ADVENTURE GUIDE 2019 FACTS + STATS - About Cape Breton - Cabot Links
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Cabot ADVENTURE GUIDE 2019 CABOTLINKS.COM FACTS + STATS About Cape Breton ADVENTURES + ACTIVITIES Around Cabot ENTERTAINMENT, EVENTS + Culinary Experiences
Explore There’s plenty to do in Cape Breton – from exploring the Cabot Trail to hiking and fishing – and Cabot’s convenient location makes it easy to take all of this in. Consider a week at Cabot filled with enchanting day trips perfect for a couple or with the whole family. For more information or to book your next adventure, please contact one of our Guest Assistants at 1-855-652-2268. IN THIS ISSUE Cape Breton Facts + Stats 4-5 Nearby Destinations 6-7 Adventures + Activities 8-17 Culinary Experiences 18-21 The Artisan Experience 22-23 Events + Entertainment 24-27 2 ADVENTURE GUIDE 3
Cape Bre ton SCOTTISH ROOTS Facts + Stats ENGULFED Around 15,000 Scots, most from the Wondering what body of water you Highlands and Islands of Scotland, are gazing at from your room or the igrated to Canada between 1770 fairway? Inverness is located along and 1815. They started a new life in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence which is a Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island part of the Atlantic Ocean. The Gulf and Quebec. Gaelic became the third has slightly different characteristics most common European language than the ocean, such as warmer and spoken in Canada. The flag of Nova often calmer waters due to being Scotia is a combination of the flags of surrounded by land on three sides. This Scotland: The Lion Rampant and the is especially true of the west side of the Saltire. Since the arrival of the first island, where Cabot Links is located. Scots, Nova Scotians have maintained their Scottish roots. The Scots who settled in Nova Scotia developed fishing, farming and shipwright CAPE BRETON CONNECTION traditions that endure today. The Cape Breton Island is only connected Gaelic language and traditional to the mainland of Nova Scotia by music still flourish in Nova Scotia a man-made causeway. Prior to the and Cape Breton. causeway’s completion, the only access to the island was by boat, ferry or train. A causeway was built rather than a bridge as it is more structurally POPULATION sound and able to withstand the Inverness: 1,248 extreme pressure of shifting ice and high winds during winter months. After Sydney: 29,904 10 million tons of rock, Cape Breton Cape Breton: 98,722 was permanently connected to the Halifax (HRM): 403,131 Mainland on Friday December 10, 1954. Nova Scotia: 923,598 An official opening took place several months later on August 13, 1955. 4 ADVENTURE GUIDE 5
Meat Cove Cape North Bay St. Lawrence Pleasant Bay Cabot’s Landing Cape North Dingwall White Point Cape Breton Highlands Chéticamp National Park Neils Harbour of Canada Destinations St. Joseph du Moine Ingonish Cape Smokey 219 East Margaree Nearby Wreck Cove Margaree Forks Margaree Valley Inverness Northeast 395 Margaree Indian Brook Glenville . 312 Bird Islands Lake Port Hood Halifax Baddeck Mabou Ainslie St. Ann’s Englishtown 162 3 hours, 40 mins 1 hour Sydney oAr 19 252 Mines Capital of Nova Scotia Home of Alexander Graham Bell Museum 105 Bras d’Or 205 Indian Beach North Sydney We’koma’q Baddeck New Waterford Judique 28 Dominion Halifax Airport Ingonish Little Narrows Boisdale Westmount Sydney Glace Bay 3 hours, 15 mins 2 hours, 30 mins Iona 223 Craigmore Orangedale Sydney River Reserve Mines Grand Narrows Sydney Forks YHZ Stanfield International Airport Hiking trails & Highlands Links Golf Marble Eskasoni 327 Course Mountain Marion 22 105 255 Bras d’Or Lake Biosphere Reserve Ben Eoin Bridge Port Hawkesbury Bras d’Or Lake (UNESCO) 4 Big Pond River Mira Gut Beach Port Hastings Judique ira 1 hour, 10 mins Scaterie M Irish Cove Island 45 mins Dundee Walmart, Fast Food Restaurants, Mall 4 Louisbourg Port St.Peter ’s Celtic Interpretive Centre Hawkesbury Louisdale Gabarus Sydney 206 Cheticamp 320 247 1 hour, 50 mins 344 Arichat Isle Madame Fourchu 50 mins Grand Point Movie Theatre, Mall, Airport, Hospital River Michaud Whale Watching & Museums, Gypsum Mines Sydney Airport 2 hours YQY JA Douglas McCurdy Airport 6 ADVENTURE GUIDE 7
