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• Cabot Trail
• Skyline Trail
• Bras d'Or Lake
• White Point Hiking Trail
• Shared Cruise Excursion - "Mini" Cabot Trail
• Cabot Trail Discovery Tour
• Highland Village, Baddeck, Bell Museum Tour
• Best of Cape Breton Small Group Tour from Sydney
• Fortress of Louisbourg Tour

Cape Breton Travel Guide

Cape Breton Travel Offers Celtic Culture, Music and Seafood Galore.

Cape Breton is an island at the tip of Nova Scotia - one of the Maritime provinces in Eastern Canada. Although Cape Breton is part of Nova Scotia, it has a distinct identity. Today, Cape Breton is an island famous for its Celtic heritage, which visitors may enjoy through the music, food and charm of the people. Cape Breton is also home to one of the world's most beautiful drives: the Cabot Trail.

Getting to Cape Breton

Most travelers to Cape Breton arrive via Halifax, Nova Scotia's capital. If flying into Halifax International Airport, you can rent a car and drive three hours to the island of Cape Breton. Access to the island is via the Causeway, which is a short bridge from mainland Nova Scotia to the island of Cape Breton. Sydney, a city on the island's southeast side, also has a small airport.

Cape Breton Weather and Climate / When to Visit

The most popular time to visit is July, August and September; however, spring and late fall still see tourist activity - especially the week in October when the Celtic Colours Festival takes place. Weather can be unpredictable at any time and it's best to pack clothes that can be layered and suitable for different conditions. It can also change quickly; one Cape Bretoner joked to me that it's possible to experience four seasons in a day. Summers tend to be hot and humid, but fog, high winds and cold spells are also common. Fall is a gorgeous time to visit because of the fall foliage, which is vivid and expansive, especially along the Cabot Trail. Spring and winter are less popular, and thus offer travelers the potential for budget travel.

Cape Breton Highlights

Cape Breton has a lot more than just the Cabot Trail and Louisbourg to offer visitors; however, these two are probably the most famous. Nature lovers can whale watch and explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Foodies can gorge on fresh seafood like lobster and crab and other local fare. Music lovers will be surprised at the high quality of entertainment at even the smallest venue. There's also golf, shopping and more.

The Cabot Trail

Named for explorer John Cabot, the Cabot Trail winds around the northern end of Cape Breton island. Drivers or hardy cyclists begin and end at many points in the circuit, but typically tourists do so at the town of Baddeck. The 300 km (185 mi.) long Cabot Trail is famous for the vistas it offers of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Atlantic Ocean and lush landscapes, particularly spectacular in fall. The Cape Breton National Highlands Park is at the trail's most northern points and where the trail reaches its highest elevation. The trail takes a few hours to drive, but tourists generally spend a day or two, stopping in at one or two of the towns along the way.

Accommodation in Cape Breton

The only hotel chains on Cape Breton are in Sydney, which, outside of Halifax, is Nova Scotia's only other city: everyplace else is deemed a town or village. So, visitors for the most part stay at Bed and Breakfasts or local hotels, mostly small to mid-size and privately run. Some accommodation may strike you as on the rustic side and you may find clunky pipes or thin walls, but generally the charm of the proprietor will let you overlook the shortcomings. Visitors will also encounter elegant resorts, like the Keltic Lodge in Ingonish Beach just off the Cabot Trail.

Another recommendation is the Normaway Inn in the beautiful Margaree River Valley. Set on 250 acres of land, visitors may stay in the inn or one of the chalets or cottages. All are within stumbling distance from the Barn, where musicians take to the stage frequently from June through October.

Eating in Cape Breton

If you like lobster, you can eat it morning, noon and night in Cape Breton. McDonalds even serves up a McLobster sandwich, which is a cold, real-lobster sandwich. Other local favorites include crab cakes, seafood chowder (try the Glenora Distillery's), and oat cakes at breakfast or tea. Try a Nova Scotia wine, such as L'Acadie with dinner.

Cape Breton Maps, Pictures and Guidebooks

• Map locating Nova Scotia and Cape Breton
• Cape Breton and Cabot Trail Map
• The Cabot Trail Companion is a CD that gives insider information on the area and its real-life inhabitants.

Cape Breton Events and Festivals

Cape Breton's biggest festival is the Celtic Colours Festival where folks gather to play music and enjoy Celtic culture as well as the fall foliage. Lopsterpalooza is a month-long seafood and lobster extravaganza along the Cabot Trail. The Stan Rogers Festival , also known as Stanfest, celebrates the Maritime-loving musician with a lineup of folk, rock, Celtic and other musical acts.

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Cape Breton Island

Rugged, wooded and genuinely wild, the northwestern region of Nova Scotia almost feels like a province apart. Famous for its circuitous coastal road, the 297km-long Cabot Trail, which dips and dives round the edge of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, it's a dream destination for road-trippers, and figures pretty high on everyone's must-see list – so expect traffic jams aplenty in summer. The best time to visit is in fall, when the area's roads are quieter and the forests light up with color.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

The fortunes of the province that became Nova Scotia are inextricably bound up with this mighty fortress, built by the French but battled over countless…

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Telecommunications pioneer and inventor Alexander Graham Bell fell in love with Bras d'Or during a family holiday – apparently the hilly scenery reminded…

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

One of Atlantic Canada's most famous and spectacular national parks, Cape Breton Highlands occupies 20% of the Cape Breton Island landmass. It's…

Glenora Inn & Distillery

The first distillery in North America (and the only one in Canada) to make single-malt whisky, this renowned producer claims to take its secrets straight…

Cape Breton Miners' Museum

Coal mining played a central role in the development of this part of Nova Scotia, so you shouldn't pass up the chance to venture into a disused mine in…

Les Trois Pignons

This excellent museum explains how rug hooking went from home-based activity to international business. Artifacts illustrate early life and artisanship in…

Celtic Music Interpretive Centre

This well-run center is one of the region's best places to experience Celtic music. The main exhibit room explores the origins and styles of the local…

Membertou Heritage Park

This First Nations reserve has an interesting visitor center where you can learn about Mi'kmaw culture, and workshops (from $25) where you can try your…

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Cape Breton Island

• 1 Cities and towns
• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 4.3 By plane
• 5 Get around
• 12 Stay safe

Cape Breton Island is the northernmost island in Nova Scotia . It is a beautifully rugged island, populated by the descendants of Scottish immigrants, by Acadians, and by the Indigenous Mi'kmaq people. The island is known for its traditional fiddle music, and flourishing Celtic culture.

Cities and towns [ edit ]

• 46.1378 -60.1829 1 Sydney — largest city on the island
• 46.2 -59.9667 2 Glace Bay — the second largest urban area and situated on the east side of the island
• 46.2194 -60.2581 3 North Sydney — end of the Trans-Canada Highway with ferry connections to Newfoundland
• 46.8208 -60.8158 6 Pleasant Bay – the whale watching capital of Cape Breton Island
• 45.646383 -61.403776 7 Port Hastings — east end of the Canso Causeway
• 46.1 -60.7542 9 Baddeck — summer resort area and convenient starting/finishing point for the Cabot Trail
• 46.637886 -61.009139 10 Chéticamp — centre of Acadian culture on the Cabot Trail
• 45.919861 -59.972806 11 Louisbourg — one-time French colonial town best known for its reconstructed fortress
• 46.6392 -60.4081 12 Ingonish — on the Cabot Trail and adjacent to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park
• 45.664 -60.8945 15 St. Peter's — a small village and the "Gateway to the Bras d'Or"

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 46.7167 -60.6597 1 Cape Breton Highlands National Park – Atlantic Canada's first national park

Understand [ edit ]

Cape Breton Island was a separate colony until 1820 when it was merged into Nova Scotia against its will. It is the only place in North America where Gaelic is still spoken, a legacy of the large immigration (about 50,000) from the highlands of Scotland in the first half of the 19th century. There are also pockets of French, remnants of the Acadian history described in the Longfellow epic poem "Evangeline", in towns such as Margaree and Chéticamp and on Isle Madame.

With 5 Mi'kmaq communities in Cape Breton (4 are around the Bras d'Or Lake) there is a strong island identity and sense of community, which increasingly unifies the Mi'kmaq population of the island.

The island has consistently lost industrial investment and jobs in the past ten years. However, the closing of the coal and steel industry coupled with the presence of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, which buffers the pristine northern half of the island from its more commercialized southern half, have no doubt contributed to the island's very positive ratings for ecological stewardship and spectacular scenery. An excellent reference site for the incredibly beautiful northern tip of Cape Breton can be found at the "Top of the Island" site .

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

The most common way to get into Cape Breton is by car via the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 104) at the Canso Causeway from mainland Nova Scotia. Cape Breton is approximately 12½ driving hours from Boston, 14 from Hartford and 16 from New York City .

By bus [ edit ]

Maritime Bus runs between Truro and Sydney with onward connections to much of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Shuttle service is provided between Halifax and Sydney and environs by several companies who travel at various times throughout the day. Excellent value.

By plane [ edit ]

Cape Breton Island is served by Sydney Airport ( YQY  IATA ).

Get around [ edit ]

Cape Breton is most accessible by car. The main roads are the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 105) and Highways 104 and 4, which connect Sydney on the east coast with the causeway to the mainland on the west. Highway 125 forms a ring freeway around Sydney, connecting Highways 105, 4, 22 and 28. You can rent a car in Sydney if necessary. Like any place, you see more if you get off the main road, and the Nova Scotia government has been helpful in this regard by creating a number of scenic drives. These include the:

• Cabot Trail - mountainous, windy and sometimes foggy, this drive alternates between hugging the ocean and crossing the rugged Cape Breton Highlands. Considered one of the top drives in North America, it should be considered more a destination than a drive for the variety of activities available around this 400-km (190-mile) loop.
• Fleur-de-Lis Trail - covers the southern French-influenced part of the island.
• Ceilidh Trail - covers the western part the island with its strong Scottish influence.
• Bras d'Or Lake Scenic Drive - follows the shoreline of Bras d'Or Lake.

