Where to stay during Celtic Colours is a big decision, and here’s why: the entire island of Cape Breton is the stage for this wildly popular festival. Narrowing down where to lay your head, especially if it’s your first time, can feel daunting. Never fear, I’ve got you covered!
The whole point of Celtic Colours is to experience the magic of Cape Breton from coast to coast (to coast to coast!), so the best thing you can do is let the music move you—literally—as you travel from venue to venue, soaking in the stunning fall colours and unforgettable performances. Trust me, staying in just one spot won’t do this festival justice. You’ll want to explore, stay in a few different places, and make the most of what this breathtaking island has to offer.
When it comes to choosing accommodations, there are two possible ways to approach it: pick where to stay first and then buy concert tickets (if you’re not picky about which shows you see), or snag your concert tickets first and then book your rooms. It’s totally up to you, but here’s my advice: once you commit, act fast—Celtic Colours sells out quickly, and accommodations fill up even faster!
Why Finding the Right Accommodation Matters
Choosing the right place to stay during Celtic Colours can make or break your experience. With 50 events scattered across Cape Breton, proximity is everything. Staying close to the concerts you’re attending can save you unnecessary travel time and give you more of what you came for; great entertainment, exploring the island, and soaking in the fall colours during the day.
Speaking of travel, night driving in Cape Breton is not for the faint of heart or the city slickers among us. Roads here are often unlit, can be slick with fall rain, and come with a very real risk of encountering a moose or other nocturnal wanderers. As someone who genuinely loves a good road trip, even I prefer to keep my nighttime drives short when I’m on the island.
By strategically planning your accommodations, you’ll not only save time and avoid late-night stress, but you’ll also have more daylight hours to explore Cape Breton’s incredible communities, shops, and restaurants. You won’t want to miss a moment of this magical island; every second is worth savouring!
Where to Stay During Celtic Colours
While I didn’t personally pick my accommodations for this trip (shoutout to Tourism Nova Scotia, who clearly knows what they’re doing), I couldn’t have been happier with the places I stayed. The accommodations I’m sharing cover a large part of the island, giving you the chance to see Cape Breton in all its glory while attending a variety of concerts.
Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury
As I mention in my guide to Celtic Colours, the festival always kicks off and wraps up at either the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre or Sydney’s Centre 200. For 2025, Port Hawkesbury will host the closing ceremonies, making the Maritime Inn the perfect spot to stay if you’re planning to catch the grand finale this year.
Located within walking distance of the Civic Centre, this property is as convenient as it gets. I would also like to take this opportunity to give a special shoutout to my bed at the Maritime Inn. I miss you baby. I’ve slept in a lot of hotel rooms around the world, so believe me when I tell you that no one was more surprised than me to sleep for nine solid hours in an inn on Cape Breton Island. Perhaps it was a one off, but it’s a theory I’d definitely like to put to the test when I return. Let me know how your experience is when you go.
Aside from a possible dream sleep, the staff is incredibly friendly, and the haddock sandwich from their on-site restaurant, Miller’s, is a must-try. Clean, comfortable, and perfectly located for your festival adventure!
North Star Beach Suites
You might expect a property owned by celebrities to be a bit, well, pretentious, but the North Star Beach Suites, owned and operated by Colin & Justin, is the complete opposite. This warm and inviting property felt more like coming home than leaving it.
When I arrived, Justin, not knowing who I was, took one look at me and said, “You look like you need a hug.” (Spoiler: I did.) Without hesitation, he gave me one. While I can’t promise hugs for every guest, this moment perfectly captures the warmth and genuine hospitality of the North Star. And it’s not just Colin and Justin who make this place special; the entire staff is equally welcoming.
The rooms are clean and stylish—of course they are, it’s Colin & Justin! But what really sets this place apart is their hands-on approach. Whether they’re making your drinks, serving your meals, or answering the phones, these two are all in, and their love for Louisbourg shines through.