ADVENTURES + ACTIVITIES SKYLINE TRAIL UISGE BAN FALLS 1 hour 2-3 hour loop (7.5km) Easy 1 hour 1-2 hours (4km) Easy Likely the most talked about trail Gaelic for “white water”, Uisge Ban (ish-ka-ban) experience on the Island, the Skyline is a Falls has a four kilometre (2.4 mile) trail which seven-kilometer, looping, hiking trail on the passes through a hardwood forest comprised western side of the Cabot Trail. A dramatic largely of maple, birch and beech woods; and headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast leads to the 16 metre (50 foot) high waterfall. from the end of this level path, offering an The Falls Trail is approximately three kilometres eagle’s view of the Cabot Trail as it winds (1.8 miles) in length and requires about one its way down the mountain towards the hour to complete. The trail passes through a sea. Whales can be spotted in the Gulf of field then follows Falls Brook upstream through St. Lawrence along the route while moose, a mixed forest and then a hardwood forest. bald eagles and numerous boreal birds also The deep stream valley narrows dramatically frequent the area. near Uisge Ban Falls. At the falls, the sheer walls of the gorge tower 150 metres (500 CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS feet) on either side. The Uisge Ban Falls Park NATIONAL PARK features picnic facilities and a hiking trail to Varying Varying Varying the impressive 16-m (52-ft.) high Uisge Ban Cape Breton Highlands National Park’s Waterfall. hiking trails range from easy strolls to Hiking & Walking challenging climbs with panoramic views of canyons, highlands and seacoasts. The trails provide a chance to intimately explore the complex habitat of northern Cape Breton Distance from Cabot Island. Awaken your senses as you explore Cape Breton Island is renowned as a hiker’s paradise. Explore the unique natural remote waterfalls, tranquil lakes, swooping panoramic views, and cliff-bound river Duration beauty of western Cape Breton through a variety of trails in the area. With a number of hiking and walking trails ranging from treks alongside rugged coastlines and sandy canyons. beaches, to trails featuring waterfalls and mountaintop vistas, there are plenty of EGYPT FALLS Difficulty options for all skill levels. 25 mins 1-2 hour loop (2km) Difficult EASY: Family-friendly trails that are Egypt Falls, or Piper’s Glen as you may suitable for all visitors find in some guide books, features a short MODERATE: Medium length trails with 15-minute trail to the falls, descending moderate elevation gain and some short, INVERNESS BOARDWALK GYPSUM MINE TRAIL downhill through a stand of mixed steep sections. Suitable for most visitors 1 min 30 mins Easy 50 mins 1 hour loop Easy hardwoods. The last five minutes forces Beginning just off Inverness’ Central Avenue This short hike follows an old railway bed DIFFICULT: Longer trails with long, steep you to ascend the steep walls of the gorge, and continuing along the Inverness Beach and sections that are suitable for visitors who built in the early 1900’s. The established trail revealing a beautiful waterfall. Ropes are the Cabot Links golf course, the Inverness have trail experience and are prepared leads you to white gypsum cliffs and a secret in place for added support. A great spot to Boardwalk offers miles of panoramic views in swimming spot in this pristine emerald lake have a swim and relax in nature with a picnic every direction. Amidst the coastal scenery and refreshing ocean breeze, it’s the ideal near the Acadian village of Cheticamp. and some good company. Number of People spot for a relaxing stroll or jog. 8 ADVENTURE GUIDE 9
