When looking for hotels in Inverness, you can plan your trip around the area’s highlights: coast, trails, golf and culture. At Inverness Beach, the focus is on the sea and sand; the two trails differ significantly in length and use. There are also guided tours at the Inverness Miners Museum, as well as exhibitions and events at the Inverness County Centre for the Arts. Which of these appeals to you is a good starting point for choosing where to stay.
Beach and Coast
Inverness Beach is a long stretch of sandy coastline where you can swim in the sea and beachcomb. Beach conditions and facilities may vary seasonally; swimming conditions and supervision may also vary. In the wider Inverness County area, Inverness Beach is a 1.5 km-long sandy beach, with a boardwalk above it. The beach and trails offer different ways to shape your stay.
Two Trails of Different Lengths
The Inverness Shean Trail is a 16 km-long linear trail from Blackstone to Inverness, ending at Route 19 in Inverness. At the trailhead near Beach Road #1, there are information panels, a picnic shelter and public parking. The trail is suitable for cycling, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and walking. Trail conditions and access may change; seasonal conditions may affect some activities.
The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail is a 92 km-long multi-use trail on a former railway line. It runs from Port Hastings to Inverness along the west coast of Cape Breton Island and is suitable for off-road cycling and long-distance trekking. Surface conditions may vary. At 16 km compared with 92 km, the two trails differ significantly in length; the Shean Trail is linear, while the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail accommodates a range of uses.
Golf in Inverness
Cabot Links is Canada’s first true links golf course and an 18-hole, par-70 course. These details give golf enthusiasts specific information about the course format. Cabot Cliffs is set in the landscape of Cape Breton and offers panoramic views. Alongside course format, the landscape and views are also part of Inverness’s golf appeal.
Tours, Exhibitions and Events
The Inverness Miners Museum offers tours led by knowledgeable guides. Tour availability may change, so check what’s available before your visit. The Inverness County Centre for the Arts is a venue in Inverness for exhibitions and events. Its program changes over time, so if you’re interested, it’s worth checking the current schedule.
Inverness County as a Regional Setting
In the broader destination of Inverness County, the west coast also includes the Cabot Trail; the county’s communities are connected by musical traditions. Highway 105, the Trans-Canada Highway, connects Inverness County and follows a direct route between the Canso Causeway and the Town of Sydney. There are more than 30 trailheads and access points on the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail in Inverness County. The Deepdale Trestle on the trail is a former railway bridge about 300 feet long and nearly 100 feet high.
Explore more destinations: Orangedale, Whycocomagh, Craggie, Judique, Port Hood, Craigmore, Troy, Port Hastings
For the broader travel overview: Inverness County.
