Top Photo Spots in Cape Breton

Touring

While the whole of Cape Breton Island can be described as being as “pretty as a picture,” there are some spots that we’d hate for you to miss.

Meat Cove

Meat Cove is a rural fishing village located on the northernmost tip of Cape Breton Island and well worth the drive to get there. Adventurers can camp at the Meat Cove Campground with its spectacular cliff-side location, explore the beach, go sea kayaking, and hike the trails.

Inverness Beach, Inverness

Stroll along the beach boardwalk with the long, sandy beach to one side and golfing action at Cabot Links, Canada’s first true links course, on the other side. Take to the beach to find seaglass treasures and to swim in some of the warmest ocean waters you’ll find in Atlantic Canada. Stick around for sunset – you won’t be disappointed!

Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Experience an eagle’s view of the Cabot Trail from the top of the Skyline Trail located within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Watch for whales in the Strait below and for wildlife and the many boreal birds that call the area home. Visit during off-peak times like early morning and later afternoon or enjoy a guided Sunset Hike.

Highland Village Museum, Iona

Overlooking the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake in the village of Iona, the Highland Village Museum brings to life Nova Scotia’s Gaelic culture, heritage, and hospitality. Experience life as a Gael during your tour of this living history museum.

An aerial view of a living history museum at sunset.

Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Enjoy spectacular coastal views from the panoramic roadside look-offs, pristine beaches, maintained hiking trails, and warm Celtic and Acadian hospitality as you experience this 300 kilometre (186 mile) coastal highway, one of the best scenic drives in Canada. Be sure to stop at one (or all) 26 look-offs located all all the highway.

An aerial view of a car driving along the coastal roadway Cabot Trail

The Big Fiddle, Sydney Waterfront

Our Scottish and Irish roots run deep here and it should come as no surprise to find the world’s largest fiddle on the waterfront in Sydney. Pose for a selfie with it and be sure to take in a ceilidh while you’re visiting Cape Breton.

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

With its dramatic coastline, 18th-century buildings, and costumed interpreters, visiting the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site is like stepping into a living postcard. Whether you’re capturing the cannon smoke or the coastal views, your camera (or phone!) will love it here.

Two women look at the Fortress of Louisbourg, an 18th century reconstructed fortress.

Margaree Area

If you’re chasing fall colours, head to the Margaree area. Rolling hills, winding rivers, and fiery autumn leaves make every turn a photo op. Get ready for some seriously stunning shots.

A woman stands through the top of a red Jeep taking a photo of the vibrant fall colours on her phone.

Sunsets in Chéticamp

Sunsets in the Chéticamp over the water are next-level gorgeous. The sky lights up with oranges and yellows. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to pause, snap a few photos, and just take it all in.

Cape Clear

Cape Clear is one of those “wow” spots you’ve gotta see to believe—endless views of the highlands and a perfect perch for jaw-dropping photos. The best part? You can take a guided tour there with TNT Outdoor Adventures, so you can sit back, enjoy the ride, and focus on getting that perfect shot any time of year.

Gondola at Cape Smokey

The Gondola at Cape Smokey is a must-do for photo lovers—every season brings its own kind of wow. In spring and summer, you’ll catch lush green views and sparkling ocean; fall lights up with colour, and winter turns everything into a snowy wonderland. No matter when you ride, your camera roll’s going to thank you.