ADVENTURES + ACTIVITIES INGONISH CABOT TRAIL TOUR Spend the day in the luxury of a Cabot Home to rugged headlands, sandy Mercedes Sprinter as you experience a beaches, lush green valleys and wild, open guided tour of one of the world's most barrens, Ingonish is the gateway to the scenic destinations, with old-growth Cape Breton Highlands National Park. forests, stunning ocean vistas and the Golfers will enjoy playing the 18-hole natural ruggedness of the Cape Breton Highlands Links, a former World Top 100 Highlands. Course and the best course in Canada in There is so much to see and do while 2000 by Score Golf magazine. exploring the Cabot Trail. Stop at one of the many unique Artisan shops, or the Cape Breton Highlands National Park for BADDECK a guided backcountry hike and picnic. There are many restaurants along the The Ultimate Road Trip Learn all about the inventor of the telephone at the Alexander Graham Bell trail serving up the best fresh, local seafood including lobster, oysters, National Historic Site. Enjoy a behind- mussels, and crab. the-scenes tour, getting you up close and Keep your eyes open for the many moose personal with Alexander Graham Bell’s With its salt-tanged villages and mountainous interior cloaked in dense woods, Cape who call the Highlands home. The Cabot photos, mementos, gadgets and gizmos! Breton is the prize of Nova Scotia, a green getaway splashed with lakes and lapped by Trail is not to be missed in October, as While in Baddeck, boat around the Bras the fall foliage is in full bloom. the blue waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. d'Or Lake for a view of the Bell mansion, Among the island’s greatest treasures lies the world-renowned Cabot Trail. Winding its as well as nesting bald eagles and the lush THE MINI CABOT TRAIL way along the northern tip of the island and showcasing some of the most spectacular Baddeck shoreline. Amoeba Sailing Tours If you don’t have time to experience all scenery in all of Canada, this 298-kilometer-long trail is a bucket list experience for offers daily 90minute sailing trips on its that the Cabot Trail has to offer, take a many. Whether you have time for the entire trail, or just a half day trip, you’re sure to 67-foot (20-meter) handcrafted vessel drive down Broad Cove Marsh Road and enjoy the beautiful scenery, culture and history along the way. that Captain John Bryson's parents built it’s as if you did. Breath-taking scenery nearly 30 years ago. boasting incredible ocean views and the slow drive will leave you with a deeper appreciation of what life is like in Cape Breton. Only a short drive from Cabot CHÉTICAMP PLEASANT BAY Cliffs, this is one not to be missed! Thriving with Acadian culture, this quaint Where the majestic rolling hills meet the fishing village is located just on the cusp of the sparkling ocean, the horizon is always Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Acadian speckled with brightly coloured fishing boats food, traditional rug hooking, whale watching, - the foundation of this small town’s vibrant and a variety of outdoor activities should be economy. Taste the fresh seafood at one of the on your Cheticamp agenda. Wind down on many seaside restaurants or take in a musical the boardwalk overlooking the harbor and whale cruise. watch the sun go down while listening to live Don’t miss out on the hiking trails and picnic Acadian music. parks, including the spectacular trails of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Lone Sheiling at the Scottish Crofters hut to learn about the early European settlers. 10 ADVENTURE GUIDE 11
Water ADVENTURES + ACTIVITIES Hit the THE CELTIC SHORES COASTAL TRAIL 2 mins 1 hour to full day Easy As part of the Trans-Canada trail, the Biking 92-km Celtic Shores Coastal Trail stretches from Port Hastings to Inverness. With an entrance at the south end of town, this wondrous trail can be accessed easily to explore the best of Cape Breton’s seacoast. Along the way you will find KAYAKING & PADDLEBOARDING MARGAREE RIVER GUIDED TOUR Cabot has a fleet of bikes that are active fishing harbors, warm-water available to our guests for a small rental 2 mins Hourly Rental Easy 20 mins 2.5-3 hours Easy beaches, great pubs and some of the best fee. The nearby Celtic Shores Coastal A great way to spend some leisurely time Spend the morning or afternoon with an live music you’ll find anywhere – hands Trail provides the perfect spot to start on the water, enjoy a unique perspective unforgettable experience on the down. Along the trail, you’ll encounter your biking adventure. Take a spin to the of the spectacular coastline in a kayak Margaree