Road maps and additional information on the island is readily available at any tourism information centre (located at entry points and any major towns and cities) and a number of private operators offer trip planning services.

A more adventurous option to get around the island is to cycle. The roads tend to be narrow and windy, so prior experience is recommended. Bike rental and trip planning are available through Sea Spray Outdoor Adventures .

Hiking trails abound in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and the above-mentioned Sea Spray Outdoor Adventures offers guided hikes to little-known remote areas north of the national park.

Regardless of your mode of travel, watch out for moose on the roads.

There are many small cable ferries between the islands. They usually go every few minutes and charge $5.

Salty Bear Adventure Travel - an excellent alternative to renting a car, Salty Bear offers budget adventure tours around the Cabot Trail. Run by passionate travellers who aim to provide a true Cape Breton experience, their trips include roundtrip transportation, accommodation, guide with full commentary, guided hikes, National & Provincial Park access, ferry passes, wildlife encounters, barbecues, bonfires. Discounted optional activities of kayaking, sailing, and whale watching.

See [ edit ]

Cape Breton is noted for its unique and vibrant traditional Scottish violin music incubated by its relative isolation over the years- so much so that music lovers from Scotland come here for a taste of their own past. Typically a duo of violin and piano play hearty dance music that can be seen at community halls throughout the island. The early-evening tourist-targeted concerts are well advertised; later at night you can find ones that draw the entire local community. Some of the most important musical centres are Judique, Margaree Valley and Chéticamp.

The island ranked second in the world in a National Geographic study of ecotourism conducted in 2002 and 2003.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park . The Cabot Trail runs through the national park. There are many short hiking trails starting along the Cabot Trail.

Scenery is a major reason to visit Cape Breton. Plan to stop along the many spectacular lookoffs on the Cabot Trail - this will lengthen your travel time between destinations. Since the Cabot Trail is more a destination than a drive, visitors seeking to truly experience this environmental masterpiece should plan on staying a minimum of two days in the villages around the Trail. A number of private operators offer trip planning services to assist visitors in taking advantage of the best attractions both on and off the Trail, some offering all-inclusive multi-day packages.

The Fortress of Louisbourg is a reconstruction of the 18th-century fortified French town whose presence plagued the British colonies of New England . Its busy harbour was once one of France's most significant economic and military assets in North America. If you enjoy the colonial restoration at Williamsburg in the United States, don't miss Louisbourg. The Bras D'Or is a brackish lake with unique ecological characteristics, and some islands in that lake are sacred to the Mi'kmaq.

Bay St. Lawrence and Meat Cove are two scenic fishing villages featuring whale tours, fresh seafood and unique accommodations along the rugged cliffs north of the Cabot Trail. Turn north at Cape North.

Joe's Scarecrows at Cheticamp on the Cabot Trail. Scary gallery of scarecrows with Halloween masks. Entrance is free, but they ask for a small donation.

Les Trois Pignons in Cheticamp is a museum of Acadian culture based on collection of antiques.

The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck has exhibits, photos and videos relating to the life and work of the inventor of the telephone.

The Cape Breton Miners Museum in Glace Bay has an underground mine tour, and a mining history museum with modern exhibits. Stroll through a historic village. "Men of the Deeps" miners' choir offers performances (several times per season.

Do [ edit ]

There are eight golf courses scattered about the island that will challenge even the most discriminating among you. The views planes alone are worth the walk: coastal links, highland links, and several of the Bras d'Or Lakes.

The east side of the island have some of finest beaches in the world but without the crowds. Hiking or lounging are the favourite activities as the water is never very warm. You'll see sea birds, shore birds, seals and surf with nothing between you and Africa but water.

The Celtic Colours Festival spans hundreds of events across dozens of towns in early-to-mid-October. The music options at Celtic Colours are not solely Celtic but include folk and some Acadian Zydeco (Acadeco) and jazz, and world music.

Take a whale watching tour : there are boat tours along the coast from Cheticamp north and around to Englishtown. Sighting of whales is almost guaranteed, especially at the northern tip of the island. Tours takes two hours or more, and the scenery alone is worth the price. Oshan Whale Cruises and Captain Cox's Whale Tour operate at the northern tip of the island.

Many people think that biking the Cabot Trail is the best way to see it. Featured in an issue of Bicycling magazine, as "North America's Best Ride". Pedal and Sea Adventures can arrange a tour.

There is lots of self-guided hiking in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Eagle North and Sea Spray both offer guided kayak tours , in the large tranquil harbours at the top of the island and in the whale-rich Atlantic.

The Top of the Island , north and northeast of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, is the most spectacularly scenic region of Cape Breton. It offers a combination of historic, cultural and environmental activities, featuring whale watching, guided hiking, cycling, and paddling tours, museums, artists' studios and galleries and seven miles of the most significant beaches north of the Carolinas. The region is home to Cabot's Landing Provincial Park, the site of John Cabot's landing in 1497.

Buy [ edit ]

Many of the smaller communities have only a general store that sells a very limited selection of groceries and sundries, often also operating as a local post office. Better to stop in a bigger centre like Baddeck or Cheticamp for groceries, although the Top of the Island area has two Co-op grocery stores (somewhat smaller than the Co-ops in Baddeck and Cheticamp) and a couple of independents that, taken together, do a reasonable job.

The Wreck Cove General Store (pictured) is open year-round and sells things a traveller might need, from fuel to weather-appropriate clothing to snacks. Their "World Famous Lobster Sandwich" is highly recommended and can be bought during the summer season. Located on the Cabot Trail between Baddeck and Ingonish.

• Floras , Point Cross , ☏ +1 902 224-3139 . Handcrafts. Especially traditional Acadian rug-hooking made by locals. Demonstrations.  
• Local pottery and other juried Cape Breton Only crafts . Sold along the Cabot Trail at Arts North, outside Cape North, at the northern tip of the Trail.  
• St. Ann's Artisans St. Ann's, an area to the south of Ingonish along the Cabot Trail, has a large concentration of artisans who work and sell out of their shops.

Leather, glass, woodworking, iron art, photography, pottery, pewter and sewing are all found, made by skilled artists, within an hour's drive north of Baddeck.

Smelt Brook Pottery Studio at the Top of the Island in Smelt Brook features two production potters. The studio is open to the public and is a popular rainy-day stop for family learning experiences.

• Nest ( Patti Millet-owner ), 11352 Route 19, Mabou , ☏ +1 902 945-2414 . 10AM-6PM . Nature themed shop featuring jewellery, gifts and home décor. Emphasis on artisan crafts. Local music CDs. All price points, kids welcome, washroom always available.  
• Glenora Distillery , 13727 Route 19, Glenville , ☏ +1 902-258-2662 , toll-free: +1-800-839-0491 , fax : +1 902-258-3572 . Glen Breton Rare single malt whisky. Guided tours are run hourly every day, 9AM-5PM from May-October ($7/person). ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Arts North: , Cabot Trail at Cape North ( drive to the northern tip of the Cabot Trail, Arts North is 3 km SW of Cape North Village ), ☏ +1 902 383-2911 . 9AM-7PM . A retail gallery featuring the works of over two dozen juried Cape Breton resident artisans. Pottery, jewellery, weaving, quilts, wood, prints, basketry, canvas and other media are all displayed in an architecturally pleasing space. The gallery ships purchases worldwide for its customers.  

Eat [ edit ]

Seafood, especially lobster, is the thing to eat on Cape Breton. The Aspy Bay oysters are also good. As mentioned in the "Buy" section, if you plan to save money by getting groceries, do so at larger centres such as Chéticamp and Baddeck. Small convenience stores tend to be more sparsely stocked than convenience stores you would find in cities.

• Cedar House , TCH 105m Boulebarderie Centre, at the Seal Island bridge between Baddock and Sydney , ☏ +1 902 674-2929 . May-Oct 10AM-8PM . Bakery and restaurant. Good seafood chowder at reasonable prices.  

Try out pizza burgers. Like a regular burger with bun, but replace the meat patty with pepperoni, mozzarella cheese and tomato paste sauce. You can buy them in convenience stores and gas stations. They come refrigerated. To consume them, poke a hole in the packaging and put it in microwave for 30 seconds. Let it rest for a minute before consumption.

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

A good number of bed & breakfasts and hostels are dotted throughout the island. A few examples follow:

• Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins ☏ +1 902 929-2800 Open year round, these cosy cabins are tucked into the forests of the Cabot Trail. Only a few hundred metres from the wild Atlantic cliffs, a perfect getaway. Located between the two top golf courses "Baddeck Bay" and "Highland Links" in Ingonish.
• Two Tittle Inn B&B , White Point
• Oakwood Manor B&B , Cape North
• Seymour Harbour B&B , Neils Harbour
• Glenora Inn & Distillery , Route 19, Ceilidh Trail, Glenville , toll-free: +1-800-839-0491 , [email protected] . Sleep at North America's only single malt distillery. Has restaurant and bar. Rooms from $120 .  
• Bear on the Lake Guest House // HI Cape Breton Island , 10705 HWY 105, Aberdeen ( Between Whycocomagh and Baddeck ), ☏ +1 902 756-2750 , [email protected] . Dorm rooms $25-30. Private rooms with private lounge $65-75. Features include: 10 minutes from the start of the Cabot Trail. Overlooking the Bras D'Or Lakes, patio, BBQ, firepit, free internet/ WiFi, linens, laundry facilities, tours of the Cabot Trail can be arranged.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

In Cape Breton Highlands National Park , there are bears and coyotes that could be dangerous. Instructions are given on signs at the entrance of hiking trails, teaching how to proceed when encountering these species that may feel threatened by you. Respect those instructions for your own good.

