Location

Willow Retreat is on the world-famous Cabot Trail, in beautiful Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The closest airport is Sydney, which is served by Air Canada and Westjet. We are one hour's drive from Sydney, and 15 minutes from Baddeck.

View 2926 Cabot Trail in a larger map

Middle River is a lovely little village, established in 1806, which is famous for its twin churches and excellent trout fishing. The village of Baddeck, only fifteen minutes away, has excellent restaurants and a wealth of interesting shops, as well as fishing, sailing and golf, and is home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and Museum.

The Bras d'Or Lakes and watershed has just been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and we at Willow Retreat are very proud to be a sustainable, off grid, environmentally responsible business operating within this unique area.

Cape Breton Island has been voted one of the world's best islands to visit in Travel and Leisure Magazine's 2011 World's Best Awards. It was ranked the number one island destination in Canada and continental United States, and number three on the list of Top Ten Islands in the World. Islands are rated on natural attractions, activities and sights, restaurants and food, people, and value.

Ideally situated at the beginning of the clockwise route of the Cabot Trail, Willow Retreat is the perfect base for exploring this gorgeous area. The Cabot Trail winds north through the Margaree Valley, through the Acadian village of Cheticamp, then enters the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, home to the world-famous Highlands Links golf course. The National Park boasts breathtaking views and stunning scenery. World-class golf, trout and salmon fishing, whale watching, hiking, cycling and sailboat tours are all on your doorstep on the Cabot Trail.