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Culture and Scenery on the Bras d’Or Lake in Nova Scotia

Dive into Nova Scotia’s rich Gaelic culture and experience breathtaking scenery on a getaway to Iona, Cape Breton. From the shores of the mighty Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere to the Highland Village Museum and a traditional ceilidh at the Iona Heights Inn, Central Cape Breton is well worth the visit!

Experience Gaelic Culture at Highland Village Museum

Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture at the Highland Village Museum | Baile nan Gàidheal  and experience North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture. This stunning 43-acre property overlooking the Bras d’Or Lake, depicts the story, culture, and identity of Nova Scotia Gaels and what life was like for the Scottish settlers who arrived between the mid 1700s to early 1900s.

Hear local stories and try hands-on activities with the costumed interpreters, while touring the 11 historic buildings. Take part in a traditional ceilidh and explore the award-winning exhibits in the new Welcome Centre. Be sure to stop by the Village Store to pick up a Gaelic-inspired gift, baked good or a takeaway charcuterie box to enjoy on your adventures.

A woman pets a horse at a living history museum while a museum worker looks on.

Connect with Mi’kmaw Culture

Experience Eskasoni Cultural Journeys on Goat Island in Unama’ki, Cape Breton. Nestled along the Bras d’Or Lake, Goat Island offers a picturesque 2.4km trail that weaves along the coast and through sites hosted by interpreters, each one offering a unique experience that connects visitors to an aspect of Mi’kmaw culture.

Hear local stories, songs, and drumming. Learn about Mi’kmaw ways of life past and present, from traditional regalia, hand-crafted with techniques shared across generations, a birch bark wigwam, basket-making, and how to play the game of Waltes!

Two women receive drumming instruction from a Mi'kmaw guide.

Relax at MacCormack Provincial Park

MacCormack Provincial Park  offers the perfect place for a family picnic and for a scenic stroll along the beach. Relax on one of the benches and soak in the breathtaking views of the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake and picturesque Plaster Cove.

Two women lean against a fence admiring the scenic coastal view.

Listen to Music at Iona Heights Inn

When it’s time to tuck in for the night, head to Iona Heights Inn. Centrally located near Iona Beach and the Highland Village Museum, with an amazing view of the Bras d’Or Lake, the hotel features an onsite restaurant—the Frolic’n Folk Pub & Grill. After a busy day exploring the area, enjoy a homemade meal at the pub, while tapping your toes to some of Cape Breton’s best local musicians!

A three piece band performs with guitars and a fiddle.

Discover the Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere

Experience the Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere up close and hands-on at the Àros na Mara Centre of Learning and Discovery. Interact with a touch tank and gain a snapshot of the unique ecosystem of the biosphere. Outside the centre, pick up a coffee from the wharf side shop, stroll the quay, and take in the views of the lake via viewfinders, while learning about the rich history of the area through interpretive panels.

Two women look at a touch tank. One is holding a starfish.

Dine at Darby’s

For an authentic Cape Breton experience, dine where the locals go at Darby’s Old Church Kitchen. This iconic community hot spot is located in a former church. Dine on made-from-scratch meals, diner favourites, and incredible homemade pies that Cape Bretoners are known to drive across the island for. Locals recommend the roast turkey dinner, barnyard pizza, and the Darby burger platter!

Two women eat pie at a restaurant.

Stay at Hector’s Point Vacation Rentals

Enjoy scenic views from your coastal accommodation at Hector’s Point Vacation Rentals. Located right on the edge of the Bras d’Or Lake, this newly constructed accommodation features 1-bedroom suites with full kitchens, comfortable living areas, and large balconies overlooking the water. In the morning, relax with a cup of coffee on the deck and then at night, enjoy the sunset from around the onsite fire pit.

Two women do cheers with wine glasses on a balcony while watching the sunset over the water.

Learn From the Locals

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