River with a guided paddle awe-inspiring natural beauty, paired with nearby community of Mabou and enjoy or on a stand-up paddleboard. The calm, board or kayak tour. the vibrant Celtic culture of our region. lunch at the Red Shoe Pub. If driving warm waters and beautiful sunsets will be a This exceptional trail system meanders Wave to the anglers as you paddle with the back is not in the plans, we can arrange highlight of your trip to Inverness. Excursions along the coast providing first-class trail gentle flow of the river through salmon pools, to pick you up in one of our Mercedes depart from McIsaac’s pond in Inverness, just experiences for both guests and past the Gaspereau traps, and along lush Sprinters for a charge. Ask one of our a 2-minute drive from Cabot Links. locals alike. farmlands en-route to Margaree Forks. An guest services agents to get you set experienced, knowledgeable guide will help up and we will get you started on your TUBING you along the way while giving you a brief scenic tour of Cape Breton. 30 mins 2-3 hours Easy history of the area we love so much. Take a break from the Links and relax on the World famous Margaree River. Let the currents Yoga take you downstream as you kick back and dip your toes in the river. Keep your eyes peeled for salmon, eagles and the occasional otter. YOGA Duration 1 hour Cabot offers one-hour private sessions that are customized based on Guest requests. Sessions are offered from Beginner to Intermediate to Advanced. Whether you are looking for deep relaxation, strengthening and stretching, or a custom program to enhance your golf game, we will craft a practice that is suitable to your needs. Cabot will also offer pop-up classes throughout the season which will include Beach and Sunrise Yoga. 12 13 ADVENTURE GUIDE 13
ADVENTURES + Walk the walk ACTIVITIES The Inverness beach is over two miles long! Aside from one small river, the beach is an uninterrupted sandy stretch, so as long as you don’t mind getting your feet wet, you can walk the entire beach. If you’re not a fan of sand between your toes, the boardwalk offers a great happy medium. Beginning just off Inverness’s Central Avenue and continuing along the Inverness Beach and the Cabot Links golf course, the Inverness Boardwalk offers miles of panoramic views in every direction. Amidst the coastal scenery and refreshing ocean breeze, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxing stroll or jog. Kick Back Planning to kick back and relax for a day at the beach? We are happy to arrange transportation, beach activities or whip up a great picnic of your choice! Jump in! Not only does Inverness showcase an enormous sandy beach, but also the warmest waters north of the Carolinas! While it’s a tad chilly in the spring and fall, the water levels out to around 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) in July and August. On Guard Beachin' it! In addition to being warm, expansive and close, Inverness Beach also boasts lifeguards so you can enjoy your time at the beach knowing that you’re swimming at one of the few lifeguarded beaches in the province of Nova Scotia. The fully trained lifeguards are on duty from 10AM to 6PM seven days a week. 14 ADVENTURE GUIDE 15
Sail the Seas ADVENTURES + ACTIVITIES to the fishing grounds for the opportunity to BOAT TOUR WITH fight giant Bluefin tuna on board a local fishing ON BOARD LOBSTER boat, through the hook and release program. SUPPER There is a very short and heavily regulated 5 mins 3 Hours 4-10 people commercial season, but dates vary from year Enjoy a relaxing coastal boat tour along the to year. shores of Cabot Links on board a local fishing The hook and release season runs from boat. Take in the stunning sunsets, observe August 1st to October 31st each year. whales, seals, dolphins, eagles and other sea Gone Fishing birds along with incredible coastal views. Enjoy MARGAREE ISLAND the local music, cold refreshments and full 5 mins 2 Hour Tour 4-12 people Lobster supper with all the fixings. This is a true The tour to Margaree Island is a two-hour taste of Atlantic Canada and an experience journey, alighting from the main harbour in that should be shared with