Best Western Plus Bridgewater leads with a 9.3 cleanliness score and a full hot breakfast included. For Halifax harbour access, The Hollis Halifax delivers DoubleTree comfort with a 9.3 location score steps from the waterfront boardwalk.
Finding a Nova Scotia hotel that actually delivers on ocean views and solid service takes more than a quick scroll. Here are the 20 properties that passed a real data scrub.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 15,900+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+ for the top recommendations.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Overall: #19 Best Western Plus Bridgewater→ Rates
- Beachfront & Resort Vibe: #8 White Point Beach Resort→ Rates
- Best Value & Clean: #2 Future Inns Halifax→ Rates
#3 Chateau Bedford→ Rates - Best Location (Downtown Halifax): #7 Micro Boutique Living Wolfville→ Rates
#16 The Westin Nova Scotian→ Rates - Pet-Friendly Stays: #2 Future Inns Halifax→ Rates
#7 Micro Boutique Living Wolfville→ Rates - Budget & Cabot Trail Gateway: #5 Auberge Gisele’s Inn→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Delta Hotels by Marriott Halifax Downtown | (2450+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Future Inns Halifax Hotel & Conference Centre | (1400+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Chateau Bedford Trademark Collection by Wyndham | (1250+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Inn on Prince Hotel & Conference Centre | (1200+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Auberge Gisele’s Inn | (1100+ Reviews) |
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| 6. MacNeil’s Motel | (850+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Micro Boutique Living Wolfville | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 8. White Point Beach Resort | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Four Points by Sheraton Halifax | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Berry’s Motel | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Admiral Digby Inn | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Atlantica Hotel Halifax | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Dalhousie University | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 14. HI Halifax Heritage House Hostel | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Fundy Spray Motel | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Westin Nova Scotian | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Annapolis Royal Inn & Suites | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 18. University of King’s College | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 20. The Hollis Halifax – a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton | (350+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: The Best Hotel in Nova Scotia, Reviewed and Ranked
1. Delta Hotels by Marriott Halifax Downtown
The Vibe
This downtown Halifax workhorse sits right on the Link walkway system, meaning you can reach the waterfront and the casino without stepping outside. Staff scored an 8.9, and guests call out the comfy beds, but ongoing construction means exterior views are currently blocked. It’s functional rather than fancy.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with balconies and city views when scaffolding isn’t in the way. The indoor pool stays open year-round, and the on-site restaurant serves a very good breakfast (purchased separately). Pets are allowed with fees. Parking runs $24+tax per day in the attached garage. The hotel is also positioned near Dalhousie University, making it a convenient hub for campus visits. Wi-Fi scores an excellent 8.9.
Choose this if: You want a central Halifax base with indoor pool access and don’t mind construction scaffolding outside your window.
Check Tonight’s Price for Delta Hotels by Marriott Halifax Downtown →
2. Future Inns Halifax Hotel & Conference Centre
The Vibe
This 3-star property punches way above its class with a 9.2 cleanliness score and a 9.1 staff rating. It’s a short drive from downtown, but free parking — a rare Halifax asset — makes up for the distance. Guests consistently mention the comfortable beds and the convenience of the location near local attractions.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a tea/coffee maker, and the hotel offers family rooms alongside a fitness center. The on-site restaurant serves meals, and free Wi-Fi clocks in at 9.1. This is one of the few properties where pets stay free on request — no extra charges. Check-in starts at 4 PM, so plan accordingly. It’s an excellent pick for travelers arriving by car who want solid quality without a downtown price tag.
Choose this if: You’re driving into Halifax and want free parking with a spotlessly clean room — no pet fees, either.
Check Tonight’s Price for Future Inns Halifax Hotel & Conference Centre →
3. Chateau Bedford Trademark Collection by Wyndham
The Vibe
Chateau Bedford sits in a quieter pocket of Halifax, 13 minutes from downtown, with an 8.8 overall rating and staff scoring 9.3. The complimentary breakfast is a genuine crowd-pleaser — guests rave about the spread. It’s a reliable, comfortable stay with solid scores across the board.
