Enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Cape Breton Island with the Goat Island and Highland Village cultural experience. This 6-hour tour offers an engaging and educational journey, guiding visitors through traditional log cabins and inviting them to partake in hands-on activities like basket weaving and bannock baking. Led by knowledgeable Mikmaq interpreters and costumed animators, the experience promises to transport you back in time, while delighting your senses with the flavors of Scottish fare in a historic setting. Discover the vibrant heritage that has shaped this captivating region – there’s much more to explore.
Key Points
- The tour offers an immersive cultural experience at Goat Island and Highland Village, showcasing the Gaelic and Mikmaq heritage of Cape Breton Island.
- Participants can engage in traditional activities like smudging, basket making, and Gaelic language lessons, led by costumed animators and Mikmaq interpreters.
- The tour includes a 2-hour bus journey to the sites, providing comfortable transportation and ample time for cultural exploration.
- Authentic Scottish and Mikmaq cuisine is served, allowing visitors to taste the flavors of the local heritage.
- The tour is suitable for adults and not recommended for children under 7 or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour provides visitors with an immersive cultural experience at Goat Island and Highland Village, offering insights into the region’s native Mikmaq traditions and early Scottish settler ways.
Priced at €133.01 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a live English-speaking guide, bus transportation, tea, a meal at Goat Island, and various activities like sightseeing, traditional dancing, and arts and crafts market visits.
Travelers can enjoy a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance. However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 or wheelchair users.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sydney Nova Scotia.
Itinerary Details
The tour’s itinerary begins at the Port of Sydney, where visitors board a bus/coach for a 2-hour journey.
Upon arrival, the group will experience a variety of activities, including a guided tour, sightseeing, a walk, food tasting, a scenic drive, and visits to an arts & crafts market and a traditional dance show.
The main stops are Highland Village and Goat Island, where participants can enjoy Gaelic and Mikmaq cultural experiences.
These include costumed animators explaining life in the 1700s, as well as a Mikmaq interpreter leading activities like smudging, hunting and fishing interpretation, basket making, bread making, dancing, and storytelling.
Cultural Experiences at Highland Village
At Highland Village, visitors enjoy the Gaelic culture of early Scottish settlers. Costumed animators transport them back in time, explaining the daily life and traditions of the 1700s.
The experience includes:
- Guided tours showcasing traditional log cabins, farms, and mills.
- Demonstrations of historic crafts like spinning, weaving, and blacksmithing.
- Opportunities to participate in Gaelic language lessons and traditional dances.
- Authentic Scottish fare, such as hearty stews and freshly-baked breads, served in a cozy, period-appropriate setting.
Through these engaging cultural activities, visitors gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the heritage of early Scottish immigrants to Nova Scotia.
Cultural Experiences at Goat Island
Visitors to Goat Island enjoy a unique cultural experience hosted by the Eskasoni First Nation. They are greeted by a Mikmaq interpreter who guides them through traditional activities. Guests can participate in:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Smudging | A spiritual cleansing ceremony. |
| Hunting & Fishing | Learn about traditional techniques. |
| Basket Making | Try your hand at this ancient craft. |
| Bread Making | Bake bannock, a traditional Mikmaq bread. |
| Dancing & Storytelling | Witness cultural performances. |
These immersive experiences offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Mikmaq people. Visitors leave Goat Island with a deeper appreciation for the indigenous traditions that thrive in this scenic coastal setting.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Requirements
This tour includes all taxes and entrance fees, as well as a meal at Goat Island.
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended to make the most of the experience. Participants should also bring water and money for any gifts they’d like to purchase, though digital currencies like Bitcoin aren’t accepted.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old or wheelchair users, so visitors should take note of these requirements before booking.
The key inclusions and requirements are:
- Taxes and entrance fees are covered.
- A meal is provided at Goat Island.
- Comfortable attire and shoes are recommended.
- Digital currencies aren’t accepted for souvenirs.
Meeting and Important Information
Upon arrival at the Port of Sydney, the guide will be waiting at the dock wearing a red shirt and jacket, holding a Blackwood Tours sign.
Passengers should ensure they book the correct tour based on their ship’s docking time, ensuring they arrive at least 30 minutes after the scheduled docking.
For any questions or concerns, travelers can contact Blackwood Tours at [email protected] or by phone.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old or wheelchair users, so participants should plan accordingly.
Following the instructions and meeting the guide at the designated location will help ensure a seamless start to the cultural experience at Goat Island and Highland Village.
Transportation
The tour includes transportation via bus/coach for the 2-hour journey from the Port of Sydney to the main stops at Highland Village and Goat Island.
The transportation is comfortable and efficient, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque Cape Breton countryside.
The tour includes:
- Pick-up from the Port of Sydney.
- Air-conditioned bus/coach for the 2-hour journey.
- Comfortable seating and ample legroom for all passengers.
- Smooth and safe driving by a professional and knowledgeable driver.
This transportation component ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants, enabling them to fully enjoy the cultural activities and sights at the two main destinations.
Activities
Arriving at the main stops, visitors embark on a captivating cultural experience.
At Highland Village, costumed animators immerse guests in 18th-century Gaelic life, showcasing traditions like bread-making and storytelling.
Over at Goat Island, the Eskasoni First Nation offers a unique Mikmaq cultural encounter, led by interpreters. Visitors can participate in activities such as smudging ceremonies, hunting and fishing demonstrations, and basket-weaving.
Throughout the tour, there are opportunities to sample traditional foods and witness dances and performances that celebrate the rich heritage of the region.
The immersive activities provide a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures that have shaped the history of Cape Breton Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old. The tour is designed for participants aged 7 and above who can fully engage with the cultural activities and experiences offered throughout the day.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks for this tour. The tour includes a meal at Goat Island, and it’s not recommended to bring outside food and beverages. Participants should come prepared without additional snacks or drinks.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
There is no mention of discounts for seniors or students in the tour overview. The tour price is a flat rate of €133.01 per person, with no indication of any special pricing tiers.
How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?
The tour group size typically ranges from 20 to 25 people. The exact number can vary depending on demand and availability, but the tour operator aims to maintain a comfortable group size for an engaging cultural experience.
Can I Pay With Credit Card or Only Cash?
The tour accepts various payment methods, including credit cards. Guests can pay with credit/debit cards or cash, whichever they prefer. The tour operator doesn’t require any specific payment method, providing flexibility for customers.
Recap
The Goat Island and Highland Village cultural experience offers an immersive journey into the rich heritage of Cape Breton Island. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, hands-on activities, delicious Scottish fare, and engaging performances, providing a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse cultural tapestry of the region. This comprehensive tour is a must-visit for those seeking to enjoy the traditions and history of this captivating destination.
You can check if your dates are available here: