Our Destination
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) – Nova Scotia’s second largest municipality – was formed August 1, 1995, through an amalgamation of eight former municipalities, including the city of Sydney. Our “community of communities” covers a geographic area of roughly 2,500 square kilometers and is home to approximately 106,000 residents.
Located on the eastern side of scenic Cape Breton Island the coastline of the CBRM stretches over 800 kilometers on the Atlantic Ocean and over 400 kilometers on the inland sea of the Bras d'Or Lakes.
The CBRM is among the oldest regions in Canada, first inhabited by the Mi'kmaq people, who continue to be very important members of the Cape Breton society. Today, the Membertou First Nation, which belongs to the greater tribal group of the Mi’kmaw Nation, is situated in the city of Sydney. This urban First Nation community, consisting of over 1260 people, is one of five Mi’kmaw communities in Cape Breton, and one of thirteen in Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton was also one of the first areas of the North American continent to be explored by European adventurers. The Fortress of Louisbourg, which is located in the southeastern part of the CBRM, is one of the foremost historic sites in Canada and it is a testament to the important early role of Cape Breton in the settlement and development of North America.
From breathtaking scenery and historic landmarks and exhibits, to shopping or entertainment or business opportunities, all of the communities of the CBRM offer interesting and diverse experiences. Ranging from a stroll along the harbour in the historic north-end of Sydney, to a visit at the fossil center in Sydney Mines, to an exploration of the Miners' Museum in Glace Bay, or a swim in the Atlantic Ocean at the magnificent sandy beach located in Dominion, there is really no end to the things to do and enjoy in the CBRM.
Cape Breton Island
There's no wrong turn in Cape Breton, ranked the #1 island destination in North America and #3 worldwide, by the 2011 Travel and Leisure World's Best Awards Readers' Survey. Its diverse physical landscape and hospitable people make it a place to explore and savour.
Visit sandy beaches and go sailing, swimming or fishing in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, or the inland sea of the Bras d'Or Lakes. Hit the links on one of the top golf destinations in the world, as ranked by Golf Digest, or North America's first and only true links-style golf course. See world class attractions like: the Alexander Graham Bell Museum; the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site; the Glenora Distillery, home of North America's first, and Canada's only, single malt whiskey; the Cape Breton Highlands national Park; and, of course the unparalleled scenery of the famous Cabot Trail. Enjoy the cuisine of fresh seafood for every taste, and surround yourself in music and culture, everywhere you go.
Be amazed, be inspired, seek authenticity, and feel "at home". Cape Breton is calling you to visit our beautiful island, and join us for a world-class adventure of your own.
For detailed information on what to see and do in Cape Breton, visit www.cbisland.com.
