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Pjila’si | Welcome

Membertou is a thriving community located on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. The Mi’kmaq people of Membertou and their ancestors have lived in this area since time immemorial, long before the arrival of the Europeans to these lands.

The culture and history that the Mi’kmaq of Membertou maintain are gifts that have been passed on to them from their ancestors. Their oral history and traditions are significant and unique when considering Indigenous experiences. More...

#1 Island in North America

Cape Breton Island has been ranked the #1 Island in North America by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Cape Breton Island has also been ranked the #1 Island in Canada for five years by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.

Official Industry Site

Welcome to the official website for the Cape Breton Island Tourism Industry. Tourism operators will find valuable information on promotional opportunities, industry news, strategic plans and other relevant resources.

Destination Cape Breton is the official Destination Marketing and Management Organization for Cape Breton Island–Unama'ki. Our mandate is to grow the Island's tourism industry through destination marketing and tourism product innovation.

#RiseAgain2030

Cape breton island destination development strategy.

Cape Breton Island has the potential to reach a new level in its development as a destination over the next ten years. With a bold vision and strategic direction, it can become one of the most dynamic and innovative tourism economies in the country. This ten year strategy supports and guides the long-term growth of tourism for Cape Breton Island and the initiatives, opportunities and strategies that we will all need to take part in, to achieve these goals.

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Visitor Site

The official visitor website for Cape Breton Island–Unama’ki is visitcapebreton.com . It features relevant information for travelers who are considering or actively planning a trip to the Island.

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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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Cabot Trail

Cape Breton University (CBU) launched the World Tourism Institute (WTI) in Baddeck in the summer of 2019, inspired by President Dingwall’s goal to connect to, and support, the tourism industry across Cape Breton Island. Cape Breton Island has long been lauded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, attracting visitors interested in outdoor adventure, recreation, touring, fresh seafood, heritage, music, culture and most recently, some of the highest quality golf in the world.

One of Canada's youngest and most ambitious universities, Cape Breton University recognizes its location on Cape Breton Island as part of Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaq. As home to five First Nation Communities, Cape Breton Island has been longer known as Unama’ki. These Mi’kmaq communities are also important aspects of the Island’s tourism and cultural experience offerings, with global appeal to one of the world’s fastest growing market segments in Indigenous Tourism. Cape Breton University’s Strategic Plan (2019-2024) identified five calculated directions with the Vision: Rooted in Cape Breton, Connected to the World.

With hospitality and tourism studies offered by CBU for decades, the university is well positioned to lead the research, training, and industry engagement on Cape Breton Island and beyond. Since the WTI launch, the world has been rocked by the Covid-19 global pandemic with impacts affecting each of us in many ways. The tourism industry will be transformed by this challenge; however, it will rebound under a new operating context, adapting to visitor demands and expectations. Being prepared to respond to the needs of the sector has never been more important.

The World Tourism Institute is involved in numerous projects and activities in support of the tourism sector on Cape Breton Island. More information can be found at www.CBU.ca/wti

CONNECT WITH US

243 Charlotte St.

Sydney, NS B1P 1C4​​

Tel: 902-371-0255

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This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada's Sectoral Initiatives Program.

Indigenous-owned Cape Breton campground to have teepees, tents and trailers

Friends grew frustrated at not finding campsites next to each other, so they bought the whole campground.

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Friends from Membertou and Eskasoni First Nations are turning a Cape Breton, N.S., campsite into an Indigenous-owned camping and RV park.

The former Englishtown Ridge Campground, which sits near the entrance to the Cabot Trail, is now known as the Kluskap Ridge RV and Campground .

Six friends are behind the move: Rosemarie and Austin Christmas, Darrell and Sharon Bernard, and Tim and Amanda Jesty. They bought the campground with a personal investment and funding from Ulnooweg Development Group, which provides loans to Indigenous entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada.

The group says it started with a picnic-table conversation about how hard it was to find campsites where they could all park their trailers beside each other. Amanda Jesty jokingly suggested their build their own campground and the idea took off. 

