These coastal communities are woven together by musical tradition and warm welcoming locals. Honest, authentic, and proud of their heritage—this is a coast shaped by song, strings, and sometimes, even the spoons.
Set along the Island’s western coast, it’s home to world-class fiddlers, whole clans of musicians, folk artists, and inspiring landscapes. You won’t just hear it, you’ll see, taste it, and be moved by its warmth.
While this coast is certainly musically inclined you can’t forget that it is still a magnificent Cape Breton coastline. With everything from championship greens, to epic whale-watching tours, the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, and more you will not be disappointed.
This is one of the longest off-road sections of the Trans Canada/Great Trail in Nova Scotia is the 90 km/56.25 mi from the Canso Causeway to Inverness along the west coast of Cape Breton Island. It makes for a perfect walking and biking trail as well as a trail for snowmobilers.
Experience some of the islands championship greens. Take in the post-card worthy views while playing at Cabot Cliffs and stand alongside the rugged coastline while playing at Cabot Links. Your golf experience in Canada’s Musical Coast is truly one of a kind.
Need to stretch your legs? Blueberry Mountain, and Cape Mabou Highlands, along with many others, provide scenic views where mountains meet the sea.
Come stay awhile, we have everything you and the family could ever want and need. We have cabins, campgrounds, cottages, domes, villas, and more! You can even enjoy a few nights at a local distillery – whisky anyone?
Enjoy Canada’s Musical Coast with various snowshoe hikes, festivals, and community events.
The Musical Coast is home to some unique dining experiences. With mouth-watering seafood and chocolate coded desserts, it makes restaurant preferences nearly impossible.
Learn about Acadian culture and traditions at the Centre de la Mi-Carême. See how the Canso Causeway, our connection to mainland Nova Scotia was built at the Port Hastings Historical Society Museum and Archives. Learn the Gaelic language at An Drochaid (The Bridge) Museum among other fun cultural museums and heritage sites.
There are direct flights to Sydney from Toronto and Montreal and from other North American and European cities via Halifax. If traveling by ground, the Trans-Canada Highway 104 leads to Cape Breton Island.
Getting Here and Around
In the last few years, winter culinary offerings have expanded greatly, and there are so many delicious ways to take a bite out of winter!
Have you wanted to take a weekend trip to Cape Breton in the winter but don’t know where to start? Here's an itinerary from our ambassador Kyler's visit to Cape Breton Island to help guide you on your next Cape Breton Island adventure!
Why not give snowshoeing a try this winter. Check out our list of places to rent snowshoes so you can test out this winter sport before committing to purchasing any gear.
Not ready to welcome the winter just yet? Destination Cape Breton has you covered. Why not check out a local accommodation with a hot tub or a jacuzzi?
I’m Chuck Wrathall, a woodsman & photographer. I’m normally found hiking, camping, and practicing wilderness skills in the Cape Breton Highlands. Coffee in one hand, camera in the other. @chuckwrathall
The Gaels celebrated their culture not in huge buildings or sculptures but in their songs. Their songs told the stories of the people, the land, good times and bad, love's lost and yearned for.
Canada’s Musical Coast has more square dances than stop signs! Jump into the action and take in some live Celtic music as the family square dance. Mix & mingle with locals that are keen to teach you the ways of a long-standing family tradition. Step your way to meeting you new friends and lasting memories as you dance the night away.