Highland Village Museum/Baile nan Gàidheal

Discover North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture when you visit Highland Village Museum | Baile nan Gàidheal. Our breathtaking 43-acre site features one of the most unbelievable views of the Bras d’Or Lake, eleven historic buildings, including three frame houses (c1830-1900), a store, a carding mill, a church, a shingle mill and a forge.

Take part in a traditional céilidh, hear Gaelic singing, learn to speak Gaelic phrases, and become captivated by the spirit of the pioneering Scottish Gaels. Gaze in wonder as first-person costumed animators demonstrate traditional skills such as weaving, quilting and rug hooking. Explore the beautiful rural setting that features a Hebridean style blackhouse, a 19th-century wooden church, period farmhouses, and rare farm animals such as Soay sheep and Highland cattle. 

Parking is available on site and bus tours are welcome. Visit the village’s gift shop for a wide selection of souvenirs, unique gifts and Celtic music, or consult the site’s genealogical service, Roots Cape Breton.