"The house we purchased for $250,000 and the campground we purchased for $280,000," said Rosemarie Christmas. "This year, we plan to have 49 hook-up sites, 30 tent sites, two teepees, a cabin and two vacation rentals."

The park will add RVs next year. 

'Realistic, natural habitat'

Christmas said the teepees will fit up to six people and are designed to create a "realistic, natural habitat."

"The experience is whatever they want to make it. We're going to have the fire set up inside, they're going to be very traditional. We're going to have them up on a platform so you're really not going to be sleeping on the ground."

Darrell Bernard, who's also a member of the singing drum group Sons of Membertou, said it's another way to explore Mi'kmaq culture.

"We're able to reach the Mi'kmaq communities and bring them to the front door of the Cabot Trail, where tourism is the greatest in Cape Breton," he said.

"We can showcase things from the Membertou Heritage Park, Eskasoni Goat Island, Wagmatcook Cultural Centre, or Potlotek. We can feature [them] in our shop and we can bring the traditional music to more people that are coming through." 

Gateway to the Cabot Trail

Austin Christmas said it's an opportunity to take part in the growing tourism industry on Cape Breton.

"We like to think of it as the doorway to the Cabot Trail. A lot of trailers these days are pretty big rigs and a lot of people don't feel safe hauling them up to Cape Smokey. Our idea is camp with us, leave your trailer with us, and then you can safely travel around the Cabot Trail, come back in the evening [and] enjoy your campsite," he said.

The campground will open May 6 and close Nov. 13.

Related Stories

• Eskasoni receives nearly $100K as First Nation hopes to grow tourism
• Membertou bringing bowling back to Sydney with $4M entertainment centre
• New YMCA on Membertou First Nation sign of Indigenous people's healing

Is Cape Breton Worth Visiting? 8 Reasons To Go

Cape Breton island is the northeastern part of the maritime province of Nova Scotia, which is Canada’s second smallest province. It’s known for its Indigenous, Celtic, and Acadian history and culture, its wildlife, and dramatic coastline.  So, is Cape Breton worth visiting? Let’s dive in. 

Is Cape Breton Worth Visiting?

Yes, Cape Breton is absolutely worth visiting. This east coast Canadian island is known for its gorgeous natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse outdoor activities. Driving the famous Cabot Trail will treat you to incredible coastal, forest, and highland views.   Spending a few days on the island will give you the chance to experience both Acadian and Indigenous culture, and enjoy local cuisine (particularly seafood!).

Cape Breton: The Basics

If you’re thinking of visiting Cape Breton, here are some basics about the island you should know. 

When is the best time to visit Cape Breton?

The best time to visit Cape Breton is July, August and September. However, spring and late fall are still a lovely time of year. In October, there is beautiful fall foliage, and the Celtic Colours Festival takes place.

How to get to Cape Breton?

The best way to get to Cape Breton is to either drive, or fly into Sydney’s J.A. Douglas McCurdy Airport. To drive from mainland Nova Scotia, you’ll take the Canso Causeway. From Halifax and Dartmouth , it’s about 4.5 hours driving. If you’re coming from Newfoundland, you can take a Marine Atlantic ferry. Maritime Bus offers service from the Nova Scotia mainland, with stops at Port Hawkesbury, Whycocomagh, Baddeck, and Sydney.

How long should you spend on Cape Breton?

To really get to know Cape Breton, and see the whole Cabot Trail, I recommend planning to spend at least 5 days on the island. With less time, you’ll be able to see some of the highlights of Cape Breton, but there will be a lot of driving. With 5 days or more, you can really take your time, and see some of the lesser-known sites. 

8 Reasons To Visit Cape Breton

Let’s unpack the details of why Cape Breton is worth visiting. 

