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Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg

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Morning coffee or evening drinks surrounded by trees and coastal air
Welcome to Knotting Hill. A Private 2 acre setting in Mahone Bay,
A spacious open plan living room/dining room combo. Gather, unwind or make plans
Our Captains Quarters master bedroom features a sumptuous King Size bed + futon
Our second Queen bedroom features a Maritime-inspired stained glass window

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Firepit
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Mahone Bay, NS
  • Place, For The Birds Nature Shop
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Northern Sun Gallery & Gifts
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Cocoa Organic Spa & Boutique
    ‪3 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Captain's Quarters King Suite

1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Lobster Loft

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Full Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg

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. Mornings here start slowly on the deck with coffee and no alarms, as the days unfold at your own pace.

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.

THE SPACE: 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.

BEDROOMS:

The Captain’s Quarters: An expansive King Suite designed for rest and comfort, featuring a sumptuous King bed and a double futon for extra guests or little ones.

The Lobster Loft: A signature Queen Room featuring our unique lobster stained-glass window and local accents. It's whimsical, memorable and unmistakably Knotting Hill.

MODERN CONVENIENCES: 1.5 bathrooms -including an upper-level powder room, a fully stocked kitchen with spices and essentials so you can cook with ease, laundry facilities, and heating/air conditioning for year-round comfort.

CONNECTIVITY: Free, fast, and reliable Wi-Fi with a dedicated workspace, easy self check in.

PARKING: Ample onsite space for vehicles, RV, or a boat trailer.

FAMILY & FUN: We pride ourselves on Premiere Host 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.

EVENINGS YOU'LL REMEMBER: As the day winds down, gather around the fire pit under a canopy of stars. It’s the perfect spot to toast marshmallows and share questionable ghost stories while the coastal breeze rustles the trees.

EXPLORE:
A car is required to explore all the South Shore has to offer
3 minute drive to the heart of Mahone Bay shops
10 minutes to historic Lunenburg and the Bluenose II
16 mins to Blue Rocks
About 60 minute drive to Halifax and Peggy's Cove

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.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Food waste/organics in the bin with paper bag - cans/plastics blue bag - paper products clear bag - all other garbage black bag.
Please take garbage/organics to the end of the laneway. Organics go in the green bin marked “26 Mason rd” and garbage goes in the black bin with the same address.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number STR2627D7462
Property # 3835555vb
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Maders Cove

Located in Maders Cove, this holiday home is by the sea. Lunenburg Waterfront and St John's Anglican Church are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Cocoa Organic Spa & Boutique and Bluenose II. Travelling with kids? Consider For The Birds Nature Shop and Have A Yarn. Kayaking and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
View more Holiday homes in Maders CoveOpens in a new window
Map
Mahone Bay, NS

What's nearby

  • For The Birds Nature Shop - 3 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Northern Sun Gallery & Gifts - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Cocoa Organic Spa & Boutique - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Have A Yarn - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Mahone Bay Waterfront - 4 min drive - 4.7 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Lightship Brewing Company - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Barn - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Oh My Cod - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?

As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg on 18 May 2026 start from AU$290, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg located?

This family-friendly Maders Cove holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Mahone Bay Swimming Pool, For The Birds Nature Shop and Jubilee Park. Have A Yarn and Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 34 out of 35 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 35 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 35 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We liked that this was a beautiful house in a wooded setting. We also liked that it was just a short drive to the restaurants and shops in Mahone Bay. The house included everything we needed during our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Karen! We’re so glad you enjoyed the peaceful wooded setting and found the location convenient for exploring Mahone Bay. It’s wonderful to hear the house had everything you needed for a comfortable stay. We’d love to welcome you back anytime! All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monika C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquil, relaxing and cozy. We love the location. Just outside of Mahone Bay, and a short drive to Bridgewater or Lunenburg. Lots to explore, see and do in this area! Thoroughly enjoyed seeing the deer in the morning and at the end of the day.The host provides a fantastic digital guide! Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your 5-star review Monika! I’m so glad you found Knotting Hill tranquil, cozy, and well located for exploring the area. How special that you got to enjoy the deer—and I’m happy the digital guide was helpful too. We’d love to welcome you back anytime! All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay in this part of Nova Scotia.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2025
Thank you for your 5 star review! We’re so glad you enjoyed your time in this beautiful part of Nova Scotia. It means so much that you traveled all the way from another continent to stay with us—we’d love to welcome you back again someday.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bernice D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
All was excellent,,, Beautiful place and lots of extras
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2025
Thank you for your 5 star review Bernice! It was a pleasure hosting you for a girls weekend, and we hope to host you again in the future. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

