Àros na Mara Centre of Learning and Discovery

Iona & Area

About

Àros na Mara, Gaelic for "House of the Sea," invites you to explore, learn, and have fun!

Situated on the picturesque Iona Port in Cape Breton, the Àros na Mara Centre offers a hands-on opportunity to interact with the waters of the unique Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the history of the area. Inside the centre, enthusiastic and informative staff will introduce you to a touch tank featuring a snapshot of the ecosystem of the biosphere, interpretive panels, and hands on learning opportunities. Learn and discover while visiting the site.

Outside, explore the wharf, where you will find a view finder that showcases a stunning view of the port and scenery, as well as informative panels showcasing the significant transportation history of the area. Visitors to the site can also enjoy the nearby coffee shop and ice cream stand.

Amenities

  • Family Friendly
  • Food & Drinks
  • Group Friendly
  • Guided Tours
  • Interactive Elements
  • Parking Available
  • Picnic Area
  • Walk-ins Welcome
  • Washrooms Available
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Locals Know Blog

Songs for the Ages

Before they were committed to memory and passed down and around through the ages, the traditional songs of today were once brand new.

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The Northern Hidden Gem – Meat Cove

We sent woodsman and instagrammer Chuck Wrathall to the northern tip of the island to explore and report back to us on Meat Cove!

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Cape Breton Island’s Epic Winter Bucket List

Read through and see how many places, views, and experiences you can check off from this Epic Winter Bucket List!

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