Crime is almost non-existent and the weather can be a factor of danger especially in the winter due to its tendency of quickly changing.

Go next [ edit ]

If you want to do a bit of island-hopping Atlantic Canada-style, you can take one of two ferries from North Sydney to Newfoundland . The ferry to Port aux Basques on Newfoundland's south-west coast is the shorter of two and runs daily throughout the year. The ferry to Argentia is much longer (about 14 hours) and only runs in the summer, three times a week. Ferry services are provided by Marine Atlantic .

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Cape Breton Island Trips

Plan Your Trip to Cape Breton Island: Best of Cape Breton Island Tourism

Essential cape breton island.

Trending in the forums

Cape Breton Island Is Great For

Eat & drink

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9 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Cape Breton Island

Written by Chloë Ernst Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The highest mountains in Nova Scotia drop almost straight to the sea in places, combining to give Cape Breton Island some of Canada's most beautiful coastal scenery. Cape Breton Island forms the northeastern part of the province of Nova Scotia, linked to the mainland by a causeway across the Strait of Canso. Celtic culture blends with Acadian French to create a shared island heritage that's celebrated in festivals and community events throughout the island's towns and villages.

The Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail that circles it draw tourists to the north, while the magnificently restored French Fortress of Louisbourg draw them to the southeastern corner, but these are by no means the island's only attractions. Hiking trails crisscross the national park, where there is also camping, and the beautiful beaches at Ingonish and elsewhere are popular with families.

The annual Celtic Colors Festival in October draws Celtic artists from across the diaspora, and the island's four 18-hole golf courses rank among Canada's best. Plan your trip with our list of the top tourist attractions on Cape Breton Island.

See also: Where to Stay on Cape Breton Island

1. Cabot Trail

2. fortress of louisbourg national historic site, 3. hiking trails in cape breton highlands national park, 4. alexander graham bell national historic site, 5. cape breton miners' museum, 6. celtic music interpretive centre, 7. les trois pignons, chéticamp, 8. highland village, 9. the lighthouses of isle madame, where to stay on cape breton island for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions on cape breton island, cape breton island (sydney, ns) - climate chart, more places to see near cape breton island.

The Cabot Trail is a 300-kilometer scenic drive in the north of the island, starting from Baddeck and looping around Cape Breton Highlands National Park . It is named for Italian seafarer Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot), who sailed to North America in 1497 and claimed land in what is now Canada for England.

The combination of cliffs dropping into the ocean, rounded mountains, highland moors, glacially scarred rocks, and old-growth forests make the Cabot Trail one of the most beautiful stretches of road in North America. Viewpoints, beaches, hiking trails, small towns, and scenic attractions tempt drivers to pull over and linger along the way.

In addition to hiking and the scenery, towns along the Cabot Trail offer year-round sports, from kayaking and horseback riding to cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

Official site: http://www.cabottrail.travel/

The Fortress of Louisbourg is Canada's most famous historical reconstruction, painstakingly recreated from ruins and contemporary records into an exceptional living history museum. Here, you will be introduced to the rigors of mid-18th-century life on the inhospitable, frequently mist-shrouded east coast of Canada.

Throughout the main tourist season, appropriately costumed "townspeople" (including servants, soldiers, merchants, maids, and fishermen) re-enact the arduous daily tasks of those times. Restaurants serve specialty dishes prepared from old recipes.

The fortress is surrounded by a wall with towers and bastions and encompasses more than forty buildings. The town, of which seven blocks of houses were rebuilt, was right on the water, so that ships could moor there. The most luxurious buildings are in the Bastion du Roi, which was occupied by the French King's representative. The ordinary soldiers' barracks were simply furnished.

You can experience some of the activities here, like firing a musket or even staying overnight in a period-style house, or camping in an authentic 18th-century style tent.

Address: 259 Park Service Road, Louisbourg, Nova Scotia

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg/index.aspx

Along with touring on the Cabot Trail, one of the most popular things to do in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is hiking its scenic trails and enjoying its natural attractions up close. This mountainous national park in the north of the island extends for more than 950 square kilometers that are home to moose, beaver, deer, wild cats, duck, boreal birds, and eagles.

One of the most popular of the numerous footpaths and hiking trails, the spectacular Skyline Trail , is also one of the easiest. The trail begins at the top of French Mountain, on the Cabot trail and continues in a relatively level route to a dramatic headland where cliffs drop into the sea. It's important to stay on the boardwalk here, both for your own safety and to protect the fragile headland plant life.

Another highlight is the view down onto the Cabot Trail roadway far below. The distance out and back is 6.5 kilometers, or you can make a loop of 8.2 miles on a somewhat more rugged trail.

The park is home to two of the several waterfalls on Cape Breton Island, Beulach Ban Falls near Ingonish and the smaller Mary Ann Falls. Park visitor centers are located near Chéticamp and Igonish on the Cabot Trail.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ns/cbreton

At the summer home of inventor Alexander Graham Bell, you can enjoy a glimpse into the life and work of the man who brought us the telephone and put his genius to work in areas as diverse as flight and artificial respiration. The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site houses personal effects and documents belonging to the famous inventor, as well as parts of two hydroplanes made by Bell and powered by aircraft engines.

Special programs include a White Gloves Tour that lets visitors handle actual artifacts, and a Tetrahedral Kite Workshop, where you can build and test a kite based on his designs. The Bell home is on the shores of Bras d'Or Lake, in the beautiful town of Baddeck, a starting point for the Cabot Trail scenic drive .

Address: 559 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, Nova Scotia

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/grahambell/index.aspx

Glace Bay has long been known for its coal. The hill on which the town was built contained vast coal deposits, mined by the French since 1720. The Cape Breton Miners' Museum shows how coal originated, as well as demonstrating old and new coal mining methods. Retired miners lead fascinating tours of an actual coal mine, relating real-life stories of the miners lives and experiences working the coal seams.

Next to the museum is a reconstruction of miners' quarters from the second half of the 19th century. The Men of the Deeps, a choir made up of working and retired Cape Breton coal miners, give weekly evening concerts in the summer.

Also in Glace Bay, Marconi National Historic Site deals with the life and work of Guglielmo Marconi, the Wizard of Wireless, who proved it was possible to send messages across the Atlantic using electromagnetic waves instead of wires.

Address: 17 Museum Street, Glace Bay, Nova Scotia

Official site: www.minersmuseum.com

The Celtic Music Interpretive Center is a unique place that offers an immersive experience for visitors who want to learn about the importance of Celtic music on Cape Breton Island.

The center has a traditional exhibit room that is fully interactive, offering historical information, as well as hands-on opportunities with a variety of instruments, including the chance to try your hand at the fiddle. Visitors can also admire examples of vintage instruments, learn about what distinguishes one type of music from another, learn Gaelic, or try out traditional dances.

Beyond the exhibit hall, there are even more experiences, including the Musical Walking Tours. This 90-minute tour explores the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, featuring a knowledgeable guide who explains local history and culture while entertaining the group with their fiddle along the way. Often, a bagpiper joins the group to serenade a part of the walk, and all walks include a short rest with snacks and mini dance lessons.

One of the best parts about the center is its restaurant, with ceilidhs (Celtic social events with live music) at lunchtime. The center also hosts frequent workshops and concerts, and offers live music every day of the week.

Address: 5473 Hwy 19, Judique, Nova Scotia

Official site: www.celticmusiccentre.com

Les Trois Pignons in Chéticamp, a little Acadian fishing village on the edge of Cape Breton Highlands National Park , focuses on the art form perfected by Acadian women who settled here: rug hooking. It blends the area's history with the evolution of hooked rugs, preserving entire rooms of furniture and household items and opening a window into the lives of Acadian settlers in this part of the island.

But what you'll remember most are the examples of antique and contemporary rug hooking , shown in gallery after gallery. These range from small scatter rugs to room-sized masterpieces and wall hangings, even hooked portraits by artist Élizabeth LeFort. Her portrait of President Dwight Eisenhower, which hung in the White House, was made up of 160,000 tiny loops of wool fabric.

Address: 15584 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp, Nova Scotia

Official site: www.lestroispignons.com/en

Gaelic culture is the theme of this living history museum in the heart of the Bras d'or Lakes. Lives of the Scottish families who settled here are captured in the period homes, church, general store, and one-room schoolhouse. A blacksmith is busy at his anvil, farmers harvest crops, and women prepare meals in the kitchens, while other costumed interpreters demonstrate spinning, dyeing, and weaving. You'll hear the lilting rhythms of the Gaelic language as well as traditional music, or perhaps be able to join in a Gaelic milling frolic.

The Bras d'or Lakes and their many bays spread across more than 1,000 square kilometers of southern Cape Breton Island, with both fresh and salt waters that provide plenty of boating and sailing opportunities. The lakes have been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve .

Address: 4119 Highway 223, Iona, Nova Scotia

Official site: https://highlandvillage.novascotia.ca

Nova Scotia has the most lighthouses of any Canadian province, and some of the most photo-worthy are on Isle Madame. You can download a map to see them on your own or join a guided driving and walking tour with the Isle Madame Lighthouse Preservation Society . On these tours, you'll hear stories of the lights, their keepers, and shipwrecks, and even learn why American Revolution Commander John Paul Jones' visited the island.

Isle Madame was settled by France, and at the time of the Acadian expulsion, many took refuge on Cape Breton Island, some escaping deportation by hiding on Isle Madame. The attractive villages on the island still bear an unmistakable French flavor.

