have chosen Hilltop House. Yes, you can rent places right on the water in the Lunenburg area, but there is typically a busy road within a few feet of your front door. Hilltop is just that, a long drive up a steep hill that brings you through a wooded area to a lovely field at the top of a hill with beautiful water views. And while away from it all, Lunenburg with its attractions, restaurants, and supermarket is only an eight minute drive away. We valued the proximity. Would we want to rent Hilltop again? You bet. Do the owners care deeply about providing a pristine place with everything you need. Without question. Was it worth 24 hours of driving to get there? Absolutely. Could we have stayed there a month? I hated driving away.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy But Spacious Hilltop Retreat

A week at the Hilltop Retreat was great…a month would have been better. This quaint little cottage provided a cozy but plentiful space for our family of four. We enjoyed the large, open yard, with plenty of room for outdoor activities, and the beautiful ocean view while sitting and drinking coffee every morning. We made great use of the golf clubs, kayaks and bicycles. The cottage provided a great base for us while we explored the south shore. We hope to visit again very soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stanly J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Experience

We are from Alberta and other family members were from Ontario. The property allowed us to be together and have a relaxing atmosphere to visit. We found these accommodations to be well stocked and very clean.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gigi H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magnificent!

We had a lovely stay in this beautiful home for 5 days. It is meticulously clean, extremely well-organized and equipped, and had a wonderful view. The hosts, Chrissy and Marcel, could not have been more kind, thoughtful, and responsive. We had several misadventures unrelated to the house due to travel complications and they were right there for us every step of the way. All around, a wonderful stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Veronica T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

This was a wonderful home. So much space.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Greg V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always a great time

This is our third stay and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves as always. The property is fantastic for a group stay and has everything you need for a weekend away.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leanne

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Stunning property. Owner was extremely organized and shared all relevant information. Very clean. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hilltop

We loved our stay at the Hilltop retreat. The architecture and design caught our attention, and the views out from the hilltop kept us enraptured. Proximity to Lunenburg amenities is great, and we enjoyed the farmer’s market nearby. Really a relaxing and lovely stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cindy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for family gathering

The hilltop retreat was perfect for us. We were looking for a place big enough and fully equipped to host a family gathering pre-Christmas. This was just right. The kitchen is fully equipped. The hosts have thought of everything. The house is cozy and beautiful. Great distance from town and beautiful views. We may make it an annual tradition.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mario C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lunnenburg vacay

Property was exactly as described. Lots to do inside and out these host have truly thought of everything a family could want to do. The house is well decorated and extremely comfortable, all the beds were very good, everyone had a great nights sleep. 5 star rating in our books hope to visit again soon.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

What a charming farmhouse overlooking the sea! It’s so cozy and welcoming. Feels like a small farmhouse museum with so much to see in the decorating. It was immaculate! As far as hosts Chrissy and Marcel are our all time favorite. They went above and beyond. Lunenburg is quaint with the friendliest of residents. It was a trip we want to repeat.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bruce S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique and peaceful

We were really wowed when we walked through the door of this very special home. In addition, it was very clean, organized, and well provisioned. Our stay was very quiet and restful. Chrissy was very responsive with any communication.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maureen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and comfortable home

This house is not only beautiful but it is also incredibly comfortable. The spacious layout and design is visually attractive. Attention to detail-unsurpassed. Well appointed with everything one would need, and then some! We were fortunate to meet both Chrissy and Marcel. We had a wonderful conversation regarding the history of the house. Fascinating to see pictures of the original framework that was then disassembled and moved to another location. The remodeling and vision created the most perfect retreat - complete with an amazing view. Peaceful and relaxing. We certainly would love to return. Thank you Chrissy and Marcel for your vision. Great memories.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathie T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nova Scotia Comfort

Beautiful home with high consideration for comfort. Peaceful and relaxing.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Allan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Suburban country house

This is a quiet, unique property up a quarter mile dirt road, best accessed in daylight. The furniture is comfortable and the kitchen is fully functional. We enjoyed our stay, but found the second floor hot, as the air conditioning unit onky seemed to serve the first floor.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

Very enjoyable exceeding any and all expectations.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique hidden Gem

The Hilltop Retreat is certainly unique. The building has a lot of character and a lot of hidden treasures to find inside. Bedrooms are very comfortable and the kitchen is well stocked. The games room was a hidden surprise but very much appreciated. Will definately recommend to anyone who is anning to exore Lunenburg and or surrounding areas.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024