friends. If interested Inverness. After a short steam to the island in in experiencing an on-board lobster boil, we SALMON FISHING ON THE you with our experienced, passionate and a local fishing boat, you can view the amazing recommend booking in advance. MARGAREE RIVER knowledgeable n-house Guide, Jimmie creatures found here, including up close and 25 mins Half Day Trips Pederson, who can give you instruction on WHALE WATCHING personal whale sightings. One of the best fly-fishing experiences the basics or, for the advanced sportsmen, 45 mins 2-2.5 Hours Sea Wolf Island National Wildlife Area (NWA), anywhere in the orld, the Margaree River is tips on the best pools and local flies. The shores hugging Cape Breton Island are locally referred to as Margaree Island, is blessed with several species of fish, which Salmon Season runs from June 1st to October teeming with sea life and present one of the located 4 km off the coast of Cape Breton. either inhabit the river or return from the 31st. The Margaree River is fly fishing only. best locations in Nova Scotia to experience a Prominently in view from both Cabot Links surrounding oceans each year to the close encounter and say hello to the Atlantic and Cabot Cliffs, Margaree Island and its Margaree to spawn. It is the Atlantic Salmon DEEP SEA FISHING Ocean’s gentle giants: pods of friendly Pilot and surrounding waters support a wealth of that make the Margaree River world famous, 5 mins 2 Hours 2-10 people Minke whales, great Humpbacks and Finbacks, wildlife and migratory birds. Over forty however, speckled (Brook) trout, brown trout Many fish swim our waters along the coast of as well as dolphins, porpoises, seals and many species of birds and seventy plant species and more recently, Striped Bass are found in Cabot, including mackerel, striped bass, cod other marine wildlife call these waters home. have been recorded on the island. abundance. (seasonal) and many other bottom fish. Hop Located a short drive away in the Acadian In addition, you will see the largest colony of Fall is a spectacular time of year on the on board the 40-foot ‘Seas the Breeze’ for village of Cheticamp, hop aboard the 44 foot Grey seals found anywhere along the shores of Margaree, with the surrounding mountains an amazing adventure. In addition to rod and “Love Boat” where you will not only experience Sea Wolf Island. Also learn about the history of seemingly on fire with colour. The fall season reel, you can also experience traditional hand- some of the best whale watching, but also the Sea Wolf Island and hear the family stories of on the Margaree is also known for Atlantic lining; fishing as it was for hundreds of years, chance to view the magnificent coastline that early lighthouse keepers. Salmon which range in size from 10 to 12lbs, just you, the line and the fish! makes the Cape Breton Highlands National Other frequent sightings include Dolphin Park and the Cabot Trail one of the most scenic reaching up to 40lbs. TUNA CHARTER and Harbour Porpoises, Giant Bluefin Tuna, destinations in the world. This is your chance to embark on a world Leatherback Turtles, Ocean Sunfish, Black 5 mins Up to 4 people class Fly-Fishing experience on Cape Breton This trip is also available out of Inverness The Northern Coast of Nova Scotia is most Back Gulls, Herring Gulls, Great Blue Heron, Island’s Margaree River. We will connect Harbour in August - September. notable for the largest concentration of Bluefin Bald Eagles as well as an eagle’s nest on the una in the world. Tuna charters offer day trips rocky sandstone cliff. 16 ADVENTURE GUIDE 17
