Cape Breton FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Cape Breton.

When is the best time to visit Cape Breton?

Mid-June to mid-September is the best time to visit Cape Breton with the warmest weather, most sunshine and least rain. This is also the busiest event season and best time for whale-watching. Temperatures in summer (June-August) average 19°C but can range 16-22°C. Rain is relatively frequent throughout the year but more from October to May. Winter (December-March) is cold and windy with snow but not as severely cold as elsewhere in Canada. However, lots of restaurants and guesthouses close during the winter months. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) range from cool to mild but are picturesque times to visit, especially the Fall colours.

What is the time difference between the UK and Cape Breton?

Cape Breton is in Atlantic Time (GMT – 4), observing Atlantic Daylight Time (+ 1 hour) March to November.

What places combine well with Cape Breton?

Cape Breton Island is easily combined with other destinations in Nova Scotia. It’s about four hours’ drive from Halifax, and six hours from Digby.

What are the main cultural events in Cape Breton?

September – Hike the Highlands Festival
October – Celtic Colours International Festival – one of the world’s biggest Celtic festivals