Official site: http://www.islemadamelighthouses.ca

We recommend these wonderful hotels, resorts, and cottages in Sydney and near Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail:

• Keltic Lodge Resort & Spa : This luxury resort, near the Cabot Trail, is located in a spectacular headland setting with ocean views. It features a golf course, multiple restaurants, and outdoor heated pool.
• Seascape Coastal Retreat : Located on the Cabot Trail, these mid-range beachfront cottagescome with gas fireplaces and jetted bathtubs.
• Cambridge Suites - Sydney : Enjoy this affordable waterfront hotel's modern rooms, comfortable beds, and free breakfast.
• Aberdeen Motel : This budget hotel is located near the Cabot Trail and comes with free parking and coffee makers.

As you travel through Nova Scotia on your way to Cape Breton Island, you'll want to stop and explore the province's Acadian region in the lovely Annapolis Valley , as well as the towns of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay on the southern coast and the lively capital city of Halifax . You can cross the Bay of Fundy by ferry to visit the New Brunswick cities of Saint John and Moncton , or you can take a ferry or cross the Confederation Bridge to visit Prince Edward Island and its capital of Charlottetown , where the Canadian Federation was born. Cape Breton Island's westernmost city of Sydney is the port for ferries to Canada's island province of Newfoundland .

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There isn’t much new in the northeastern corner of Nova Scotia and that’s precisely the point; Cape Breton Island's reputation rests on simple pleasures and heartfelt hospitality. Spectacular scenery doesn't hurt either, and the very best of it is found on the Cabot Trail, a scenic 298-km (185-mile) stretch of road, winding along ocean-side cliffs. This rugged terrain made the Highland Scots, who settled here in the 18th century, feel right at home and their influence remains obvious: North America’s first single-malt whiskey distillery is on Cape Breton, as is its only college devoted to Gaelic language, arts, and culture. Elsewhere on the coast you’ll find Francophone villages full of Acadian joie de vivre, plus historic attractions like the mighty Fortress at Louisbourg, which bear witness to the area’s long-standing French presence. Bras d'Or Lake—a vast, almost landlocked inlet of the sea occupying the entire center of Cape Breton—is still home to ancient Mi'Kmaq communities, yet it appeals equally to an international contingent of boaters who come to cruise the lake’s unspoiled coves and islands. And golfers are very excited about the new Cabot Cliffs course, already being hailed as one of the best in the world.

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30 Best Things to Do on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Posted on Published: November 10, 2023  - Last updated: November 14, 2023

Categories Blog , Canada , Nova Scotia , Road Trips , Small Town Guides , Transportation , Travel Guides

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia is one of the most incredible destinations in Canada that you must experience in your lifetime. There are so many amazing things to do on Cape Breton, especially if you love nature, scenic landscapes, outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. A road trip of Cape Breton Island is an iconic Canadian bucket list adventure that you’ll be raving about for years to come.

Cape Breton Island is home to the world-famous Cabot Trail and the unmissable Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are many other brilliant places that I’ll highlight in my guide that you might not have heard about before, including the Ceilidh Trail and Baddeck.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Acadian culture is alive and well on Cape Breton Island. Over 400 years ago, the first European settlers arrived to Cape Breton and the Acadian population grew in Nova Scotia. You can discover Acadian traditions during your trip to Cape Breton through festivals and events, music, museums and traditional rug-hooking.

Cape Breton also has strong ties to Scotland as many Gaelic-speaking immigrants settled in Nova Scotia. Therefore, many of those living in Cape Breton celebrate their Gaelic culture. You will see many road signs in both English and Gaelic. Attend a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee), also known as a “kitchen party”, with traditional music, singing and dancing. Cape Breton Island even has its own tartan !

Table of Contents

When to Visit Cape Breton Island

So, when is the best time to visit? Justin and I visited Cape Breton Island in August. While I am generally a fan of “shoulder season” travel, you really need to travel to Cape Breton in the summer. July and August are perfect for long summer days and warm weather with the least chance of rain. And if it does rain, there’s a saying in Cape Breton: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes”.

June could be another lovely time to visit, and you’ll be able to see the beautiful fall colours in September and October. This is a seasonal destination where many businesses and tour companies close down in the off-season. For the best weather and to ensure that your favourite attractions and activities are operational, I highly recommend choosing a summer vacation in Cape Breton.

Getting There and Getting Around

Some visitors to Cape Breton Island don’t live too far away, while others will need to fly there. Justin and I flew from Toronto to Halifax, picked up our rental car, and drove to Cape Breton. While there is an airport in Sydney, you’ll most likely find the most convenient flights and best prices flying to Halifax. Search for flights to Halifax here.

Once you arrive at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport, it takes about 2.5 hours to drive to Cape Breton Island. There’s always the possibility of spending a day or two in Halifax before your trip to Cape Breton.

The Halifax Airport is about a 30 minute drive from downtown Halifax, which is south of the airport. I also have an itinerary for a 7 day Nova Scotia itinerary that doesn’t include Cape Breton Island. You could ad on these travel plans if you decide to spend 2 weeks in Nova Scotia.

Renting a Car in Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island is a road trip destination and I highly suggest renting a car for the duration of your stay. If you live in Canada or the USA, you may decide to drive your own car to Nova Scotia. While this could be a good option, you’ll save time and the mileage on your car if you rent a car upon arrival at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport.

We recommend using Discover Cars to find your rental car. By comparing car rental rates across multiple companies, you’ll be able to find the best car at the best price. Start your search and book your rental car here .

Things to Do on Cape Breton: A Road Trip Map

Would you like to see this Cape Breton road trip itinerary displayed visually on a map? Here are all of the best things to do on Cape Breton Island, displayed on a map. Click the square icon in the top right corner to view a larger version of this map.

How to use this map: Click on each icon to learn more about each location. To reference this map at a later date, click the star next to the map’s title. It will save the map to your Google Maps account. Then, open Google Maps and go to “Your places” in the menu to see this map.

Things to Do on Cape Breton: The Ceilidh Trail

Justin and I spent our first two days exploring a driving route that isn’t the famous Cabot Trail, but it’s neighbour to the southwest, The Ceilidh Trail. Pronounced “kay-lee”, a ceilidh is a traditional Gaelic gathering with traditional singing, dancing and storytelling.

The Ceilidh Trail is also known as Route 19, a main road in Inverness County, route 19. It includes many tiny towns and settlements, including Mabou and Inverness, among others. Inverness County is also known as Canada’s Musical Coast because the communities along the western coast of Cape Breton Island are connected by musical culture and traditions.

Spend two days around The Ceilidh Trail visiting coastal paths, beaches, a distillery, a brewery, and don’t miss hearing live music along the way. We also stayed in a memorable accommodation in Mabou, a luxurious geodesic dome, where we also participated in some outdoor activities on the water.

Glenora Distillery

Glenora Distillery is home to Glen Breton Rare, Canada’s first single malt whisky. Glen Breton Rare is produced using traditional methods with only three ingredients: barley, yeast and water. The equipment, authentic copper pot stills and a mash tun, is straight out of Scotland. The present owners have Cape Breton roots and a lengthy lineage of Scottish ancestry.

Water is the most important ingredient for making a high quality whisky. The water used by Glenora Distillery comes from MacLellan’s Brook, the purest and cleanest source of water in the Mabou Highlands and Cape Breton. You can catch a glimpse of this beautiful brook as it flows through the property of Glenora Distillery.

Glen Breton Rare 8 Year Old whisky was the first single malt whisky produced in Canada. Nowadays, Glenora Distillery offers aged whisky from 10 up to 30 year old. They also make the first single malt whisky finished in ice wine barrels, the perfect blend of Scottish and Canadian culture.

Notably, their “Battle of the Glen” 15 year old Canadian single malt whisky was named after a famous lawsuit brought against them by the Scotch Whisky Association. The Scotch Whisky Association argued that the prefix “glen” would confuse consumers who may think theirs is a Scottish product. Glenora Distillery won the nine-year battle over the name, “Glen Breton”, and can continue to name their whisky as such.

Be sure to book an on-site tour of the distillery, which is open from late May until late October. Tours take place daily on the hour between 9am and 5pm. You’ll learn more about the distillery and receive a sample at the end of the tour. After the tour, we went for lunch at the Washback Pub and ordered a whisky flight. There’s also a daily ceilidh; listen to live music in the pub at 1-3pm and 8-10pm.

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail is a 92km coastal path between Port Hastings and Inverness. This trail system is ideal for bikers, hikers, cross country skiers and more. It’s a fantastic way to slowly discover Cape Breton’s beautiful scenery by bicycle or by foot.

Feel free to tackle the entire trail across a couple of days or experience a section of it. Justin and I stopped by a couple of small parks and lookout points to visit sections of the trail at Christy’s Lookout and Michael’s Landing.

Attend a Ceilidh on Canada’s Musical Coast

You can’t visit Cape Breton Island without attending a ceilidh! Pronounced “kay-lee”, it is Gaelic for “gathering” and also known as a kitchen party. This is where you can enjoy traditional Cape Breton fiddle music, singing, dancing and storytelling.

There are a few larger events celebrating music on Cape Breton Island, such as Kitchenfest , although there are other places to find daily ceilidhs. The Celtic Music Interpretive Centre has a lunchtime ceilidh every day from June to October, as well as music on select evenings.

We also stumbled upon live music at Glenora Distillery, which happens twice a day in the pub. The Red Shoe Pub in Mabou is also an excellent place for live fiddle music every day.

The Red Shoe Pub in Mabou

Owned by the famous Rankin family, The Red Shoe Pub is an awesome place to go for dinner and live music. Four sisters, Heather, Cookie and Raylene Rankin, along with eldest sister, Genevieve Fakoory, purchased the pub in 2004 and opened their doors in 2005. It’s a mainstay of the community for locals and visitors alike.

They boast traditional live music, seven days a week at the pub. This is a very busy spot in town, especially when live music is happening, so be prepared to wait for a table (it’s worth the wait!). After waiting a short while, we were invited into the pub for a beer while we waited for our table to be ready.

