Local Guides World
Dating to 1713, this fort is now known for its staged recreations of 18th-century life.
Photos — 97
Reviews — 8
It was interesting to learn that the original structures had been mostly destroyed and abandoned in the later 1700's and reconstruction efforts if a portion began in the 1960s.
We opted for the self guided tour. The "inhabitants" were great sources of information about their role and the history of Louisbourg. We spent half a day there, however, could have spent a full day there to stop for a drink at the tavern or a bite to eat.
It was a beautiful fall day with great views out onto the ocean. No wonder it was selected as a location for a fortified community in the early 1700s. I was also surprised at the original size of the community and the population.
The park itself is worth the drive if you are in the area. The drive to and from is also quite pictureque.
We opted for the self guided tour. The "inhabitants" were great sources of information about their role and the history of Louisbourg. We spent half a day there, however, could have spent a full day there to stop for a drink at the tavern or a bite to eat.
It was a beautiful fall day with great views out onto the ocean. No wonder it was selected as a location for a fortified community in the early 1700s. I was also surprised at the original size of the community and the population.
The park itself is worth the drive if you are in the area. The drive to and from is also quite pictureque.
Free entry with a Parks Canada Pass to this fantastic reconstructed historic site, it is huge with SO much going on, even in shoulder season every building you go in has something happening.
We decided to pay a bit extra to have a tour which included the firing of a rifle and an original style hot chocolate in the kitchen area, it was well worth the money.
You really need to spend a good few hours here to make the very most of your time and to experience everything possible. All of the staff and actors were brilliant, so professional, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, we really enjoyed our time here.
A must do if you are in the area, we didn’t know just how much this area had an impact on Nova Scotia and the world from 1744.
We decided to pay a bit extra to have a tour which included the firing of a rifle and an original style hot chocolate in the kitchen area, it was well worth the money.
You really need to spend a good few hours here to make the very most of your time and to experience everything possible. All of the staff and actors were brilliant, so professional, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, we really enjoyed our time here.
A must do if you are in the area, we didn’t know just how much this area had an impact on Nova Scotia and the world from 1744.
I had a great time exploring at the Fortress. The bakery with the hot buttered rum and a warm croissant were just what I needed on a rainy afternoon. The gift shop was lovely and the person who was explaining in detail what to look for in a rock and how to strike to make an arrowhead was patient as folks asked questions.
I had a great conversation with the lady who was working on the Bobbin Lace. I didn't realize it was older than tatting. The pattern was beautiful and it was interesting to learn about it. Also in the same house the other lady who was dying yarn using natural dyes. I wish I had written down what all she used. I would love to try myself. If I ever have the chance to come back I most definitely will.
I had a great conversation with the lady who was working on the Bobbin Lace. I didn't realize it was older than tatting. The pattern was beautiful and it was interesting to learn about it. Also in the same house the other lady who was dying yarn using natural dyes. I wish I had written down what all she used. I would love to try myself. If I ever have the chance to come back I most definitely will.
Must visit if you want to see what the year 1744 looked like. The actors are spot on, the loaf of freshly baked bread was a must try and delicious, and the restoration is amazing. There is a lot of history that once you start talking to the actors, time flies. Be prepared to spend 3 hours here minimum.
Over the years, I have visited many museums / sites that reenact historical periods, and I must say that the Fortress of Louisbourg is one of the best I have gone to. While last year's Hurricane Fiona caused significant damage in the area (see photos of some damaged trees below), the site still offers a fascinating look into this 18th-century settlement.
Not only did I learn a lot about the area's history, but my children also had a great time with all of the various activities on site. If you are in Cape Breton, I highly recommend that you come here. Indeed, if I could give this historical site more than five stars, I would.
Not only did I learn a lot about the area's history, but my children also had a great time with all of the various activities on site. If you are in Cape Breton, I highly recommend that you come here. Indeed, if I could give this historical site more than five stars, I would.
Great history. Would have been better of they had fired the cannon as planned, but we were rained out. Actors are there to enhance the experience. Very cool place! Recommend buying the park pass which is good for all of Canada's parks for the year. Better value for money.
The fortress was a great experience. So much to see, unfortunately we visited in the late afternoon so we probably missed some things. Very cool to be transported back in time. I know they offered an online website with a map but I wish there was a physical version. While it wasn’t too busy there I found that a lot of the actors didn’t really talk much. It would have been nice if there was more interactive things to do.
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