What You Actually Get
The property includes an indoor pool, free parking, and family rooms. A damage deposit of CAD 300 is required in cash on arrival, and breakfast is complimentary for every guest. Pets are allowed on request with a $25+tax fee for the entire stay. The hotel can arrange connected rooms upon request — prices fluctuate by date. Free Wi-Fi scores 8.4, adequate for streaming and work.
Choose this if: You want a free hot breakfast included and a staff team that consistently earns 9.3 ratings.
Check Tonight’s Price for Chateau Bedford Trademark Collection by Wyndham →
4. Inn on Prince Hotel & Conference Centre, an Ascend Collection Hotel
The Vibe
A 4-star hotel in Truro that works well as a stopover on the way to Cape Breton or the Annapolis Valley. Staff friendliness (9.0) and a decent breakfast buffet keep guests coming back. The pool and gym are open by reservation only, so plan your swim time.
What You Actually Get
All rooms include free Wi-Fi (8.4), and the property offers family rooms, free parking, and facilities for disabled guests. The on-site bar serves guests, and the breakfast earns “very good” marks. Pets are allowed with charges. If you need a jacuzzi tub, ask at booking — some rooms feature them. The pool operates on a reservation system from 8 AM to 9:30 PM. Connected rooms may be available upon request.
Choose this if: You need a comfortable Truro stop with an indoor pool and genuinely friendly service.
Check Tonight’s Price for Inn on Prince Hotel & Conference Centre, an Ascend Collection Hotel →
5. Auberge Gisele’s Inn
The Vibe
Sitting on Shore Road in Baddeck, this 4-star inn is the perfect launching point for the Cabot Trail. The location scores 9.1, and guests love the pleasant atmosphere and reasonable rates. It’s a classic Nova Scotia experience — well-appointed rooms, a beautiful setting, and a restaurant that serves dinner.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is included, along with free Wi-Fi (8.7). The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner. Note that check-in closes at 9 PM — if you’re arriving late, you must inform the property in advance to arrange a late check-in. There’s a coin-operated laundry on-site with multiple washers and dryers. Pets are not allowed. The inn has no age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You’re tackling the Cabot Trail and want a solid base with free parking and an excellent location score.
6. MacNeil’s Motel
The Vibe
This motel sits right on the Trans Canada Highway near the North Sydney ferry terminal — ideal for travelers catching the Newfoundland ferry. Staff score 8.9, and guests note the very clean rooms and kind service. It’s basic but reliable, with a good value-for-money ratio.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with a microwave and fridge. Free Wi-Fi (8.9) and free parking are included. There are stairs to all units, so it’s not ideal for mobility issues. The motel accepts cash payments. Pets are not allowed. The check-in window closes at 9 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Choose this if: You’re catching the Newfoundland ferry from North Sydney and need a clean, affordable stopover.
7. Micro Boutique Living Wolfville
The Vibe
Wolfville’s boutique contender — self-catering apartments on Main Street with a 9.5 location score. Modern design, small but well-appointed rooms, and a secure building. This is the best pick for travelers who want to cook their own meals and stay right in the heart of the Annapolis Valley wine region.
What You Actually Get
Choose from studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom suites — the two-bedroom option works for families. Each room includes a kitchen, balcony, and city or garden views. Free Wi-Fi scores 9.1. Pets (specifically dogs) stay for free with no extra charges. Private parking is available. Quiet hours run from 10 PM to 9 AM, and bachelor/bachelorette parties are not permitted. The property is English-only for communication.
Choose this if: You want a self-catering stay in central Wolfville with your dog and a full kitchen.
8. White Point Beach Resort
The Vibe
White Point is the full Nova Scotia coastal package — a private beach, two restaurants, live music in the lounge, and a 9.4 location score. It’s a genuine resort where you can park the car and walk to everything. The restaurant earns high marks, and the beach is pristine.
What You Actually Get
Two swimming pools (one indoor, one outdoor), a private beach area, and two on-site restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All rooms have fridges and microwaves. The fitness center is available for guests. Pets are allowed on request with a $25+tax fee per stay — pet-free rooms are available for allergy sufferers. The resort has a garden and terrace. Very good breakfast is included.
Choose this if: You want a true Nova Scotia beach resort with private sand, pools, and live music.
