Big Spruce Brewing

Cape Breton's flagship craft brewery, brewed organic on a small farm above the Bras d'Or Lake near Nyanza. Founder Jeremy White built the place around the idea that great beer comes from clean ingredients and a view worth pouring a pint to — both check out.

What to expect

• Big covered patio overlooking the lake, dogs welcome
• Picnic-table seating, food trucks most weekends in summer
• Tasting flights, growler and crowler fills, kegs to go
• Live music and Saturday afternoon crowds in season

Don't miss

• Kitchen Party Pale Ale — the year-round flagship
• Cereal Killer Oatmeal Stout, especially if it's a cool evening
• A brewery tour if you happen to catch one running

Good to know

• Open seasonally with reduced winter hours; check before you drive
• Cash, card, and growler exchange all work
• Family- and dog-friendly outdoor space; indoor taproom is small
• Plenty of parking on the gravel lot

Pair it with

• A stop at Glenora Distillery, 45 minutes south on the Ceilidh Trail
• An afternoon at Uisge Ban Falls, 25 minutes away
• Dinner at the Bite House if you've planned weeks ahead