There are a few vegan-friendly options on the menu, including the roasted vegetable pasta puttanesca, the veggie burger, the Red Shoe vegetarian chili, the Red Shoe salad, and a vegan brownie for dessert. We also loved listening to a pianist and fiddler perform while we dined for a memorable Cape Breton experience.

For more vegan options on Cape Breton Island, please take a look at our complete vegan guide to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia .

Golf at Cabot Cape Breton

Cape Breton Island is known for its renowned golf courses, especially Cabot Cape Breton . It’s been named as a Top 100 Golf Resort in the World by Golf Magazine and offers spectacular views of Inverness Beach from the top of rugged cliffs.

Cabot Cape Breton features two sensational golf courses (Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs), a 10-hole short course (The Nest), on-site restaurants and luxurious accommodations if you’d like to take a golf holiday in Cape Breton.

Inverness Beach

Inverness Beach offers two miles of long sandy beaches with the warmest ocean waters north of the Carolinas. Its shallow waters are perfect for families with small children or travelling couples like us who love a beach day.

Take a stroll on the beach or the boardwalk above the beach. Search for sea glass in the sand or admire golfers off in the distance. It’s also possible to book a Mobi-Mat or Mobi-Chair (at the Inverness Visitor Centre) that provide beach access to those using wheelchairs, walkers or strollers.

While Justin and I didn’t opt for a beach day at Inverness Beach, we visited the beach at sunset. The sunsets at Inverness Beach are some of the best you’ll see on Cape Breton Island. Gaze off to the horizon as you watch the sun dip into the ocean and be dazzled by the shimmering waters and vibrant skies.

The Annex in Inverness

While in Inverness, The Annex is the perfect place to stop for dinner. Their patio overlooks the ocean, so it’s another place where you can enjoy the sunset. The food and drink is quite delicious, too! Make sure you make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

They serve local beer on tap, and there’s always a vegan option on the menu. I ordered a quinoa and tofu salad that was one of my favourite dishes on Cape Breton Island. You can also hear live music at The Annex on select evenings.

Route 19 Brewing

After sunset, we made our way down the road to Route 19 Brewing in Inverness. While there is a full pub menu for dinner, Justin and I only wanted to sample their beer. Unfortunately, they were out of most varieties of beer on tap, so we weren’t able to get a flight. We ordered a couple of cans of beer instead.

We’d love to return in the future so we could sample more of their craft beer. You can also stop by their retail shop to purchase some cans of beer to go (or growlers), if you’d like to bring some home with you.

Stay at Northeast Cove Geodomes

Northeast Cove Geodomes is luxury glamping at its finest. These really emphasize the “glamourous” part of glamping! You’ll be close to nature but with all the modern necessities for a comfortable and cozy stay in your very own geodesic dome.

Unwind at Northeast Cove and absorb the surroundings from your own private deck. Your dome overlooks the waterfront and the landscape of lush, rolling hills truly reminded me of Scotland. The domes face Mabou Mountain and the peaceful waters of Mabou Harbour.

There are only four domes available for an exclusive experience. Each dome is perfect for one or two guests, and it comes with a kitchenette, bathroom with shower, sitting area, air conditioning, and your own deck with outdoor seating. You can even gaze up and look at the stars through a ceiling skylight above your bed at night.

It’s easy to pop into Mabou for groceries, and we enjoyed breakfast and coffee each morning from our dome. The owners, Danny and Lorna, are super friendly and welcoming, and we touched base with them regularly throughout our stay. Please note that a two-night stay is required. In order to maintain a tranquil environment, Northeast Coves does not allow children under 10 or pets to stay here.

Go Kayaking at Northeast Cove Geodomes

Danny is also the founder of the Mabou Sailing and Boating Club, dating back to 2008. While the sailing club no longer exists, Danny continues to provide outdoor recreational experiences to the public at Northeast Cove Geodomes.

It’s possible to borrow kayaks, standup paddleboards, and bicycles at Northeast Cove Geodomes. This comes complimentary with your stay. Justin and I took two kayaks out on the water from the property and paddled around Mabou Harbour. While we didn’t stray too far from the property, it’s possible to paddle down into the village if you’d like.

Things to Do on Cape Breton: The Cabot Trail

Cape Breton is most known for The Cabot Trail, a 298km long highway that meanders around the sea and through the mountains. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the world. There are numerous scenic viewpoints along the Cabot Trail, as well as the starting points for many wondrous hikes.

Experience the beautiful landscapes of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Ride Atlantic Canada’s only gondola to the summit of Cape Smokey. Uncover shops with locally handmade wares, delectable food at local restaurants, and spot wildlife on your journey. While you could probably drive the entire Cabot Trail in a day, we suggest spending a minimum of two days to explore the Cabot Trail.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is an area of outstanding beauty in Canada. It’s 950 square kilometers of captivating wilderness where the mountains meet the sea. The Cabot Trail winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Admire rugged cliffs, forested river canyons, and so many spectacular views along the way.

This national park is home to 26 hiking trails, including the majestic Skyline Trail. There are also eight campgrounds within the park if you opt for camping over hotels, although some campsites offer the oTENTik roofed accommodations for extra comfort.

Remember to pay your entry fee when entering the Cape Breton Highlands National Park for the day. It’s easy to do so at either end of the park when driving on the Cabot Trail. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass is a fantastic investment and allows unlimited admission to over 80 Parks Canada historic sites and parks all year long. Display your Parks Canada Discovery Pass on your dashboard or rear view mirror anytime you enter the national park.

The Skyline Trail

If there’s one trail to hike when you visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park, it’s the Skyline Trail. It’s the most popular trail in the park for many good reasons. And it’s even more amazing when you hike the trail at sunset.

First, this trail is pretty accessible for most people, which is one reason why it’s such a popular hike. It’s a 6.5km return hike, meaning that it isn’t too lengthy of a jaunt. While the first portion of the hike involves walking through the forests, fields and across boardwalks, it’s the end of the hike that makes the trip worthwhile.

When you reach the end of the Skyline Trail, you’ll truly feel as though you’re at the edge of the world. Make your way down to the end of the boardwalk, stopping to admire the many scenic views on the way. You’ll have views of the mountains, the rugged coastline, the winding road of the Cabot Trail, and the Atlantic Ocean.

As this is a fragile ecosystem, please stay on the trail. Don’t venture off the boardwalks as you approach the end of the trail as there are plants we need to protect growing all around. It’s possible to view wildlife, like moose, from the Skyline Trail.

If you plan to do a sunset hike like we did, make sure that you leave the parking lot about two hours before sunset. This will give you more than enough time to make it to the lookout point before the sun goes down. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for walking back because it will get dark rather quickly.

An aside: if you were the couple who got engaged on The Skyline Trail in early August 2023, another big congratulations to you! To the future groom, I was the one who held your phone, pretending to take a photo of you both, when I was actually taking a video of your proposal (as instructed by you)! I hope that the future bride loved her marriage proposal. I thought it was so sweet!

Atlantic Gondola to Cape Smokey Mountain

One of the best things to do on Cape Breton is ride Atlantic Canada’s first gondola. The Cape Smokey Gondola offers some of the best views of Cape Breton Island’s impressive landscapes from high up above. Ride the gondola to the top and gaze out towards Cape Breton’s pristine coastlines and picturesque islands near Ingonish.

At the top, there are many opportunities for photos, including a viewpoint lined with wooden Muskoka chairs. There’s even a little hut, the Summit Shack, selling beer and other beverages to enjoy with your epic view.

From the top of Cape Smokey, you can go for a walk on the hiking trail. It takes about 45 minutes to walk on the trail to Hawley’s Lake. At Hawley’s Lake, you can rent a kayak and go for a paddle. Cape Smokey is a bit of a “choose your own adventure”. Relax at the top with a beer in your hand or go hiking and kayaking. It’s up to you!

Whale Watching with Keltic Express Zodiac Adventures

Keltic Express Zodiac Adventures offers zodiac boat tours to view the landscapes and wildlife around the coastline. Based in Ingonish, this tour company allows small groups to get up close to whales, seals, dolphins, bald eagles, and the dramatic cliffs near the Cabot Trail from the water.

While we didn’t spot any whales on our whale watching trip, we managed to see a few seals and an eagle. We also peered into viewing devices on the surface of the water to look at lobsters and fish down below. The boat ride was a blast. At times, we zipped across the sea at great speed, which was quite thrilling.

When you are fortunate enough to see whales, it’s possible to spot Fin whales, Minke whales, Humpback whales and Pilot whales. Keltic Express Zodiac Adventures boasts one of the best sighting success rates in Atlantic Canada, so I’m certain that you’ll have better luck than we did.

All in all, this is one of the best things to do on Cape Breton Island. It’s a great way to spend half a day on the Cabot Trail. I recommend getting out on the water at least once during your Cape Breton trip.

Salty Rose’s and the Periwinkle Cafe

After a morning zodiac boat tour in Ingonish, pop over to Salty Rose’s and the Periwinkle Cafe for coffee and a light lunch. This is a super cute cafe inside a decorated home by the seaside. I loved all of the lawn decor that welcomed us into the restaurant. You’ll find seating both indoors and outdoors.

The cafe is split into two: on one side, there’s a retail shop featuring local, handmade gifts. The cafe is on the other side. For lunch, there are sandwiches (including a veggie sandwich), which can be prepared on vegan or gluten-free bread.

To drink, they offer fair-trade coffee roasted on the east coast, handmade teas, specialty lemonades, locally brewed beer, local wine, kombucha, and cocktails.

Black Brook Cove Beach

Now, let’s start to drive from east to west across the Cabot Trail for the day. Our first stop is Black Brook Cove Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches at Cape Breton Highlands National Park and it’s right off the Cabot Trail. Spend a day at the beach or simply dip your toes in the water and admire the views.