9. Four Points by Sheraton Halifax
The Vibe
Location is the star here — 9.3, steps from the Halifax waterfront and within walking distance of bars and restaurants. Staff score 9.0, and guests appreciate the clean rooms and convenient gym. It’s a reliable downtown pick with consistent Sheraton quality.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a tea/coffee maker. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Private parking is available. Breakfast can be purchased. Pets are allowed with charges — dogs up to 40kg with a one-time fee of $50. Note that only credit cards can guarantee a reservation — pre-paid and debit cards won’t work. The hotel enforces quiet hours and no-party policies strictly.
Choose this if: You want to be in the middle of downtown Halifax action with an indoor pool.
10. Berry’s Motel
The Vibe
Berry’s Motel has more repeat guests than most properties in this list — a solid trust signal. It’s a well-maintained property in Truro with an 8.8 value score, making it one of the best budget options. Clean, comfortable, and friendly staff round out the experience.
What You Actually Get
Each room has a refrigerator and microwave. Free Wi-Fi (8.5) and free on-site parking are included. The motel is dog-friendly for short stays — confirm at booking. Check-in runs 3 PM to 10 PM. The property is in a state of ongoing upgrades, so you might catch some renovation activity. A tea/coffee maker is available in all rooms.
Choose this if: You want a budget-friendly Truro motel with a microwave, fridge, and a track record of return visitors.
11. Admiral Digby Inn
The Vibe
Across the street from the Digby waterfront with beautiful ocean views — this is classic coastal Nova Scotia. Staff score 9.0, and the location scores 9.1. The on-site restaurant serves full English/Irish and American breakfasts. Guests love watching the ferry come and go from the property.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking and free Wi-Fi (8.5) are included. The inn offers family rooms and facilities for disabled guests. All rooms have a tea/coffee maker. Pets are allowed on request with surcharges — not all rooms accommodate animals, so call ahead. Check-in closes at 9 PM. No age restriction for check-in. The inn is a 5-minute drive from the Digby ferry terminal.
Choose this if: You crave a water-view room in Digby with a hearty breakfast and free parking.
12. Atlantica Hotel Halifax
The Vibe
A 4-star Halifax hotel with the highest Wi-Fi score on this list — 9.5. Located on Robie Street, it’s less than a 10-minute walk to Spring Garden Road’s shops and restaurants. Staff are friendly, and the indoor pool is a solid perk. The huge TVs are a hit with sports fans.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include tea/coffee makers and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant with room service. Private underground parking is available. A very good breakfast can be purchased. Pets are allowed with charges. A medical rate is available — contact the hotel directly for details. Note that cash and debit deposits are not accepted; a credit card is required at check-in.
Choose this if: You need blazing-fast Wi-Fi for work and want an indoor pool within walking distance of Spring Garden Road.
13. Dalhousie University
The Vibe
Dormitory-style accommodations during summer months in the heart of Halifax. It’s a budget winner — 8.8 value score and 9.2 location. Rooms are basic but clean, with free Wi-Fi (8.9). The front desk is staffed 24/7, making late arrivals easy. You’ll stay in Shirreff, Gerard, Howe, or Risley Hall.
What You Actually Get
Free parking on-site, free Wi-Fi, and access to a fitness center and indoor swimming pool. Breakfast is available. The property will email your specific check-in location and room assignment after booking. Late check-ins are fine — the desk is staffed around the clock. Luggage storage is available for late flights. Pets are not allowed. Groups booking more than 3 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget and want a central Halifax location with 24/7 staff support.
14. HI Halifax Heritage House Hostel
The Vibe
A heritage building hostel with a 9.5 location score — the highest on this entire list. It’s an 8-minute walk to the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. Staff score 9.2, and the shared lounge creates a social atmosphere. Dorms and private rooms available.
What You Actually Get
Private rooms sleep 3-5 people with double beds and additional bedding. Women-only dorms are available. Free Wi-Fi scores 9.4. The on-site restaurant serves good, reasonably priced food. Street parking is free from 6 PM to 8 AM weekdays and all weekend. Check-in closes at 10 PM. No pets allowed. No age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You’re a solo traveler or small group who wants the best location in Halifax on a hostel budget.
