Must see attractions in Cape Breton Island

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The fortunes of the province that became Nova Scotia are inextricably bound up with this mighty fortress, built by the French but battled over countless…

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Telecommunications pioneer and inventor Alexander Graham Bell fell in love with Bras d'Or during a family holiday – apparently the hilly scenery reminded…

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The first distillery in North America (and the only one in Canada) to make single-malt whisky, this renowned producer claims to take its secrets straight…

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Coal mining played a central role in the development of this part of Nova Scotia, so you shouldn't pass up the chance to venture into a disused mine in…

This excellent museum explains how rug hooking went from home-based activity to international business. Artifacts illustrate early life and artisanship in…

This well-run center is one of the region's best places to experience Celtic music. The main exhibit room explores the origins and styles of the local…

This First Nations reserve has an interesting visitor center where you can learn about Mi'kmaw culture, and workshops (from $25) where you can try your…

Stop in this wonderful provincial park, 10km north of the Cabot Trail en route to Bay St Lawrence, to enjoy Aspy Bay and its spectacular beach.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Bras d'Or Lake, this living-history museum explores the region's Gaelic heritage. Costumed Scots demonstrate the day…

Canada's first lighthouse was built on this wild, rugged and extremely scenic site in 1734. The present lighthouse, a handsome concrete structure, was…

In Sydney's North End, well-preserved Jost House belonged to merchant Samuel Sparrow. It has a modest collection of artifacts and furniture illustrating…

Mi-Carême, celebrated in the middle of Lent, is Chéticamp's answer to Mardi Gras. Locals wear masks and disguises, and visit houses in a bid to get people…

Built in 1787, Cossit House is the oldest residence in Sydney and one of the oldest surviving buildings in Nova Scotia. It was the home of Reverend Ranna…

Inverness County Centre for the Arts is a beautiful establishment with several galleries and an upmarket gift shop featuring works by local and regional…

This small crescent of sand is pretty much as far north as you can get in Nova Scotia. The name is believed to derive from the beach's popularity as a…

Built in 1828 in Pioneer Gothic style, St Patrick's is the oldest Catholic church on Cape Breton Island and now houses a museum recounting Sydney's…

The unique and photogenic 1893 Église St Pierre dominates the town with its silver spire and colorful frescoes.

Just south of Baddeck, Wagmatcook First Nation (www.wagmatcook.com) is composed of two Mi'kmaq communities. You can learn a little more about them at this…

At the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts & Crafts, about 20km north of Baddeck, this museum traces Celtic history from ancient times to the Highland…

This small village museum explores the history of fishing in the Margaree Valley, with a collection of rods, reels, flies and vintage photos.