How to spend 48 hours on Western Cape Breton
Are you wondering what to do during a weekend in Inverness County, Nova Scotia?
This beautiful area offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. To help you make the most of your time here, we've put together a suggested itinerary for a 48-hour stay at Archer's Edge, based on a Friday night arrival and Sunday morning departure during peak summer season.
FRIDAY EVENING ARRIVAL
Check-in at Archer's Edge at 4:00pm and settle into your dome. Take a moment to relax and enjoy your home away from home. Once you're refreshed, head to Port Hood for dinner at the Clove Hitch Bar and Bistro or the Admiral Lounge and Café, both locally owned and operated. Both venues offer live music throughout the summer months, providing the perfect soundtrack for your weekend.
Alternatively, you can stay in and prepare your own meal using the BBQ and fully equipped kitchenette in your dome. With grocery and convenience stores just minutes away, you can enjoy a meal with a view either inside your dome or out on your private deck. After dinner, unwind at Archer's Edge while taking in the spectacular sunset over the water. Western Cape Breton sunsets are a sight to behold, and each night offers a unique display of color. Visit the communal fire pit and enjoy stargazing in the rural setting, away from city lights. Before retiring for the night, take a moment to enjoy the sea and night sky views from your dome's large windows.
SATURDAY
Breakfast – Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Sandeannie's Bakery and Tearoom in Port Hood. This popular restaurant serves one of the best all-day breakfasts in the area, including the delectable fish cakes eggs benedict and their special dressing called skirly.
At 10:00 am, join Mike's E Bikes for a scenic 3-hour ride on the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail on electric bikes. The trail follows the SW Mabou River and through the picturesque village of Mabou, providing breathtaking views of the harbour and Mabou River. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for photo ops or enjoy a snack or beverage at one of the many picnic areas.
In the afternoon, visit the Glenora Distillery in Glenville to sample their award-winning single malt whisky and take a tour of the distillery. Stay for lunch, live music, and a stroll around the beautiful grounds. Then, head to Inverness to explore the shops and visit the Inverness County Centre for the Arts. Take a walk on the boardwalk, relax on the beach, hunt for seaglass and enjoy this gem of a beach.
At 6:00 pm, head back to Mabou to try the famous Red Shoe Pub. The pub is known for its live music, friendly atmosphere, and delicious pub-style food. It is also well known for being owned by the by the Rankin Sisters of the internationally popular band The Rankin Family.
8:00pm: End the day with a traditional ceilidh, a lively gathering of music or dance. Check out the schedule at the Glenora Distillery, the Red Shoe Pub, The Clove Hitch, West Mabou Square Dances, or other local venues to find an event happening near you.
SUNDAY
Before your check out at 10:00 am, enjoy a slow morning taking in the views and serenity. Watch for wildlife, walk the trails, or relax in a hammock. Make breakfast in your dome and savor the peace and quiet a little longer.
11:00am - Take a short drive and discover the Mabou Farmers Market, a bustling community hub where over 50 vendors offer an impressive variety of food, drink, art, crafts, goods, and wares. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, tap your toes to the sounds of talented musicians, and take in all the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Mabou Market experience. Open every Sunday from June to the October long weekend, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, at the Mabou Athletic Centre on 186 Mabou Harbour Road.
2:00pm – Visit the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique, which celebrates the rich Celtic music traditions of Cape Breton. Enjoy a live performance, participate in a workshop and stay for lunch.
4:00pm - Head back home with unforgettable memories.
These are just a few of the many exciting things you can do while visiting Inverness County. We have many more suggestions, on our Things to Do page and Places to Eat and Shop page. Our communities have so much to offer, and we'd love to share it all with you. Come back soon and experience the natural beauty, culture, and hospitality that Inverness County is known for. Enjoy!