CULINARY EXPERIENCES Dining PANORAMA Our premier restaurant, Panorama, more than lives up to its name with some of the most picturesque dining in all of Cape Breton. A culinary destination, Panorama’s CABOT BAR Located in the main clubhouse only feet from the finishing hole at Cabot Links, Cabot Bar offers true Cape Breton hospitality. With a robust collection of whiskies, an award-winning wine list, mouth-watering food and an expansive outdoor patio, Cabot Bar is the perfect place to gather with friends after a round. MABOU FARMER’S MARKET The Mabou Farmer’s Market is an eclectic collection of local food growers, producers, fishers, artisans and crafters who get together each week to offer their wares to the local residents. Whether you choose to enjoy lunch or a snack, take in a musical performance by local talent, or shop for award-winning chefs incorporate local and seasonal local crafts or seasonal produce, the Farmers ingredients into ever-evolving menus. With a bounty CABOT PUBLIC HOUSE Market is a great way to spend your Sunday of seafood brought to our door daily, the maritime Nestled between the Lodge and the main afternoon in the quaint little town of Mabou. inspired menu has all the delights that one would come street of Inverness, The Cabot Public House is to expect in Cape Breton. Imaginative salads, house a bustling spot. With gourmet, inspired pub made pastas and locally raised game round out the food and a great selection of local beers on menu, providing our guests with incredible selection tap, the pub offers an authentic Cape Breton throughout their stay. We are extremely proud to xperience. Plenty of live music and a fun deliver some of the best, most inspired cuisine in the mix of both locals and visitors alike make for Province. The dazzling sunsets combined with our a lively atmosphere that's sure to please. warm Cape Breton hospitality make Panorama an experience not to be missed. 18 ADVENTURE GUIDE 19
In Good Spirits CULINARY EXPERIENCES In North America, a seaside links BOOK A TOUR! course is a rare occurrence, which Only a 10 minute drive is one of the reasons Cabot has from Cabot Links, quickly established itself as one of Contact one of our Guest the best resorts in the world. Assistants for info on Equally rare – at least in North Glenora's VIP tour. America – is a single malt distillery, which is why the pairing Go Local of the Glenora Distillery and Cabot Links is so significant. In fact, Glenora has celebrated Cabot by creating a 19-year old whisky, the Glen Breton Cabot Links Reserve. To the nose, this remarkable whisky smells like black licorice, cherry, honey with hints of maple, apple and pine. hile tasting it you’ll notice the flavor of apple, maple, cherry and ginger. It finishes long with a Mabou Oysters whisper of peat. It continues a unique Cape Breton tradition established by Bruce Jardine, the original owner and founder who wanted his Local is key to everything at Cabot. affected by the water, the tides and the whisky made with only three key The resort is connected to the local mineral content of the water. The water ingredients – barley, yeast and landscape and community, a link that in Mabou Harbour is what makes these water. runs deep. oysters taste so rich and natural, and In the same way Cabot Links Sam’s Point harvests every oyster by is directly connected to the And it includes the oysters we serve at Cabot, which are carefully harvested as snorkeling, which is the least disruptive incredible landscape of Cape Breton, Jardine made sure the part of a local family business. Grown to the habitat. distillery’s water was tied directly in the fresh waters of nearby Mabou People come from all over the world to the island, making it the purest Harbour, these oysters are harvested by to witness the beautiful landscape of and cleanest source of water. Sam’s Point Oysters, a company started Cape Breton Island. Now try our Mabou Clearly great minds think alike. by Jeff Lee in 2005. oysters – perfectly local. Oysters are a passion for Lee, and it takes seven years to grow a three-inch TASTE TEST! oyster in Mabou Harbour. Known for TASTE TEST! their excellent taste that develops from You can try Mabou Oysters yourself at You can try Glenora Single Malt the body of water they are grown in, Cabot Bar or Panorama Restaurant. Ask Whisky yourself at Cabot Bar or Panorama Restaurant. Ask our each oyster has its own Merrior, and is our servers for more details. servers for more details. 20 ADVENTURE GUIDE 21