leigh t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the beautiful location and ability to explore so many nearby locations! The host was super responsive and even picked some apples for us from the property’s trees:)
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review and kind words Leigh! We’re so happy you enjoyed the location and had the chance to explore the beautiful South Shore. It was a pleasure hosting you, and I’m glad you enjoyed the apples from the trees—they’re one of the simple joys of Knotting Hill! We’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our host was exceptional and did above and beyond
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Dec 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Debbie! I’m thrilled that your girls’ weekend at Knotting Hill was such a special one, and that our house could be part of your time together. It was an absolute pleasure hosting you and we hope to welcome you again soon! Merry Christmas to you all, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property.Loved Mahone Bay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We are very happy you enjoyed your time staying at Knotting Hill and surrounding Mahone Bay Area! We hope to welcome you again in the future. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was great!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Christopher! We are very happy that you loved our place and were able to enjoy the magic of Knotting Hill and the Mahone Bay area. We hope you welcome you back again. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anne Marie

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Lovely spot.. well located and equipped with lots of amenities
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vicki S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location was perfect for us close to both Lunenberg and Mahone Bay. We had several wonderful nights stargazing and enjoyed watching the deer on in the. Property.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Vicky! We’re so glad you enjoyed Knotting Hill’s peaceful location and had the chance to stargaze and watch the deer—it’s truly one of the most magical parts of staying here. We hope to welcome you back again soon for more quiet moments under the stars. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

8/10 Good

Leanne Q.

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

Short but sweet stay

The property was in a great location for us visiting family in the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurent M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice cottage in a great location. Very well maintained and super welcoming. Deserves 6 stars out of 5. :)
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I really can't say enough about this wonderful little gem. So quiet and peaceful. The building is wonderfully restored and decorated and every little detail is taken care of. Staying here was a high point on our family vacation.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane W.

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

Great house

The house is beautifully decorated and very clean. It's in a great location. We loved Mahone Bay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2024
Thank you so much for your review Diane! We strive to give our guests a “home away from home” with an East Coast flair, and we hope to host you again ☺️ All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill F.

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

Great location for a home base

We loved the home. Well stocked.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Oct 2024
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Jill! We are happy you enjoyed Knotting Hill and its location, and thrilled the deer came to visit you each day! We hope to host you again. Thank you for choosing us. All the best Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was well stocked with necessities. The hostess communicated rapidly and regularly. She was thoughtful and generous
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review and your kind words Ken! I’m so glad you found the house well stocked and that my communication was helpful during your stay. It was truly a pleasure hosting you, and we’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanne W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved everything!! Jacqueline was the best host ever- quick to answer any questions, offer suggestions etc. This property was supplied with anything you might ever need! And so beautifully decorated in a tasteful coastal theme. The highlight of our Maritimes trip! We would return in a heartbeat! Thanks Jacqueline for an awesome place to relax and explore.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and 5 star review! It means the world to us to know that Knotting Hill was a highlight of your Maritimes trip. We loved having you as guests and we’re so glad you felt at home here. We hope you had a chance to enjoy the coastal walks and the charm of Mahone Bay while you were here. You’re welcome back anytime—it would be such a joy to host you again! All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue T.

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

What a wonderful place!

We spent 5 nights at this cottage and loved every second of it! It's located right outside of Mahone Bay and it is a short drive away from Lunenburg.The cottage itself was great - very roomy and extremely well appointed. My husband loves to cook and the kitchen had everything he needed (including a great selection of spices).We hope to come back to the area soon and will absolutely stay here again!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Susan! It was a pleasure hosting you for your stay. I’m so pleased your husband found our kitchen amenities aplenty. Thank you again for choosing Knotting Hill, and we look forward to welcoming you back ☺️ All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca R.

