Magnificent natural beauty is the attraction on Cape Breton. Every year thousands of people travel the famous Cabot Trail through the craggy splendor of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. But Cape Breton’s beauty is not limited to these two renowned sights; it can be found along inviting country roads and in the less explored corners of this green, fertile island. Particularly stunning are the Mabou Highlands, which cradle the gentle waters of Lake Ainslee, Bras d’Or Lake where eagles soar over scenic shores, and romantic coastal villages such as windswept Gabarus. The reconstructed 18th-century French garrison and village, Fortress Louisbourg, is also highly popular.

Cabot Trail Highway This sublime 300-km (186-mile) drive around the island’s northwest and its national park attracts more visitors each year.

 

St. Pierre Church at Cheticamp Built in 1883, the silver spire of this church is typical of Catholic style. The church is in the center of the town of Cheticamp, which offers whale-watching opportunites and is the focus of the 3,000-strong local Acadian community.

 

Lake Ainslee This tranquil lake, encircled by scenic roads, attracts many bird species, such as ospreys and loons, which feed on its shores.

 

Meat Cove Famous as one of the most beautiful places on Cape Breton, Meat Cove is a stunning bay with fine views of the ocean.

 

Sydney The third-largest town in Nova Scotia, Sydney is a comparatively small town with a long history as a mining center. The main draw today is its heritage housing.

 

Sydney Mines coastal town dates back to the 1700s, with mining shafts that reach 5 km (3 miles) out to sea.

 

The Alexander Graham Bell Museum sits on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake, Bell’s summer home for 30 years. Plans, copies, and prototypes of many of his most famous inventions can be seen here.

Fortress Louisbourg The reconstructed fort and village is ideal for a walk and tour through the 1744 past of French Canada. Attractive hiking trails surround the site.