1. Drive the World-Renowned Cabot Trail

The best thing to do on Cape Breton is to drive the famous Cabot Trail. Completed in 1932, this roughly 300 kilometer loop starts and ends on the northern end of the island.  The drive passes through Canada’s Cape Breton Highlands National Park as well as a number of fishing villages. Roughly two-thirds of the Cabot Trail goes along the Atlantic coastline, which means you’re treated to beautiful ocean views as you drive. 

While it’s possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, I don’t recommend it. It’s best to spend a couple days doing the loop, because there’s lots of epic stops to make along the way.  Stop at Ingonish Beach to admire the turquoise blue water, spend an afternoon at the Highland Links to play a round of golf, go on an easy hike to Gypsum Mine Lake , and spend an evening in Cheticamp listening to traditional Celtic music.  

2. Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Much of the Cabot Trail takes you through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Within the park you’ll see beautiful highlands, ocean scenery, steep cliffs, gorgeous beaches, forests, and river canyons. You can do a driving tour of the park, or pull over at points for lookouts, beaches, and trails.  The most popular trail in the park is the Skyline Trail. It’s a 5.9-mile loop trail that’s considered a moderately challenging route. It takes an average of 2.5 hours to complete. Other popular trails are the Middle Head Trail, and Acadian Trail.  Cape Breton Highlands National Park has some incredible beaches. Broad Cove Beach, La Bloc Beach, and Black Brook Beach are all worth a visit. On a warm day, you can even go for a swim. 

3. Eat Delicious Seafood 

Cape Breton is known for their seafood, particularly lobster and crab. You can’t visit Cape Breton (or Nova Scotia!) without indulging in some lobster dishes.

On Cape Breton, you can head to Baddeck Lobster Suppers to have a traditional lobster dinner. In Cheticamp, go to The Seafood Stop to enjoy their lobster roll.  Another favourite on Cape Breton is The Rusty Anchor. Be sure to get their crab, and try their clam chowder. 

4. Go Whale Watching and Observe Wildlife

Just off the coast of Cape Breton are migratory routes of various types of whales, including fin whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and humpback whales. There are also dolphins, including Atlantic white-sided dolphins. 

Whale watching season in Cape Breton runs from late spring to early fall. There are tour operators all over the island, including in Cheticamp, Pleasant Bay, and Ingonish.

Sea life isn’t the only wildlife Cape Breton is known for. There’s a variety of animals you might be lucky enough to spot on land, too. Cape Breton is home to black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, moose, and the Canada lynx. 

5. Learn Cape Breton History

Cape Breton has a fascinating history spanning thousands of years. There are a number of museums around the island where you can learn about the island’s Indigenous, Acadian, and Celtic past.  The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site commemorates the genius of renowned inventor Alexander Graham Bell. Exhibits show how he and his colleagues achieved Canada’s first powered flight with their airplane Silver Dart, and of course,how he  invented the telephone. At the Fortress of Louisbourg , you’re transported back in time to one of North America’s busiest 18th-century seaports. Founded by the French in 1713, this reconstruction of the original French town and fortifications is the largest of its kind in North America. And, you can experience North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture when you visit Highland Village Museum (Baile nan Gàidheal). 

6. Enjoy Indigenous Tourism Experiences 

The Mi’kmaq have lived in the Cape Breton region for thousands of years. Today, you can learn about Indigenous traditions that have been passed down over hundreds of years.  Membertou Heritage Park in Membertou, Cape Breton is a cultural center that shares information about the Mi’kmaq way of life, culture, and history. See their exhibits, and check out their programming and workshops.  I also recommend popping into Kiju restaurant in Sydney, Cape Breton, to try traditional Mi’kmaq-inspired recipes or to tour the medicine gardens. Eskasoni Cultural Journeys is a tour that is run in Eskasoni, Cape Breton. On the tour, you get to hear stories about Mi’kmaq culture in Eskasoni First Nation, while walking a 2.4 kilometer trail on Goat Island in Bras d’Or Lake. You have the opportunity to observe or take part in a smudging ceremony, see a traditional dance, and more. Just be sure to book a tour in advance!