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

Lovely cottage

Easy check in, very responsive host, and let us check in early and check out late! Beautiful property, complete with a family of deer! Would love to return during a warmer month to fully enjoy cottage life!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Mar 2025
Thank you for your 5 star review Rebecca! We strive to make life easy for our guests and accommodate early check ins/late check outs whenever possible. We are thrilled you loved your time at our cottage and can’t wait to host you again. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob ☺️
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If I could rate this a 10 I would. We travel lots and for us so far this is our #1 choice. The hosts have lots of planning into this property. Easy and fast communication with host. We will be returning and will be highly recommending to our friends and family. AAA
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and your 5 star review! We’re truly honoured to hear that Knotting Hill has become your #1 choice—it means the world to us. We put a lot of care and thought into creating a relaxing, memorable stay for our guests, and it’s so rewarding to know it resonated with you. We loved hosting you and would be delighted to welcome you back anytime. Thank you as well for recommending us to your friends and family—it’s the greatest compliment we could receive! All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and so comfortable. What an attention to detail in decorating. We were fortunate on a few occasions to watch the deer eating on the property.
One of the wharfs in Lunenburg
Picton Castle tall ship. Home is Lunenburg
The three churches in Mahone Bay
Deer friend on Knotting Hill property
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie E.

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

Knotting Hill

Lovely cottage on a private lot. Lots of amenities close by.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2024
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Leslie! We are so glad you enjoyed our cottage and the amenities. I’m thrilled you were able to spend Thanksgiving weekend away with your husband. We hope to host you again. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie P.

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

Perfect!

An absolutely beautiful place that exceeded our expectations. The hosts have thought of everything. One of the best places we’ve stayed!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept 2024
Thank you for your review Bonnie! We love that you were able to come together as family from 2 different parts of Canada and are thrilled that you chose us for your stay! We look forward to hosting you again. All the best, Jacqueline & Rob :-)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

GORDON S.

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

A real Gem

Great renovated older cottage, tastefully decorated, everything you need at your fingertips, comfortable beds, great location, felt very homey, and owners were more than accommodating , 10/10.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Nov 2024
Thank you so much for your 5 stat review Gord! It was a pleasure hosting you and we are happy you chose Knotting Hill as your weekend getaway cottage. We take great pride in making sure each of our guests has everything they need along with a relaxing, comfortable stay, and we are happy we were able to provide you with that! Thank you again for choosing us and we hope to host you again. Jacqueline & Rob
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura P.

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

The best stay we had during our maritime Adventures

The property is perfect; cosy and has everything you would need. The hosts were so responsive and even thought of our downtime with games and knitting supplies. The deers visited us every day and we were in love. Perfect location between Mahone Bay and Lunenberg!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug 2024
Thank you for your rating Laura! It was a pleasure hosting you and your family. We are honoured that you chose Knotting Hill as your home away from home and that you found our amenities plentiful. We look forward to hosting you again in the future. Enjoy the rest of your holidays and safe travels 💕 Jacqueline & Rob

About the host

Hosted by Jacqueline Cairns

Host profile image
Nova Scotia has captured our hearts with its natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming communities - so much so that we decided to become full time hosts and share this special place with others.

Together, we've spent our careers in emergency services, which has taught us the importance of care, compassion, and creating safe, comforting environments. Hosting allows us to carry those values forward in a new way - welcoming guests and helping them feel truly at home.

We're passionate about the outdoors and spend our free time fishing, camping and travelling. Travel is a big part of our lives - we've explored the US, Asia, Europe, Africa and across Canada - but no matter where we go, we're always happiest returning to the peace and charm of the South Shore.

We look forward to helping you create lasting memories here.

Why they chose this property

Mahone Bay is celebrated as one of Canada's top 10 most beautiful towns - and it's easy to see why. Just a short stroll from Knotting Hill, you'll find yourself at the water's edge, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic while watching the sun set behind the town's iconic trio of churches. Wander through charming streets filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and a cozy cafe, or savour a meal at one of the many delightful restaurants. The warmth of the community combined with its coastal charm and vibrant local culture, makes Mahone Bay an unforgettable destination - and the perfect setting for your home away from home.

What makes this property unique

Knotting Hill is a beautifully restored post-and-beam home built in 1895, nestled on nearly two acres of peaceful natural surroundings in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. This serene retreat is enveloped by apple trees and wild roses, where deer roam the property daily. We offer guests a truly immersive experience in nature. Enjoy a friendly game of badminton on the lawn, or relax with a morning coffee or evening beverage of choice on the spacious deck.

As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit to share stories and roast s'mores beneath the stars. Guests are welcome to pick apples from the property's trees and bake homemade pies in our fully equipped kitchen.

Whether you're seeking quiet reflection or outdoor adventure, Knotting Hill offers a perfect blend of rustic charm, thoughtful amenities, and maritime magic - making it a one-of-a-kind getaway on Nova Scotia's South Shore.

Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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