Louisbourg is a simple, quiet, and productive fishing harbour town, which, aside from being a world-renowned national historic site, goes about its business of harvesting from the sea as it has since the 1600s.
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The Parks Canada Fortress is special, and so is the fact that the coastline, for miles on both sides of the harbour, is pristine and protected as a conservation area.
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It is rich in marine, geological, botanical, and biological features on a backdrop of layered history.
Adventures
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an outdoor enthusiast, or just need some relaxing downtime, it's here!
Fortress of Louisbourg
Explore the largest historical reconstruction in North America (circa 1744). The impressive size and detail of the site, coupled with the story presented by captivating staff guides and costumed animators, make it a unique and memorable experience.
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An entire day is recommended for the Fortress site itself. Other Parks Canada places of interest connected to the Fortress require an additional half day.
Credit: Destination Cape Breton Association
Staying at the Louisbourg Harbour Inn offers the pleasure of waking up to the harbour surroundings, just a few steps away. Louisbourg Harbour has many quaint fishing wharves. You can venture along the shore and a chat with a fisherman or wharf worker about their activities.
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Main-a-Dieu harbour, about a 10-minute drive, is an incredibly pretty lobster fishing community with lots of colourful boats and friendly folks.
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Louisbourg Harbour and Main-a-Dieu Village
Sydney & Louisbourg (S&L) Railways
Louisbourg was a major coal-shipping terminal both locally and overseas from the 18th through the mid-19th century.
S&L Museum presents the history of the Sydney - Louisbourg Railway Station from 1895. The museum is a grouping of buildings and train cars reserved with many marine artifacts, models and photographs of the railway technology using for coal transportation.
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Louisbourg
Hiking Trails
The historic shipwreck coastline around Louisbourg is second to none in terms of rugged beauty.
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There are miles and miles of unrestricted coast to access with varying degrees of physical challenge from the easy, groomed Old Town Trail and a portion of the Louisbourg Lighthouse Trail to the more demanding hikes such as Lorraine Head, Baleine and Little Lorraine.
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You can explore for days and not walk the same area - all within 20 km (12 miles) of your accommodation.
Kennington Cove
& Anson’s Cove Beaches
Kennington Cove, the historic landing site of British forces in 1758 is invaded every summer by those who enjoy the sea and sand.
The two beaches, maintained by Parks Canada.
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Louisbourg Lighthouse
Constructed in 1924, the Louisbourg Lighthouse stands on the site of Canada's first lighthouse, which was operated in 1734.
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​During your stay at our inns, we highly recommend that you visit the Louisbourg Lighthouse. You will appreciate the stunning view of the Harbour and the sound of powerful waves crashing onto the rocks.
Louisbourg Playhouse
A unique, vintage venue represented the Cape Breton musical experience from the 17th century. Featuring a range of artists from amateurs to professionals, the Louisbourg Playhouse always delivers top-notch live acoustic performances in a warm and welcoming atmosphere to fully immerse yourself in the sound of Cape Breton.
For more updates on the Louisbourg Playhouse’s shows and schedules, visit their Facebook page.
Don't miss out on a delightful getaway at Louisbourg!
Our accommodations are more than just a bed and breakfast. We provide a unique historical experience, extensive knowledge of the local area, captivating fishing tales, and warm hospitality to all our visitors. Let's create an unforgettable vacation to experience the breathtaking attractions that Louisbourg offers. Reserve a room at Louisbourg Harbour Inn and Louisbourg Heritage House today!
CONTACT US
Tel: 902-733-3222
(unattended; voice mail messages only)
Louisbourg Harbour Inn: 9 Warren Street, Louisbourg, NS B1C 1G6
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