Lauren is a trekbible writer and story maker from Pine Valley, California. Nightlife. The most luxurious buildings are in the Bastion du Roi, which was occupied by the French King's representative. Forbes Magazine called Cape Breton Island the hottest island in golf. With breathtaking coastal views and rolling green hills, the islands golf courses make for an incredibly fun thing to do in Cape Breton. Things to Do in Cape Breton Island - Tripadvisor 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. 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canada, 30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, Exploring les de la Madeleine: A Visitor's Guide, 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlottetown, 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Prince Edward Island, 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Halifax, 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Nova Scotia, 12 Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Nova Scotia, 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Moncton, 8 Top-Rated Things to Do in Lunenburg & Mahone Bay, NS, 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Annapolis Valley, 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Bay of Fundy, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Saint John, NB, 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Brunswick, 13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Fredericton, 13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on the Gasp Peninsula, 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bar Harbor, ME, Acadia National Park: 16 Top Things to Do, Croatia Road Trip: Driving the Coast from Istria to Dubrovnik, 24 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/louisbourg/index.aspx, http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/grahambell/index.aspx, Average minimum and maximum temperatures for Sydney, Canada in, Average monthly precipitation totals for Sydney, Canada in, Average monthly snowfall totals for Sydney, Canada in. Fortress of Louisbourg(Acadian Culture), 5. Things to Do in Cape Breton Island with Kids - Tripadvisor Cape Breton Island is shaped like a butterfly, split down the middle by Bras dOr Lake. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; Before leaving, enjoy dinner at the well-rated miners village restaurant next to a large brick fireplace and kerosene lamps. The museum does a really good job at presenting its artifacts, photos and full-scale replicas in very interesting ways. Swim at the many pristine and sandy beaches. Have one to add? 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. 12 FUN Things to Do in CAPE BRETON Nova Scotia! 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. The Fortress of Louisbourg sits at the northeast corner of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Zip along the rugged shores in search of whales, dolphins, seals, leatherback turtles, puffins, eagles and more! I hope you found a few new gems to make your trip to Cape Breton Island truly incredible. Here we go! Things to Do in Cape Breton Island, Canada: See Tripadvisor's 80,758 traveller reviews and photos of Cape Breton Island tourist attractions. 1 Merchant Mariner Monument, Sydney. 20-minute tours are available during the day and leave on the hour. Among them are world-class Highlands Links and Cabot Cliffs, and Canadas only authentic links course, Cabot Links. Trip Advisor has a good list of providers to consider, most with very strong reviews. Concert start at 5pm, bring your lawn chair! Interested in lighthouses? Celebrating more than 22 years of covering entertainment, The GATE is dedicated to travel, tech, film, television, and lifestyle. But you already know this! Win, win! Need a new backpack? | Disclaimer & Privacy Policy, This website uses cookies to improve your experience. These buildings include part of the fortifications, the citadel buildings, the town quay, and many streets with houses, shops and taverns. And Im a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel. The Highlands Hostel is a Cabot Trail must! Keep in mind that all of these trails are quite remote and have long stretches between towns and services. amzn_assoc_linkid = "7002ac421e29991fec296eec967027bc"; 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. So go early. This is just one of the many ways that Cape Breton Island draws you in and makes you feel at home. While the menu may seem a bit of a stretch if you have kids along, the chefs will be more than happy to simplify a sandwich if needed. 12 FUN Things to Do in CAPE BRETON Nova Scotia - Epic Travel Plans You have many adventures to choose from. You will be able to see first hand many of the crafts that sustained this community and see a glimpse into the lives of these people. There are lots of options, depending on where youre visiting in Cape Breton, so plan to bring your swimming trunks and take a walk by the waves. Keep this in mind if too much privacy creeps you out. 2. Located close to the North Sydney Ferry Terminal, this is quite the convenient little spot. Now, the Alexander Graham Bell museum is much larger and more impressive than what we expected. Membertou Heritage Park offers a fantastic museum, and a gift shop with Indigenous art, but you can also take part in workshops at the centre to create beaded earrings, baskets, and even drums. The Cabot Trail is a 185 mile loop of jaw-dropping beauty in the northern part of Cape Breton Island (roughly two-thirds of the Cabot Trail is Atlantic coastline). Learn More Outdoor Adventure Not just another pretty place. Casting from a yacht on the lake. Plus, bald eagles, seabirds and grey seals. And this Mongolian yurt is SO pretty, located at the start of the Cabot Trail about 40 minutes north of Baddeck. After launching The GATE in 2001, his interests have expanded to include travel, lifestyle, gadgets, food, and whisky. 