THE ARTISAN Artisan EXPERIENCE The trail Art and craft tend to mirror the heritage, THE INVERNESS CENTRE FOR ARTS LARCHWOOD CUTTING BOARDS MACLEOD OF CAPE BRETON lifestyle, and geography of the region in The Inverness County Centre for the Arts JEWELLERY Larch Wood, located on the banks of the which the artists live and work. Nowhere is a unique venue suited to a variety of Margaree River, specializes in ‘end grain’ Located in the nearby town of Port Hood and is this more evident than on Cape Breton exhibitions and events. The professional cutting boards and the custom work of inspired by surrounding natural beauty, at Island with its stunning landscapes, exhibition space showcases the talents of their craftspeople. Their small, select group MacLeod of Cape Breton Distinctive Jewellery rich history, and traditions that have local and world-renowned artists. The gallery of talented tradespeople work exclusively you will find impressions of seashells, beach fostered a dynamic creativity among its includes a large gallery with an observation with the native Eastern Canadian Larch Tree sand patterns, and a varied assortment of craftspeople. Explore Cape Breton craft balcony, adjacent outer gallery and the Third which grows in the area in abundance. Each beautifully textured local leaves, interspersed and be inspired by some of Nova Scotia's Meadow Gallery Shop featuring artists from individual board is carefully hand-matched to amongst their collection of terling ilver and finest creative talent. See one of our across Inverness County and beyond. create a unique work of functional art. gold jewellery. You will also find a wide Guest Assistants for a map of the many assortment of Celtic designs and one-of-a- unique stops along the artisan trail. DOUG FRASER ART GALLERY GALLOPING COWS kind pieces. Custom-made jewellery is also available upon request. Located on the hills between the Links and Galloping Cows Fine Foods started out the Cliffs you will find renowned oil on canvas small, from their home kitchen nestled in artist, Doug Fraser, working at his easel or the seaside town of Port Hood, Cape Breton FIREHOUSE IRONWORKS THE MI-CARÊME INTERPRETIVE CENTRE in his sculptural garden. Born and raised lsland. Transformed from a small country At Firehouse Ironworks, you can apprentice Celebrate the masks, music and dance of the in Inverness, Doug is known for his deep market to a darling of fine foods retailers with local blacksmith Grant Haverstock and Acadian Mi-Carême. The Interpretive Centre, connection to this place, the culture, the across the country, Galloping Cows offers a experience what it was like to work in a located in the picturesque Grand Etang landscape and seascape, and its light. Drop delightful array of sauces and preserves at traditional blacksmith shop. Providing custom Harbour, features stunning displays and gives by for a conversation through art and a stroll their location just south of Inverness. Taste Ironworks and quality training, Firehouse a historical overview of this ancient tradition. through the sculptural garden. You may find the difference a little adventure makes! allows you to experience the ancient craft of yourself leaving with a little bit of authentic blacksmithing in the neighboring village of Cape Breton, either in the form of a painting, Whycocomagh. or simply an experience. 22 ADVENTURE GUIDE 23
EVENTS + ENTERTAINMENT Music CABOT PUBLIC HOUSE The Cabot Public House is nestled between the Lodge and the main street of Inverness. With live entertainment every evening by some of the Island’s top performers, this bustling ub atmosphere offers a true Cape Highlights Breton experience. Enjoy a local beer while tapping your toes to the tune of a Celtic jam session or the distinctly East-Coast sound of Local a home-grown band. Unwind, let loose, and take it all in. THURSDAY NIGHT CEILIDHS Alice Freeman, a long-time local resident, has always been passionate about her THE INVERNESS RACE TRACK QUINCY STREET MARKET Scottish heritage and the community of A wildly popular sporting attraction in town Quincy Street Market is a shopping experience Inverness. Worried about the loss of the is the Inverness Raceway. With its live harness that balances beautiful art and craft from Gaelic language, fiddle tradition, piping and racing, local flavor and the ability to lay down the region, with carefully selected pieces dancing, Alice began putting on ceilidhs a bet on your favorite horse, the raceway is from across Canada and beyond. Located on featuring local youth performers once a a great way to spend a few hours while in Central Avenue, Quincy Street Market is just a week. Twenty-plus years later and Alice’s Inverness. 