Experience Nova Scotia’s Gaelic culture, heritage and hospitality at this living history museum and folk-life centre in scenic Iona, located in the heart of Cape Breton and overlooking the Bras d’Or Lakes. Take part in a traditional céilidh, hear Gaelic singing, learn to speak Gaelic phrases, and become captivated by the spirit of pioneering Scottish Gaels. See costumed animators demonstrate skills such as weaving, quilting and rug hooking. Explore the beautiful rural setting that features a Hebridean style blackhouse, a 19th-century wooden church, period farmhouses, and rare farm animals such as Soay sheep and Highland cattle. North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture, the breath-taking 43-acre site features one of the most unbelievable views of the Barramens Strait and boats, eleven historic buildings, including three frame houses (c1830-1900), a store, a carding mill, a church and a forge.We are open from June to mid-October. An admission fee is charged. Parking on site. Bus Tours are welcome. Visit the village’s gift shop for a wide selection of souvenirs, unique gifts and Celtic music, or consult the site’s genealogical service, Roots Cape Breton.
Facilities / Services
- Bus tours
- Gift shop
- Parking
- Picnic tables
- Limited accessibility
- Internet access
Date details/Hours of operation
10:00am–5:00pm daily; O/S (Visitor Centre only) Mon–Fri 9am–5pm.
Admission
Details: Admission charged; F(5); senior, student & group rates.