Chat with us

Winter Photography Tips for a Cape Breton Getaway

Before Instagram and digital photography, taking pictures has been an integral part of creating a memorable vacation. And thanks to smartphones and compact digital cameras, catching intimate moments and awe-inspiring landscapes has never been easier. Our modern age allows us to capture images without worrying about film degradation or a stray finger obstructing the lens. Still, although “snapping pics” has become second nature to many vacationers, there is always something to learn. What’s more, winter photography can be somewhat challenging given how snow, cold temperatures, and cloud cover can affect our environments and equipment. To ensure you have a more efficient and enjoyable experience, Cabot Shores would like to share five simple photography tips to help you seize precious moments.

Superb Winter Photography Opportunities | Cape Breton Island

Unfortunately, some travelers consider winter photography too tricky because they’ve never had any success. Ironically, the most forgotten aspect of taking photos during the coldest months is the new persona snow-covered forests, icicles, and frozen lakes create. Again, winter presents a practical challenge to amateur and professional photographers alike, thanks to a lack of color and sunlight. However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, winter moments can be magical, surreal representations of your getaway.

5 Winter Photography Tips for Your Cape Breton Vacation

Cape Breton Island presents seemingly endless winter photography possibilities as Nova Scotia’s idyllically scenic vacation destination. Here are a few tips to maximize your aspirations.

  • Don’t be afraid of “bad weather.” You can capture fabulous images during snowstorms and blizzards despite their formidable nature.
  • Every hour presents a unique opportunity. You’ve probably heard about the “golden hours” moments before sunrise or sunset, but don’t limit yourself to those time frames.
  • Try to keep tracks and footprints out of your shots. Part of what makes winter photography intriguing is the surreality of an unscathed setting. Even so, some situations may call for a few tracks. For example, if you’re the first person to set foot in an open meadow after a blizzard!
  • Be sure to pack extra batteries. Cold temperatures can drain your power supply, especially if you’re using a screen to take pictures instead of your viewfinder.
  • Using a cold white balance before editing can breathe life into your imagery. A cold color format will cause shadows to pop and snow to appear more vibrant.

All-Inclusive Nova Scotia Vacation Packages

Cape Breton Island presents excellent winter photography opportunities with frozen waterfalls, snow-capped cliffs, and a foggy Atlantic coastline. What’s more, there is still time to take advantage of Cabot Shore’s attractive seasonal vacation packages and add-ons. Whether you prefer winter camping or staying in a cozy chalet, Cabot Shores boasts an eclectic selection of lodging options. And with bistro dining and outdoor cooking, an all-inclusive Nova Scotia vacation is sure to please. Please reach out to us online or call 866-929-2584 to learn more about how Cabor Shores can deliver the ultimate winter getaway experience!