5 minute walk from the resort. weekly ceilidhs have become a staple within Wednesdays and Sundays in July & August, the Inverness community, bringing people Sundays only in June & September. INVERNESS FARMERS MARKET together and preserving the Island’s unique The market includes an average of 10 vendors Scottish heritage through the art of music, SQUARE DANCING per week, whose products range from baked dance, and storytelling. Embrace the culture With a square dance almost every night of goods, crafts, art, and produce. Boasting a and come join in on the fun at the Inverness the week across the island’s sunset side, comfortable atmosphere, patrons are invited Fire Hall. they are surely a popular spot for locals and to enjoy a complimentary cup of tea and visitors alike. With live music from incredible oatcake possibly stay for soup & biscuit local musicians, lively crowds and non-stop for lunch. dancing, it is an experience like no other. Shine up your dancing shoes, grab a partner and join in! Ask our Guest Services team about attending a local square dance. 24 ADVENTURE GUIDE 25
EVENTS + ENTERTAINMENT MARGAREE HIGHLAND GAMES CELTIC COLOURS INTERNATIONAL August 9 to 11 , 2019 th th FESTIVAL Hosted in the beautiful Margaree River October 11th to 19th, 2019 Valley—a meeting place of Scottish, Irish and An unforgettable event designed to promote, Acadian cultures—the games blend traditional celebrate and develop Cape Breton’s living heavy events with bagpiping and highland Celtic culture and hospitality, Celtic Colours dancing, running races, children’s games and International Festival is an Island-wide event much more. This wonderful outdoor family that takes place every fall. event is rich with tradition. For nine days in October, Cape Breton Island is home to a unique celebration of music and BROAD COVE SCOTTISH CONCERT culture as Celtic Colours presents dozens Sunday, July 28th, 2019 of concerts all over the island, an extensive A hit with locals and visitors alike, the annual line-up of community events, and a nightly Broad Cove concert is the largest outdoor Festival Club. Scottish concert in Cape Breton and a long- Over the years, artists have traveled from standing tradition. Featuring a blend of local Scotland, Ireland, England, Wales, France, talent and major headliners including the likes Spain, Denmark, Norway, Germany, and Cuba of Natalie MacMaster and Gordie Sampson, as well as from across the United States and the Broad Cove concert highlights Cape Canada. All to join the finest of Cape Breton’s unique culture through tradition, Breton’s musicians, singers, dancers, music, and dance. storytellers and tradition bearers for the Festivals annual Autumn celebration. Since its introduction in 1997, Celtic Colours has grown to become one of Canada’s premier musical events, and a cultural highlight of Nova Scotia’s tourism season, collecting accolades from regional music KITCHENFEST! INVERNESS GATHERING awards to national and international tourism June 28 to July 7 , 2019 th th July 22nd to 28th, 2019 awards. With pub nights, ceilidhs, concerts and more, Inverness has a wonderful tradition of A highlight of the calendar year, this event is this island-wide, traditional music festival is welcoming friends and family home during one that shows off the colourful nature of all not to be missed. Spanning over eight days the summer for “Gathering Week”. It’s a fun of those that call this place home. in June/July, KitchenFest! takes place across filled week with something for just about Cape Breton and features the island’s top everyone, including boat rides, square dances, talent with over 150 performers. Though a children’s games, a parade and much more. small festival, it is a celebration of all things local, and might just be one of the best opportunities to take in the Cape Breton culture. 26 ADVENTURE GUIDE 27
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