Bras d’Or Lake Scenic Drive

Bras d'Or Lake is a large body of water dominating the center of Cape Breton Island.

The first Europeans to discover and eventually settle the area were French, naming the lake Bras d'Or meaning "arm of gold"; probably referring to the sun's rays reflected upon the surface of its waters.

The total size of the lake is about 1,099 square kilometres[1],(424 sq. miles) the measuring approximately 100 km(62 miles) in length and 50 km(31 miles) in width.

It is almost entirely surrounded by high hills and low mountains.

The Bras d’Or Lake Scenic Drive circles the lake along shoreline roads that offer a constantly changing view of woodlands, farms and villages, and are ideal for walking, biking and birdwatching.

The Bras d’Or Lake area has not undergone major development, and as a result, it still supports an area that is rich in wildlife.

Hundreds of pairs of bald eagles nest along the shore and in the surrounding countryside. White-tailed deer, osprey, foxes, and raccoons are also frequently seen.

As you drive along this scenic route, you will find something new around every corner.

Experience the daily life of the early Scottish settlers at the Nova Scotia Highland Village Museum

At the Marble Mountain Museum you can learn about marble quarrying in the late 1800s.

The Orangedale Railway Station Museum offers a special look at late 19th-century trains and train travel.

Because of being sheltered by the surrounding hills, the waters of the lake are usually gentle and fog-free. With its hundreds of coves and islands, the lakes are an international cruising destination, attracting hundreds of boating enthusiasts every year.

A large number of the surrounding homes are vacation properties for these boaters who are attracted to the boating opportunities that the Bras d’Or Lake provides.

Visitors who want to get out on the water will find numerous boat tours available, from seabird tours and sailing tours to elegant cruises. Sea kayaking and canoing is also available.

Return from Bras d'Or Lake to Cape Breton Island

Return from Bras d'Or Lake to Nova Scotia Vacation Guide