Forest camping in Cape Breton Island

This massive estuary was designated a UNESCO Biosphere in 2011, and its mix of sea and freshwater houses many species of plants and animals. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the inland sea, as is sailing, and several communities ring Bras d’Or, many with campgrounds near or on the water. One of the bigger centres, Baddeck, has a summer resort feel during high season and is a fun place to pitch a tent or paddle out to Kidston Island and its lighthouse.

If you fly in from Halifax or further afield, this is where you land. The largest community on Camp Breton, Sydney went through a time of economic downturn around the turn of the century before the ingenuity of Cape Bretoners and their love for their home  resulted in the creation of charming small community areas and a flourishing tourism industry. About a half hour’s drive from Sydney is Louisbourg, where it’s possible to set up camp at an area campground and set aside a day to visit the sprawling 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg Historic Site. If a day isn’t enough, you can even camp right at the fort.

Acadian culture is an important part of Cape Breton. In Cheticamp, you will see houses adorned with Acadian stars, hear the accent in the French language peppered in conversation, and taste it in the local food. Museums and boutiques showcase traditional crafts, while pubs often feature fiddle music. This region, on the west side of the island, is a great base from which to set out on cycling, whale watching, sea kayaking, or salmon fishing adventures.