Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village Museum

Iona and Area

Dive into rich Gaelic culture and heritage, discover one-of-a-kind wilderness and ocean life, and lay your head to rest in historic inns and cozy vacations rentals, in Iona Cape Breton Island.

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Explore North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture at the Highland Village Museum and experience a traditional céilidh, learn to speak Gaelic phrases, hear singing, and more. For those looking to immerse themselves in unique natural environments, the extensive watershed, subtle tides, sheltered coves, and secluded beaches of the Bras d’Or Lakes Biosphere are waiting.

Located an hour from both Sydney and the beginning of the world-famous Cabot Trail, this area is the perfect opportunity to explore the road less traveled.

Top Things to do in Iona

A child and costumed interpreter, guide a work horse at Highland Village

Highland Village Museum | Baile nan Gàidheal

Discover Gaelic culture at this immersive living history museum
Watch costumed animators demonstrate traditional skills, such as weaving, quilting, and rug hooking
Explore farmhouses, the church, a Hebridean style house, and a general store reflective of the 1830’s to 1900’s
Meet the resident Clydesdale horse, Mira Jean!

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Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere

Designated a UNESCO Biosphere which recognizes locals living in harmony with nature and works to promote a healthy environment, economy and culture
The extensive watershed offers a number of trails with sweeping views of the Bras d’Or Lake – from picturesque gorges to towering waterfalls
Home to Mi’kmaw First Nations and descendants of early French, Scottish, and English settlers, surrounding communities maintain close ties with their culture

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Eskasoni Cultural Journeys

Discover authentic Mi’kmaw culture along a picturesque 2.4 km trail on Goat Island
Enjoy a guided tour along the trail by a Mi’kmaq cultural interpretive as you visit several stations, each offering a unique experience to learn
Immerse yourself in traditional music, drumming, dance, storytelling, and traditional Mi’kmaq cooking

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Fried haddock, peas, carrots, and mashed potatoes

Darby’s Old Church Kitchen

Enjoy a meal in a unique setting – a former church and community centre
Savour home-cooked meals, traditional Sunday dinners, roasted turkey sandwiches, and more – all made from scratch
Located only a short drive from the Highland Village Museum, this is a great spot to dine after an afternoon exploring the history of the area

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Àros na Mara Centre of Learning and Discovery

Gaelic for the “House of the Sea,” discover an up-close and hands on view of the Bras d’Or Lake’s sea life
View the onsite touch tank for a snapshot of the biosphere’s unique ecosystem
Interactive exhibits and interpretive panels provide a detailed look at the history of the area as a significant transportation hub

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