The narrow and deep Strait of Canso separates Cape Breton Island from the Nova Scotia Peninsula. Since 1955 a causeway and swing bridge has made the ferry services obsolete.
 
The island's history closely resembles that of the rest of Nova Scotia. European fishermen showing up in the early 1500's only to find the Mi'kmaq people already living on the territory.
Later that century hostilities between the French and the British broke out and war lasted untill 1763 when France ceded its Canadian territory to Great Britain in exchange for, among others, the sugarcane rich Guadeloupe.
Part of this violent past is on display at the restored fortress of Louisbourg, nowadays a tourist magnet.
 
In the 19th century many Scots fled the troubles at home, settled in Cape Breton and made a lasting impact on the island's culture ever since.
Coal mining and steel production formed the industrial pillar for Cape Breton's 20th century economy.
 
The less populated northwestern part is called the Highlands and has an elevation of 300 to 500 meters.
Part of it forms the Cape Breton Highlights National Park which features fantastic mountain and ocean views.
 
The best way to experience the Highlands is to hit the Cabot Trail, a scenic 300 km loop that leads you to interesting places like the Cabot's Landing Provincial Park, the little fishing community of Bay St Lawrence and a real Buddhist monastery called Gampo Abbey.
 
For hikers here are a few interesting trails, best known is the scenic Skyline Trail.
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Bay St Lawrence
Cabot Trail
Skyline Trail
Gampo Abbey