7. Learn About Acadian Culture and History

Cape Breton has a long Acadian history that influences life on the island today. This history began more than 400 years ago with the arrival of the first European settlers. One of the best places to experience Acadian culture, and learn its history, is in the fishing town, Cheticamp . This small town has around 4,000 residents, and it’s known for being a worldwide leader in preserving Acadian Culture.  Cheticamp has a museum called Les Trois Pignons where you can learn Acadian history and traditions. You can also visit the Museum of the Hooked Rug and Home Life to learn about rug hooking, an artistic practice that originates in the area and dates back to the 1930s.  

8. Experience Cape Breton Hospitality

Cape Breton has a population of roughly 90,000 . This small population is spread across the island throughout towns, villages, and the small city of Sydney. The stereotype goes that places with small populations are friendlier than big cities like Toronto .  While I’m not sure that stereotype always holds true, it’s certainly been my experience that Cape Bretoners are friendly, welcoming, and hospitable.  Tourism is a key industry on the island, and so many local people participate in it. In traveling Cape Breton, you have lots of opportunities to chat and engage with Cape Bretoners. This makes for a very personal experience!

Final Thoughts: Is Cape Breton Worth Visiting

Cape Breton is home to historic fishing towns, like Cheticamp, as well as beautiful national parks, like Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  In visiting the island, you can experience everything from Acadian and Indigenous culture and history, to observing wildlife. This maritime island is absolutely worth visiting!

More from Pina Travels on Nova Scotia :

• How to Visit Burntcoat Head Park in 2023
• Day Trip to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse From Halifax

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Halifax

Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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MEET THE TEAM AT NSITE’N

“honoring our past – embracing our future” _________________________________________________________________________________________________________.

Robert Bernard Executive Director, NSITEN Email:  [email protected]  

  Mr. Robert Bernard is the Executive Director for the Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITE’N).  Incorporated as a not for profit volunteer organization in 2017, NSITE’N has been established to help support the growth of new and existing Indigenous owned businesses through training, development and a higher level of participation in the  mainstream tourism industry in Nova Scotia.  Robert has been one of the cornerstones for the growth of Indigenous tourism in the Atlantic Region since his first involvement started in 2011. 

Robert’s initial involvement came as part of the development of the unama’ki tourism association in 2010-11 which led to the coordination of an unama’ki trade mission to the 2012 international aboriginal tourism summit in whistler, bc.  from there he joined the national board of the aboriginal tourism association of canada as the official nova scotia mandated representative in 2012.  in 2014 he was then elected to the executive committee of atac and was instrumental in bringing the international indigenous tourism conference to membertou first nation in 2016., this is where he was nominated and elected as the first national chairperson for the current indigenous tourism association of canada (itac).  he served one (1) very active term travelling around the world promoting the organization and the greater partnerships needed to grow indigenous tourism in canada and other indigenous nations worldwide. , in 2018 he took on the role as the atlantic indigenous tourism coordinator until 2021 when he decided to come back to work full time as the executive director for nsiten..

Stephanie Moreau Development Coordinator Email:  [email protected]  

Stephanie Moreau is the Development Coordinator for the Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITE’N).  Stephanie’s main responsibilities include- strategic planning, research, project planning and guiding implementation.  Stephanie works closely with the Executive Director to identify funding, training and capacity development opportunities for the organization’s tourism businesses.  Stephanie works with partners to help identify and work on mutually beneficial strategic priorities.  Stephanie works with the NSITEN team to help support and promote business development opportunities to NSITEN members to support the growth of Indigenous tourism in the Nova Scotia Region.  

Stephanie has worked in a variety of roles in municipal government. she most recently has spent the last 5 years in the position of tourism development officer for the municipality of cumberland.  stephanie has been working with the nsiten team for 2 years and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the mainstream tourism industry and will be helping with all aspects of the development of the organization alongside our executive director. since starting in the nsiten development role in the past two years with the organization, she has been busy helping to guide the development of the nsiten 5 year strategy, the sustainable cultural tourism strategy as well as leading the development of multiple projects that the organization has undertaken.  these include  multiple funding applications and ongoing projects..

