Nestled in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Queen’s Marque district features an intriguing entrance marked by three hieroglyphs: a bumblebee, the letter K, and a donkey. For those in the know, these symbols represent BKS, an exclusive speakeasy at the luxurious Muir Hotel. This five-star accommodation serves as the centerpiece of Halifax’s vibrant waterfront neighborhood.
Accessible only to guests, BKS offers a unique maritime mixology master class. Stepping through the unassuming glass door leads to a private elevator that transports visitors above the harbor into a charming space filled with dark woods and absinthe-green velvet. Over the course of 90 minutes, the Muir’s resident mixologist, Elise, shares captivating stories from Halifax’s rum-running history while guiding guests through the art of crafting signature cocktails, all enjoyed on a panoramic terrace overlooking the stunning waterfront.
The Muir, which opened its doors in December 2021, is a member of The Luxury Collection and sits in a once-neglected part of Halifax that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. This bustling area is flanked by the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and the Maritime Museum, along with the 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) waterfront Halifax Harbourwalk, making it a prime location for visitors to explore.
As home to nearly half of Nova Scotia’s population, metropolitan Halifax stands as Canada’s second-largest coastal municipality following Vancouver. The Muir features a sleek, streamlined design inspired by Acadian lighthouses and showcases artwork from local artists throughout the hotel. Each of the 109 rooms boasts commissioned paintings and custom furnishings, creating a rich atmosphere that complements its maritime roots.
Luxurious Accommodations and Amenities
Guests at the Muir can enjoy stylishly furnished rooms offering waterfront views with distinct work and seating areas, accented by plank flooring and white oak walls. Tartan blankets nod to the region’s Scottish heritage, while private bars stocked with artisanal spirits enhance the luxury experience. Modern conveniences, such as bedside touch controls for lighting and window treatments, alongside 24-hour in-room dining, ensure comfort at every turn.
Each week, the Muir hosts an array of activities, including art talks at its in-house True Colours Art Gallery and morning yoga sessions at the Windward Wellness spa. For those wanting to explore Halifax, a chauffeur-driven, hybrid Range Rover and a fleet of bicycles are available for guests’ convenience.
Halifax exudes a relaxed coastal charm, which can be experienced through various activities. The hotel offers a 36-foot Morris yacht and a 24-foot high-speed motorboat for fishing trips and idyllic picnics on Georges Island and its surrounding locations. Complimentary access to kayaks allows guests to navigate the scenic bays and coves nearby.
Unique Experiences and Culinary Delights
Adventurous guests can partake in a foraging eco-tour on the Chebucto Peninsula. Led by master forager Fred Dardenne, participants scour the North Atlantic shoreline for delicacies like sea truffles and black lichen. This foraged bounty can be tasted at local restaurants, particularly at the acclaimed Mystic, which opened in September 2024 and quickly earned a spot on Canada’s Best New Restaurants list. Known for its Acadian caviar, Mystic draws inspiration from the region’s natural offerings.
The area surrounding the Muir is known for its seafood indulgences, as Nova Scotia ranks as the world’s largest lobster exporter. Visitors can savor lobster rolls and fish tacos at Salt & Ash Beach House or relish lobster hush puppies and lobster-stuffed croissants at Drift, the hotel’s own restaurant.
Exploring Beyond the Waterfront
While Nova Scotia is characterized by its maritime landscape, a drive into the interior reveals the Annapolis Valley, an emerging hub for wine and gastronomy compared to British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. A must-visit is Lightfoot & Wolfville, a remarkable biodynamic farm and winery that showcases the best of Acadian cuisine. Guests here can enjoy an organic farmhouse meal made from locally sourced ingredients, including cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits paired with exquisite wines.
Halifax has seen a growing influx of newcomers, particularly people relocating from larger metropolitan areas like Toronto and Montreal. This influx has contributed to Halifax’s warm sense of community, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that can be felt at the Muir.
