2 days
- Cape Breton Island
You’ll find breathtaking vistas, exciting ski opportunities, and more on a trip from Baddeck to Ingonish. Plus, experience art, culture, delicious dining, and outdoor adventure in the Sydney area this winter.
1 Day 1: Baddeck & Ingonish area
For those looking to spend the day in the crisp winter air, a tour with TNT Outdoor Adventures, located in Hunter’s Mountain, may be what you’re after. With options for outdoor enthusiasts, families, or friends, reserve your spot on a full-day or multi-day guided adventure via side-by-side or snowmobile.
Nearby in Nyanza, Big Spruce Brewing’s organic, on-farm craft brewery and hop yard not only offers delicious local beer and seltzers but features a commanding south-facing view of the Bras d’Or Lakes from their taproom where you can relax after your day of adventure.
When you’re ready to lay your head to rest, there are lots of options in the Baddeck area. Selkie’s Rest is home to three lighthouse themed luxury cottages, while Inverary Resort boasts a pampered experience at the spa, a meal in the onsite Narrows Cafe & Bar, and a dip in the heated pool and hot tub.
For a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, book in at Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort, located in Indian Brook. Overnight in a Mongolian or Cedar-style yurt or family sized chalet, glamping dome or tree house, and relax in one of their hot tubs.
Further along the Cabot Trail, the Ingonish area offers plenty to explore, with Cape Smokey near the top of the list. Winter on Cape Smokey offers terrain perfect for snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and snowboarding. Make sure to take a trip up Atlantic Canada’s first gondola to catch breathtaking 360 views of the Ingonish area. When you get hungry, enjoy a warm meal at the base of Cape Smokey or ride to the top for local snacks and beverages at the Summit Shack.
In Ingonish, stop by Main Street Restaurant and Bakery for a meal focused on locally caught seafood, or grab a coffee and sweet treat at The Bitsy Bean Café.
Cozy up in the rustic accommodations at the Knotty Pine Cottages, or lay your head at Ingonish by the Sea for a casual seaside experience with views of the rugged coastline.
2 Day 2: Sydney Area
Local dining awaits at restaurants like 7 by 7, Kiju’s Restaurant in the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, and Governor’s Pub & Eatery – where local food and music are both on the menu. Make sure to stop by Breton Brewing or Island Folk Cider Company to sample Sydney’s craft beverage industry.
It’s easy to immerse yourself in arts and culture in Sydney. The stunning gallery shop at the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design contains the work of more than 90 Cape Breton artisans with hundreds of unusual and one-of-a-kind items on display and available for purchase. At the Highland Arts Theatre, enjoy theatre, music and more in this renovated former church. Visit Membertou Heritage Park and experience indoor and outdoor exhibits depicting the living history of the Mi’kmaw people of Membertou.
Just outside Sydney, find outdoor adventure and a cozy stay at Ski Ben Eoin and nearby Resort at Ben Eoin. Featuring 11 runs, the ski hill also offers options for cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, while the resort overlooks the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes.
Sydney is home to numerous hotels including the Simon Hotel, the Hearthstone Inn, Travelodge and more, as well as quaint accommodations like the Back Home Bed and Breakfast.
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