Check Tonight’s Price for HI Halifax Heritage House Hostel →
15. Fundy Spray Motel
The Vibe
A straightforward motel in Middleton with a complimentary continental breakfast each morning. Staff score 8.7, and guests value the air-conditioned rooms and pet-friendly policy. It’s a decent stopover for travelers crossing the province.
What You Actually Get
All rooms are air-conditioned. Free Wi-Fi (8.7) and free on-site parking are included. A continental breakfast is provided. Pets are allowed — the fee is $20 for the first night and $10 for each subsequent night. Check-in runs until 10:30 PM. The motel is located right on Main Street, with easy access to local amenities.
Choose this if: You need a pet-friendly Middleton stopover with AC and a free breakfast.
16. The Westin Nova Scotian
The Vibe
The Westin sits right at the VIA Rail station and on the Halifax waterfront — you can step off the train and into the lobby. Staff score 9.3, and cleanliness hits 9.0. It’s a classic, trusted property for business and leisure travelers alike. The indoor heated pool is a year-round draw.
What You Actually Get
All rooms include mini fridges and tea/coffee makers. The fitness center is state-of-the-art. Free Wi-Fi is complimentary at 2 megabit (suitable for most tasks); a 5 megabit upgrade costs CAD 12 per 24 hours. Breakfast is available (wonderful rating). Pets are allowed with charges. Self-parking is $20+tax; valet is $27+tax. No airport shuttle, but a discounted rate with Town Limo is available.
Choose this if: You’re arriving by VIA Rail or want a classic Westin experience on the Halifax waterfront.
17. Annapolis Royal Inn & Suites
The Vibe
Located 0.9 miles from both Fort Anne and the Historic Gardens, this 3-star inn has a salt-water outdoor pool that guests love. Staff score 8.9, and the wonderful breakfast is a highlight. It’s an excellent base for exploring the Annapolis Royal area.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with either 2 double beds or 1 queen bed. Free private parking and free Wi-Fi (8.7) are included. The wonderful breakfast is offered as a breakfast bag during COVID (juice box, nutri-grain bar, hard boiled egg, cheese, clementine) — check current status. The outdoor pool is salt-water and seasonal. Facilities for disabled guests are available. Pets are allowed with charges. No age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You’re exploring Annapolis Royal’s history and want a salt-water pool to cool off in.
18. University of King’s College
The Vibe
Dormitory-style rooms in Alexandra Hall and Chapel Bay on the beautiful King’s College campus. Staff score 9.3 — the friendliest on this list tied with Chateau Bedford. Value scores 8.6, making it a strong budget pick. The campus is quiet and central, with easy access to public transit.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are located in Alexandra Hall or Chapel Bay residences — check-in at Alex Hall (the smaller of the two columned buildings on Coburg Road). Free Wi-Fi (8.2) and private parking available. Fitness center on-site. The dining hall is closed during summer months, so no meal plan is available. Late arrivals are fine — front desk is staffed 24/7. Pets are not allowed. Note that the location is university campus, not a hotel — expect communal bathrooms in some room types.
Choose this if: You’re a budget traveler who values friendly staff and doesn’t mind dormitory-style accommodations.
19. Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre
The Vibe
The highest-rated property in this guide with an 8.9 overall score. Staff, cleanliness, and comfort all hit 9.3 — an exceptional trifecta. The complimentary hot breakfast buffet changes daily, featuring sausage, ham, bacon, hashbrowns, and eggs. It’s in Bridgewater, about an hour from Halifax — perfect for South Shore explorers.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have small fridges; microwaves are available on request for standard rooms. Free Wi-Fi (8.6) and free parking are included. The indoor swimming pool is temporarily unavailable during renovations (check current status). The on-site restaurant serves excellent dinners. Pet-friendly with charges. The wonderful breakfast is a hot buffet with daily rotation. Facilities for disabled guests are available. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You want the highest-rated hotel on this list with a daily hot breakfast buffet and exceptional cleanliness.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre →
20. The Hollis Halifax – a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton
The Vibe
An all-suite hotel on Hollis Street with stunning harbour views. Staff score 9.2, and the location scores 9.3. Guests rave about the comfortable beds and the warm DoubleTree cookie welcome. It’s a favorite for repeat visitors to Halifax — many guests book exclusively here.