There’s no need to worry where you’ll dine either, with every meal you could want available on-site. During the day visit Coast for breakfast and lunch, and head to The Bothy for dinner, drinks, and entertainment. And from my lips to God’s ear, the seafood chowder here is the best you’ll ever have. (I’m just glad my grandmother isn’t around to hear me say that!)
If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets to the Step Into the Past concert at the Fortress of Louisbourg, this is the place to stay. And if they’re full, ask Colin or Justin for recommendations—they’ve built incredible connections with other local proprietors.
Glenora Inn & Distillery
The backdrop of fiery fall colours made the Glenora Inn & Distillery one of the most breathtaking properties I visited during Celtic Colours. Located in Glenville near Mabou, this is the perfect place to stay if you’re attending concerts anywhere between Judique and Inverness.
If you can swing it, I’d recommend spending a couple of days here. With so many charming towns nearby to explore and the property itself begging for your attention, it’s worth lingering. Distillery tours are a must for those who enjoy a taste of the “water of life,” and there are plenty of paths to wander, perfect for soaking in the vibrant fall colours. Or, find a spot by the stream that winds through the property and ponder why you’re still slugging it out in the rat race back home. (Just me?) Wherever your mind wanders here, one thing is certain—a little piece of your heart will stay behind.
This inn offers clean and simple rooms, and excellent food in it’s restaurant (don’t skip the fish cakes!). One heads-up for late-night snackers though: when the restaurant closes, you’re on your own, so stock up on snacks beforehand.
Inverary Resort
Nestled along the picturesque Bras d’Or Lakes—a UNESCO biosphere reserve—the Inverary Resort offers upscale comfort with a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe. A third-generation family run property, this resort is warm, welcoming, and everything you’d want in a Cape Breton stay.
Located in Baddeck, one of my personal favourite spots on the island, it’s within walking distance of town and close to several festival venues. I highly recommend spending a couple of nights here to make the most of the concerts nearby, like For the Love of Music at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site or concerts held at the resort conference centre.
And if you’re planning to check out the Festival Club in St. Ann’s, the Inverary is conveniently close for late-night attendees. And while I didn’t get to indulge in the spa this time, it’s definitely on my list for next time! I could have really used that after my hike to the top of Franey Mountain.
Iona Heights Inn
My final stop during Celtic Colours was the Iona Heights Inn, and it left a lasting impression. This motel-style property boasts clean, inviting rooms and one of the best views I’ve ever had anywhere. Perched high on a hill overlooking the Bras d’Or Lakes, balconies from the front of the room are ideal for reflecting on your time in Cape Breton.
The views during the day are stunning, but at night, the dark skies let the stars and moon steal the show. Add to that the charm of the Frolic & Folk Pub & Grill, which felt like something straight out of Ireland to me, with great food, games, and plenty of spirits to enjoy before heading to your room.
This is a perfect spot if you’ve scored tickets to a concert at the Malagawatch Inn in the Highland Village Museum. You’ll definitely want to pause and sear the views here into your brain.
Ready to Plan Your Celtic Colours Stay
The properties I’ve shared—Maritime Inn, North Star Hotel, Glenora Distillery Inn, Inverary Resort, and Iona Heights Inn—are just a handful of the incredible accommodations Cape Breton has to offer. In fact, there are hundreds of options, from cozy efficiency cottages to luxurious five-star resorts, all ready to welcome you during Celtic Colours. For even more choices, head to Visit Nova Scotia’s accommodation page to start exploring.
Take the time now to scout your accommodations in advance and bookmark your top picks so you’re ready when concert tickets go on sale. It’s also smart to have a backup or two—things can fill up fast, and flexibility is key. No matter where you end up staying, Cape Breton and the Celtic Colours Festival delivers an unforgettable experience, you’ll be longing to return to year after year.
So, now’s the time to start dreaming, planning, and securing your spot for this year’s festival. Whether you go for the music, the fall colours, or the magic of Cape Breton itself, you’re in for something truly special.
Plan Your Ultimate Celtic Colours Festival Escape In Cape Breton