On the northern edge of the beach, marvel at the beautiful Still Brook Falls, a horseshoe-shaped waterfall that empties into the ocean. You can see the waterfall from Black Brook Cove Beach or on the Jack Pile Trail, a short hike from Black Brook Cove Beach. The best view of Still Brook Falls is from below while standing on Black Brook Beach.

Neil’s Harbour Lighthouse

Neil’s Harbour Lighthouse is a heritage lighthouse that was built in 1899. Standing at 34 feet high, the lighthouse stands on Neil’s Head, guiding ships into Neil’s Harbour. The light is still operational, and you’ll find a small ice cream shop in the base of the lighthouse during the summer season.

White Point Trail

The White Point Trail is a short distance off the Cabot Trail. This coastal trail is a 2.4km out-and-back walk (a little over 1km each way). Walk along a gravel path and across the stony coastline on White Point to eventually reach Burnt Head.

Standing on the mossy ground gazing at the dramatic white cliffs in the distance, I felt like I was transported to Ireland. I love that these beautiful scenes are actually located within Canada, and we didn’t need to cross an ocean to see them.

There is a marina parking lot before the trailhead where you can park your car. We saw many people enjoying a picnic at this location as there’s a small picnic area overlooking the harbour.

Meat Cove is the farthest off the beaten path that you’ll venture from the Cabot Trail. It’s the northernmost place in Cape Breton Island with stunning views all around. You’ll need to drive down a bumpy, gravel road with twists and turns. Just take it slow, and the drive isn’t too bad.

Once you reach Meat Cove, there is a parking lot near the beach or you can park at the side of the road up near the campground. Please note that the campground owns the property with the best view of Meat Cove that you can only access if you’re staying there.

You can spend a day at the beach – it’s a rocky beach for the most part with sand once you get closer to the water. If you find yourself with some extra time at Meat Cove, there is a hiking trail with arguably the best views of the area. It’s a 3.7km out-and-back trail that’s steep and can be a bit muddy, but the scenery at the top is astoundingly gorgeous.

If you have only a limited amount of time to experience the Cabot Trail, I might go against the popular opinion and say that it’s okay to skip Meat Cove. The scenery is a bit obstructed by the campground if you aren’t able to embark on the hiking trip, and I’d argue that Black Brook Cove has the nicer beach of the two.

Stop at All the Lookouts

One of the best things to do on Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail is stop at all the lookout spots. When you’re driving on the Cabot Trail, there will be many parking lots at the side of the road where you can safely stop to see the beautiful scenery.

Some of the best viewpoints on the Cabot Trail include the two lookouts at MacKenzie Mountain, Pathend Brook Lookout, Lakies Head Lookout, and Pleasant Bay. I’ve marked these on the map in this blog post so you can easily find them on your journey.

L’abri Cafe in Cheticamp

Slightly beyond the Cabot Trail, stop at L’abri Cafe for dinner. It is an Acadian-owned restaurant. The word “l’abri” means “shelter”, tributed to the fierce southeast winds in Cheticamp and the Cape Breton Highlands.

We dined on the patio by the edge of the cliffs, savouring the stunning scenery all around. They have an extensive wine, beer and cocktail menu. The vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free items are clearly marked as such on the menu, so it was easy for me to order a vegan dish. I ordered the L’abri burger prepared with a Beyond patty and vegan toppings.

Stay at Knotty Pine Cottages in Ingonish

Knotty Pines is a collection of waterfront cottages, cabins and motel rooms in Ingonish. We stayed in one of the Sunset Cabins which felt like a home away from home. Our private cabin included a queen-sized bed, loveseat, dining table for two, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, microwave, coffee maker and kettle.

We also had a private balcony with a barbecue, as well as patio chairs and a table. The balcony overlooks Ingonish Harbour. While it’s a north-facing balcony, it’s still a lovely place to watch the sunset as the sky turns brilliant shades of orange, red and pink over the water.

The staff here is super friendly and nice, and the sunset cottages offer such a pretty view of the harbour. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Knotty Pine Cottages and highly recommend that you call it home for at least a couple of nights, too.

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Things to Do on Cape Breton: Baddeck

From Ingonish, continue driving south down the Cabot Trail. Stop for an afternoon kayaking trip on the North River and St. Ann’s Bay. Then, continue on to the town of Baddeck, home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and other nearby attractions.

Kayaking with North River Kayak Tours

One of the my favourite things to do on Cape Breton was our kayaking tour. Justin and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip down the river with North River Kayak Tours . Whether you’ve gone sea kayaking before or you’re brand new to the activity, the staff at North River Kayak Tours will have you feeling confident as you paddle down the river, soaking up the sensational scenery.

On our half day trip, our knowledgeable tour guide led us down the North River towards St. Ann’s Bay, pointing out some intriguing landmarks on the way. At about the halfway point, we stopped at a small rocky beach for some tea and a snack. The beach is home to a hidden waterfall just off the coast, which was such a lovely surprise.

Although we didn’t stay on the property, the River Nest Wilderness Cabins are the perfect retreat after a day of paddling. These one to four person wilderness glamping cabins are just a 30 second walk from North River Kayak Tours and are owned by the same company. Next time we visit Cape Breton, we’d love to stay here.

Big Spruce Brewing

Big Spruce Brewing is a local organic craft brewery on the outskirts of Baddeck. The owners, Melanie and Jeremy White, opened the brewery in an old farmhouse with over 100 acres of farmland. They planted their hops on their certified organic field. Nowadays, it’s a favourite place to go for a pint on Cape Breton.

The brewery has an amazing beer garden with ample indoor and outdoor seating. While they always serve pints and flights of beer, sometimes there are food trucks with pub fare and pizza. You’re also welcome to bring your own picnic anytime.

On select days, you might hear live music happening at the brewery. I recommend checking out their Facebook page before you visit because it lists all of their events and daily food offerings. If I had to choose, Big Spruce Brewing was my favourite brewery in Cape Breton for its tasty beer and overall excellent vibes.

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is located in the middle of the village of Baddeck. Of course, Bell famously invented the telephone and was also a leading supporter for deaf education. His family had a summer vacation home in Baddeck. Both Bell and his wife, Mabel Hubbard Bell, played active roles in the community of Baddeck.

At the historic site, you can tour the museum and the property itself overlooking the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bras d’Or Lake. The museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Bell’s models and mementos. There’s a recreation of Mabel’s gardens at the home as the ground’s gardens were once carefully tended to by Mabel.

Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park

Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park features a 15 metre tall waterfall in a granite gorge. It’s a 2.6km roundtrip hike from the parking lot to the falls and back. The waterfall and park are a short drive from Baddeck, and it’s worth adding to your Cape Breton itinerary if you have the time.

Stay at Inverary Resort

Inverary Resort , situated on the shores of the Bras d’Or Lake, welcomes you for a wonderful stay in Baddeck. This hotel resort is the perfect place to stay before embarking on the Cabot Trail or after you’ve completed your Cabot Trail adventures.

This resort is a destination in itself. You could really have a fabulous time spending all day here. It’s a year-round destination where you can go kayaking, standup paddleboarding, cruising on the pontoon boat, snowshoeing or snowmobiling.

Go cycling in the summer or ice skating in the winter. In the summer months, there’s also a nearby golf course, Bell Bay Golf Club. I simply loved going for a morning stroll around the property to witness the pretty lakefront views.

Our room was spacious, comfortable, and had all the amenities we needed for a restful night’s sleep. Justin and I dined at the on-site restaurant for dinner, The Narrows Cafe and Bar. Enjoy yummy pub fare, refreshing craft beer, and live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

More Things to Do on Cape Breton Island

If you find yourself with a few more days, there are even more things to do on Cape Breton Island. This destination quickly became one of my favourite places in North America, so I suggest spending as much time there as you can.

We didn’t have the time to venture over towards Sydney or the eastern or far southern sides of the island. Here are even more things to do in Cape Breton to add to your list, especially if you’re spending 7 days in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

• Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
• Cape Breton Miners Museum in Glace Bay
• Gaelic College of Arts & Crafts
• Middle Head Trail
• Franey Trail
• Les Trois Pignons (Acadian history through world-famous hooked rugs and antiquities)
• Celtic Music Interpretive Centre
• Golf at Cape Breton Highlands Links
• The Big Fiddle in Sydney (Roadside attraction)

Want to see more photos of Nova Scotia?

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More Things to Do in Nova Scotia

Planning a trip to Nova Scotia? This beautiful Canadian province belongs on every bucket list as it’s one of the best places to visit. Here are some travel guides and itineraries for your Nova Scotia travels.

• Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week)
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This blog post was written in partnership with Nova Scotia Tourism.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

A Travel Guide to Southern Cape Breton, Nova Scotia For Visitors

We recently spent a week road-tripping across Southern Cape Breton and what a trip that was!

This was our fourth summer exploring Nova Scotia, and this time around we focused on the southern part of Cape Breton Island, specifically the area between St. Peter’s and Port Hastings. 

I think this is a really interesting area because of its accessibility. Port Hastings is the first town you hit if you’re crossing to the island via the Canso Causeway (the only land access point), so it’s a logical starting point, especially for travellers who want a taste of Cape Breton beyond driving the Cabot Trail . 

We spent our week in Southern Cape Breton doing an iconic sail from lake to sea, feasting on seafood at every meal, tackling different hiking trails, and enjoying the warm hospitality that Cape Breton is known for. This is our travel guide to the southern part of the island.

Southern Cape Breton Travel Guide

Isle madame.

The Groundswell

If you’re going to be travelling around Isle Madame, you need to make time to eat a meal at The Groundswell Pub & Inn ! This place had some of the best food of the whole trip , plus, it’s just a really cozy seaside pub that makes you want to linger.

