Cape Breton Island is part of Nova Scotia, Canada, and is known for its rocky shores, glacial valleys, and mountains. It is well known for the Cabot Trail. It is a 298 kilometer (185 miles) loop of roadways, paths, and stairs.
Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island are known for their temperate ocean waters due to the Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream brings warmer ocean water up to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island, which is the northernmost part of Nova Scotia. The Gulf Stream bypasses the New England coastline of the United States so vacationers from New England will be pleasantly surprised that the water is warmer in Nova Scotia. Ingonish Beach is a beautiful beach and has warm crystal clear ocean water. When we were there we could see a lobster and crab exploring the ocean floor. A freshwater lake is not far from the beach and may be more suitable for small children that are afraid of the ocean waves.
One fun activity while at Cape Breton Island is to take the Puffin Tour. Donelda’s Puffin Boat Tours out of Englishtown takes you out on their 45-foot vessel to the Bird Islands with Eagle’s sightings along the way. Make sure to bring a good high-speed camera to take those action shots.
You will need a zoom lens for the Puffins since the puffins are small and may not be close to the boat. Mid-June to Mid- August is the best time to see the Puffins.
You may also want to bring binoculars for viewing the Puffins, some are on the cliffside of the island, flying overhead or bobbing up and down in the water. Keep a keen eye out for the Puffins.
Puffin in Flight
Fort Louisbourg is a National Historic Site of Canada. Although partially re-built in the 1960s and 1970s, the restoration used some of the original stonework and looks authentic. The fort is about one quarter the size of the original size and there is a lot to explore for an entire day. There numerous re-enactors throughout the fort with interactive events, like joining the re-enactors for some traditional dance, watching a Blacksmith at work, or enjoying some freshly baked bread.
Other Activities:
Go listen to some traditional Gaelic music or Céilidh at the Gaelic College in Saint Anns either for lunch Monday through Fridays for $15 including lunch or Wednesday nights 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM for $10 per person.