Jordynn Bernard Communications Coordinator Email:  [email protected]  

Jordynn bernard currently works under contract as the communications coordinator for the nova scotia indigenous tourism enterprise network (nsite’n) and is proudly from we’koqma’q first nation., she moved to halifax in 2006 originally to study photography at nscad university. now a business owner- she’s since expanded her skillset within the digital media world including social media management, website development and communications. , jordynn has a strong belief in cultural preservation and representation and finds her work to be extremely rewarding as she helps contribute in creating opportunities for other indigenous people., jordynn’s role within the nsiten team is to support and maintain a strong level of communication within the nsiten membership as well as the team department while executing and monitoring communications strategies and creating public relations and marketing materials.  she will also help coordinate promotional events and campaigns..

Graham Marshall Industry Liaison Coordinator Email:  [email protected]  

Mr. Graham Marshall works under contract as the Industry Liaison Coordinator for the Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITE’N).  

Graham has been promoting our mi’kma’q culture for the past 30+ years internationally.  he is a membertou band councillor. he is an original member of the mi’kmaq drum group ” sons of membertou.”  graham sits on the board of directors for cape breton university alumni, and the board of directors for atlantic memorial park., graham will assist the organization and is our direct contact to building stronger relationships within our mikmaw owned community business enterprises and direct communication with the chief’s and councils in nova scotia. he will continue to build many of the key and important connections with our communities, our businesses and mainstream tourism industry partners., he will also continue to promote while nsiten’s priority goals and objectives continue to support the authentic growth of mi’kmaw cultural tourism development..

Amanda Dugas Business Development Officer Email:  [email protected]  

Amanda Dugas works under contract as the Business Development Officer with Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network (NSITE’N) to help support Mi’kmaw businesses to operate and be successful in the tourism industry in Nova Scotia. 

She will help businesses by guiding them through the process of applying for accreditation and funding opportunities. She also provides NSITE’N with administrative support on special projects. Amanda believes in teamwork, community and the beauty of Mi’kma’ki. Amanda has a diverse career with a background working with nonprofits, and more recently in education. She is currently a student at Cape Breton University in the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program. 

Kelly Paul Tourism Development Officer Email:  [email protected]  

Kelly Paul is a member of Membertou First Nation.  She is currently pursuing a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Cape Breton University.

With a strong drive for personal and professional growth, she is also working towards obtaining a business administration degree., although relatively new to the industry, kelly has gained valuable experience in hospitality and tourism through internships and work placements.  these experiences have provided her with a unique blend of skills and a deep understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry’s dynamics., kelly’s interest in indigenous tourism was sparked during work and experiences with communities across the country. this ignited a passion within her to contribute to the development and delivery of authentic and memorable experiences that showcase the strength and resilience of mi’kmaw culture and traditions, recognizing the importance of fostering economic growth and creating meaningful connections between visitors and community., with a genuine desire to contribute to the growth and success of mi’kmaw cultural tourism, kelly is excited to embark on this new journey with nsiten (nova scotia indigenous tourism enterprise network) and to play an active role in promoting and preserving her mi’kmaw culture..

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Back to the future: New initiative aims to bring Cape Breton Island tourism back to pre-pandemic levels and beyond

With pandemic-related travel restrictions now mostly lifted, Cape Breton’s tourism industry is looking to capitalize

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SYDNEY, N.S. – With pandemic-related travel restrictions now mostly lifted, Cape Breton’s tourism industry is looking to capitalize on its rating as one of the top destination islands in the world.

But those involved in the beleaguered sector know it’s going to take more than just an open for business sign to entice visitors to the scenic and awe-inspiring Nova Scotia island.

On Wednesday, the collective effort of restoring tourism to pre-COVID-19 levels and beyond received a financial shot in the arm thanks to a $2.24 million investment in Cape Breton University’s Island Tourism Training Network.

