Goat Island: A Mi'kmaq Cultural Journey
Discover Mi'kmaq culture and natural beauty on Goat Island, a serene escape in Nova Scotia's Bras d'Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Goat Island, located within the Eskasoni First Nation community on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, offers a unique cultural experience. Originally named Indian Island, it provides visitors with insights into Mi'kmaq history, traditions, and connection to the Bras d'Or Lake.
A brief summary to Goat Island
- Nova Scotia, CA
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather on the island can change quickly.
- Bring your own water and snacks, as there are no facilities available on the island.
- Check the schedule for guided tours and book in advance to ensure availability.
- Visit the island during the shoulder season (May, June, September, October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Take your camera to capture the stunning views of the Bras d'Or Lake and the island's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Goat Island by car, navigate to Route 105 in Cape Breton. If coming from Sydney, head northeast on Highway 125, then take the exit for Route 105 towards Baddeck. Follow Route 105 for approximately 50 km until you reach Baddeck. Continue on Route 105 for about 20 km until you see signs for the Goat Island Ferry. There is a parking area near the ferry terminal. The ferry ride is approximately 10 minutes and costs around $10 per person round trip.
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Public Transport
To get to Goat Island using public transport, take a bus from Sydney to Baddeck, operated by Maritime Bus. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs approximately $30 one way. From Baddeck, you can walk to the ferry terminal (about 15 minutes) or take a local taxi for about $10. The ferry to Goat Island operates on a schedule, so confirm the times in advance. The ferry ride is approximately 10 minutes and costs around $10 per person round trip.
Discover more about Goat Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kidston Island
20.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt
37.1 km
Explore Cape Breton like never before with the Tourist Scavenger Hunt – an interactive journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
St. Peters Canal National Historic Site
40.4 km
Explore the rich maritime history and scenic beauty of St. Peters Canal National Historic Site in Nova Scotia, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Lakies Head
88.8 km
Discover Lakies Head on the Cabot Trail: breathtaking coastal views, whale watching, and natural beauty in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead
88.8 km
Explore the historic Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead on Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail for stunning coastal views and Acadian history.
Bog Trailhead
89.6 km
Explore a unique highland bog ecosystem on an accessible boardwalk trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. A must-see for nature lovers!
Corney Brook Trail
89.8 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Skyline Trail
90.6 km
Hike Cape Breton's iconic Skyline Trail for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable Highlands scenery. A must-see on the Cabot Trail.
Skyline Trailhead
90.8 km
Hike the iconic Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable wilderness experience.
Skyline Trail Cape Breton Highland National Park
92.0 km
Hike the iconic Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable vistas.
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
95.5 km
Breathtaking views of the Aspy Fault from North Mountain, a must-see stop along Cape Breton's Cabot Trail. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Lone Shieling
95.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Eskasoni Cultural Journeys
0.3 km
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Bras d'Or Lake
14.4 km
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Highland Village Museum
18.7 km
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Kidston Lighthouse
20.4 km
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Amoeba Tours
20.9 km
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Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
21.0 km
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Ross Ferry Marine Park
21.1 km
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Two Rivers Wildlife Park
21.6 km
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Coxheath Hills Trailhead
25.4 km
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St. Ann's Provincial Park
28.2 km
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Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College
28.8 km
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Great Hall of the Clans
28.9 km
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Camp Carter Falls
30.7 km
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Camp Carter Falls in Nova Scotia, a nature preserve that invites you to explore its breathtaking trails and serene landscapes.
Chapel Island
31.0 km
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TNT Outdoor Adventures Inc.
31.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Founders Restaurant
10.8 km
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GRA
18.1 km
Discover GRA: A top-notch restaurant in Kempt Head serving seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients on beautiful Cape Breton Island.
Red Barn Gift Shop & Restaurant
27.2 km
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Lobster Galley
28.3 km
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Bite House
29.2 km
Discover Bite House in Baddeck: A culinary treasure offering exquisite dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
Cedar House Bakery & Restaurant
31.8 km
Experience authentic Canadian flavors at Cedar House Bakery & Restaurant in Boularderie East—home to the best scones on Cape Breton Island.
Fitzgerald's Restaurant
32.3 km
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Kiju's Restaurant
34.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Kiju's Restaurant in Membertou, where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
The Dory Pub & Restaurant
35.1 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at The Dory Pub & Restaurant in Sydney, Nova Scotia - where every meal tells a story.
Trio
35.7 km
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Flavor on the Water
35.8 km
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Governors Pub & Eatery
35.9 km
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Black Spoon Bistro
38.1 km
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Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages
38.7 km
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Winnie's Wagon
39.6 km
Experience the best poutine and authentic Cape Breton flavors at Winnie's Wagon in Little Bras D'or.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Kite Artisan Shop
21.0 km
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Sand and Souls
21.0 km
Explore Sand and Souls: A gem of a gift shop in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, offering unique local crafts and sustainable treasures.
Baddeck Celtic Gifts & Tartans
21.1 km
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Aphrodite Gift Shop
21.1 km
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Cape Breton Tartan Fine Things
34.2 km
Experience the essence of Cape Breton at Cape Breton Tartan Fine Things, where local craftsmanship meets cultural heritage in every unique piece.
Shaylene's International Emporium
34.4 km
Explore Shaylene's International Emporium for an array of unique gifts and local crafts that embody the spirit of Nova Scotia.
Mi'kmaq Gifts & Collectibles
34.4 km
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Petroglyphs Gift Shop
34.9 km
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Wells Craft Supply
34.9 km
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Cape Breton Farmer's Market & General Store
35.7 km
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The Cape Breton Beard Factory
35.8 km
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Cape Breton Curiosity Shop
35.8 km
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Get Nauti
35.9 km
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Best Of Cape Breton Gift Shop
35.9 km
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Lillian Company
36.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Narrows Cafe and Bar
21.0 km
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Red Farm (Cape Breton, Canada)
29.0 km
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The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse
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The Crown Cafe & Bar
35.8 km
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Capri Cabaret
35.9 km
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Island Folk Cider House
36.0 km
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The French Club
36.3 km
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The Cellar Bar
38.0 km
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Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge
39.9 km
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The Underground
41.8 km
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Normaway Inn Music Barn
51.5 km
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Bitten Moon Pub
54.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Glace Bay at Bitten Moon Pub, renowned for its delicious poutine, wings, and local craft brews.
Route 19 Brewing
64.1 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Route 19 Brewing in Inverness, Nova Scotia, where local flavors meet a unique dining atmosphere.
Cabot bar
64.1 km
Discover Cabot Bar in Mabou, Nova Scotia – a picturesque spot for craft drinks and breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
The Carriage House
70.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Carriage House, a cozy lounge in Port Hawkesbury perfect for relaxation and good company.