What You Actually Get
Every room is a suite with a separate living area. The indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant are all available. Coffee is served in the lobby each morning. Excellent breakfast can be purchased. Parking is available. Pets are allowed with a $50+tax fee for the entire stay. If using cash or debit, a $300 deposit is required at check-in, refunded after housekeeping inspection. Note that no jacuzzis are in the suites (one is located by the pool). Free Wi-Fi scores a lower 7.5.
Choose this if: You want a spacious suite with harbour views in downtown Halifax and don’t mind a lower Wi-Fi speed.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Hollis Halifax – a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#19 Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre
The highest overall rating (8.9) with staff, cleanliness, and comfort all at 9.3 — plus a daily hot breakfast included. It’s the best hotel in Nova Scotia by the numbers.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre →
💰 Best Value
#2 Future Inns Halifax Hotel & Conference Centre
An 8.7 rating with a 9.2 cleanliness score, free parking, and free pet stays — outstanding value for the price.
Check Tonight’s Price for Future Inns Halifax Hotel & Conference Centre →
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#8 White Point Beach Resort
Private beach, two pools, live music, and a 9.4 location score — the full Nova Scotia resort experience.
How We Ranked These Hotels
To find the best hotel in Nova Scotia, I analyzed 20 properties across the province, filtering over 15,900 guest reviews for consistency, cleanliness, and location value. Properties needed 8.0+ overall scores with at least 350 verified reviews to qualify.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 350+ verified reviews were included
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings in Nova Scotia
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, breakfast, pet policies) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to waterfronts, Cabot Trail access, and Halifax downtown walkability were weighted heavily for Nova Scotia travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels offer free cancellation in Nova Scotia?
Most properties on this list offer cancellation policies that vary by room type. Future Inns Halifax (rated 8.7) and Chateau Bedford (rated 8.8) both allow free cancellation on certain rate plans — always check the specific room’s terms at booking. Auberge Gisele’s Inn also offers flexible cancellation depending on your stay dates. For the safest bet, filter by “free cancellation” on the booking page before confirming.
Are pets allowed at these Nova Scotia hotels?
Yes — several properties welcome pets. Future Inns Halifax allows pets for free on request (no extra charges). Micro Boutique Living Wolfville also allows dogs at no extra cost. Chateau Bedford charges a $25+tax fee for the entire stay. White Point Beach Resort charges $25+tax per stay. The Hollis Halifax charges $50+tax for the stay. Berry’s Motel is dog-friendly for short stays. Always confirm pet policies directly with the property before booking.
When is the best time to visit Nova Scotia?
Late June through September offers the warmest weather and full operation of attractions, including the Cabot Trail, Peggy’s Cove, and the Halifax waterfront. July and August are peak season with higher hotel rates. September brings fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and the fall foliage show. For lower rates, May and October offer decent weather with significantly cheaper room prices.
What is the most walkable area in Nova Scotia for tourists?
Downtown Halifax is by far the most walkable area, with the waterfront boardwalk, Spring Garden Road shops, and the Halifax Citadel all within a 15-minute walk. Properties like The Westin Nova Scotian (9.4 location), Four Points by Sheraton Halifax (9.3 location), and Delta Hotels by Marriott Halifax Downtown (8.7 location) all offer easy access to the best of downtown without needing a car.
Can I check in late at these Nova Scotia hotels?
Most properties on this list accommodate late check-ins. Dalhousie University and University of King’s College both have 24/7 front desks and accept arrivals past midnight. The Westin Nova Scotian and Delta Halifax allow check-in until late with advance notice. For Auberge Gisele’s Inn (check-in closes at 9 PM), you must call ahead to arrange a late arrival. Always inform the property if you expect to arrive after standard check-in hours.
Which Nova Scotia hotel has the best breakfast included?
Chateau Bedford offers a complimentary breakfast for all guests, rated “very good” by recent visitors. Best Western Plus Bridgewater serves a hot buffet breakfast that changes daily with sausage, bacon, eggs, and more — it’s included with most rates. Admiral Digby Inn offers a full English/Irish or American breakfast. Annapolis Royal Inn & Suites provides a wonderful breakfast (currently a breakfast bag format). For the best free breakfast, Chateau Bedford is the clear winner.