We went for dinner and got their bourbon maple bacon-wrapped scallops as an appetizer – they were divine! Then for our mains, Sam got the Cajun linguine with shrimp (the sauce was so creamy and I kept stealing bites!), and I went for the Thai green curry with haddock and rice (I loved this Asian dish done with a Cape Breton twist).

We also enjoyed some local craft beers and ciders with our meal, and it was fun listening to some 90s tunes. If you can be there on a night when there’s live music even better!

Aside from being a pub, The Groundswell also offers accommodations. You can choose between rooms at the inn (all named after different songs by The Beatles), or their 2-bedroom cottage by the sea  (which is where we stayed).

LeNoir Forge

During our visit to Isle Madame, we visited the LeNoir Forge Museum . This heritage building is associated with the LeNoir family and it dates back to sometime before 1826. Over the years it has been a ship’s chandlery, an ice house, a tavern, and now a museum .

Twice a week during the summer months , they have blacksmithing demonstrations. The schedule is Tuesday and Thursday from 2:00 – 4:00 during July and August, but be sure to check for updated information before you visit. 

They also offer a 30-minute walk-in blacksmithing experience, where participants get to make a small souvenir under the guidance of the blacksmith. You can learn more about the blacksmithing experience here . 

Aside from the forge, they have additional buildings like a one-room schoolhouse and a kitchen, where visitors can see what life would have been like in this part of Cape Breton Island in the 1800s. 

Lennox Passage Provincial Park

Another place to visit on Isle Madame is Lennox Passage Provincial Park. This park is located on the north part of Isle Madame, so it’s one of the first places you come across when you drive onto the island.

The park is home to Grandique Point Lighthouse where visitors can enjoy 2 kilometres of shoreline as well as hiking trails through the forest . 

Drive the Fleur-de-Lis Trail

The Fleur-de-Lis Trail is a scenic drive on Cape Breton through the Acadian region in the southeastern part of the island.

The trail runs 182 kilometres if you drive it straight from the Canso Causeway to Louisbourg, however, it’s 263 kilometres if you take some of the detours along the way, including part of which does a full loop around Isle Madame. 

We did the whole drive around Isle Madame and it was a beautiful journey following the coast and going past islands and coves. 

The Island Nest

While driving the Fleur-de-Lis Trail on Isle Madame, we stopped to eat at The Island Nest.

We got their Fisherman Platter with haddock, scallops, shrimp and clam strips, with a side of French fries and coleslaw. Their portions are pretty big, so you can probably share! Their menu also features fish and chips, fish burgers, breaded shrimp. You basically come here for the seafood.

St. Peter’s

Sailing tour of st. peter’s canal.

One of the highlights of our visit to St. Peter’s was going on a sailboat tour of the St. Peter’s Canal National Historic Site, which is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the waters of the Bras d’Or Lake. 

The St. Peter’s Canal traces its history back to a traditional Mi’kmaq portage route, and later a fortified 17th-century French trading post.

This 800-metre tidal lock canal is one of the oldest in North America and it’s designed to compensate for the tidal differences between the ocean and the lake.

We did our tour through Richmond Adventure Planning – Sailboat Tours . We met Gordon at his home – you park in his driveway and then walk around the back to his boat Cu Na Mara, which is a Celtic word meaning “Hound of the Sea.”

The St Peter’s Canal sailing tour runs 1.5 hours in length. Over the course of the tour you get to learn about the history of the canal, some of the fun events that take place during the year like Swim the Canal , and you also get to experience the lock system in action as you go from lake to ocean and wait for the water levels to be adjusted in the canal lock.

Battery Provincial Park

Another place not to be missed in St. Peter’s is Battery Provincial Park, which can be accessed from the St. Peter’s Canal. You just have to walk across the lock bridge to the east side and you’re there.

This provincial park sits on a hill overlooking St. Peter’s Bay and it is home to Jerome Point Lighthouse. You can enjoy some really nice panoramic views of the town of St. Peter’s from this point, plus you can watch the sailboats and fishing boats make their way through the canal and out to sea. 

The park also offers plenty of hiking trails to enjoy, plus lots of epic camp sites with spectacular sea views. 

St. Peter’s Coastal Trail

Another nice activity to enjoy in St. Peter’s is a walk along the St. Peter’s Coastal Trail. This is a 3.5-kilometre trail (one-way) that stretches from St. Peter’s Canal to River Tillard along the St. Peter’s Bay.

The trail is on a converted railway bed and it’s a grassy trail with several access points to the beach. You also get some really nice views of Battery Provincial Park and the Jerome Point Lighthouse, plus it’s just so nice to listen to those rolling waves and enjoy the sea breeze. 

Lockmaster’s Pub at Bras d’Or Lakes Inn

During our visit to St. Peter’s, we ate at the Lockmaster’s Pub which is located at the Bras d’Or Lakes Inn. Sam got the Surf ‘N Turf which came with steak and a lobster claw, and a side of mashed potato swirls. Meanwhile, I got their pan-seared scallops served with a pea and lobster risotto.

Their menu also features all the pub food classics, plus lots of seafood pasta. The pub has a very cozy feel with lots of wood, and the best part was that they had live music at dinnertime!

Pepperell Place Inn

We stayed at the Pepperell Place Inn , which is centrally-located in St. Peter’s. We got the Bald Eagle room (their rooms are named after birds!) and it was bright, cozy, and relaxing. We also really enjoyed their home-cooked breakfast and warm hospitality. 

Aside from accommodations, they also have a tea and chocolate shop on site called Chocolatea. You can taste a variety of specialty teas curated by their tea sommelier, plus you can stock up on their hand-crafted chocolates! 

Port Hawkesbury

Port hawkesbury community hiking trails.

One of the highlights of our visit to Port Hawkesbury was enjoying the network of hiking trails. We’re avid hikers and love spending time in nature any chance we get, so this was a real treat.

The Port Hawkesbury Community Trails are made up of a 10-kilometre trail system that goes through both hardwood and softwood forests, and each trail is named after the different species of trees hikers can spot along the trails. We walked part of the Hemlock Trail, Maple Trail and Tamarac Trail, plus you also have Spruce Trail and the Centennial Woodland Trail.

Along the way you get to see rivers, lakes, waterfalls and some old growth forest, so plenty to see and enjoy!

And the best part is that these community trails are all-seasons, meaning you can hike in the summertime and go cross-country skiing in the wintertime. 

Miller’s

One restaurant we really enjoyed in Port Hawkesbury was Miller’s Seafood & Chophouse .

This is actually a stop on Nova Scotia’s Chowder Trail . The idea? You road trip across Nova Scotia sampling some of the best chowder the province has to offer!

We ate quite a bit of chowder during our road trip across Southern Cape Breton, and we can confirm that this was some of the best we had. The chowder was creamy and loaded with seafood! It had haddock, scallops, shrimp, salmon, savoury cream, and roasted red pepper.

We also got two mains there. Sam opted for the Lobster Mac and Cheese featuring Atlantic lobster in a rich cream sauce, topped with cheese and baked. Meanwhile, I got the Seafood Carbonara with Digby scallops, black tiger shrimp, Atlantic mussels, bacon, green onion, and Parmesan cheese, in a white wine and garlic cream sauce, served with garlic toast.

It was as decadent as it sounds and we ate every last bite!

Country Kitchen Restaurant

Another restaurant we ate at was Country Kitchen in Port Hastings. If you’re driving into Cape Breton, this will be one of the first places you come across once you’ve gone over the Canso Causeway. 

Country Kitchen opened back in 1955 and it’s a diner-style restaurant specializing in classic comfort foods in a casual setting.

We ate here twice. For breakfast they have your classic eggs with bacon and home fries, or pancakes if you’re craving something sweet. Plus the coffee refills keep flowing all breakfast long.

Then, we went back for lunch where I ordered their hot turkey sandwich covered in gravy and served with a side of corn and fries. Sam got the same hot gravy sandwich but with a hamburger instead. Simple, filling, and tasty!

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

You’re probably sensing a theme here with all the hiking, but we really did seek out as many trails as we could during our visit to Southern Cape Breton. 

Another place we enjoyed was the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, which stretches 92-kilometres from Port Hastings to Inverness along the west coast of Cape Breton Island. It mainly follows the coast going past scenic harbours and fishing communities .

This trail also forms part of the Trans Canada Trail (also known as The Great Trail) and the International Appalachian Trail, so you can say you’ve hiked part of 3 pretty epic trails!

We only hiked a small portion of the trail, joining the trailhead in the town of Troy. This is a very easy spot to access for those traveling around the southern part of Cape Breton, plus there’s a big parking lot and even picnic tables for a seaside lunch.

Canso Causeway

One place you can’t miss if you’re driving to Cape Breton is the Canso Causeway, since this is the only land access point to the island!

The Canso Causeway may look like a random bridge onto the island, but let me tell you, it’s actually a feat of engineering.

By definition, a causeway is a ‘raised road or track across low or wet ground’, and the Canso Causeway is a road across the Strait of Canso, which connects Cape Breton Island to the Nova Scotia peninsula.

Prior to construction of the causeway, crossing to Cape Breton involved taking a ferry. Even train carriages were loaded on the train ferry to complete their journey!

Ten million tonnes of rock were quarried to fill in the Strait of Canso which has a depth of 66 meters. It took 27 months of continuous work to create the world’s deepest causeway, and it opened to rail and road traffic in May 1955.

The Cove Restaurant

Since we wanted to drive across the Canso Causeway, we decided to have dinner on the other side. We went to The Cove Restaurant in Aulds Cove, a nice seaside restaurant with a strong nautical theme.

I got their Atlantic cod fish cakes with a side of sweet beans, and Sam opted for the Atlantic smoked salmon on rye. We were craving a lighter dinner and this did the trick. Good food and great views!

