Backgrounder: Cape Breton poised for year-round tourism growth

February 11, 2025 · Judique, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Tourism boosts local economies, highlights unique attractions, and celebrates the region's rich culture. The Government of Canada recognizes this potential and is investing $4,520,403 to help seven organizations and the Village of Baddeck seize new growth opportunities.

Projects receiving repayable contributions through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program include:

Cabot Cape Breton has been approved to receive (pending contract signature) $2,000,000 to construct a new, 23,747 square foot facility at its Cabot Cliffs location. The facility will offer resort amenities including a spa and wellness centre, fitness centre, and high-end culinary and beverage service. These offerings will help make Cabot Cliffs and the surrounding communities an even more desirable destination for individuals and families. It will attract national and international travellers and businesses to the area, strengthening the economy. From the design phase to operation, this project is expected to employ over 75 people.

Sidanna Retreat is receiving $500,000 to establish two luxury oceanfront accommodations at the South Harbour property. The units will be large chalets adjacent to the water with individual decks, hot tubs and saunas. The project will support year-round services for rural tourism and help increase visitation to the Cabot Trail, Ingonish, Cape Smokey, and the developing Seawall Trail.

Marble Mountain Estates is receiving $250,000 to establish year-round accommodations on the Bras d’Or Lake. Currently home to Eileanan Breagha Vineyards, the project will see four chalets built, renovations to the existing farmhouse, and an accommodation above the existing winery. These improvements will help transform the property into a high-value tourism destination over the next few years.

Love Life Lodging is receiving $200,000 to build six cottages for year-round tourism accommodations in the Ingonish Highlands area. The property is near the popular Cabot Trail and Cape Smokey and provides much needed accommodations in a rural area that draws visitors from all over the world. 

Projects receiving non-repayable funding through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) include:

Village of Baddeck is receiving $1,084,223 for the redevelopment of its boardwalk, an important waterfront promenade that is a social and scenic focal point in Baddeck. Improvements include widening the boardwalk, developing a larger shoulder for defined parking and better access, and adding picnic areas, flexible seating, plants and lighting. New bleacher-style steps will provide safer water access and a place to launch kayaks and paddleboards. These improvements will draw more residents and visitors to explore the waterfront, the community and its local businesses.

Celtic Music Interpretive Centre Society (CMICS) is receiving $268,500 for extensive upgrades to enhance visitor experience and expand program reach. Activities will include building modifications for better traffic flow, more seating areas indoors and on the outer deck, and modernized interactive experiences. CMICS will also boost marketing, branding, and website content to attract more visitors, solidifying its role as a hub for music and cultural activities.

North Highlands Nordic Ski Club received $124,000 to purchase a cross-country ski groomer. The groomer will enhance trail conditions by removing ice and uneven snow to provide a smoother surface. This will allow the trails to stay open longer, promoting more seasonal activity and encouraging residents and visitors to take advantage of the area’s winter offerings.

Theatre Baddeck Society is receiving $93,680 to renovate a new, permanent space at the Greenwood United Church. Improvements to the building include new walls and floors, electrical upgrades, a new entryway and washrooms as well as seating for 160 patrons to accommodate larger audiences. This will enhance accessibility, attract live theatre enthusiasts, increase educational activities, and help preserve arts and culture in the region. 

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News release: Cape Breton poised for year-round tourism growth