The name Nova Scotia is Latin for “New Scotland” and was first given to this part of North America in 1621. Although there were occasional Scots among the early settlers, they did not come in large numbers or establish permanent communities until 1773, when emigrants from the north western coast of Scotland arrived in Pictou. The Pictou Scots were Presbyterian and spoke Scottish Gaelic. Many of their descendants later moved to other parts of Canada and the United States, but Pictou continues each summer to celebrate the arrival of the ship Hector with its founding immigrants.

For a place that has been blessed with significant cultural diversity, no group has made more of an impact on Cape Breton Island than the Scots! Hear unique stories of Scottish settlers and discover the impact of their music, language and culture that has shaped this region.

Leave the beautiful port area of Sydney and begin making your way toward the village of Baddeck on the shores of the Bras D’or Lakes, Canada’s largest inland sea. A trip to Baddeck is a bucket list, must do when in this part of Nova Scotia. Home to many great attractions, Baddeck is known for tourism because of the Cabot Trail, but there is much to see beyond that. Explore the village and visit the famous Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, former home to scientist and telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell. The village is also home to a variety of small shops and a nice lakeside area.

Visit the communities where Scottish Gaelic settlement remains vibrant and strong today. Highlights may include stops in the village of Baddeck, Colaisde na Gàidhlig, the Gaelic College or Highland Village, along with stops for photo opportunities along the way.

Scots in Nova Scotia have always treasured the hospitality of their ancestors and today they extend Ceud Mile Failte (One Hundred Thousand Welcomes) to all visitors, particularly those who may be distant kin.

As the largest urban area on Cape Breton and the island’s historical capital, Sydney is the perfect mix of metropolitan charm and down home hospitality. Set off from the beautiful waterfront and immediately begin enjoying the extraordinary scenic views as you drive the famous Cabot Trail.

As far as iconic road trips go, the Cabot Trail is the “Crown Jewel” of Cape Breton Island. The 300 kilometer (186 mile) driving route offers spectacular coastal views, unspoiled natural beauty, encounters with wildlife, and warm hospitality in the Celtic and Acadian villages that dot the coastline.

This abbreviated version of the full route allows for a “mini” tour that will afford you some of the best highlights with many scenic stops along the way. Your local, friendly and experienced guide is knowledgeable on all things Cape Breton and will escort you to either Cheticamp or Ingonish, with stops at Kelly’s Mountain and St. Ann’s Bay.

This panoramic discovery tour is jam-packed with photo opportunities at every turn, experience first hand the majestic mountains, rivers, and wildlife set against the Atlantic Ocean. Explore Gaelic and Acadian cultures as you visit and learn about the history of this area set in a spectacular location that will create memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

As with many Nova Scotian communities on the ocean, the heart of Sydney is its waterfront. The city is a great place to go for a walk, stop to watch a busker and to view ships in the harbor. Sydney is the historic capital of Cape Breton and largest urban center on the island. The harbor front boardwalk is known for the world’s largest fiddle, built in recognition of Cape Breton’s musical talent so be sure to get your photo taken beside this iconic work of art.

Sydney was founded in 1785 by the British, was incorporated as a city in 1904, and dissolved on 1 August 1995, when it was amalgamated into the regional municipality. Sydney, served as the Cape Breton Island colony’s capital, until 1820, when the colony merged with Nova Scotia and the capital moved to Halifax.

Your Taste of Sydney tour is the perfect way to get to take in the highlights of Sydney’s charming character and fascinating history. Begin with a tour of the North End, close to the cruise pier and the site of original colonial settlement. Your local, knowledgeable guide will share the stories that have shaped the culture of Sydney through its rapid expansion and growth during the industrial era to today, where the entrepreneurs you will visit are changing the landscape from days gone by and bringing new vibrancy to the area.

A rapid population expansion occurred just after the turn of the 20th century, when Sydney was home to one of North America’s main steel mills. During both the First and Second World Wars, it was a major staging area for England bound convoys. Today, the population is a diverse mixture of nationalities which contributes to various Scottish, Acadian, African Canadian and eastern European cultural events being held throughout the year.

Your tour is interspersed with stops at a local brewery, a new cidery and a local culinary treasure, to give your taste buds a treat that will be truly memorable. Step back in time and walk the streets where history began in the 1700s and discover the folklore that has shaped this scenic and beautiful city.