The funding is part of the federal government’s Sectoral Initiatives Program aimed at helping the tourism and hospitality sector. Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway, who made the announcement at CBU’s Beaton Institute, said the initiative includes the recognition and promotion of the island’s rich culture that is highlighted by more than 10,000 years of Mi’kmaq residency.

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“The project will produce new Indigenous tourism promotional products and enhance visitor experiences here on Cape Breton Island and that’s important given our rich Indigenous history and culture,” said Kelloway.

“It will also make tourism businesses here more competitive and make it easier for people here to receive tourism training and micro-credentialing in Indigenous tourism.”

Senior CBU executive team member, longtime professor and former university vice-president of development Keith Brown is one of the driving forces behind the collaborative effort that led to the recent establishment of the post-secondary institution’s World Tourism Institute. The Cape Breton Island Training Network is connected with both the institute and CBU’s bachelor of hospitality and tourism management program.

“Our ultimate goal is to grow opportunities in a post-pandemic recovery by identifying and supporting authentic experiences that continue to see us rated as the number one island destination in North America and as one of the top 10 island destinations in the world,” said Brown, who added that the pressing issue of worker shortages is a top priority.

“How many shortages are there and where are they? No one that we know can answer that except in regards to their own operation. But we will do the research to answer that question and to examine where new opportunities may exist.”

One of those areas of opportunity, according to Brown and others involved in local tourism, is the promotion of the visitor experiences that are available to visitors, notably the recognition and showcasing of Cape Breton’s rich Indigenous history and culture.

“Our responsibilities in support of truth and reconciliation are to educate and enlighten and we hope to expose thousands of people in this sector to that knowledge. It will also allow them to build knowledge about Mi’kmaq cultural tourism,” said Brown.

Terry Smith, the CEO of Destination Cape Breton Association, is one of the faces of the island’s tourism marketing effort. He helped author the organization’s long-range development strategy entitled Rise Again 2030.

“We have the No. 1 island in North America and she demands our ambition, she demands our best so we have to be ambitious,” said Smith.

“It is a bold plan, it is ambitious and it is exactly what our industry needs and demands.”

Meanwhile, a recent Conference Board of Canada briefing suggested that the impact of COVID-19 will likely mean employment in the tourism sector will likely remain below 2019 levels until 2023 at the earliest.

- David Jala is a business reporter at the Cape Breton Post. Follow him on Twitter @CBPost_David .

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The cape breton island tourism training network.

Cape Breton Island’s Tourism Training Network is a strategic, co-ordinated, partnership-based research and training response for post-Covid 19 recovery. Using a collaborative model, the Tourism Training Network will address specific workforce needs in support of economic recovery for tourism and related sectors including arts and culture.

CAPE BRETON TOURISM TRAINING NETWORK

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTE

Led by the World Tourism Institute at Cape Breton University with project partners Destination Cape Breton and the Cape Breton Partnership , this exciting three year (Feb 2022- Feb 2025) initiative is funded through the Sectoral Initiatives Program of Employment and Social Development Canada.

The overall goal of the project is to stimulate post-pandemic recovery, build capacity and grow opportunities for Cape Breton Island’s Tourism Sector.

The CBI Tourism Training Network will deliver on a wide range of objectives:

• Ensure inclusivity in all development activities.
• Work with Mi’kmaq partners to explore, design and implement community based credit programs in Indigenous tourism, if so desired.
• Develop a foundation of accessible, timely and credible research which will support decision making by the industry and act as a catalyst in innovation and entrepreneurialism in tourism.
• Identify training gaps and needs associated with labour shortages.
• Promote education and professional certifications for the tourism industry, including the development of micro-credentials and customized training programs.

For more information check back here for updates or contact the Cape Breton Island Tourism Training Network at [email protected] .

• Cape Breton Tourism Training Network
• The World Tourism Institute

Unama’ki espi-kina’matno’kuom etek Mi’kma’ki, wla na no’kamanaq aq maqamikewminu mena’qiknmuetuk.

Cape Breton University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw People.