Located on the north-eastern side of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island is filled with jaw-dropping landscapes, historically and culturally significant sites, and some of the friendliest people you’ll meet in the world.
Photo © iStock/PetrovVadim
Here you’ll find Gaelic, Aboriginal and Acadian cultures, the world’s largest inland sea – Bras d’Or Lake, and Canada’s most famous driving route, the Cabot Trail.
- Driving the Cabot Trail
- Take a Trip to Louisbourg
- Whale Watching around Cape Breton Island
- Kayaking, Cycling & Camping on Cape Breton Island
- Celtic Colors International Festival
Driving the Cabot Trail
The island is broken down into five distinct regions and driving routes, but it’s the Cabot Trail that lures visitors from around the world.
This 186mi (300km) circular route can be completed in either direction, though counter-clockwise keeps you on the outer side of the roadway for those epic views.
Take your time and spend a minimum of three nights on the Cabot Trail to fully appreciate the coastal and mountain views.
Take a Trip to Louisbourg
Learn about the significance of Cape Breton Island’s location at the Fortress of Louisbourg.
Today, it’s the largest reconstructed historic site in North America and allows visitors to experience a typical day at the fortress in the mid 18th century, including the chance to sleep overnight in either the Rodrigue
In addition to Louisbourg, other notable towns to visit include Sydney, Ingonish, Cheticamp, Inverness, and Baddeck.
Whale Watching around Cape Breton Island
Learn about the various species of whales that inhabit the waters around Cape Breton Island on a whale watching tour. The best spot on the island for a whale watching tour is from Pleasant Bay where you’ll head out onto the waters in small zodiac boats with highly experienced guides.
Kayaking, Cycling & Camping on Cape Breton Island
Outdoor adventures abound on Cape Breton Island, including kayaking, cycling, and camping. Hikers will want to spend a few days at Cape Breton Highlands National Park and tackle both Franey – a challenging 4.6mi (7.5km) loop trail with
Celtic Colors International Festival
Cape Breton Island celebrates its Celtic culture in grand fashion in the fall season. Every year for 9 days, Celtic Colors International Festival takes over the island with live music and dance performances.
The festival draws visitors from around the world and takes place with the stunning backdrop of the fall colors.
Want to know more about Canada? Check out our podcast. We discuss when a traveler becomes a snack; the perils of wilderness adventure, a culinary tour of the provinces for foodies, and we speak to World Nomads photography scholarship mentor Richard I'Anson.
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