WELCOME TO KNOTTING HILL

Discover Knotting Hill, a private 2 bedroom retreat. Ideal for couples and small groups seeking quiet, comfort and authentic Maritime Charm after a day of exploration. Enjoy our open concept home set on 2 acres, that comfortably sleeps 6, a fully stocked kitchen and our 2 signature guest bedrooms. Located just minutes to Mahone Bay and 10 minutes to Lunenburg, this home offers a place to breathe deeply, far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, yet only a short stroll from the coast.

Step into history in our charming 1895 post-and-beam home. Passed down through generations, and deeply rooted in Mahone Bay's shipbuilding and seafaring past. Thoughtfully restored and decorated in seaside blues and maritime touches, Knotting Hill offers a rare chance to stay in a piece of Nova Scotian heritage. It isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a feeling you carry home, and the kind of peace you didn’t realize you were missing.

We pride ourselves on Superhost care and family-friendly details. From a high chair and portable crib to a selection of board games, puzzles, and crafts, we’ve thought of everything. Outside, challenge each other to a game of badminton on the lawn, or pick your own apples to make a delicious dessert.

Unwind

To release the weight of daily responsibilities and embrace a state of true relaxation—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It means stepping away from the constant noise of modern life—emails, schedules, and obligations—and allowing yourself to slow down.
It’s about being present, savoring the little moments, and letting the tension melt away with your favorite people by your side.

Explore

Exploration is more than travel—it’s a mindset of curiosity and discovery. It's about stepping beyond the familiar to experience something new, whether that means wandering along a rugged coastal path, paddling through calm waters, or meandering through a historic town.
It’s the freedom, the wonder, and the quiet thrill of seeing the world with fresh eyes.

Reconnect

To reconnect is to foster meaningful bonds—with nature, with loved ones, and with yourself. It’s the laughter shared over a meal, heartfelt conversations by a crackling fire, or simply sitting in peaceful silence.
Whether through relationships, nature, or moments of reflection, reconnecting brings a deep sense of fulfillment—reminding us of what truly matters.

🛏️ The Captain’s Quarters

Step into comfort and coastal charm in The Captain’s Quarters, our spacious king suite designed for relaxation and versatility. Featuring a sumptuous king-size bed and a comfortable double futon, this room comfortably sleeps couples, families, or a few extra guests along for the adventure. With soft linens, cozy textures, and plenty of space to unwind, it’s the perfect place to retreat after a day exploring Mahone Bay and the surrounding seaside. Wake up refreshed and ready for another day of salty air and serenity.

🦞 The Lobster Loft

Quirky, cozy, and full of character, The Lobster Loft is a guest favorite. This bright and airy loft bedroom features the same mattress as our Captain's Quarters but in a Queen size and a truly one-of-a-kind custom stained glass lobster window that casts warm, colorful light into the space as the sun sets. It’s the perfect blend of Nova Scotia whimsy and cottage comfort. Ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful night’s sleep in a room that’s anything but ordinary.

🚴‍♀️ Explore by Land or Sea

At Knotting Hill, adventure is just steps from your door. Whether you're a nature lover, an active explorer, or simply looking to soak in the scenery at your own pace, there’s something magical about being so close to the water.

Cycle scenic coastal roads that wind through charming fishing villages and quiet forests. Mahone Bay and its surrounding areas are known for their breathtaking bike routes, where ocean views and salty breezes follow you the whole way.

Prefer to stay on foot? Hike peaceful pathways that trace the shoreline, offering views of the bay, hidden coves, and wildlife along the way. It’s the perfect way to reconnect with nature, breathe in fresh sea air, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a heron, seal or porpoise.

For those who love the water, grab a paddle and explore the coastline by kayak.  Glide past colorful boathouses, explore tucked-away beaches, and experience the beauty of the bay from a whole new perspective.

Whether you're paddling at sunrise or strolling at sunset, life slows down here—and that's exactly the point.

An Ancestral Timeline of Knotting Hill

Mader’s Cove, Nova Scotia | Built 1895

Early 1700s: The Ernst Roots in Mader’s Cove

The Ernst family lineage in Mader’s Cove traces back to the early 1700s. Generations of Ernst men were deeply connected to the sea, with many involved in the local shipbuilding industry that once defined this stretch of Nova Scotia’s South Shore. Their work helped shape the maritime character and economy of the cove, leaving a lasting legacy tied to craftsmanship, resilience, and coastal life.

1871–1872: The Next Generation

By the late 19th century, a new generation of the Ernst family represented a blend of tradition and future growth:

• Annis Victoria Ernst (born 1871)
• Titus Ernst (born 1872)

1895: The Building of Knotting Hill

In 1895, the home now known as Knotting Hill was constructed. It is believed that Titus and Annis Ernst built the house as their family home, drawing on the skills, materials, and architectural sensibilities common to shipbuilders and craftspeople of the era. The home’s sturdy post-and-beam construction reflects the practical beauty and workmanship of the time.

1898: A Birth Within These Walls

Their son, Sidney Titus Ernst, was born in 1898. Family history suggests that Sidney was likely born in the house itself, making him one of the earliest lives to begin within these walls, alongside his brother, Gerald Keith Ernst, and several other siblings.

1911: The Home Passed Down

The house was later passed to Gerald Ernst (born 1911), continuing the tradition of the home remaining within the Ernst family. Gerald married Dorothy Lenora Ballum, and together they raised two children, further anchoring the house as a place of family continuity and memory.

Mid-20th Century: A Moment in Time

It is believed that a surviving photograph—showing a couple seated in front of the home—captures Gerald Ernst and Dorothy Lenora Ballum. This image offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the home’s lived history, preserving a moment of quiet domestic life against the backdrop of a house already rich with generations of stories.

A Living Legacy

For well over a century, Knotting Hill has stood as a witness to family life, maritime heritage, and the evolving story of Mader’s Cove. From early shipbuilders to growing families, the house remains a tangible link to the Ernst family’s deep roots in the community and to Nova Scotia’s enduring coastal history.

At Knotting Hill, you're close enough to explore with ease, yet tucked away where the world feels quieter. It’s a place for couples, families, and friends to simply slow down and breathe. We invite you to experience the magic for yourself; book today and let the sea, the sky, and the warmth of our home welcome you.