Based on 246 reviews
Lisa-Steven Sisson-Gledhill (HillSun)
Lisa-Steven Sisson-Gledhill (HillSun)
December 31, 2022.
Wish we could give more stars 🌟 Service was top notch! Everyone was friendly, accommodating and informed about local interests. Food was mouth watering- recommend the seafood and homemade yogurt. Waves each morning were breath taking...highly recommend asking to do local hikes. Kids enjoyed games, sauna, hot tub and rooms felt very spacious. Will definitely return!
Clare Waque
Clare Waque
December 16, 2022.
I attended a wilderness healing retreat and that experience completely changed my life. The low reviews are not a far representation of the authentic and high value experience being offered.
Annshani Fernando
Annshani Fernando
December 15, 2022.
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful resort and would recommend it to nature lovers. Big shoutout to Paul and his family for going the extra mile to make us feel comfortable.
Varuna Indraratne
Varuna Indraratne
December 12, 2022.
We spent three nights attending a relative’s wedding in early September at this wonderful resort conveniently located right on the world-famous Cabot Trail. We stayed in one of the main lodge rooms which had spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean from the window. The resort has a vast property overlooking beach that also includes an apple orchard and organic vegetable garden leading to the shores of the Atlantic. The amazing staff led by the owners Paul and Barbara are very hospitable, friendly and helpful. The food at the wedding reception prepared by the in-house team was so delicious. There are also plenty of options for breakfast and lunch nearby serving a variety of cuisines with Cape Breton flair and friendliness. We highly recommend the Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort for anyone planning a visit to Cape Breton Island!!!
Uthpala M
Uthpala M
December 11, 2022.
We had our wedding at this beautiful venue in September, 2022. Our experience was amazing. Paul, Barbara, and the crew was super helpful from the planning stage all the way until we checked out after the event. The location of this property is unbeatable. We had our wedding ceremony in between two chalets - Red and Blue - overseeing the Atlantic Ocean. We booked three chalets and rooms at the main lodge for our guests and some of the guests rented yurts. The crew at Cabot Shores organized a bon-fire on the night before the wedding and organized a cookout with brick-oven pizzas that was out of this world! The food for the wedding was prepared by the chef of Cabot Shores - Ron - and it was superb. Paul and Barbara also organized local musicians for the event and Flo and her group was fantastic! We have nothing bad to say and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of the staff and the natural beauty of the location. We highly recommend this lovely place to anyone planning their wedding or vacation.
Ruwanthika Premalal
Ruwanthika Premalal
December 11, 2022.
We stayed for 3 days at this amazing resort during the end of summer 2022. A great resort with many activities and you can easily access the Cabot shore trail. There are many close by boutique restaurants too for breakfast, brunch or lunch. But you definitely need to try resort's food too which might come from there organic garden to your plate. Their wood fired pizza is so good. During the last day at our stay, we had a wedding of one of our close friends, at the resort. The food was so delicious. The staff was really helpful. I love their compost bin, vegetable beds and mushroom garden too. They have so many isolated yurts which is really great for star gazing and to see the milky way. The little ferry at the river is such a great way to reach the private beach of the Atlantic ocean. We are visiting again, hopefully next year!
Jangchub Zangmo
Jangchub Zangmo
November 29, 2022.
a wonderful place to get out into nature and meet like minded people
snehal shah
snehal shah
November 6, 2022.
Beautiful location. Have huts to stay here. it would be better and comfortable if size of Hut slightly bigger . No service. Even our garbage bin we have to carry out to empty... Otherwise good stay.

Based on 50 reviews
Lukas
Lukas
September 21, 2022.
Verified
Very nice people and a place full of joy ! Stayed 2 nights in the „Eagle dome“ which was really comfy and clean! Had really delicous dinner at the main lodge where paul played some music just for us and had nice conversations whith him and the other staffmembers. Also booked the hot tub at our dome for our last night from where we had a great view on the campfire. Lovely place where you see how much effort they put in every detail.
Nicole
Nicole
August 22, 2022.
Verified
Amazing adventure! Lots of fun sleeping underneath the stars!
Ryan
Ryan
August 14, 2022.
Verified
Relaxing
Nigel
Nigel
July 25, 2022.
Verified
Beautiful place and very friendly staff. Perfect location if you’re travelling along the Cabot Trail, I highly recommend checking this place out! Would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a fantastic experience.
Anooj
Anooj
October 25, 2021.
Verified
This was our first time staying in the Eagle Dome and we absolutely fell in love with this beautiful place. Super clean place to stay!
Redwan
Redwan
October 17, 2021.
Verified
Very nice place to spend a couple of nights in the nature! My wife and I enjoyed our stay. It might be a good idea to install a heater in the dome as it can get chilly at night.
Brooke
Brooke
October 1, 2021.
Verified
Beautiful, quaint place to stay! So unique and off grid. We loved staying at the dome!
Madison
Madison
September 9, 2021.
Verified
We had a great stay in the Eagle Dome! We loved watching the sunset and sunrise, and being able to hear the waves from the ocean. Next time we would stay a few more days and prepare a bit better - we weren’t packed for off grid but we made it work. Outhouse was a few steps away, shower and toilet a short walk. We didn’t get the hot tub or use the sauna/other amenities but would certainly consider it next time.
Micayla
Micayla
August 16, 2021.
Verified
This place is absolutely beautiful! We loved our stay here. I highly recommend it. All the staff are very friendly. The dome was such a unique experience looking at the stars and watching the sun rise. The beach is beautiful and there’s a little swimming spot 2 minutes down the road that we really enjoyed 🙂

Get a $25 Gift Card After You SignupSign Up For Our Latest Offers, Specials & More!