Highland Village Living History Tours

Gaelic immersion at a hilltop outdoor museum in Iona, looking down over the Bras d'Or Lake. The Highland Village is Cape Breton's living-history museum of Gaelic settlement — buildings spanning two centuries, costumed interpreters, and the language still being spoken on the grounds.

What to expect

• A walking museum spread across a steep hilltop
• Costumed interpreters in homes from the 1700s through the early 1900s
• Working blacksmith, weaver, and farm animals
• Some of the best Bras d'Or views on the island

Don't miss

• The Gaelic-language demonstrations and songs in the schoolhouse
• A scone and tea at the cèilidh hall
• The view from the top of the village

Good to know

• Operates roughly June through mid-October
• A lot of walking on hills — wear good shoes
• Wheelchair access is partial; some buildings have stairs
• Free parking; allow at least two hours

Pair it with

• A drive to the Gaelic College and Great Hall of the Clans
• A meal at the Lobster Galley nearby
• An Eskasoni Cultural Journeys experience the next day