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Cape Breton Escapes | Family Winter Getaways in Nova Scotia

No matter the season, arguably one of Cape Breton Island’s most remarkable features is its elite status as an ideal family vacation spot. And while winter is still a few months away, we’re never surprised at how quickly it seems to arrive each year. As such, we’ve already begun taking reservations from those wishing to frolic in the snow with their loved ones and hope you will join us! Winter getaways in Nova Scotia offer a timeless experience for those who love the great outdoors. And very few places can offer the type of scenic beauty found on Cape Breton Island. We don’t simply embrace winter at Cabot Shores—we adore it. After all, there is something to be said about the sound of new snow crunching beneath your boots or being the first person on the cross-country ski trail. Making the most of winter is a shared priority around our neck of the woods, so we’ll show you how we do it at Cabot Shores!

Winter Getaways in Nova Scotia: Fun For the Whole Family

Between the gorgeous vistas, numerous trails, and fresh coastal air, finding bliss on Cape Breton Island isn’t too tricky. Still, you may be wondering what to do during your Nova Scotia winter getaway at Cabot Shores. Although our area doesn’t become a barren wasteland when the snow falls, you’ll undoubtedly notice a significant activity decrease. To help you sift through some of the ways you can spend your time, we put together a quick list of quintessential Cape Breton winter activities that are sure to create unforgettable memories.

  • Renew and revitalize your mind, body, and spirit by partaking in a full range of wellness activities ranging from a simple yet refreshing soak in the hot tub to Qi Gong, yoga, and barrel sauna sessions. Winter is always a great time for a wellness retreat!
  • Nordic skiing on Cape Breton Island is one of the most immersive ways to explore. Our 55-acre wilderness estate is only a short drive from some of Nova Scotia’s best cross-country trails.
  • Downhill skiing can be found at Ski Cape Smokey, just 40km from Cabot Shores. 
  • If wearing skis isn’t your cup of tea, you should try snowshoeing! With plenty of trails on the property, you’ll be well on your way to winter exploration.
  • Winter is the perfect time for a digital detox. Spend time in the lodge next to the fireplace with a good book or mosey down to the recreation room to play a few rounds of pool, ping-pong, or your favourite childhood board games.

Nova Scotia Winter Cabins and Camping on Cape Breton Island

It doesn’t take long to realize that Cabot Shores isn’t like other Nova Scotia resorts. Striking a complete balance between rustic and luxuriate accommodations is our way of offering a reprieve from the ordinary and giving those looking for something different a place to discover their wilderness. Winter getaways in Nova Scotia can be the difference between mundane and extraordinary, but don’t take our word for it! For more information on how we can help provide a family winter retreat for the ages, please visit us online or call 866-929-2584.



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 🙂

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