The Grand Narrows Hotel
Iona & Area
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
About
Standing prominently on the eastern shores of the Barra Strait on the Bras d’Or Lakes, this grand three storey structure (Second Empire) was built as an elegant fifteen bedroom hotel in 1887.
With large gathering rooms, two full length verandas, spacious bedrooms, and a grand winding staircase. It features the privacy and space of a hotel with the added touch of a friendly rural vacation rental.
Our location on a large beachfront property ensures that guests can enjoy swimming in the clean, crystal clear waters of Bras d’Or, the largest and most beautiful saltwater lake in the world. Stroll down a quiet country road that hugs the shoreline where two natural marshes provide shelter to an abundance of birds and other wildlife. Watch the eagles soar overhead, and enjoy still summer evenings on the front veranda with breathtaking sunsets over the hills of Iona. The Barra Strait Marina and Wheelhouse Café are only a few steps away, which adds to the charm of Grand Narrows.
The Grand Narrows Hotel vacation rental is conveniently located in Central Cape Breton, making it the ideal base for travelling to many of the Island’s destinations, such as the Eileanan Breagha Vineyards, Big Spruce Brewing, Uisge Ban Fall, Highland Village Museum, The Cabot Trail, Fortress of Louisbourg, numerous golf courses, and more.
Amenities
- There will be hot and cold breakfast served between 7:30 and 10 am daily
- Lite daily housekeeping
- Shared use of Lower Verandah and garden area as well as two large entertainment salons
- Use of private beach in front of Hotel with fire pit and beach chairs
- Hi Definition wall projector with 10 foot screen. Streaming capable wireless internet throughout building
- Bicycles and a tandem Kayak available for use free of charge
- Licensed Wheelhouse Cafe (very good food!) is right across the road!
- Barra Straight Marina – boat launch, laundry, showers
Amenities
Kayak/Paddleboard Rental Television WiFi
Location & Contact
Social Media
Nearby
Locals Know Blog

Explore the Bras d’Or – A Fall Gem
Tammy Aucoin and Chris van den Berg are both local hiking and adventure ambassadors and nature lovers who reside in Cheticamp, Cape Breton Island. @capebretonhiker & @keepexploringcapebreton

Sydney
While there are countless places on Cape Breton Island to get away from it all, Sydney and area offers a different experience—urban amenities and downtown vibes with a waterfront feel.

Choose your Adventures with A For Adventure!
A for Adventure is coming to Cape Breton! Where are they going to go and what are they doing? Well, that's up to YOU! Visit our Facebook page to vote on where they will go and...
Related Resources