Iona & Area
Located in the center of Cape Breton Island, almost completely surrounded by the magnificent Bras d'Or Lakes – Canada's Only Inland Sea. The Bras d'Or Lake is one of the finest sailing and boating venues in the world. The lakes separate Cape Breton's Highlands and Lowlands. The Bras d'Or Coastline abounds with wildlife and is particularly noted as a breeding area of the magnificent bald eagle.
Enjoy visiting the NS Highland Village Museum, a living history museum and cultural centre that celebrates the Gaelic experience in Nova Scotia. Located on a 43 acres hillside overlooking the beautiful Bras d;Or Lakes, Nova Scotia's rich Scottish Gaelic culture comes alive with costumed staff, farm animals and period buildings & artifacts. In addition to daily demonstrations in language and craft, the museum also has special education programs, learning vacations, and special cultural presentations.
Suggested Activities & Experiences
- Visit Nova Scotia Highland Village Museum – a living museum in Iona that recreates the 200 year history of a Scottish Settlement in Cape Breton. While at the Museum visit – Roots Cape Breton – Genealogy and Family History Centre. Discover your roots, do your family tree and learn more about genealogy and the resources out there. Enjoy the many special events here including the Highland Village Day concert from 2:00 pm. - 6:00 pm. on Saturday, August 4, 2018.
- One of Victoria County's top community festivals is Along the Shores of Washabuck held early to mid August.
- Enjoy McCormack Provincial Day Park in Iona – take time to have a picnic, explore the trails and take in the Bras'd Or Lakes Scenery.
- An event that keeps growing each year is the Àros na Mara – World Oceans Day – June 7-10, 2018. Check out their schedule of events by visiting their website.
- Take a swim and lie in the sun at Little Narrows Beach on the Bras d'Or Lakes.
- Cycle the Route #223 loop around the peninsula – 58 kms.
Festivals & Events generally take place in the Little Narrows, Washabuck and Iona communities at their community halls as well the Nova Scotia Highland Village.
Services
The Central Cape Breton Region has accommodation, Iona Heights Inn, Jill's Chocolate Cafe, Frolic & Folk Pub, convenience store, craft shops, food services, greenhouse, legion, post office, marina nearby, berry farm, public beaches, provincial day park, and much more.
Community website:
Photo credits - Nova Stream (Highland Village) and Katherine MacLeod (Bluenose)
Victoria County travel and tourism information, including destination regions, places to stay, things to do, music festivals and events .
© 2021 Municipality of Victoria County