Strait Area, Cape Breton: What's On July 13–19, 2026

Live traditional music and dancing happens Tuesday nights at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, featuring fiddle, piano, bagpipes, and local performers. Shows run 7:30-9pm and cost $20 per person. All ages welcome.

Light refreshments and informal gatherings happen regularly at the museum's café space. Check ahead for specific dates and times, as hours vary by season.

This family-friendly event at the LeNoir Landing site in Arichat combines hands-on science activities with the historical setting of the Isle Madame Historical Society. Mad Science delivers interactive STEM demonstrations and activities where kids can rotate through different stations to experience science firsthand.

Irish music festival held at the Rocky Bay Irish Club on Rocky Bay Road. Check the venue's website or contact them directly for dates, times, and admission details.

Length: 7.5 km (4.7 mi) return Hiking Time: 2+hr Type of Trail: crushed stone, natural surface, rock Uses (no snow): walking, ATVs Uses (snow): snowshoeing Facilities: interpretive panels, garbage cans, benches Dog Use: off-leash permitted Gov’t Topo Map: 11F11 (Port Hawkesbury) Rating (1-5): 2 Trailhead GPS Reference: N 45 38” 53.4’ W 61 24” 46.0’ Access Information: On the Canso Causeway, turn left (north) immediately after crossing the canal. Park in lot next to trail pavilion. From Port Hastings, turn right just before the steel truss swing bridge. Introduction: The Inverness and Richmond Railway Company was incorporated in 1887 to construct a railway from the district of Margaree to Mabou, and Port Hood, and Port Hawkesbury, with a branch to Whycocomagh. In the end, they developed a route from Port Hastings to Inverness, the first train running in 1901. Following financial problems, the line was leased to Canadian National from Feb, 1, 1924 until they purchased it in 1929. CN operated the line until the late 1980’s, when its biggest customer, the Evan’s Coal Mine in Inverness, was shut down due to flooding. Although it is part of the much longer Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, Ghost Beach is more like its own separate trail, because it cannot be biked. Its setting in the Strait of Canso so close to the causeway and all its human activity gives it the feel of a walk in a city park – until the wind howls down and dashes waves completely over the narrow land bridge that is your route. Despite its proximity to these busy communities, it can have the feel of a challenging hike. When a rain or snow squall descends, which happens often in the shoulder seasons, the exterior world disappears and it is easy to imagine that you are trekking on the edge of the earth. It is exhilarating, and if you are lucky enough to have a pod of pilot whales cruise past at the same time: unforgettable. Cautionary Notes: High winds and waves. Ratings are designated from 1 to 5 indicating suitability for all fitness and experience levels, with 5 being suitable only for experienced and very fit outdoor people. Novices should only choose level 1 and 2 hikes, and work their way up. Level 4 and 5 hikes have indicators associated with their ratings.

The Jerome Point Lighthouse was originally constructed in 1883 as a wooden, square, pyramidal tower of almost eleven meters with an attached dwelling. The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1956 without the attached dwelling. By sea, the lighthouse is located on St. Peter’s Bay identifying the entrance to the St. Peter’s Canal National Historic Site that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Bras d’Or Lake inland sea by North America’s only tidal locks. By land, the lighthouse is located at the entrance of Battery Provincial Park on Hwy #4 at the St. Peter’s swing bridge. These landmarks are among the many sites and activities that attract visitors and long-term guests to the Village of St. Peter’s, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

Dundee Resort & Golf Club is located in West Bay, Cape Breton Island where you are surrounded by rich forests, lush lawns, a championship golf course and the brilliant Bras d’Or Lakes. Spend the day golfing at our world-class course or visit our onsite Lakeside Adventure Centre and enjoy paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, tennis, volleyball and beach swimming. We are just a short drive from the legendary Cabot Trail and the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a preserved and recreated French fortification dating back 300 years. Our accommodations include 61 hotel rooms (Queen, King) with balcony (view of golf course or the Bras d’Or Lakes), some with fireplace or jacuzzi; 38 one- and two-bedroom cottage units (Twin, Double; light housekeeping facilities) with a large deck, lake view; and all with 4-piece bath. No cribs; however, we do have playpens. Cots are available for rooms in the hotel only. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi (in hotel rooms only). Enjoy complimentary scheduled summer recreation activities (July – August) including canoeing and kayaking from our lakeside adventure centre. Guest features include dining room and pub; pro shop; banquet and conference facilities; 18-hole golf course; indoor and outdoor pools; sauna; walking trail; canoe, kayak, and paddleboats; and barbecues. Small pets are permitted in the cottages at a minimal charge. Check out our golf, family and all-inclusive packages! All major credit cards are accepted.

Cruise the UNESCO-designated Bras d'Or Lake Biosphere from the historic St. Peter's Canal. A relaxed, narrated tour through one of the largest inland seas in North America, with eagles, seals, and history at every turn.

What to expect

• Covered and open-air seating on a stable mid-size tour boat
• Guide commentary on the canal, lock, and Mi'kmaq history of the lake
• Snacks and drinks usually available on board
• Family-friendly pace — kids stay engaged

Don't miss

• Watching the lock cycle as you enter or leave the canal
• Bald eagles patrolling the shoreline — almost guaranteed
• The view back toward Battery Provincial Park

Good to know

• Seasonal operation, typically June through early October
• Reservations recommended in summer
• Restrooms on board; bring sunscreen and a windbreaker
• Free parking near the canal

Pair it with

• A walk across the historic St. Peter's Canal lock
• The Nicolas Denys Museum in town
• A stop at Battery Provincial Park for a swim and picnic

Our restaurant offers a unique dining experience that will leave your taste buds tantalized. Our cuisine is inspired by the best of both worlds – traditional Canadian dishes with a modern flare. Our cuisine is sure to leave you wanting more. Our chefs have crafted a unique menu that includes everything from Starters, Main Course to Dessert. Our wine list is extensive and includes both local and international wines. Our Papa’s Pub and Pizzeria is located in a beautiful town of Port Hawkesbury. Our wait staff is attentive and polite and our atmosphere is warm and inviting. We look forward to serving you and making your dining experience a memorable one.