I. Culture II. History

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I. Culture

The majority of Cape Breton's population springs from the Islands and Highlands of Scotland. In addition to the island's native Mi'kmaq population, Cape Breton also became the home of people from many other countries, including Ireland, Poland, Italy and Lebanon, among others. Each nationality has added something unique to the rich cultural diversity of the island. The Scottish fiddle music, the colourful dances of the Ukrainian community, and the old Acadian songs are all viewed by Cape Bretoners as part of a single cultural heritage.

The immense vitality of the island's artistic expression ensures that this heritage survives and flourishes in a modern world. The international success of Cape Breton artists such as the Rankin Family and Rita MacNeil has proven that the island's music and traditions have a universal appeal.

At St. Ann's Gaelic College, a whole new generation of pipers and dancers evoke ancient arts and traditions. Each year the Gaelic Mod gathers together young performers in a full week of music and dance. Fiddlers of the calibre of Natalie MacMaster and Howie MacDonald inspire the island's children to value and to explore their cultural heritage.

On Cape Breton Island, there is, everywhere, strong physical evidence of this heritage. The Nova Scotia Highland Village in Iona recreates life in a traditional Scottish community in Cape Breton. The buildings on site are authentic examples of the architecture of the last two centuries in Cape Breton history. A general store, blacksmith's shop and highland farm are among the living exhibits. Farther along, in the peaceful Margaree Valley, the Margaree Salmon Museum explores the role that sport-fishing has played in the area. Today, anglers still try their luck with the famous Margaree salmon.

The small town of Baddeck still calls to travellers, much as it did to Alexander Graham Bell in the late 1800's. Bell built his summer home there, calling it Beinn Breagh, or "beautiful mountain". From this peaceful refuge, the inventor carried out many of his most important experiments in the fields of aviation, genetics, and maritime navigation. The flight of the Silver Dart, the first airplane in the British Commonwealth, took place in Baddeck, with the whole town in attendance. The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site contains artifacts and exhibits of Bell's life, including an impressive collection of photographs depicting life in Beinn Breagh.

From the musuem, visitors have a fine view of the beautiful Bras d'Or Lakes. On a summer's day, the lake is filled with sailboats and windsurfers. All come to enjoy the fine breezes and spectacular sceney. The Baddeck marina is host to sailboats and yachts from all over the world.

Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail is one of the most photographed roadways in the world. Since its inaugeration in the1930's, millions of visitors have travelled this 303 km. [187 mile] stretch of highway, a highway that winds through some of the most dazzling scenery Atlantic Canada has to offer. The great headlands at the extreme north of the island are believed to be those sighted by John Cabot in 1497, hence the name. In1936, representatives of the Canadian government were so impressed with the old-growth hardwood stands in the beautiful Aspy Valley that they decided to protect the entire area. The result was the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, through which the Cabot Trail follows its leisurely path.

Within the park, the hiking trails, waterfalls, interpretive exhibits and whale-watching cruises ensure there is something for everyone. In winter, the area offers both downhill and cross-country skiing. Visitors can also choose among a wide variety of acommodations. Park facilities include both family campgrounds and wilderness sites. The town of Ingonish is home to the world famous Keltic Lodge resort, situated near the famous Ingonish beach and the Highland Golf Links. At Cheticamp, the park's western terminus, visitors enjoy a taste of Acadian hospitality.