Are you a visitor to the Northside? Want to live like a local? Here are some of the things we love to do and see!
1. Head out for a day hike at Dalem Lake. It’s a fabulous 3.5 km groomed trail around a lovely freshwater lake. It’s a great place to run, walk, take the kids and the dogs. The water is also very warm early in the season, so don’t hesitate to dip your toes, dig them into the sand, or jump right in and enjoy a refreshing dip. Visiting in the winter months? This is also a great snowshoeing trail. Bring a hot drink and sit and enjoy the lakeview in one of the shelters surrounding the lake.
2. Hitting up a local beach for fossil hunting, rockhounding, searching for seaglass or just other unusual finds. There are several beaches in Sydney Mines/Florence area that are great for this, including a beach near Shore Road, Lockman’s and Florence Beach. The beach near Shore Road is a world class site for fossil finds that draws paleontologists from around the world. Lockman’s has also be a great spot to find interesting Scottish Fireclay bricks. Finally, there are many Northside beaches surrounding the Bras d’Or lake (namely Christie’s and Grove’s Point), and here you can find lots of examples of the different types of rockbed on the shoreline. After seeing some geology in its natural form, head to the Cape Breton Fossil Center in Sydney Mines to learn the history. Sydney Mines is one of eight very important fossil sites in Nova Scotia and to learn about this fascinating history, you are invited to visit The Cape Breton Fossil Center. Here you can explore the 350 million year old history that created the Sydney coalfields. View a large collection of fossils and make sure to time your visit so that you can also tag along on a tour to one of the fossil beds in the local community.
3. Kayak from Little Bras d’Or down the Alder Point “Gut” or the channel connecting the Little Bras d’Or to the Atlantic Ocean. This is an interesting paddle, with lots of wildlife, yet you are never far from shore. It’s a winding waterway that also showcases the fisherman of the area and their colorful boats and wharves.
4. Head to Groves Point Beach for a swim. This provincial park gives you the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic overlooking the gorgeous Bras d’Or Lake. Enjoy a dip in the warm salt water and follow it up with a packed lunch. Several restaurants downtown North Sydney can provide you with a delicious take away that is perfect for an afternoon at the beach.
What are some local landmarks and attractions you won't want to miss?
Some local Northside landmarks include Chapel Point Battery located in Sydney Mines. This WWII fortification has been restored by the community group, Atlantic Memorial Park. It was built in 1939 to defend against the German Navy and includes an observation post and gun batteries as well as several below ground fortifications. It played a significant role in the defense of Sydney Harbour during the war. Because of its architecture and massive construction, including deeply placed magazines, it is considered a significantly unique wartime defence structure.
North Sydney is home to the Cape Breton Farmer’s Exhibition. For over 100 years, the Federation of Agriculture has been hosting this weeklong event showcasing the work of local farmers and providing education and awareness. Local 4H groups display their work, and visitors are entertained with barrel and harness racing, along with a carnival for the kids.
Visit the North Sydney Historical Museum. The North Sydney Heritage Museum showcases the very best of the history of Cape Breton's oldest incorporated town. The Museum houses exhibits, photographs, artifacts, original documents and the history of the people and politics that make up North Sydney. The main artifact in the museum is the LaFrance fire engine, purchased by the town in 1919 and was still going to fires until the late 1970s.
Where do North Sydney locals like to eat?
Downtown North Sydney is fortunate to boast some of the best eating establishments in Cape Breton. Just within a few blocks we have culinary offers for everyone! Options include, The Black Spoon, Lobster Pound & Moore, Commercial Street Deli, Bette’s Canteen, Bianchini’s, Alexandra’s & Joe’s Pizza, Canton, Belly Buster's, and Subway. So, regardless of your taste or dining needs, we have you covered with everything from takeaway boxed lunches to fine dining, not to mention some ethnic offerings, too.