Bell Museum Baddeck to Highland Village Museum Iona

The Seal Island Bridge connects Boularderie Island to Cape Breton Island, crossing the Great Bras d’Or Channel. Opened in 1961, it is the third-longest bridge in Nova Scotia, stretching about 716 meters. The bridge is not only an important travel route along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 105), but it also offers stunning views of the Bras d’Or Lake, surrounding mountains, and small communities nearby. Many travelers stop at viewpoints to take pictures of the bridge and the scenery. It’s considered a gateway to the Cabot Trail, making it a must-see spot for anyone touring Cape Breton.

Perched high above St. Ann’s Bay on the Cabot Trail, the St. Ann’s Lookoff is one of Cape Breton’s most breathtaking viewpoints. From here, visitors can see rolling highlands, sparkling waters, and the Englishtown area far below. It’s a popular stop for travelers to stretch, take photos, and enjoy panoramic views before continuing their Cabot Trail journey. On clear days, the lookout offers some of the best scenery on the island, especially in autumn when the highlands glow with colorful foliage. A true “don’t miss” stop along the Cabot Trail.

Baddeck is a charming village on the northern shore of Cape Breton Island, known for its rich history and stunning views of the Bras d’Or Lake. Originally a Mi’kmaq settlement, the area became a small Scottish community in the early 19th century. Baddeck gained international fame as the home of Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, who lived here with his family and conducted many of his experiments. Visitors can explore the Bell Museum, historic homes, and enjoy picturesque streets lined with shops and galleries. Today, Baddeck is a popular gateway to the Cabot Trail, offering a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.

The Grand Narrows Ferry, officially called the Little Bras d’Or Ferry, is a charming and historic ferry service in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, connecting Grand Narrows (Grand Narrows) to Iona across the Bras d’Or Lake. This short ferry ride offers visitors a scenic glimpse of Cape Breton’s waterways, surrounded by forests and waterside communities. It’s not just a convenient way to travel—it’s also a memorable experience, letting travelers enjoy the natural beauty of the lake from the water. Operating seasonally, the ferry is a great stop for those exploring the Cabot Trail or visiting nearby attractions like Baddeck, Iona, and the Highland Village Museum.

Highland Village is a living history museum in Iona, Nova Scotia, dedicated to preserving and sharing the Scottish Gaelic culture of Cape Breton Island. The site recreates traditional 18th and 19th century Scottish Highland settlements, complete with historic buildings, gardens, and artifacts. Visitors can walk through the village, meet costumed interpreters, and see demonstrations of traditional crafts, music, and farming techniques. Highland Village offers a hands-on experience of Scottish heritage, storytelling, and cultural celebrations, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Cape Breton’s history and Celtic roots. It’s an immersive way to step back in time and understand the life, traditions, and resilience of early Scottish settlers in Nova Scotia.

The St. Patrick’s Church Museum is Sydney’s oldest Roman Catholic church, built in 1828. This historic stone church is now a museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the Irish Catholic families who shaped Cape Breton. It’s a perfect spot to step back in time and experience Sydney’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

The Ephraim Scott Memorial Church is a charming historic church located in the picturesque village of Baddeck on Cape Breton Island. Built in the late 19th century, the church is named in honor of Ephraim Scott, a respected local figure, and reflects the classic wooden architecture of rural Nova Scotia churches of that era. With its simple yet elegant design, the church has long served as a spiritual and community hub for Baddeck residents. Visitors can admire its quaint steeple, traditional wooden pews, and serene atmosphere, which make it a peaceful stop for those exploring the village. The church also highlights the heritage and close-knit community spirit that characterizes Baddeck.

The Bras d’Or Lookoff is one of Cape Breton Island’s most scenic viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Bras d’Or Lake, a large inland sea that stretches across the island. From this vantage point, visitors can see rolling hills, forests, and the sparkling waters that make the area a natural wonder. This lookout is perfect for photography, quiet reflection, or simply taking in the stunning beauty of Cape Breton. It’s also a great stop for travelers exploring the Cabot Trail or nearby historic towns like Baddeck, providing a peaceful spot to admire the island’s unique landscapes.