The Grand Narrows Hotel
Iona & Area
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
Based on 22 Reviews
About
Standing prominently on the eastern shores of the Barra Strait on the Bras d’Or Lakes, this grand three storey structure (Second Empire) was built as an elegant fifteen bedroom hotel in 1887.
With large gathering rooms, two full length verandas, spacious bedrooms, and a grand winding staircase. It features the privacy and space of a hotel with the added touch of a friendly rural vacation rental.
Our location on a large beachfront property ensures that guests can enjoy swimming in the clean, crystal clear waters of Bras d’Or, the largest and most beautiful saltwater lake in the world. Stroll down a quiet country road that hugs the shoreline where two natural marshes provide shelter to an abundance of birds and other wildlife. Watch the eagles soar overhead, and enjoy still summer evenings on the front veranda with breathtaking sunsets over the hills of Iona. The Barra Strait Marina and Wheelhouse Café are only a few steps away, which adds to the charm of Grand Narrows.
The Grand Narrows Hotel vacation rental is conveniently located in Central Cape Breton, making it the ideal base for travelling to many of the Island’s destinations, such as the Eileanan Breagha Vineyards, Big Spruce Brewing, Uisge Ban Fall, Highland Village Museum, The Cabot Trail, Fortress of Louisbourg, numerous golf courses, and more.
Amenities
- There will be hot and cold breakfast served between 7:30 and 10 am daily
- Lite daily housekeeping
- Shared use of Lower Verandah and garden area as well as two large entertainment salons
- Use of private beach in front of Hotel with fire pit and beach chairs
- Hi Definition wall projector with 10 foot screen. Streaming capable wireless internet throughout building
- Bicycles and a tandem Kayak available for use free of charge
- Licensed Wheelhouse Cafe (very good food!) is right across the road!
- Barra Straight Marina – boat launch, laundry, showers
Amenities
Kayak/Paddleboard Rental Television WiFi
Location & Contact
Social Media
Nearby
Locals Know Blog

7 Natural Wonders of Autumn on Cape Breton Island
Cape Breton is filled with incredible natural places. It's home to meandering rivers, rolling hills, cascading waterfalls and scenic lakes. These locations are beautiful in every season but they really shine in the fall.

The Northern Hidden Gem – Meat Cove
We sent woodsman and instagrammer Chuck Wrathall to the northern tip of the island to explore and report back to us on Meat Cove!

Hidden Gem – The North River Adventure
Join @capebretonhiker, Tammy Aucoin, as she explores Cape Breton's, North River!
Related Resources