About Cape Breton, NS

Cape Breton’s natural beauty has been attracting people for centuries, and no wonder; look at these photos! Now it is also becoming a popular destination for people looking to invest in real estate. With a low cost of living, close proximity to many popular Nova Scotia destinations, and a culture that you can get lost in, it’s no wonder people are wanting to make Cape Breton their new home.

Cape Breton is one of the most affordable places to buy real estate in Canada. You can choose between waterfront properties and large houses with high acreage and still find prices to be lower than in other cities. With beautiful scenery on every corner, every home has a great view. The average home price falls around $190,000, and you have a variety of different property types to explore. From cottages to farms to commercial properties, Cape Breton will have what you need for you and your family.

In addition to beautiful scenery, what really makes Cape Breton a great place to live is the people. Cape Bretoners are renowned for their love of music, and there are many festivals each year which celebrate this, as well as other cultures that have combined to give Cape Breton its unique flavour. If you want proof of how welcoming and friendly this community is, you should know that they actually have a Welcome Network! Well-connected volunteers in the community welcome people moving to the city, and help them get acclimated through events and activities. 

Cape Breton offers more than just a picturesque landscape. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure as well! Whether you like hiking, fishing, kayaking, or golfing, Cape Breton has something that will appeal to you. There are also many festivals throughout the year, including the Lobster-Licious Festival and Celtic Colours International Festival which attract visitors from all over the world. 

Cape Breton’s economy is based largely on agriculture and fishing, but many of the residents also have jobs in other areas. The major industries to provide work are mining, forestry, and tourism. If you have young kids, the Cape Breton Victoria Regional School Board provides public and private education for a majority of the area’s student population. Cape Breton University also offers post-secondary education for those who would like to continue their schooling journey. 

When you’re ready to experience a new city, make sure that Cape Breton is on your list. From beautiful scenery and friendly people to great opportunities for adventure and activities, Cape Breton will be a place that you can call home.

Cape Breton Transportation

There are two main cities in Cape Breton: Sydney and Glace Bay. They both have their own transit systems, as well as ferry service to other regions in Nova Scotia from Sydney Harbour or Port Hastings. It’s also important to note that Cape Breton is an island, so it’s best to have a car to get around. Many people bike or walk short distances from their home though. There are also taxi services in Cape Breton that you can use to get around, and the city has an airport. The JA Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport provides full-service flights to get you where you need to go. 

Distance to Nearby Cities

  • 275km (170 miles) to Halifax
  • 799km (496 miles) to Quebec City
  • 896km (556 miles) to Boston, MA
  • 977km (607 miles) to Longueuil
 

Things To Do In Cape Breton, NS

There are many things you can do to keep busy in Cape Breton. From festivals to nature trails along the coastline, you’ll love all that Cape Breton has to offer. Here are some of our favourites:

  1. Cabot Trail
    • One of the most famous things to do in Cape Breton is the Cabot Trail, which was named after explorer John Cabot. This beautiful scenic route is over 100km long and can be driven or biked by people who want a more active tour around Cape Breton. 
  2. Sydney Downtown Development Association
    • The Sydney Downtown Development Association is a great place for people who want to enjoy the outdoors in Cape Breton. It provides walking trails, outdoor boardwalks, and ocean vistas with coastal views. You can also go on a ride along the historic waterfront and learn about Cape Breton’s rich past and present from local tour guides.
  3. The Big Fiddle
    • The Big Fiddle is one of the most popular places in Cape Breton, as you can tell by its name! One of Cape Breton’s most iconic landmarks, this 40 foot high fiddle was constructed to pay homage to Cape Breton’s rich musical history.
  4. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
    • Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. The hiking trails here are breathtaking and there are some famous waterfalls here as well! This park can be found in between Mabou and Ingonish Beach.
  5. Skyline Trail
    • This trail is only 20km long, but it’s jam-packed with vistas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Cape Breton Highlands National Park! You’ll love hiking along this coastal path because you’ll see so many amazing views as you go.
  6. Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
    • Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is one of Cape Breton’s most famous historic sites. Alexander Graham Bell lived in Cape Breton for a time, and his home is now open to the public. There are many things to do here including tours and hikes!
  7. Saint Peter’s Church
    • Saint Peter’s Church is another Cape Breton landmark, and it was built in the early 1900s! It still stands tall today, and there are even guided tours that you can take. This church offers an interesting glimpse into Cape Breton’s religious past.
  8. Les Trois Pignons
    • Les Trois Pignons is actually a set of three peaks you can hike, but it’s also the name for the whole trail. This challenging trail takes hikers through ravines with cliffs and valleys to explore. You won’t regret taking this scenic route!
  9. Acadian Trail
    • The Acadian Trail is a famous trail that follows the old portage route from Pleasant Bay to Fortress Louisbourg. This half-day tour takes you through scenic landscapes and historical sights, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to see Cape Breton in an active way!
  10. Gypsum Mine Trail
    • The Gypsum Mine Trail is a challenging trail that offers beautiful views, but it’s not recommended for people who aren’t used to hiking. The trail runs almost 20km through rugged terrain and includes many steps. However, the payoff at the end of this hike will be worth it!
 
 

Cape Breton Day Trips

There are many great places to go visit in Cape Breton, but just around the corner are some pretty amazing destinations as well! Here are some day trips you can take within a few hours of the island:

  1. Aulds Cove Beach
    • When you live in Cape Breton, it’s important to take advantage of all the great day trips that are available. One of the best places to visit is Aulds Cove Beach, which is one of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful beaches. No matter the season, you’ll be able to enjoy swimming and other water sports here. Plus, there are also picnic areas and trails to explore. It is a beautiful spot year-round!
  2. Mulgrave, NS
    • Mulgrave is a historic town in Cape Breton that’s definitely worth the stop. This quaint seaside village offers many things to see and do including unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. There are many entertaining events and festivals that take place every year here, making Mulgrave one of the most fun places to visit!
  3. Port Hawkesbury
    • Port Hawkesbury is another great place to visit near Cape Breton. It may be a small town, but there are many things to do and see here! One of the highlights of Port Hawkesbury is the waterfront promenade that makes for a spectacular view. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and galleries in this area. This charming town is just about an hour to an hour-and-a-half away from Cape Breton, depending on where you’re from.