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. The Cabot Trail is your guiding path to exploring all of Cape Breton Island's immense beauty and many hidden gems. The distillery is settled between beautiful rolling hills, and offers tours, there are rooms where you can stay, or you can just stop for a meal. The RV park and campground also offers glamping options, and its owned and operated by members of Membertou First Nation. Bayfest 2023 | Destination Cape Breton You can even fly a kite here! But what you'll remember most are the examples of antique and contemporary rug hooking, shown in gallery after gallery. 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. is truly the best place to eat on Cape Breton Island. | Read More, Copyright 2023 The GATE. See listing for full details. A: Top activities in Cape Breton Island include: Shared Cruise Excursion - "Mini" Cabot Trail. The Acadians came to the Island in the mid to late 1700s, adding their vibrant French culture and joie-de-vivre to the Cape Breton Island story. Cape Breton police say they have made an arrest for the murder of David Sheppard, who was killed in Glace Bay, N.S., in January 2021. You wont just see 18th-Century France, youll live it. Things to do in Cape Breton, in and near Halifax, and on the Bay of Fundy. Our Island is renowned as a hikers paradise, a challenging beauty that demands exploration. Its nestled in Cape Bretons southwest corner between Inverness and Mabou (i.e. Whether a honeymoon, anniversary trip, college road trip, or to get away, the culture, history, seascapes, and countryside will sweep you off your feet. Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ns/cbreton. It only adds a half-hour of driving and visitor reviews describe this coal miners museum as a life-changing experience. Here are the other posts in this series of best things to do in Nova Scotia: And take a look at the Best Hotels for Romantic Getaways in Eastern Canada for beautiful places to stay. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. One of my familys favourite beaches was Inverness Beach, in the town of Inverness, where you can relax on the sandy shore, take a swim, and look for washed up sea glass and pottery. Address: 559 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, Nova Scotia, Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ns/grahambell/index.aspx. Cutie puffins, epic fishing, and museums thatll change your life. Golf was invented for places like Cape Breton Island. In Cape Breton the outdoor adventures really are endless, so get your hiking boots and paddles ready! When figuring out the time to come, know that most restaurants will be open during the summer, many closing for the rest of the year. Above all, there are the drives: It's hard to find a road on this island that's not a scenic route. THE 10 BEST Cape Breton Island Hiking Trails Hiking Trails in Cape Breton Island Enter dates Filters 1 Outdoor Activities Traveller favourites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveller Resources Outdoor Activities Hiking Trails Beaches Boat Tours I. 3 of Cape Breton Island's museums are here for you to tour virtually from the safety of your own home! Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff + Calg Antelope Canyon Hikes COMPARED: Upper, L Road Trip from Calgary to Vancouver: 3 B How To Plan a Vacation Youll LOVE in 10 GPS coordinates for the trailhead: Lat: 46.737691 Long: -60.880377. If your idea of a vacation involves many days in the sun, Cape Breton can supply that. Enjoy free kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals for ultimate lake adventures. So, if you can snag a spot and are ready to have your taste buds rocked, reserve a spot at The Bite House. They have seafood chowder, fish cakes, clams, and the most incredible desserts. A winding, seaside drive, it is widely remarked as one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. There are towns like Dingwall, numerous hiking areas like Peak Tenerife Mountain or the area leading the Grave of the Unknown Sailor, a few lighthouses and lookouts, and places like Bay St Lawrence. 223 Planning a trip to beautiful Cape Breton soon? This guide on the best things to do in Cape Breton Island is here to help you plan your trip! First, about Baddeck. And its very family-friendly, too. Lastly, there is an annual Ribfest in July in Sydney, which frankly just sounds amazing. But, Cape Breton Island actually has five scenic drives that take you along the coast and the inland sea. Featured Partners If you only want to see fun things to do in Cape Breton, use the buttons at the top to hide the other areas. But, that doesnt mean winter isnt a magical wonderland here. Or wait until after dinner to see the sunset. If so, these glamping sites and one-of-a-kind cabins are for you! Things to do - Cape Breton Highlands National Park - Parks Canada Attached to the mainland only by a rock-filled causeway, Cape Breton is a spectacular destination for any traveler. Nova Scotias Scottish roots come alive through ceilidhs, and Cape Bretons Mabou area is the BEST place to experience them. Things to Do in Cape Breton Island with Kids - Tripadvisor Here, youll find a lifetime of adventure packed on our 175-kilometre-long Island. Want to show off your Cape Breton adventure? The world-famous Cabot Trail is a must-do for your visit to Cape Breton Island. Unsubscribe at any time. Go hiking on one of our Islands many trails, and take in all of the stunning views. Home to the Gaelic College, this community is filled with a whole myriad of Celtic culture. 