Dundee Resort & Golf Club

During our visit to Dundee, we stayed at the Dundee Resort & Golf Club . They offer rooms at the main lodge as well as private cottages up on the hill.

Our stay was kind of unusual because we weathered a pretty big storm here, so very minimal sightseeing was done. But that means we got to chat to a lot of the staff who showed us wonderful hospitality . That’s the core memory of our stay here: drinking coffee and chatting with staff while the rain and wind blew outside.

But for those who are fortunate to have better weather, it’s worth mentioning that this resort is known for their 18 hole golf course which offers amazing views of Bras d’Or Lake and the surrounding area. Plus they have a swimming pool, access to kayaks and canoes, and they put on cool events like Movies Under the Stars. 

Mac Rae’s Dining Room

MacRae’s Dining Room is located in the Dundee Resort and they serve up some delicious meals! Sam got their beer-battered hand-cut haddock, served with fries and tartar sauce. It was the best fish and chips we had on the whole trip – crispy batter but soft and juicy fish.

Since I was on a roll sampling chowder across the island, I ordered their seafood chowder with haddock, shrimp, scallops, salmon, potatoes, onions, and celery. This one also made it to the top of the list for best chowders. It was rich, creamy and flavourful!

It’s worth eating here even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

West Bay to Roberta Coastal Drive

Another thing to do in Dundee is to enjoy the drive between the towns of West Bay and Roberta. This is a beautiful coastal drive that follows the shores of Bras d’Or Lake. Plus if you’re up for a little adventure , there are spots like Kayak Cape Breton where you can rent kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards.

Eileanan Brèagha Vineyards

Lastly, one place that we were hoping to visit in Dundee that we couldn’t make it to due to weather was Eileanan Brèagha Vineyards . The names translates to “beautiful islands” in Scottish Gaelic and refers to the islands on Bras d’Or Lake, which can be seen from the property. 

Eileanan Brèagha Vineyards is Nova Scotia’s northernmost estate winery and Cape Breton’s first and only estate winery. Their tasting room is open daily during peak season or by appointment, and you can drop in to sample and purchase wine.

And that’s a wrap for our travel guide to Southern Cape Breton. Hopefully, this blog post has gave you some ideas of things to do , places to visit , and foods to eat during your trip to the island.

Wishing you happy travels as you explore this slice of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia!

This trip was made possible in partnership with Visit Nova Scotia.

If you’re travelling across Nova Scotia, you may also enjoy:

• Best things to do in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
• Things to do in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia
• Where to Eat in Halifax

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Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada announces a judicial appointment in the province of Nova Scotia

From: Department of Justice Canada

News release

The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the following appointment under the judicial application process established in 2016.

April 22, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Justice Canada  

The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the following appointment under the judicial application process established in 2016. This process emphasizes transparency, merit, and the diversity of the Canadian population, and will continue to ensure the appointment of jurists who meet the highest standards of excellence and integrity.

Shannon B. Mason , Managing Lawyer of the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Conflict Office in Sydney, is appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia in Sydney. Justice Mason replaces Justice K.C. Haley (Sydney), who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective February 12, 2023.

“I wish Justice Mason every success as she takes on her new role. I am confident she will serve the people of Nova Scotia well as a member of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.”

— The Hon. Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

Justice Shannon B. Mason obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree, double major in Political Science and English, from Cape Breton University in 2000. She obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree in 2003 from the University of New Brunswick. She was called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 2004.

Justice Mason started her legal career in private practice with H.F. MacIntyre & Associates. In 2005, she accepted a position with Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA), practicing family law and criminal law. She became the Managing Lawyer of the NSLA Conflict Office in 2014 and was awarded the designation of senior staff counsel in 2022. She has practiced child protection law almost exclusively since 2014. She has served as Chair of NSLA’s Children and Family Services Act Best Practices Committee. She has appeared in all levels of court in Nova Scotia.

Justice Mason has been an active member of the legal community. At the time of her appointment, she was serving her second term on the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society (NSBS) Council. She also sat on the NSBS Complaints Investigation Committee, the Professional Standards (Family Law) Committee, and the Distinguished Service Award Committee. She was also an active member of the Cape Breton Barristers’ Society, having served as a past President. She also sat on the Supreme Court Family Division Liaison Committee, the Court Administration Collaboration Committee, and the Library Committee.

Justice Mason has been a long-standing board member of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton.

Quick facts

The Government of Canada has appointed more than 715 judges since November 2015. This includes 92 appointments since the Honourable Arif Virani became Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada on July 26, 2023. These exceptional jurists represent the diversity that strengthens Canada. Of these judges, more than half are women, and appointments reflect an increased representation of racialized persons, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQI+, and those who self-identify as having a disability.

To support the needs of the courts and improve access to justice for all Canadians, the Government of Canada is committed to increasing the capacity of superior courts. Budget 2022 provides for 22 new judicial positions, along with two associate judges at the Tax Court of Canada. Along with the 13 positions created under Budget 2021, this makes a total of 37 newly created superior court positions. Since Budget 2017, the government has funded 116 new judicial positions.

Changes to the Questionnaire for Federal Judicial Appointments were announced in September 2022. The questionnaire continues to provide for a robust and thorough assessment of candidates but has been streamlined and updated to incorporate, among other things, more respectful and inclusive language for individuals to self-identify diversity characteristics. 

Federal judicial appointments are made by the Governor General, acting on the advice of the federal Cabinet and recommendations from the Minister of Justice.

The Judicial Advisory Committees across Canada play a key role in evaluating judicial applications. There are 17 Judicial Advisory Committees, with each province and territory represented.

Significant reforms to the role and structure of the Judicial Advisory Committees, aimed at enhancing the independence and transparency of the process, were announced on October 20, 2016 . 

The Government of Canada is committed to promoting a justice system in which sexual assault matters are decided fairly, without the influence of myths and stereotypes, and in which survivors are treated with dignity and compassion. Changes to the Judges Act and Criminal Code that came into force on May 6, 2021, mean that in order to be eligible for appointment to a provincial superior court, candidates must agree to participate in continuing education on matters related to sexual assault law and social context, which includes systemic racism and systemic discrimination. The new legislation enhances the transparency of decisions by amending the Criminal Code to require that judges provide written reasons, or enter them into the record, when deciding sexual assault matters.

For more information, media may contact:

Chantalle Aubertin Deputy Director, Communications Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General 613-992-6568 [email protected]

Media Relations Department of Justice Canada 613-957-4207 [email protected]

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Visitor Centres

Want to find the closest kitchen party or need directions to a waterfall? No problem. A map of locations for the KitchenFest or directions to the Savoy Theatre? Check and check. Then again, you may just be looking for the Island’s best lobster dinner and nearest craft brewery. Whatever you need, we have the answers. And, with such friendly and welcoming locals at every turn, you might end up getting a personal invitation to supper.

With nine Visitor Information Centres located throughout the Island, you’re never far from a local in-the-know. Whether you need information about where to go, what to do, where to stay or who to see—our trained staff are keen to be of service.

Looking to learn more about our Island? Parks Canada offers information/interpretive services at the entrances to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park site in both Ingonish and Chéticamp. From port to park, island to inlet, we’re here to help you discover Cape Breton Island.

Port Hastings Provincial Visitor Information Centre

Address 96 Highway 4, Port Hastings, Nova Scotia, B94 1M4 (Ceilidh Trail)

Contact Information T: 1-902-625-4201 F: 1-902-625-4085 E: [email protected]

Hours of Operation April – December Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wireless/public computer access, washrooms, picnic tables, viewscape, gift shop, bike rack, payphones and display case from Cape Breton Crafts & Design displaying local crafts of Cape Breton.

St. Peter’s Visitor Information Centre

Address 10259 Granville Street, St. Peter’s, Nova Scotia, B0E 3B0

Contact Information T: 1-902-535-2185 E: [email protected]

Hours of Operation Daily June to October 15 — 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sydney Port Visitor Information Centre

Address 74 Esplanade, Sydney, Nova Scotia, B1P 1A1

Contact Information T: 1-902-304-1392 E: [email protected]

Hours of Operation June – Mid-October Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Inverness Visitor Information Centre

Address 15756 Central Ave, Inverness, Nova Scotia, B0E 1N0 (Route 19, Ceilidh Trail)

Contact Information T: 1-902-258-3740

Hours of Operation Daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., May to October

Baddeck Welcome Centre

Address 454 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, Nova Scotia, B0E 1B0

Contact Information T: 1-902-295-1911

Hours of Operation June – Mid-October 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Wednesday – Sunday

Chéticamp Information Centre

Address 15584 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp, Nova Scotia B0E 1H0

Contact Information T: 1-902-224-2642

Hours of Operation Year-round 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday

Louisbourg Visitor Information Centre

Address 7336 Main Street, Louisbourg, NS, Canada B1C 1P5

Contact Information T: 1-902-733-2720

Hours of Operation Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., June – October

Margaree Visitor Information Centre

Address 7972 Cabot Trail, Margaree Forks, Nova Scotia, B0E 2A0

Contact Information T: 1-902-248-2356

Hours of Operation Mid-June – Mid-October Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

North Sydney Visitor Information Centre

Address 309 Commercial Street, North Sydney B2A 1B9

Contact Information T: 1-902-794-2524

Hours of Operation Mid-June – Mid-October Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Get ready, curling enthusiasts and sports fans alike! This month, the World Women's Curling Championships are hitting the ice in Sydney, Cape Breton Island.

Easy to Find. Hard to Leave.

There are direct flights to Sydney from Toronto and Montreal and from other North American and European cities via those cities. If traveling by ground, the Trans-Canada Highway 104 leads to Cape Breton Island.

Take a picture. Leave your heart. #VisitCapeBreton