About Cape Breton

Things are a little different here on Cape Breton Island. The pace of life. The ocean backdrop. The history and the people. Even the weather. (After all, we are in Canada!)  To get you more familiar with the region as you begin your adventure, here's some important information that should come in handy.

View our 2010 Planner

Weather

Cape Breton Island enjoys a varied, yet moderate climate, thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream that runs off our shore. Temperatures are cooler along the coast and warmer inland. Coastal areas are prone to quick weather changes so keep a light jacket handy.

Average temperatures: Spring 10-14 C (50-57 F); Mid-Summer 20-25 C (68-77 F); Fall 10-14 C (50-57E F). For the most up-to-date reports at any time, call the Environment Canada Weather Center at 902-426-9090.
Cape Breton Island

The island takes its name from a small cape or promontory named after the Breton fisherman.
It's the most easterly point on the island just southwest of Scatarie Island not far from Main-a-Dieu.     
Cape (promontory): A piece of land jutting from the coast into a sea or lake.

Cape Breton Tartan

Black - for the wealth of our coal mine.
Grey  - for our Cape Breton steel.
Green- for our lofty mountains, our valley's and our fields.
Gold  - for the golden sunsets, shining bright on the lakes of the Bras d'Or,
            to show God's hand lingered to bless Cape Breton's shores.

Rules of the Road

Maximums, unless otherwise posted: Trans-Canada Highway and 100-series highways 100 km/h (62mph) - 110 km/h (70mph); other highways 80 km/h (50mph); cities & towns 50 km/h (30mph); school zones when children are present 50 km/h (30mph). Please note: radar detectors are illegal and will be confiscated by the RCMP.  
Seat belts are mandatory for drivers and all passengers.  

Helmets are required by law for all motorcycle and bicycle riders.  

All cars driven in Nova Scotia must have proof of registration and adequate insurance.

Trailers and Motorhomes - Size limits are; height, 4.15 metres (13.6 feet); width, 2.6 metres (8.6 feet); combined length of car and trailer, 21 metres (68 feet). Rental cars and motor homes are available - call the Nova Scotia Reservation Line at 1-800-565-0000 for information or check the Yellow Pages under Automobile Renting or Recreational Vehicles.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Canadian dollar. Your best exchange rates can be found at financial institutions or look for the “Fair Exchange” sign for the best value at retailers. Major credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are located in the City of Sydney and in many communities across the Island.

HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) of 14% applies to every purchase of goods and services. Foreign visitors are entitled to a rebate of the HST on eligible goods taken out of Canada within 60 days and on short-term accommodations. Forms are available at all Visitor Information Centres and some accommodation properties. 

For Your Safety  

Call 911 for emergencies. 
H indicates that a public hospital is in the area. 
You are advised to obtain travel health insurance before leaving home.  

Holidays  

Some businesses may be closed on public holidays. In Canada, these include:

• New Year’s Day (January 1)
• Good Friday
• Easter Monday
• Victoria Day (third Monday in May)
• Canada Day (July 1) 

• Natal Day (first Monday in August) 
• Labour Day (first Monday in September)
• Thanksgiving Day (second Monday in October) 

• Remembrance Day (November 11) 

• Christmas Day (December 25) 

• Boxing Day (December 26)  

Customs

Be sure to declare any sporting equipment or other valuables to Customs at your point of entry into Canada.