Just east of Sydney, Nova Scotia, you’ll discover a portal to the past at one of North America’s busiest 18th-century seaports. Founded by the French in 1713, this reconstruction of the original French town and fortifications is the largest—and best—of its kind in North America, offering a heavy dose of history and culture with each unique experience.
Due to COVID-19, the visitor experience at Parks Canada places will be different than it has been in the past. The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance. Parks Canada is asking visitors to comply with recommendations from Nova Scotia public health authorities by wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, and by respecting recommended social distancing measures at all times. Please visit pc.gc.ca/ns and follow Parks Canada’s social media channels for information and updates on the status of all Parks Canada places.
When you get to a certain point, you look to your left and you see a towering lighthouse and you look to your right and you see this fortress, which is unlike being anywhere else, at least in Canada.
Let us take you on a tour of one of Cape Breton's most historic regions, Louisbourg and area.
Looking for an educational experience while visiting Cape Breton? Hoping to immerse yourself in Cape Breton's rich history while travelling the island? Well, you're in luck here are seven 'Must-See' Museums in Cape Breton!
10 Cape Breton Island experiences: the Cabot Trail, Fortress of Louisbourg, cèilidhs, seafood, golf and more.
The gates may close, but the experience continues on. Camp under the stars, safe inside the fortress walls. Or, become an honorary Louisbourg resident and sleep in a period-style house for the night.
Explore the taste and aromas of 18-Century colonial living. Sip on Louisbourg’s favourite drink, Fortress Rum. Dine on traditional French recipes served by costumed staff.
There are direct flights to Sydney from Toronto and Montreal and from other North American and European cities via Halifax. If traveling by ground, the Trans-Canada Highway 104 leads to Cape Breton Island.
Getting Here and Around