Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia

One of the greatest places to visit in Nova Scotia is Cape Breton Island, an Atlantic paradise full of great things to see and do. Discovered by the Europeans in 1000 AD, the area has been home to the Mi’kmaq peoples as well as European and Celtic settlers, bringing the island a unique Acadian culture.

Nova Scotia - Capebreton sunset

The Gulf Stream warms the waters here, making it for water activities like kayaking, scuba diving, sailing, and whale watching. Hiking, mountain biking and golfing are also popular activities, and there are lots of places to get in on the action. Cape Breton Highlands National Park features a great network of scenic drives, mountain biking and hiking trails. This park includes the famed Cabot Trail, and the Fleur-de-lis Trail which takes you to the historic Fortress of Louisbourg.

You’ll find some of the best golfing in the Maritimes here on the island. Championship, designer courses include Bell Bay Golf Club and The Lakes Golf Club. The Bras d’Or Lakes Scenic Drive offers breathtaking scenery, including the picturesque St. Peters Canal. The Bras D'Or lakes themselves are a scenic wonder, with unique geological formations and lots of close by activities.

Nova Scotia - Cape Breton Island, Fortress of Louisbourg

Local fishing villages offer a great taste of local culture and fresh seafood. Whale watching tours, golf courses and a number of excellent accommodations are available nearby. Please visit our Cape Breton activities and attractions pages for more information.

The area has a rich history, and travelers will want to visit theMiners’ Museum in Glace Bay and the 43-acre Highland Village depicting the progress of Scottish life here. The Wagmatcook Culture and Heritage Centre offers cultural insight into the life of the Mi’kmaq people, while the North Highlands Community Museum explores the history of the North Highlands of Cape Breton Island.

Inventor Alexander Graham Bell’s mansion Beinn Bhreagh, is also located here—see the home where he built countless groundbreaking inventions! Whether it’s relaxing solitude you’re seeking or an action packed Nova Scotia vacation you’ll find everything here on Cape Breton Island. Take a few days to experience Cape Breton, there really is nothing like it. Plan to stay at a few different cottages and hotels to get the full experience and to see different parts of the island.