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. Private Cabot Trail Discovery Tour. 9 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Cape Breton Island You'll discover the highlights of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, will thread your way along mountains and . The lakes have been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. From the start of June to around mid-September, Cape Breton offers lots of activities for couples, families, tours, and solo travellers, including beaches, historical sites, vibrant towns, amazing food, and lots of culture. Weather may impact when tours can operate, especially in high winds or bad weather, so be sure to keep that in mind or call ahead where possible. With the former, you can tour where the first European settlers made camp on the island. A flavour as unique as our destination. At the tip of Nova Scotia is the stunningly beautiful Cape Breton Island. Cape Breton is a spectacular destination for any traveler. The Best Cape Breton Island has to offer, direct to your inbox. Membertou in Syndey offers a lot of history about the area, and the Mikmaq people who have lived there for thousands of years. Hi, Im Bryan Haines. And while youre there, you need to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site for a look back into the history of the area, and the great inventors life. Apparently they enjoyed it a lot. Rent, charter or join a tour. Cape Breton golf courses are inspired by its Scottish heritage and complement its beautiful terrain. Sweeping cliffs, majestic ocean views, and miles of greenCape Breton Island was made for golf. Geographically, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is likely second on your itinerary: Most travelers enter the island, scoop up info, then make a beeline for lovely uplands areas in Mabou or the Margaree Valley for the night. With music festivals galore, you can easily spend weeks here. Glorious scenery, world-class golfing, whisky, warm hospitality. Uisge Bn is Gaelic and means "white water". Attached to the mainland only by a rock-filled causeway, Cape Breton is a spectacular destination for any traveler. When traveling on this island, be aware of the cultural context. The Best Cape Breton Island has to offer, direct to your inbox. Visit the licensing and permits page on novascotia.ca. Feel them with each shake of cannon fire. 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. Their food is all handmade and handpicked from local markets or grown in their own garden. Destination Cape Breton Association Inc. 2023. Learn about the extraordinary life of Mabel Hubbard Bell this summer! Try the Neil Angus Burger or the Aspy Burger, and for dessert, you cant beat Strawberry Shortcake or Carrot Cake. Also, the coffee shop is really good (I loved the cupcakes), as is the small gift shop. Plans to make it happen. Through this, youll learn Gaelic phrases and traditions. You likely have some epic things you want to do. Costumed guides help bring it to life and make it worth the trek. Youll hear it before you see it. 6 Bras d'Or Lake. We also share travel tips, packing lists, and gear reviews. If youre lucky enough to have visited distilleries in Scotland, youll feel right at home here. 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. Have a great day. The favorite secret local beach is. The entire Cabot Trail is a wonder, but theres nowhere else in Canada like the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Places to Go on Cape Breton Island | Destination Cape Breton Cabot Trail: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour. This will seal the deal: sampling the same rum punch that the soldiers drank back in the 1700s, in the same taverns (well, reconstructed) where they drank it. Its surrounded by Cape Bretons rolling hills and low mountains, with natural channels to the north and North Americas oldest operating tidal lock canal to the south (completed in 1869). Youll learn a bit about the whales, and some tours offer the chance to hear their songs underwater thanks to special microphones. I have NO doubt youll find a few things to add to your trip to Cape Breton Island. Join us for a tasting and learn about the cider-making process or soak up the sunshine while sipping a pint in our outdoor space. When we visited Baddeck, we were surprised by how much we enjoyed the Bell Museum. If you want to watch fishing boats or fly kites, there will be ample opportunity for that here as well. Lone Shieling 39 Activities, experiments and even White Glove Tours are available in the summer. Official site: http://www.cabottrail.travel/. Relax at our 4 star lakefront cottages! Viewpoints, beaches, hiking trails, small towns, and scenic attractions tempt drivers to pull over and linger along the way. Another highlight is the view down onto the Cabot Trail roadway far below. Shopping. And of course they also sell their single malt whiskies, with some varieties that are hard to find anywhere else. Its very private without anything in the immediate area. This makes it easier to plan your own Nova Scotia road trip. One of the best parts about the center is its restaurant, with ceilidhs (Celtic social events with live music) at lunchtime. I recently spent an incredible 4 days in Cape Breton with the Cape Breton Tourism board and got to experience the best that the island has to offer. Water Sports in Cape Breton Island Boat Hire in Cape Breton Island Dolphin & Whale Watching in Cape Breton Island Speed Boats Tours in Cape Breton Island Kayaking & Canoeing in Cape Breton Island River Rafting & Tubing in Cape Breton Island Scuba & Snorkelling in Cape Breton Island Waterskiing & Jetskiing in Cape Breton Island Fishing Charters &. From the start of June to around mid-September, Cape Breton offers lots of activities for couples, families, tours, and solo travellers, including beaches, historical sites, vibrant towns, amazing food, and lots of culture. Things to do on Cape Breton Island | Destination Cape Breton So, take it by motorcycle, RV, or convertible to fully take in all it has to offer. Maybe youll find a new favourite to take home, too. Which makes sense, since its world-famous for spectacular scenery especially in the fall when leaves change to glorious yellows, oranges and reds. Focus exclusively on the western and central sections if you'll only be here a couple days.).