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About this trip
The pre-convention tour is a unique, not to miss experience, crafted especially for our MTC delegates. The tour takes you on a 3-day cultural journey across Cape Breton Island, using music as a tool to help you discover and enjoy the Island's unique landscapes and breathtaking views. From rich heritage and traditions to the contemporary scene, music on Cape Breton is everywhere, and during this tour you will get to explore every aspect of the "Music Island" and live an experience like no other.
There's no better way to prepare for Music Tourism Convention than embarking on this tour to get a first-hand experience of Cape Breton's unique music tourism offering, connect with other delegates and have an amazing time!
Key Highlights
Discover North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language
- Become a master of square-dancing & spoon playing
- Experience live music played by local artists from Cape Breton Island
- Take part in the Eskasoni Cultural Journeys and learn the art of basketry
- Learn about the Mi’kmaq musical culture through performances by local trailblazing Indigenous Artists
- Take stunning photos from some of the most scenic Cape Breton Island viewpoints
- Expand your network and develop unique connections with other delegates from all around the world
What’s included
- Transportation
- Accommodations
- Meals
- Admissions
Available Packages
Available options
Itinerary
9:00 am – Meet your Tour Leader at your hotel in Sydney NS to begin your journey along the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes.
10:00 am - Eskasoni Cultural Journey (tour of Goat Island)
Discover authentic Mi’kmaq culture along our picturesque 2.4 KM trail on Goat Island in Eskasoni. The island hugs the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You will be guided along the trail by one of our Mi’kmaq cultural interpreters who will take you to visit several villages, each one offering a unique experience to learn and partake in this way of life.
12:30pm – Lunch at Frolic and Folk Pub, Iona (live music during lunch)
The Frolic’n Folk Pub & Grill serves comfort food as well as pub fare which pair nicely with a crisp local lager or glass of wine. Take a load off and enjoy the view of the Bras d’Or lake, while the music warms your soul.
1:00 pm - Visit Highland Museum
Discover North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture. This breathtaking 43-acre site features one of the most unbelievable views of the Bras d'Or Lake, eleven historic buildings, including three frame houses (c1830-1900), a store, a carding mill, a church, a shingle mill and a forge.
Take part in a traditional céilidh, hear Gaelic singing, learn to speak Gaelic phrases, and become captivated by the spirit of the pioneering Scottish Gaels. Gaze in wonder as first-person costumed animators demonstrate traditional 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.
3:00 pm – Depart Iona to continue drive around Bras d’Or Lakes before checking in to your accommodations at the Inverary Resort in Baddeck (Dinner, Breakfast).
5:00 pm – Join your fellow guests for dinner at the either the Inverary Resort or nearby Baddeck Lobster Suppers before leaving for the evening’s activity.
7:00 pm - Square Dance Event at the Gaelic College
Colaisde na Gaidhlig (The Gaelic College) is a non-profit educational institution offering year-round programming in the culture, music, language, crafts, customs, and traditions of the immigrants from the Highlands of Scotland. The only institution of its kind in North America, students of all ages and skill levels visit the College every year to study under some of the finest instructors in Nova Scotia
Gaelic Culture. Step-dance and square-dancing are an integral part of Cape Breton’s musical tradition. We join the Gaelic College’s musicians and instructors for a square-dancing workshop that will have everyone ready to dance at the next “ceilidh”.
8:30 pm – return to Inverary Resort (Live Music at the Narrows)