The Highland Village Museum
4119 HWY 223 • Iona, Nova Scotia
What You Will Find
Nova Scotia’s incredible Scottish Gaelic culture comes alive on our stunning 43-acre property with costumed staff in full historic dress, an array of farm animals and much more. Our costumed animators will help you experience the history of settlement and the unique Gaelic culture of Nova Scotia. Our Highland Village Photo Gallery and the Tour the Village section will give you a taste of what you can experience during your visit.
Take a tour up the hill and walk through period buildings with historic design, filled with related artifacts. Sit and enjoy a breath-taking view while listening to the annual Highland Village Day concert featuring premium traditional Cape Breton Gaelic music, song and dance. We offer our walking guide in French (PDF 846 KB), German (PDF 616 KB) and Spanish (PDF 592 KB) for our visitors when they arrive on site.
Gaelic
Gaelic scholars and enthusiasts will appreciate our commitment to research, and promotion of the Gaelic language, culture and history. We offer programs and events throughout the year designed to bring together Gaelic scholars and learners.
Gift Shop
Be sure to visit the gift shop where you can find the finest selection of Cape Breton, Gaelic and East Coast music, Gaelic resources, Highland Village souvenirs, clothing, giftware and local crafts.
Roots & Music
Our Roots Cape Breton Genealogy & Family History Centre is a fabulous resource for those looking into their own Cape Breton connections.
We also are fortunate to have the MacLean Collection of Scottish Music here at the Highland Village. This major collection contains many early books of Scottish music and hand noted music of some of our best fiddlers.
Eskasoni Cultural Journeys
1 Goat Island Rd • Eskasoni, Nova Scotia
Discover authentic Mi’kmaq culture along our picturesque 2.4 KM trail on Goat Island in Eskasoni. The island hugs the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
You will be guided along the trail by one of our Mi’kmaq cultural interpreters who will take you to visit several villages, each one offering a unique experience to learn and partake in this way of life.
You Can:
Take part in a smudging ceremony
Learn to make four cents cake over an open fire
Learn the art of basketry
Learn and join in our traditional dance
Speak to our trading post merchant
Play the ancient game of Waltes and
Learn about hunting and fishing techniques.
Top this all off with a traditional snack of luskinigan and tea!
Tour Fees:
$40.00 per person for adults
$20.00 per youth under 10
$250.00 group fee (up to 20 participants)
Off site presentations $400.00 plus travel
Customized packages and events upon request!